Government of Jersey

Information about the publication of Ministerial Decisions

A formal published “Ministerial Decision” is required as a record of the decision of a Minister (or an Assistant Minister where they have delegated authority) as they exercise their responsibilities and powers.

Ministers are elected by the States Assembly and have legal responsibilities and powers as “corporation sole” under the States of Jersey Law 2005 by virtue of their office and in their areas of responsibility, including entering into agreements, and under any legislation conferring on them powers.

An accurate record of “Ministerial Decisions” is vital to effective governance, including:

demonstrating that good governance, and clear lines of accountability and authority, are in place around decisions-making – including the reasons and basis on which a decision is made, and the action required to implement a decision
providing a record of decisions and actions that will be available for examination by States Members, and Panels and Committees of the States Assembly; the public, organisations, and the media; and as a historical record and point of reference for the conduct of public affairs

Ministers are individually accountable to the States Assembly, including for the actions of the departments and agencies which discharge their responsibilities.

The Freedom of Information Law (Jersey) Law 2011 is used as a guide when determining what information is be published. While there is a presumption toward publication to support of transparency and accountability, detailed information may not be published if, for example, it would constitute a breach of data protection, or disclosure would prejudice commercial interest.

A decision made (19/05/2006) regarding Housing Department - Delegated Powers to the Assistant Minister.

Subject:	Housing Department – Delegated Powers to the Assistant Minister.
Decision Reference:	MD-H-2006-0037		Exempt clause(s):
Type of Report: (oral or written)	Written		Person Giving Report (if oral):
Telephone or e-mail Meeting?			Report File ref:	WR Delegated Powers
Written report – Title	Delegated Powers to Assistant Minister
Written report – Author (name and job title)	Mrs Dominique Caunce – Director of Tenant Services
Decision(s): The Minister approved the delegations in accordance with Article 28(1) of the States of Jersey Law 2005, as detailed on the attached report dated 18 May 2006, in relation to the delegation of powers to the Assistant Minister for periods when he is unavailable or out of the Island.
Reason(s) for decision: To give authority to the Assistant Minister for all functions vested in the Minister in his absence.
Action required: Dominique Caunce to forward to the Assistant Greffier and the Publications Editor for submission to the States as an RC.
Signature: (Minister/ Assistant Minister)		Date of Decision: 19 May 2006