QUESTIONS have been raised over the decision to give £121,000 of taxpayer money to clear Battle of Flowers’ debt from last year amid concerns that the award may not comply with the government’s own financial management guidance.
The government agreed to bail out the beleaguered Battle association, which had failed to pay exhibitors, security firms, the parish of St Helier, DJs, civil engineers, marquee companies and other organisations who were left out of pocket after providing services to last August’s three-day event.
Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham and Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel signed an official letter of instruction – which exempt accountable officers from the consequences of ministerial decisions – giving Battle £121,000 to settle last year’s debts. They also agreed that a £90,000 top-up grant – which had been linked to targets that were not met so should have been given back – can be waived, in order for all creditors to be paid.
The Economic and International Affairs Scrutiny Panel has now written to Deputy Morel to clarify the rationale for awarding the grant, what conditions were attached to it and what measures are being taken to ensure the long-term sustainability of the event.
Panel chair, Deputy Montfort Tadier, said: “The Battle of Flowers has been a highlight in Jersey’s event calendar for more than 100 years. It is an event that brings the community together and showcases the talent the Island has to offer. The panel is pleased to see that this year’s parade has been a success and would like to congratulate all those involved in putting on a such a show.
“However, there are questions around process and due governance that we would like ministers to explain. The panel understands that the decision to award these grants may not fully comply with the Public Finances Manual. If this is the case, then it is important that the reasoning behind these decisions is outlined in a clear and transparent way. It is important that all organisations applying for and receiving grants feel that they are on a level playing field.”
Meanwhile, Deputy Kristina Moore, the vice-chair of the Public Accounts Committee, which assesses if public money has been spent wisely, said: “PAC is conducting a review of the arms-length bodies, grants and subsidies. This will include how the government manages the expenditure, value for money and outcomes of the awards they make.”
It is understood that all exhibitors owed money – for the balance on their guarantee from the association – agreed to waive the debt they were owed in order to keep the Battle going.
Collette Bisson, chair of the Northern Parishes Battle, said that it was the right choice for the government to bail out Battle.
She said: “As a taxpayer, I would say that Battle is a unique community event and involves more people of every generation than any event in Jersey. We have more than 100 Islanders with us this year, from young children to grandparents, and it is a 12-month commitment for many.
“This has been a sad situation, but we can put it behind us and hopefully it won’t happen again.”
