LONG-AWAITED reforms to rental property legislation, the security of Jersey’s borders, changes to electoral law and the possible suspension of a States Member are among the items on a packed agenda as the States Assembly returns to action next week.
Housing Minister Sam Mézec’s proposed changes to the Island’s Residential Tenancy Law were last discussed in July, but after a vote by Members to halt the debate pending a Scrutiny review, the topic returns to the order paper for the first sitting since the summer break.
Deputy Mézec has described the move as “a fairer and more credible framework for renting in Jersey”, but also admitted that he faced a battle as a result of what he said were “vested interests that are getting in the way”.
Longer notice periods, limits on frequency of rent increases and a cap on how much landlords could increase bills are central parts of the legislation, and the debate will also encompass a series of amendments.
Having described the minister’s proposals as “misconceived and potentially very damaging”, Deputy Philip Bailhache has countered with a detailed submission running to 18 parts, while Deputy Jonathan Renouf will seek support for an amendment that would remove a 5% cap for rent increases.
The Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Scrutiny Panel wants to see the legislation strengthened through the adoption of its amendment, which includes making proposed rent tribunals more effective, taking some powers away from the minister and removing a clause that would have required police officers or government officials to play a role in evictions.
The rental legislation is listed as the second item of public business, following a proposition by the Privileges and Procedures Committee to suspend Deputy Philip Ozouf for 28 days after he recently admitted a speeding offence and failed to attend parish hall enquiries.
After the return of the Island-wide role of Senator was approved in principle by Members earlier this year, the details of changes to electoral law will be debated, including several amendments.
Constable Simon Crowcroft wants to reduce the number of Senators from nine to seven in order to allow more proportionate representation for votes in his parish, while Deputy Hilary Jeune will propose a requirement that Senatorial candidates must be seconded by a voter from all nine electoral district. Elections for Senator would take place five weeks ahead of polling for Deputies and Constables should a further amendment by Deputy Montfort Tadier be passed.
The government will seek Members support for a proposition to introduce an Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme, with visitors from outside the Common Travel Area required to pay £16 to enter Jersey, aligning with UK policy.
The ETA proposition also faces a counter-proposal from Deputy Bailhache seeking to remove a clause giving responsibility to the UK Home Secretary, which he said would be unconstitutional and undermine Jersey’s right to control its own borders.
Ahead of the start of public business on Tuesday morning, Members will report to the Chamber at 2.15pm on Monday for oral questions, questions without notice to the Health Minister, Housing Minister and Chief Minister, and a statement by Environment Minister Steve Luce regarding findings by the States of Jersey Complaints Board.
