Friday 5th July 2024
The Jersey Chamber Weekly Update
Dear Subscriber,
The New Minimum Wage
I know we'd all got used to calling it the Living Wage, but I hear Govt. is keen for us to use the term NEW Minimum Wage (NMW) - and technically in April 2025, that is what it will be, perhaps also as nobody has yet worked out what a definitive 'living wage' in Jersey is. So the agreed way forward is to work on two-thirds of the median wage. The April 2025 NMW will likely be at £13 and that will be based on two-thirds of the 2023 median wage, as that is the latest figure we have. Still with me? Good. It also means that the Minimum Wage rises from 2021 to 2025 will amount to a 69% increase.
Clearly paying enough for employees to afford to live in Jersey is the right thing. Morally it is right, and in terms of the sustaining and attracting a workforce in Jersey it is right too. The economics get a little muddy once you get into the benefits of how this will affect the economy. Reasoning has often that more money will trickle back up into the local economy by increased spending. This is a reasoned argument. Govt. has however already flagged that the majority of those businesses and employees who will be affected by the increase to a NMW will be in the agriculture and visitor economy sectors.
These two sectors in particular, struggle to recruit locally and seek valued and skilled employees from further afield. The upside for many is that their wage is higher than it would be in their home country and it a opportunity to save some for their return. I only came to Jersey for 6 months, lived in staff accommodation, I sent some money home to my family and saved a bit to go back with. Actually I then decided to stay for another year, for the next 40 years! (in staff digs for the first four of them). Where season workers came from, and the rules were different back then. The Government policy now is that if you are recruiting from outside of the Common Travel Area (UK & Ireland), and recruiting within it is pretty rare, after three 12-month continuous periods of working in Jersey, employees must leave the CTA for the same period of three years.
The hefty proportion of those working in the Agriculture and Visitor Economy sectors, are on 9 or 12 month contracts, live in furnished accommodation, often with utilities, and meals provided. Not all, but many. In these cases employers can apply limited offsets on wages for the benefits provided, but it does raise the economic conundrum of who will benefit and how much of the uplift in the NMW will actually filter back into the on-island economy from those sector most affected.
One Govt. assumption being made already though, relates to the cost of the NMW to employers, with a series of financial support packages being worked up, aimed at these two sectors specifically. The other part of the working assumption is that in order for businesses to cope with the move to a NMW, 50% of businesses will likely increase their prices, 20% will reduce employment, 20% may changed employee T&Cs (such as reduced hours, Sunday rates, overtime) and 10% will absorb the costs into the profits. Some of this points will steer the draft support packages towards encouraging productivity gains to help soften these impacts. Some of it might make some sectors less competitive.
Chamber asked for early on for four things. Enough notice of a change, clarity on the way the the LW (or NMW) was to be calculated, support for businesses to manage the change and plenty of meaningful engagement along the way. We are ensuring these these asks are being delivered by Govt. and for that ongoing dialogue we are grateful to the Ministers and Officers, despite the clear concerns we have over the potential impacts.
Change is going to happen. But we are in the room and in the conversations to represent your views as Chamber members.
Have a great weekend. Murray, |
|
| Solving the Housing Crisis
In his first speaker opportunity at a Chamber Lunch the Minister will review recent changes and give some outline of his future intentions to solve an issue that exists for both islanders and employers. Date: Wednesday 10th July 2024 Time: 12:15 – 14:30 Venue: Royal Yacht Hotel Tickets: |
| | Read More |
|
|
|  |
Driving Business Growth by Recognising Sustainability Opportunities
Thursday July 11th 2024 Royal Yacht Hotel Registration and Breakfast 0730-0800, Event 0800-0930
The Jersey Chamber of Commerce invites you to enjoy breakfast and discover the business potential of sustainability – hearing from ESG, communications and business transformation experts as well as finding out more about a real-world example of how sustainable practice is transforming the property investment sector.
Speakers will include: Fred Betley, Managing Director and Co Founder, FutureTracker Laura Morel, Account Director, Orchard (Jersey) Marc Lainé, Co Founder, FutureTracker Vincent Le Gallez, UN1TY Dipak Vashi, Business Advisory Senior Manager, Grant Thornton
FutureTracker, with five speakers in environmental impact measurement and regulatory reporting, this breakfast session will show you how your business can get ahead in its journey to sustainability and the tangible business benefits that will bring. Tickets available individually or in reserved tables of 10 |
| | Read More |
|
|
| Kindly Sponsored By FutureTracker |
|
|
|
| The Jersey Chamber of Commerce September Lunch Guest speaker Deputy Elaine Millar Minister of Treasury & Resources |
| With the budget to come later in the year, an ideal opportunity to hear how the Jersey finances currently sit and what changes are afoot for everyone.
Date: Thursday 26th September 2024 Time: 12:15 – 14:30 Venue: Radisson Blu Hotel Tickets: |
|
|
|
Corporate Tax Update - Remember to File The 2023 Income Tax Filing deadline is approaching for Foundations, Clubs, Associations, Co-Operatives and Incorporated/Unincorporated Bodies. The deadline for filings for these entity types is midnight on Wednesday 31 July 2024. Corporate return online filing (gov.je)
Those updates on the roads...
|
|
States Meeting Tuesday 16th July 9:30am to 5:30pm (Continuation days 17th,18th and 19th)
Scheduled Debates:
A full recording of the States Meeting is uploaded here All States Members’ votes are recorded shortly after the vote has taken place here Hansard records of States Meetings are uploaded here |
|
Draft Unlawful Public Entertainments (Jersey) Regulations 202-. |
|
| Calling All Productivity Enthusiasts! 2024 Survey Results Released and Resources Galore |
| This comprehensive report delves into the current state of productivity in Jersey businesses, offering valuable insights and actionable takeaways for organizations of all sizes. But wait, there's more! To empower your journey towards peak performance, Jersey Business offers a treasure trove of resources: Jersey Business is committed to supporting your pursuit of productivity excellence. Download the survey report and explore the resources available to help your business thrive. Let's work smarter, not harder, together! |
|
|
|
|  |
Join over 500 global attendees in the Bailiwick of Jersey, Channel Islands, for the 46th Global Privacy Assembly. Over 5 days, our attendees will hear from expert speakers and panellists as we explore how we can respect and balance the power of information with the need for citizens across the world to have control, dignity and power over their personal information. Previous speakers at GPA events have included Apple CEO Tim Cook, former UK Information Commissioner Elizabeth Denham and Kashmir Hill, Technology Reporter at the New York Times. Talk topics will include: • Who controls the power of information? • What is this power being used for and by whom? • The effectiveness of current regulatory models now and in the future. • How can we improve individuals’ ability to manage their data? • What is the path to achieve greater equity in data sharing? • How do we foster better behaviours and culture around the use of personal data? This event is open to anyone with an interest in data protection and privacy, so whether you’re a data protection authority, work in data and privacy or are a business professional, academic, non-governmental organisation or member of the public, this event is for you. Just 40 minutes from London this event is one of the highlights of the global privacy and data protection calendar. Make sure to follow for updates on our agenda and speaker announcements. |
|
|
|
| Citizens advice Jersey are very excited to be hosting our very first fundraiser on the 28th September 2024! |
| Come along and dance the night away with us for a fantastic disco evening. |
|
|
|
| BDO Jersey supports Jersey Rowing Squad |
|  |
BDO Jersey is proud to announce its support for a Jersey rowing squad, a diverse group of dedicated athletes who embody the spirit of community and perseverance. This partnership underscores BDO's commitment to fostering local talent and contributing to the vibrant sports culture in Jersey. Empowering Athletes Through Support At BDO Jersey, we believe in the power of community and the importance of supporting local initiatives that promote teamwork, resilience, and personal growth. Our sponsorship has enabled the rowing squad to acquire essential equipment, providing instant feedback and facilitating continuous improvement. This support ensures that each training session is maximised, allowing the team to excel, despite their varied professional commitments and schedules. A Diverse and Dedicated Squad The squad comprises individuals from a wide array of professions, including a carpenter, university student, doctor, nurses, and finance workers. For many of them rowing was a new pursuit taken up as adults, reflecting their passion and commitment to the sport. Meet the Team Tim Rogers: Tim provides fitness coaching and will cox the quadruple scull boats in local races. Ana Almeida: A BDO Jersey employee and former women's captain of Birmingham Rowing Club, Ana brings enthusiasm and leadership to the team. Marie-Julie Cnudde: A junior doctor and former King's College Cambridge rower, Marie-Julie balances her medical career with rowing. Becca Gerard-Pearse: An ICU nurse in her first full rowing season, Becca's energy and dedication are inspiring. Hannah Bonn: An A&E nurse and mother of two, Hannah is excelling in her first full rowing season. Gary Briggs: A finance professional and British Rowing silver medallist who leads the squad, Gary also offers coaching and race experience. Joshua Le Lere: A carpenter with exceptional local race results, Joshua is a product of the Jersey Rowing Club youth academy. Adam Le Lere: A Cardiff University student and British Championships silver medalist, Adam's dedication is exemplary. Warren Muggleton: BBC Channel Islands sports journalist and former river rower, Warren maintains his training despite frequent travel. Looking Ahead: Competing at the Highest Levels The squad aims to create a strong technical base and compete in prestigious events, such as the British Rowing Offshore Championships and the World Rowing Coastal Championships. These events offer invaluable experience, allowing the team to race against and learn from Olympic athletes, further enhancing their skills and dedication. Our support for this Jersey rowing squad reflects BDO Jersey’s broader commitment to community engagement and development. We value and support each other, maintaining an inclusive working environment where teamwork and relationships matter. We are committed to helping people thrive, both within our organisation and in the communities we serve. We are proud to contribute to the success of these dedicated athletes and look forward to their continued achievements.
|
|
|
|
| BLUE ISLANDS ANNOUNCES NEXT ROUND OF FLIGHT FUNDING BENEFICIARIES |
|  |
Blue Islands is excited to announce the next round of beneficiaries for its flight funding programme. This initiative, launched in 2019, continues to enable Channel Islanders to pursue ambitions and opportunities that may not be possible without the support of free flights. Rob Veron, CEO Blue Islands said, “From sport, charities, art and personal enrichment, there was an incredible range of aspirations showcased in a record number of applications which is testament to the amazing talent, dedication and passion of Channel Islanders.” This latest round of flight funding sees 300 free flights worth over £25,000 awarded beneficiaries in sport, charities and the arts. Winning U21 and U14 competitions, Archie Greier, 10, from Jersey, is a gifted snooker player that regularly plays in UK tournaments, and just one of the many flight funding beneficiaries from this latest award. After winning the U21 Bronze championship in Swindon in May, and learning that he has become a flight fund beneficiary, Archie said, “I'm so happy that I finished off the snooker season with a victory. I've won three Cuestars tournaments now and hoping to win more when it starts again in September. I now move up to Silver level having been Bronze level for just over a year, and with flight funding support from Blue Islands, I can enter many more events and hopefully get more experience and bring back more trophies to Jersey.” |
|
|
|
At Jersey Drone, we combine 20 years of experience in property with technology. We are passionate about capturing the beauty of Jersey from the sky while providing practical solutions within the property sector. As a fully qualified, insured, and authorised drone services provider, we offer a wide range of aerial solutions including stunning aerial photography and videography for marketing, real estate, and events. Our specialised roof inspections help reduce costs and mitigate the risk of accidents by providing detailed, high-resolution imagery without the need for scaffolding. We pride ourselves on our knowledge and deep love for Jersey, which is reflected in every project we undertake. Our state-of-the-art drones and skilled operators ensure precise, safe, and efficient service, making us the go-to choice for your next project. Partner with us to elevate your visual content, showcase your property or business and ensure the safety of your buildings. |
|
| THIS YEAR CHAMBER IS SUPPORTING KEZIA'S FUND |
|
|
|
As Chamber members are aware we currently supporting Kezia’s Fund.
Kezia’s Fund was set up to support initiatives promoting good mental health amongst children and young people in Jersey. It provides grants and support to organisations that are working to address the issue of rising rates of poor mental health.
One of the primary fundraising events for this fund is Run for Kezia, an event which attracted 800 participants last year to run or walk over the choice of 3 distances (2k, 5k, 10k). The event is being held to coincide, again, with World Suicide Prevention Day on 15 September.
We would like to encourage all members to consider signing up (it is not competitive, timed and it is not necessary to run) and to encourage their families, friends and colleagues to sign up too: Kezia's Fund
Thank you |
|
| Run a small business, perhaps a building/construction, retail or health and beauty business – or know someone who does? The Jersey Office of the Information Commissioner (JOIC) is here to help you navigate your local data protection law obligations.
ALL Jersey organisations that process (use) personal information must be registered with the JOIC, as required by the Data Protection Authority (Jersey) Law (2018).
Local data protection law applies to organisations and businesses of all shapes and sizes, commercial businesses and not-for profit organisations in Jersey that process personal information.
JOIC Operations Director Anne King says the JOIC is keen to ensure all business owners in the Island, whatever their size, are aware the JOIC team is on hand to provide data protection guidance and advice.
|
| | Read More |
|
|
The Statistics Users Group are running our annual survey on public statistics and are looking for responses from as many people in Jersey as possible, regardless of whether they are regular users of public stats or not. |
|
| A new website (jcsc.je) is in the final stages of testing, but you to have the first look now.If there’s any content you think it should contain then let us know.
Also launching is a new service for Islanders: the Suspicious Email Reporting Service (SERS). This is part of Jersey Cyber Shield, and is a free service. It’ll make it easier for organisations to report suspicious emails, and help us to gather intelligence so that we can produce advice and guidance. Find out more below, or make use of our shiny new website and read about it here. As an individual, you can instantly report a suspicious email to SERS by emailing phishing@jcsc.je. |
| | Read More |
|
|
| Highlands College Training Courses |
| Starting in September, you and your team can gain a L3 Investment Operations Certificate (IOC) and/or L4 Investment Advice Diploma (IAD). To find out more about the courses and how to sign up tap here 👇 |
|
|
|
| DEVELOPING MANAGEMENT SKILLS HALF DAY WORKSHOP 10% discount to Chamber members
Managers are at the centre of critical relationships which drive performance, employee engagement and support wellbeing. It is important that managers have the skills to manage their teams effectively and deal with issues confidently when they arise. OPEN WORKSHOP DATE – 9.00 to 13.30 on 18 April
Digital Jersey
Channel Islands Training and Development
Copcoy - Health & Safety
Law At Work Training |
|
|
|
| CHAMBER MEMBERS DISCOUNT AND OFFERS |
|
|
|
| HR Now will happily provide a 10% discount to chamber members for the first or next three invoices in 2024. They just need to quote Chamber10% in their initial or next enquiry. This applies to consultancy, fixed fees and training. Charities will always enjoy a 20% discount.
|
| | Read More |
|
|
| We would like to offer ALL Jersey Chamber Members a discount on a purchase for a Cyber Essentials Certification whether this is a new purchase or a renewal of an existing certificate to try and encourage the take up of the certification on the island as much as possible. We will always beat and” Like for Like “pricing.
Use the Code of Jerseychamber10 for a 10% discount |
| | Read More |
|
|
| Do you have an event to arrange, one taking place next year - or even in 2025? Well, contact Sandy at ternevents if you do! Sandy is delighted to offer a 10% discount for all event planning services to Chamber Members.
|
|
|
|
| If you have any discount offers that you would like to offer to all Chamber Members, we would love to hear from you. Send your offers to admin@jerseychamber.com |
|
|
|
Helping Members Stay Informed Tel: 01534 724536 / Email: admin@jerseychamber.com
|
|
|
