Dedicated modern slavery legislation will be brought forward in Jersey, the government has confirmed – just days after the sentencing of former Minister Philip Ozouf prompted renewed scrutiny of the island’s worker protection laws.
Ozouf was sentenced to 120 hours’ community service after admitting five breaches of immigration law connected to the employment of Rwandan workers at his laundry business and at his home.
His co-accused, Roberto Lora, a director of the Savoy Hotel, was fined £5,000 after admitting one count. Ozouf was also ordered to pay £5,000 towards prosecution costs.
The case led to calls from across the community for a review of Jersey’s employment and safeguarding framework with strengthened legal protections for vulnerable workers.
In response, Ministers have now confirmed their intention to bring forward standalone modern slavery legislation aimed at preventing exploitation, improving support for victims and giving authorities clearer enforcement powers.
Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham said the move would reinforce the island’s commitment to protecting vulnerable people.
“Jersey must always protect the most vulnerable people in our community,” he said.
“Bringing in modern slavery legislation will strengthen our laws, help stop exploitation and make sure victims get the help and support they need.”
Home Affairs Minister Mary Le Hegarat said that although cases of exploitation in Jersey were rare, even a single incident was unacceptable.
“This legislation will give enforcement agencies clearer powers and stronger protection for people at risk,” she said.
“By listening to frontline services, employers and those with lived experience, we will design a modern legal framework that reflects best practice and provides clear, practical protection against exploitation for everyone in our community.”
She added that if circumstances amounting to modern slavery were identified, alternative charges could already be pursued under existing laws – including offences relating to unlawful detention or breaches of employment legislation. Any such reports, she said, would be thoroughly investigated.
Ministers said the legislation would be developed through consultation with people with lived experience, law enforcement agencies, employers, charities and the wider community to ensure the new framework is “practical, balanced and based on evidence”.
Deputy Le Hegarat also stressed that legislation would form only part of a broader response.
Work is under way to ensure policies are fit for purpose, including collaboration across departments to support permit holders who experience domestic abuse.
Further details on the proposed legislation, including the scope and timeline for consultation, are expected in due course.
