News this week… Reaction to Blue Islands going into liquidation, major milestones in new acute hospital project and school staff survey results


Major steps taken toward new hospital at Overdale
Three key milestones have been achieved towards the Government’s priority to build a new hospital at Overdale: a Preferred Tenderer has been selected, the planning permit has been received, and a local contractor appointed for development works. These steps mark significant progress toward starting construction.

Bird Flu risk remains despite no cases in Jersey
There are currently no cases of Avian Influenza in Jersey, but outbreaks in Europe and the UK mean the risk of introduction persists. Islanders are reminded to report dead wild birds and follow safety advice.

Jersey Schools and Colleges Staff Survey published
The Government has released the Jersey Schools’ and Colleges’ Survey 2025, capturing experiences of all school-based staff. This builds on the 2021 Teachers’ Survey and now includes teaching, leadership, support, and administrative roles.

Updated guidelines for job permissions announced
Assistant Chief Minister Deputy Carina Alves has issued new guidance for businesses applying for registered and licensed job permissions. Employers can now access licensed permissions for a wider range of roles, including those with salaries starting at £54,000. Read Deputy Alves’ Blog post Controls relaxed for local businesses.

Blue Islands: Treasury Minister addresses States Assembly
The Minister for Treasury and Resources, Deputy Elaine Millar, delivered a statement to the States Assembly expressing regret that Blue Islands had ceased operations and outlining the Government’s response and timeline of events.

Clarification of airline’s outstanding debt to Government
The Government has clarified some misunderstandings in recent reporting and discussions of Blue Islands.

Community Engagement
Recent blogs spotlight:

Embrace Our Difference: Inclusive customer engagement at the Channel Islands Co-op

Why improving St Helier’s Public Realm is a win for everyone

Building a stronger financial future for Jersey

Winter vaccinations, Embrace Our Difference 2025 and the Proposed Budget for 2026 to 2029
Find out more about the Government’s Proposed Budget for 2026 to 2029. Book your vaccine appointment with your GP today. The powerful theme of Embrace Our Difference 2025 is engagement. True inclusion goes beyond accessibility, it’s about making sure people with disabilities are actively involved in shaping the decisions that affect their lives.