Government of Jersey

Information about the publication of Ministerial Decisions

A formal published “Ministerial Decision” is required as a record of the decision of a Minister (or an Assistant Minister where they have delegated authority) as they exercise their responsibilities and powers.

Ministers are elected by the States Assembly and have legal responsibilities and powers as “corporation sole” under the States of Jersey Law 2005 by virtue of their office and in their areas of responsibility, including entering into agreements, and under any legislation conferring on them powers.

An accurate record of “Ministerial Decisions” is vital to effective governance, including:

demonstrating that good governance, and clear lines of accountability and authority, are in place around decisions-making – including the reasons and basis on which a decision is made, and the action required to implement a decision
providing a record of decisions and actions that will be available for examination by States Members, and Panels and Committees of the States Assembly; the public, organisations, and the media; and as a historical record and point of reference for the conduct of public affairs

Ministers are individually accountable to the States Assembly, including for the actions of the departments and agencies which discharge their responsibilities.

The Freedom of Information Law (Jersey) Law 2011 is used as a guide when determining what information is be published. While there is a presumption toward publication to support of transparency and accountability, detailed information may not be published if, for example, it would constitute a breach of data protection, or disclosure would prejudice commercial interest.

A decision made (24/07/2006) regarding Water (Jersey) Law 1972 - Duty to Monitor.

Subject:	Water (Jersey) Law 1972 – Duty to Monitor
Decision Reference:	MD-PE-2006-0087		Exempt clause(s):
Type of Report: (oral or written)	Written		Person Giving Report (if oral):
Telephone or e-mail Meeting?			Report File ref:	ED\15\02\02
Written report – Title	Water (Jersey) Law 1972 Article 10 – Duty to Monitor
Written report – Author (name and job title)	Chris Newton, Director of Environment
Decision(s): The Minister for Planning and Environment approved the proposed monitoring programme submitted by Jersey Water for the calendar year 2007 and requested his officers to notify the Company of the decision.
Reason(s) for decision: Under Article 10 of the Water (Jersey) Law as Amended, Jersey Water is required to submit for the approval of the Minister for Planning and Environment details of its proposed monitoring programme for the next calendar year by 1 July of the previous year. The proposed monitoring programme was submitted for approval on the 20 June 2006. The monitoring scheme is based on best practice in England and Wales.
Action required: Assistant Director – Environmental Protection to notify Jersey Water of the decision.
Signature: (Minister/ Assistant Minister)		Date of Decision: 24 July 2006