Population Office Issues New Combined Policy Statement For Businesses

by Carla Johnson, Investors Offshore.com, London

17 July 2008

The Ministers for Economic Development and Housing in Jersey have released a revised Policy Statement covering both the Regulation of Undertakings Law and the Housing Law in relation to “j” category employees administered by the Population Office.

The revised policy, produced following a review of the policy framework within which the Population Office operates, will provide a single improved set of guidance for businesses starting up, employing staff and seeking to obtain “j” category housing consents.

This will be delivered within a framework of defined customer service standards.

The Economic Development Minister, Senator Philip Ozouf, commented:

“The combined statement shows how both Ministers are committed to dealing with businesses in an increasingly efficient and joined-up way. The revised Policy Statement, which includes a commitment to work with Economic Development’s Jersey Enterprise team and to process applications within 15 working days, is designed to be both clear and unambiguous. Through this policy both Ministers have set high standards for the Population Office team. Working within the revised policy framework, I am confident that we will continue to develop the relationship between Government and business”.

The Housing Minister, Senator Terry Le Main, added:

“While we remain individually accountable, the Economic Development Minister and I work jointly and co-operatively through the Population Office. In this way we seek to balance the need for economic growth with the need to regulate migration and restrict access to housing. A single transparent policy statement is important in achieving this.”

Practice notes will also be issued from time to time on different subjects to promote a better understanding of the Laws by business.

The Economic Development Minister will also be issuing guidance that encourages training and good environmental practices – particularly those promoted under the “Eco active Business” initiative.

Senator Ozouf added:

“We will do all we can to work with businesses as they look to have a positive impact on the environment through the Population Office and the support offered by Jersey Enterprise.”

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