THE Economic Development Minister this week sought to reassure States Members that a grant of nearly £160,000 to help this year’s Battle of Flowers go ahead is “not a blank cheque”.
Deputy Kirsten Morel said that “key performance indicators” had been set out alongside the financial support for the summer event.
He made the comments in response to a question from St Brelade Deputy Montfort Tadier, who asked about officer advice regarding the grant of £158,750 to Jersey Battle of Flowers (Parades) Ltd.
Deputy Morel answered: “My officers have been working very closely with the Jersey Battle of Flowers (Parades) Ltd, who are organising this year’s Battle of Flowers, and have been supporting that team as they navigate the events process.”
He continued: “In this instance, given the substantial grant to a brand-new entity, I have decided upon the advice of my officers to provide a formal letter of instruction to avoid any uncertainty around that grant.
“As with all grants, this is not a blank cheque and key performance indicators have been set out.
“We do want them to see them delivered and they will be assessed against them.”
Deputy Morel also clarified that the £160,000 grant was “entirely for the parade happening this year” and that it was not being “handed over in one go”, with payments being provided on an “as-needed basis”.
The JEP asked the government what those KPIs were last Friday. A response is yet to be provided.
