Imagine Jersey 2035 Final Report Published

by Philip Morton, Investors Offshore.com

19 March 2008

The report on the findings of the 'Imagine Jersey 2035' public consultation has been published, the Jersey government announced on Monday.

The consultation process ran from November 2007 to February 2008 and included a survey, written consultation and a public conference.

The aims of the consultation were to enable the public to understand the social and economic challenges associated with Jersey ’s ageing population, and to inform the States of Jersey how these challenges should be met in the future.

The Chief Minister, Senator Frank Walker welcomed the report’s findings, announcing this week that:

“I am pleased at the response we have had to this extensive consultation process and would like to thank all the people that have taken the time to contribute."

"The report shows what a valuable process this has been and that the clear messages are:

• Broad support for growing the economy
• Strong support for working longer as part of the solution to the challenges ahead
• Whilst people do not actively support increases in taxes and contributions, many are willing to accept some level of increase in order to maintain public services
• Inward migration was the least popular of the four options presented but there was also acceptance that controlled inward migration may be necessary
• Strong opposition to new buildings on green fields, but acceptance of good quality and affordable development within the built-up area."

The findings of the report will be used to inform a high level States debate on the key messages.

However, the Chief Minister has revealed that rather than try to take any firm decisions this year, the intention would be to help identify the principle issues for the next House to consider after the elections.

Mr Walker added:

“At the Imagine Jersey 2035 conference I committed to organising a similar event for young people. I am pleased that this event will take place on Friday 28 March and encourage the Island ’s young people to attend. We need to make sure their voice is heard on what are fundamentally important issues for them and our Island community as a whole.”

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