Jersey Overseas Aid background

The Island of Jersey (March 2011 estimated population 97,857) is the largest of the Channel Islands, which lie close to the French coast. It is part of the British Isles but not of the United Kingdom. It has its own separate history and traditions, its own government (the States of Jersey) and its own laws. In almost all respects Jersey is a self-governing community.

 The States Assembly consists of 51 members who are elected by the people for terms of 3 or 6 years. Each member has the right to speak and vote according to his or her conscience.

The practical affairs of government are carried out by executive (Council of Ministers) and non-executive (Scrutiny) arms of government, which covers all areas of public administration including finance, health, education, agriculture, etc. On 16th March 2005, the Jersey Overseas Aid Commission (Jersey) Law 2005 (P.14/2005) was adopted by the States of Jersey for effect in 2006 and beyond. The objectives of the Commission are to manage and administer the monies voted by the States of Jersey for overseas aid. The Commission stands as an independent body now that Jersey has moved to ministerial government.

The Commission consists of three States members and three non - States members, all of whom are appointed by the States of Jersey, and the Commission has adopted policies and procedures similar to those of the previous Overseas Aid Committee. The Commission may bring legislation or other matters relating to its area of responsibility to the States Assembly for debate and acceptance, modification or rejection. Individual States members may also present propositions to the States Assembly for debate.