Insights from our President, Adam Budworth, September 2024
I begin my third year in post as President of the Jersey Chamber, faced still with a level of uncertainty as to what lies ahead, given the political upheaval and economic instability in the UK following the election of a new government and how that will surely impact upon us here. However, I remain ever optimistic as to what we can achieve if we continue to work collaboratively.
The Royal Visit during the summer was hugely successful and reflected extremely favourably on both Islands, with the King and Queen visibly enjoying their time here.
Our young islanders received eagerly awaited news about their GSCE and A-Level exams and will be making decisions as to their next steps whether in education or employment. We must ensure that living, studying and working in the Island is a feasible option for the next generation. States Ministers have committed to transitioning to the new living wage being updated in April 2025 and we look forward to hearing details of the package they are introducing to ensure a more productive and resilient economy. We are also looking forward to hearing the views of our panellists and guests at the Chamber Breakfast Briefing on 25 September, which will consider whether Jersey should have a University, along with our Chamber Lunch the next day, on September 26th where we will come together to hear from the Treasury Minister, Deputy Eliane Millar.
Following continuing criticism of the culture in various governmental departments we look forward to learning more about the ‘cultural reset’ pledged by the Health Minister Deputy Tom Binet as he asks Islanders to be ‘cautiously optimistic rather than pessimistic’ about the future.
Deputy Binet has also commented on growing concerns about the state and safety of the current Jersey General Hospital following recent independent detailed surveys of the site. The Minister for Health and Social Services is reassuring islanders that a four-phase recovery plan is due to be completed in the highest risk areas of the hospital by the end of September 2024.
There remains much for Chamber to achieve in the coming year, however we are committed and confident in our ability to effectively represent the growing list of Chamber members, recognising the representation we offer, the engagement we deliver and the voice we can give to your sector.
