ESTABLISHING “no fault” divorces, a proposed review of the code of conduct for politicians, changes to Social Security benefits and the minimum size for one of the Island’s most popular shellfish are among the topics on the agenda when the States Assembly convenes this week.
Home Affairs Minister Mary Le Hegarat will put forward a proposition that allows both parties in a marriage or civil partnership to apply for a dissolution, as well as setting out new measures for pension sharing and resolution of disputes, as well as scrapping the minimum period – currently three years – before a dissolution can be sought.
Deputy Le Hegarat has four other propositions listed for debate , including new measures to deal with complaints against both honorary officers and those working for the States police.
Also set for a busy sitting will be Social Security Minister Lyndsay Feltham, who is seeking to update the Social Security Law to ensure weekly Income Support payments are not disrupted when someone in a household also receives a contributory benefit like a pension or short-term incapacity allowance.
Deputy Feltham will also bring forward new regulations around long-term disability allowance.
In the wake of recent debates leading to two spells of suspension for Deputy Philip Ozouf as a result of court cases, Deputy Raluca Kovacs will call for a review of the States Members’ code of conduct, investigating how Members should be sanctioned when there are breaches of the code.
The minimum legal size for king scallops will increase from 102mm to 105mm if a proposal from Deputy Steve Luce earns support from the Assembly.
Members will also return to two topics that featured at the most recent sitting: the future of Havre des Pas Lido is on the order paper, but could be postponed again if Infrastructure Minister Andy Jehan receives support for his amendment; while the new registration process for dangerous dogs may be finalised following recent discussions between the Constables Committee and a Scrutiny panel.
Two of the nine oral questions listed cover the recent collapse of Blue Islands, while the airline will also be the subject of a statement by Treasury Minister Elaine Millar.
Children’s Minister Richard Vibert, Education Minister Rob Ward and Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham will face questions without notice.
Proceedings for what will be the penultimate sitting of 2025 are due to commence at 9.30am tomorrow.
