COMPENSATION for Islanders affected by the Haut du Mont explosion will not be considered until after legal proceedings have concluded, it has emerged.
Over two years have passed since the incident on Pier Road which claimed the lives of ten Islanders in December 2022.
Deputy Karen Wilson this week asked the Chief Minister to confirm how those affected by the tragedy had been supported and compensated for their loss.
In response, Deputy Lyndon Farnham said that “the appropriate time for compensation to be considered would be after the outcome of any court case”.
He explained that those affected by the tragedy had been supported by the States police, the Government of Jersey and Andium Homes over the past two years.
“This has included emotional support, regular contact meetings with those impacted as well as practical support, access to health professionals and the opportunity to meet as a community,” the Chief Minister said.
“All those affected have been kept fully updated and consulted, including on arrangements for the first anniversary and on consultation on the future use of the site and a memorial.”
Deputy Farnham added: “The Bailiff’s Fund supported those affected and predominantly focused on individuals who did not have insurance, and immediate family members who required assistance with unexpected travel arrangements.”
Deputy Wilson also asked the Chief Minister to confirm when the Haut du Mont investigation findings and recommendations would be made public, and when the government intended to issue its response.
In response, Deputy Farnham said that a decision regarding prosecution was expected “shortly” – but explained that the findings from the investigation would not be made public or addressed until legal proceedings had concluded.
He explained: “The criminal investigations conducted by the States of Jersey Police and the Health and Safety Inspectorate into the explosion at Haut du Mont have continued in parallel.
“A case file was submitted to the Law Officers’ Department at the end of September 2024 and a decision regarding prosecution is expected shortly.
“As the matter is subject to sub judice, details of the investigation and its findings will not be made public or addressed until judicial proceedings are concluded.”
The Chief Minister added: “As there are potential legal proceedings, it is not appropriate for the government to comment before the cases have been concluded.
“Once they are, a formal government response can be considered.”
Haut du Mont residents Peter Bowler (72), Raymie Brown (71), Romeu and Louise De Almeida (67 and 64 years), Derek and Sylvia Ellis (61 and 73 years), Ken and Jane Ralph (72 and 71 years) and 63-year-old Billy Marsden died in the blast.
Kathy McGinness (73), who lived in an adjacent block of flats, was injured as a result of the explosion and died at the General Hospital on Christmas Day in 2022.
