PUBS and bars in Jersey could be required to make tap water free on request as part of proposed changes to the Island’s licensing laws.
Next week, the States Assembly is due to debate reforms put forward by Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel which, among them, could see licensing decisions transferred from the Bailiff and Jurats to the Jersey Gambling Commission.
An amendment from Deputy Alex Curtis is now calling for on-licensed premises to provide tap water without charge to any customer who asks for it, “unless it cannot easily be supplied”.
The St Clement representative noted that it “may come as a surprise” to Islanders that Jersey’s current licensing law does not oblige pubs, clubs and bars to offer free tap water.
The UK introduced a mandatory condition in 2010 requiring free tap water to be provided on request where it is reasonably available, adding that many other jurisdictions have similar provisions.
Deputy Curtis’s amendment includes what he describes as a “reasonableness” clause, recognising that there may be temporary or permanent situations where water cannot be supplied, such as where a supply has been disconnected or where there is a private water source.
He added that placing the requirement in primary legislation would make responsibilities “clear and easy to find for all involved” and give customers greater confidence in requesting tap water.
The proposition, and the amendment, is due to be debated during next week’s States sitting.
