“Concerns” prompt review of seasonal farm worker rules

Wednesday 09 February 2022

Politicians have launched a review of the rules of employment for seasonal agricultural workers after the Jersey Farmers’ Union raised concerns.

The review, which will involve interviews with industry representatives, will be conducted by the Economic and International Affairs Scrutiny Panel and focus on three areas:

• “Whether the nine-month work permit allowance for seasonal workers in the agricultural industry is fit for purpose and whether it is possible to extend it. 
• “The Social Security system under which seasonal workers are assessed. 
• “The current system for issuing visas to seasonal workers.”

The panel will present a report on its findings in March, which will contain recommendations for improvement.

“This review emerged from concerns that current systems affecting seasonal workers within the agricultural industry lack Government support in several areas,” Panel Chair Deputy David Johnson said.

“Given the concern that some of the issues raised may be having a negative impact on the larger rural economy, our Panel will undertake a high-level review and seek to determine whether there is scope for greater flexibility and adjustment of the current rules which apply to seasonal workers in Jersey’s agricultural industry.”