THE Chief Minister delivered a tough warning about Jersey’s short and long-term future as the major policy-setting Strategic Plan debate began yesterday.
Senator Terry Le Sueur said that the Island faced the possibility of worsening economic gloom in the immediate future as the worldwide recession continues to spread.
And he added that in the longer term the Island faced great pressures from the effects of the ageing population.
In opening the debate, which is expected to last at least three days, the Chief Minister said the key issues facing politicians were the economy, the Island’s infrastructure, population and the ageing population and housing.
He added that it was essential that all policies must be sustainable and that the plan should be flexible to face the ever changing challenges faced by the Island.
The plan, which was first lodged in draft form in February, outlines the Council of Ministers’ economic, environment and social priorities for the following three years.
The first day of debate was dominated by Deputy Daniel Wimberley’s proposals to maintain the current population level. His amendment was defeated by 34 votes to 16. with one abstention.
States Members were due to consider the entire plan this week, including 11 amendments.
