17 February 2012
Islanders have been giving their views on ministers’ proposed priorities for Jersey, which were published as part of the development of a new States Strategic Plan.
The 6 main priorities agreed by ministers, after discussions with Assistant Ministers, Scrutiny Panel chairs and States Members, were:
- getting people into work
- managing population growth and migration
- reforming Health and Social Services
- housing our community
- reforming government and the public sector
- developing long term planning
More than 150 comments have been received to date, via letter, email and online, all of which are being considered by the Council of Ministers as they develop their draft Strategic Plan for Jersey.
Chief Minister, Senator Ian Gorst, said “Having published our vision and priorities for the next 3 years, we are considering with interest the views expressed by the many Islanders who have taken the trouble to respond to this consultation.
“There seems to be broad agreement with the 6 priorities, with many people seeing population control as a top priority. We have received a number of thoughtful responses and some additional priorities, which will all be considered as we develop our new Strategic Plan.
“It is important that we receive as many responses to this consultation as possible, as the plan will inform where we focus our attention in the coming 3 years. There is still time for anyone who hasn’t yet responded to get in touch – by email, letter or online. And there will be the chance to meet up with ministers at the end of the month to give your views in person.”
As part of the consultation process, the Council of Ministers have asked for an ‘in Committee’ debate, where members can discuss the proposed vision and priorities.
Senator Gorst added “This will be an important stage in the process of formulating our final proposals as it provides members with the opportunity to discuss the relative priorities of the issues facing the Island before the formal strategic plan debate on 1 May.”
There will be an opportunity to comment on the draft Strategic Plan, which is due to be published on 20 March. The Strategic Plan, once agreed by the States, sets the overall direction the government plans to take.
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