The first Peoples Debate in Jersey
As part of Jersey's fifth annual Democracy Week, Islanders were given the unique opportunity to take part in a topical debate in the States Chamber on Saturday 28 September 2024.
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In a first for the Island, participants were given the chance to experience debating real-life important issues in the home of Jersey's legislative assembly with the Bailiff of Jersey, Sir Timothy Le Cocq, presiding.
Participants made speeches and voted on the outcome of a proposition, in a similar format to a real States Assembly meeting. The vote will not directly lead to policy changes, but the event was designed to open up the parliamentary process and give Islanders an insight into how political decisions are made.
The Proposition
The proposition was decided by the States Greffe and explored how ambitious Jersey should be in pursuing its net zero target for carbon emissions, and which potential lifestyle and legislative changes should be prioritised to meet the target.
Read and download the proposition and report in full:
PEOPLE'S DEBATE PROPOSITION.pdf.
THE PEOPLE'S DEBATE is asked to decide whether it is of the opinion –
that Jersey should lead the way in the global fight against climate change, and accelerate its own efforts, by committing to achieving net zero emissions by 2040 and that, in order to deliver this –
(a) the standard rate of Income Tax should be raised by 1% in order to support households which currently use fossil fuels for heating, cooling or cooking to convert to low-carbon equivalents;
(b) bus-only lanes should be created at peak traffic hours on key routes into Town, with the remaining lanes (in which traffic flow is to be managed by traffic lights) for use by cars; and
(c) a congestion charge should be introduced for non-residents using non-electric vehicles in Town, with any funds raised to be transferred to the Climate Emergency Fund in order to support improvements to active travel and public transport networks."
Watch the debate
You can watch the debate back on the States Assembly YouTube, Facebook and X social media channels. You can also read a full transcript of the debateTRANSCRIPT People's Debate 28.09.2024.pdf.
What next?
It is hoped that the experience of debating in the Chamber will encourage participants to consider standing for election to the States Assembly in the 2026 elections.
The People's Debate was part of Jersey's fifth annual Democracy Week, which included a range of activities designed to inspire Islanders of all stages of political engagement. The event also coincided with the anniversary of the Corn Riots, which sparked major legislative reform in the 18th century and paved the way for a fairer society.
Frequently Asked Questions
Read the FAQs about the event here
For any further enquiries about the People's Debate, please contact the States Greffe: statesgreffe@gov.je
