JERSEY should follow the UK in changing employment law to prohibit the use of non-disclosure agreements in cases involving sexual harassment or discrimination, the Social Security Minister has stated.
Deputy Lyndsay Feltham said during question time in the States Assembly that the matter was of “great concern”, but admitted that it would not be feasible to progress legislation prior to the end of the current political term next April.
Responding to a question from Constable Karen Stone, the minister said that ahead of any change to Jersey law, employees should make use of the Island’s employment tribunal to see redress.
She also expressed disappointment at the Assembly’s recent decision to limit the amount of compensation payable.
“Discrimination should not be tolerated and I hope a future Assembly will have more success regarding the matter of compensation,” she said.
Deputy Philip Bailhache said that his experience with the States Employment Board was that NDAs were used “as a matter of routine” and that he felt this was wrong and such an agreement should only be used where absolutely necessary. Deputy Feltham agreed and said this should be the case with all employers.
