Population Register and JNAI consultation

Today sees the launch of public consultation on plans to establish a Population Register and to set up a Jersey Names and Address Index (JNAI). These initiatives are key elements of the States’ policies on managing migration where the overall aim is to secure a balance between economic growth and the demands placed on the Island ’s infrastructure and resources - in particular, its housing and environment.

Together, the Population Register and Jersey Names and Address Index provide mechanisms and administrative tools to deliver accurate figures about the number of people in the Island and where they live. On the basis of this data, accurate decisions affecting the Island ’s future can be made.

The document considers the registration processes for individuals for the purposes of managing migration. In particular, it considers when and how newcomers to the Island will have to register and what they will receive by way of a registration card. It also outlines how over a period of time all residents, including children, will be required to register, and how adults will be issued with a single card. As well as displaying their Social Security number, it is also proposed that the card will also show the holder’s residential status – key to accessing both housing and employment. 

The consultation paper explains the plans to establish a Jersey Names and Address Index for use by States Departments. It stresses the limited information that will be held, explains that no sensitive or personal data will be included, and states how the accuracy of the Index will be maintained. The safeguards that will be put in place to ensure privacy and confidentiality are also emphasised as are the advantages to the public of being able to change their details or address in a single visit, without the inconvenience of having to inform other departments themselves.

Deputy Ian Gorst , Chairman of the Migration Advisory Group, comments: “The mechanisms outlined in this paper are intended to ensure that the States has at its disposal the most effective tools to manage migration. This is key to controlling the impact of change on the resources and infrastructure of the Island and to protecting our environment and maintaining its attractiveness.”

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