Government and Co-op "working together" on period product issue

Wednesday 27 September 2023

The Government and one of the island’s largest retailers are “working together” to “further fight the issue of period poverty” amidst ongoing criticism of the decision not to remove the 'tampon tax'.

Earlier this month, the States Assembly approved a proposition from Treasury Minister Ian Gorst to rescind a previous decision to make menstrual products exempt from GST.

The reversal was justified by Ministers on the basis that period products had been made free in some locations around the island – but it leaves Jersey as the only place in the British Isles to retain the so-called 'tampon tax'.

Since then, many islanders have taken to social media to voice their critiques of the free period product scheme, drawing attention to empty boxes and dispensers.

Howard Davis Park today. Another toilet where very little protection is available. Also, from experience working at charities these tampons without applicators are not what people want. I know they can't be full all the time but I haven't found one that is yet. pic.twitter.com/ipBhAJStjU

— Emily Jayne Smith (@EmzJ_Smith) September 20, 2023

Mark Cox, the Chief Executive Officer of the Channel Islands Co-operative Society, was one of those who waded in on the online debate, commenting: "I don't know cost of the current system but it's clearly not efficient and not working. Let's find a better solution, our @CI_Coop stores and community pharmacies can help.

"There must be a better solution which affords a little bit more dignity."

Since then, Mr Cox has met with Social Security Minister Elaine Millar to discuss the issue.

Pictured: Social Security Minister, Deputy Elaine Millar.

Deputy Millar thanked Mr Cox for "sharing his views on period products".

She continued: "We are now working together to further fight the issue of period poverty and best serve islanders who need access to these products.

"Currently, islanders can access free period products from 32 locations island-wide, including charities, libraries and sport centres. A full list can be found on gov.je."

Mr Cox has previously responded to the comments of Ministers when it was suggested that the savings would not be passed on to consumers.

He maintained that the Co-op would "have no hesitation in passing the reduction if GST was removed".