Knowledge

Since the autumn of 2012 there has been a whirlwind of activity in the Jersey employment law sphere.

Following complaints from businesses about the proposed fast-tracking of the draft discrimination law through the States of Jersey in 2012 (no new consultation on the proposed legislation having taken place since 2008), in the past few months there has been a consultation inundation, with deliberation on a range of matters including discrimination, the qualifying period for unfair dismissal and employment codes of practice.

On 16 April 2013, the Minister for Social Security published the "Jersey Employment Tribunal Review: Report to the States". The stated purpose of the report is to address "criticism levelled at the Jersey Employment Tribunal" and it does so by reviewing all of the Tribunal's 2012 judgments.

This report is a useful read, not least because it emphasises the fundamental importance of employers following fair procedures, particularly when it comes to dismissals. It notes that small businesses may face significant challenges.

Whether or not the report genuinely meets its aim may be open to debate, given that it considers only one facet of a complex issue: it is limited to consideration of the Tribunal's published judgments and accordingly takes no account of parties' views or experiences.

Bedell Cristin's employment law team recognises the challenges faced by local businesses in complying with developing legislation. We regularly give seminars on managing employment law matters. We would be happy to discuss our services and seminars with you at no cost.