Hospitality staff to give election candidates a grilling

Thursday 12 May 2022

Hoteliers, chefs, baristas and bar staff are all being given the opportunity to grill election candidates one-on-one at a ‘speed dating’ style event later this month.

Following the launch of the Jersey Hospitality Association Election Manifesto in March, the group wants its members to have the opportunity to meet and question candidates about issues facing their sector.

The event will be held at St. Helier Town Hall on Friday 20 May, with JHA members spending up to five minutes with each candidate before moving on to the next in an imitation of a ‘speed dating’ event.

It’s hoped that the event will focus the candidates’ attention on the issues facing the industry and the many islanders and businesses it supports.

The recent JHA manifesto made four key points which it hopes elected politicians will support.

Those recommendations are:

• two-year temporary work permits for hospitality workers;

• an accommodation strategy for temporary hospitality workers;

• support future initiatives to boost skills, local talent and grow visitor numbers; 

• and a dedicated political champion for hospitality and tourism.

JHA Chief Executive Claire Boscq said the 'speed dating' event would be a "fun way to bring people together", but noted that there is a "serious side".

Pictured: When it launched its manifesto in March, the JHA called on the next Government to work with the industry to help nurture and rebuild after the combined effects of covid-19 and Brexit.

"Jersey is only just emerging from two years of disruption and uncertainty and there are still many issues where we will need to work closely with the Government," she continued.

"The tourism and hospitality industry would not have survived without the support it was given but if we are to move forward, we must have a strong working relationship with the next set of politicians who will be sitting in the States Assembly."

She added: "We want this event to draw attention to the issues our members are facing and help the candidates understand what our members need to ensure a vibrant future for hospitality. I hope the conversations that the participants have will cement strong working partnerships in the future.”