Deputy Hilary Jeune

MORE than 50 submissions have been received by a Scrutiny panel which is reviewing proposed amendments to the Island’s Residential Tenancy Law.

The Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Panel will shortly conclude its investigation into the proposals by Housing Minister Sam Mézec, which are set to be debated by the States Assembly in July.

Launched in April, the stated aim of the review was to allow landlords, tenants and organisations to provide their views on the proposals and whether they offered better protection for tenants, or might lead to unintended consequences.

Panel chair, Deputy Hilary Jeune said as well as more than 50 submissions from members of the public and organisations involved in the sector, there had been over 200 submissions to a tenants’ survey.

“We’ve been encouraged by the level of engagement from Islanders and organisations who took time to submit evidence to this review,” she said.

“The volume and quality of the submissions show just how important the issue of tenancy reform is for Jersey. As a Panel, we are committed to thoroughly reviewing all the evidence to ensure that any legislative changes strike the right balance – protecting tenants while recognising the realities for landlords.

“Our focus is to ensure that any reforms are fair, effective and genuinely improve the rental experience in Jersey.”

The panel will hold a final hearing with Deputy Mézec on Monday 9 June.