THE Jersey Consumer Council does not believe the proposed changes to the Island’s gas law go far enough in offering customer protection.
Home Affairs Minister Mary Le Hegarat this week lodged an update to the Jersey Gas Company (Jersey) Law 1989, which would strengthen government oversight of the Island’s gas supply.
If approved, the new legislation would require Jersey Gas Company Ltd –which trades as Island Energy – to immediately notify the government about events that could threaten public safety, gas supply, financial stability or ownership changes.
The law would also introduce strict criminal offences, including penalties for failing to notify authorities of public safety threats.
The update would also allow the States Assembly to quickly amend the law in response to urgent safety or supply issues.
But Carl Walker, who chairs the Jersey Consumer Council, does not believe the changes are enough. The consumer advocacy group has previously called for the government to introduce an independent regulator in Jersey to ensure prices for utilities are fair.
Commenting on the proposed legislative updates, Mr Walker said: “While these proposed regulations are a step in the right direction, we do not believe they go far enough in terms of offering consumers the protection that UK consumers receive from having their utility providers fully regulated.
“Safety concerns over the state of the gas network are paramount at the moment for Islanders, so it is encouraging to see these being addressed to a degree with this proposition.
“But consumers also need regulatory protection from untransparent price increases.
“They need to know the network they rely on is being maintained to acceptable standards, and that they have enforceable compensation rights if services are cut off.”
The proposition to update the gas law is due to be debated by politicians next month.
