19 September 2025
Statement from Deputy Malcolm Ferey, Vice Chair, States Employment Board
We can confirm that The States Employment Board, the employer of public servants, is to be
charged with two offences under the Health and Safety at Work (Jersey) Law 1989 prior to the
tragic events at Haut du Mont on 10 December 2022. This will appear in the Court list shortly
(expected today, Friday 19 September).
The charges relate to the actions of the Emergency Services Control Centre (Fire and Rescue)
and States of Jersey Fire & Rescue Service on 9 December 2022 prior to the explosion at Haut
Du Mont on 10 December 2022:
- Failing in their duties to ensure the health and safety of employees
- Failing in their duties to ensure the health and safety of persons not in their
employment, including the public.
The charges follow an investigation by the Health and Safety Inspectorate under the Health and
Safety at Work (Jersey) Law 1989 and are being brought against the SEB and not against any
individual.
We continue to fully respect the judicial process and the investigations that have taken place
and remain committed to learning from their outcomes.
Out of respect for the ongoing legal process and to ensure it is not compromised in any way, we
are unable to make any further comment at this time.
My sincere thoughts and prayers remain with the families, friends and all those who have been
affected by this unprecedented and tragic event.
Statement from the Chief Minister, Deputy Lyndon Farnham
The tragic events at Haut du Mont on 10 December 2022 had a deep and lasting impact on our
Island. On behalf of the Government of Jersey, I again extend our deepest sympathies to the
bereaved families, the injured, the displaced residents, and to all Islanders who continue to live
with the consequences of that devastating event.
Since December 2022, the Government has worked closely with our States of Jersey Police
colleagues and with Andium Homes to provide both emotional and practical support. This has
included assistance for displaced residents, access to professional support, and the
facilitation of community meetings to ensure that those most affected are kept informed and
engaged.
We remain committed to supporting the bereaved families and displaced residents throughout
the ongoing legal process, and we will continue to provide that support for as long as it is
needed.
The Government is determined to learn all possible lessons from the Health and Safety
Inspectorate investigation. We are committed to ensuring that every practical step is taken so
that a tragedy of this nature can never happen again.
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