Jersey ministers say unemployment is a 'big issues'

Getting people into work, managing the population and reforming the States are described as priorities by the council of ministers.

The council, led by chief minister Senator Ian Gorst, asked islanders which issues they were affected by.

Unemployment was the biggest worry for the next 12 months, according to the response.

About 150 islanders responded to the survey and the chief minister wants more to come forward.

More than 97,000 people live on the island.

Senator Gorst said reforming the health service, ensuring there is enough housing, and developing the island were also big concerns.

He said States members do listen to residents opinions, and that Ministers will meet islanders in person to hear more suggestions at the end of February.
(from BBC)