Population Office issues new combined policy statement for businesses

The Minister for Economic Development and Minister for Housing 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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Notes to Editors:

1. The Population Office administers the Housing Law, including housing qualifications and j cats, and the Regulation of Undertakings Law.
2. “j” category employees are strictly limited in number. They account for approximately 3% of the working population, approximately 1,800 people in total. Around 1,000 are in the private sector and a further 800 in the public sector, mainly in health and education. Employees given this consent can purchase or lease local property.
3. “Eco- Active Business” is an accreditation scheme showing the environmental credentials of a business. It is supported by Jersey Enterprise.

A copy of the policy document accompanies this news release and is available here.