16 January 2012
Islanders are being asked what they think of Ministers’ proposed priorities for Jersey, as part of the development of a new States Strategic Plan. The plan, once agreed by the States, sets the overall direction the government plans to take. It is being developed with input from all States Members and Ministers have held workshops to discuss members’ ideas for Jersey’s future.
The Chief Minister, Senator Ian Gorst, said “Each new Council of Ministers is required, by law, to propose a Strategic Plan for debate and approval within 4 months. As part of the development of a new Plan, we have defined our vision and priorities for the next 3 years. These priorities will form the basis for a new Strategic Plan, and we want to know what you think of them.
“Ministers intend to work closely together as a team, coordinating effectively with the Corporate Management Board, to provide strong and trusted leadership in delivering our vision for Jersey.
“We have agreed our 6 main priorities after discussions with Assistant Ministers, Scrutiny Panel chairs and States Members:
- 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
“We will also continue to provide the wide range of public services that Islanders need – benefits, pensions and suppliers will be paid; taxes will be collected, streets cleaned and public order maintained through our criminal justice system. Our emergency services, harbours and airport will operate as usual and our waste will be collected.
“A strong economy is essential if we are to continue delivering high quality public services. We also need to prepare for a number of major challenges, such as the impact of an ageing population.
“We believe we can meet these challenges if all sections of our community work together with a shared vision. We want to inspire all Islanders to share our pride and confidence in a positive future for Jersey and its unique environment.”
A strategic plan sets the broad medium and long term direction for the States. Detailed delivery plans will be developed for departments once the strategic direction is agreed.
There will also be an opportunity to comment on the Draft Strategic Plan, which is due to be published on 20 March.
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