IT may be the Budget sitting, with politicians debating the government’s plans for the next four years, but another topic is set to feature prominently in the States Assembly this week – ferry services.
The question of which operator will be contracted to provide Jersey’s freight and passenger links when the current agreement with Condor Ferries expires on 25 March has dominated the political agenda over the past four weeks, and States Members will continue to press for answers.
Question Time will be the first meaningful item as the Assembly convenes this afternoon at 2.15pm, with four of the 12 oral questions related to the ferry tender process.
Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel gave a statement on 13 November in which he said a decision on a Jersey-only provider would be made by the end of the month, although this timeline has subsequently shifted to the first week of December.
Deputy Morel will face three of the questions, with Deputy Montfort Tadier asking him about the safety records of the rival companies seeking to win the contract, while Deputy Max Andrews will request information about whether “political discretion” formed part of the original contract tender process. Deputy Inna Gardiner’s question will focus on the financial implications of Jersey going it alone.
Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham will also be in the spotlight, fielding a question from Deputy Jonathan Renouf about his involvement in the process, as well as being likely to face further interrogation during questions without notice.
Although the focus is due to shift to the Budget debate when the Assembly reconvenes tomorrow morning, it remains possible that ministers may issue further statements later in the week, or be required to answer urgent questions.
Deputy Morel has also published answers to written questions from Deputy Karen Wilson, downplaying the significance of the gaffe committed by the Economy Department’s chief officer in stating a preference for Danish bidder DFDS in an online poll last month.
Asked about what assessment had been carried out into the impact of the actions of Richard Corrigan, Deputy Morel said: “The chief officer immediately recused themself, and a replacement senior responsible officer was appointed swiftly.
“It is regrettable that this needed to take place, but it has not had a material impact on the speed or effectiveness of the process.”
Outwardly at least, ministers are also downplaying the impact on the relationship between the Channel Islands after Guernsey scuppered what had begun as a joint process by announcing on 30 October the intention to go it alone.
Deputy Morel said: “The Council of Ministers remain confident in the strength of inter-island relations, respecting that our counterparts in Guernsey must make their own decisions.
“Ministers will continue to engage with our sister island constructively using all available avenues.
“Ministers and officials are constantly considering how to improve, and a ‘lesson-learnt’ exercise will be conducted at the appropriate stage, including any lessons for improved pan-island arrangements and relations.”
