Gov’s work permit plans put under the microscope

Sunday 24 January 2021

The Government's plan for controlling the level of immigration over the coming years is to be put under the microscope by a new panel of politicians.

The newly-formed Migration and Population Review Panel will consider and make recommendations on the migration proposals put forward by the Chief Minister last October, which did not go hand-in-hand with a population policy.

The post-Brexit proposals, which aim to align with the UK so that the island can still enjoy being part of the ‘Common Travel Area’, include the introduction of a 10-year permit, which may pave the way for residential rights, as well as of nine months and four years, which will not. 

They also require permit applicants to have a full criminal background check. 

Pictured: The proposals do not go hand-in-hand with a strategy to curb Jersey's population growth - that has still yet to be brought forward. 

If approved by politicians once Scrutiny's review is complete, the system will replace the current system of Entitled, Entitled for work, Registered and Licensed permissions for those who want to work in the island.  

The Scrutiny Panel say they will conduct their review in a “phased” way, with the first stage involving a “high-level assessment”. 

Later stages will run in parallel to any further actions taken by the Government to implement its plan, if it is approved by the States Assembly. 

The Panel believe the review, which will involve public hearings with Ministers, will last until the 2022 General Election.

It’s being led by Senator Steve Pallett, who recently resigned as Assistant Minister to support the vote of no confidence in the Chief Minister.

Pictured: The Migration and Population Panel's Chair, Senator Steve Pallett.

“The proposed changes to the Island’s Migration Policy will potentially have considerable impacts on Jersey’s future and on the lives of those who want to live and work here,” he said.

“These impacts include future tax revenue, the requirement for additional housing and infrastructure and on our cherished environment. It is therefore vital that States Members and Islanders fully understand the implications of these proposed changes, and whether they are fit for purpose.”