Jersey’s government has approved its Budget for 2026, marking a significant shift towards downsizing the public sector. During four days of intense debate, Treasury Minister Deputy Elaine Millar emphasized that measures to reduce public sector growth are imminent. She announced that specific proposals will be presented to States Members in February 2026, following growing concerns about government spending.
Millar stated, “This is the final budget of this government,” indicating the need for challenging decisions ahead. She assured the Assembly that ministers are committed to managing growth in a structured manner to ensure that essential public services remain sustainable.
The discussion included suggestions for substantial cuts to public services. Deputy Sir Philip Bailhache proposed a plan that would empower the chief executive to implement a £100 million reduction and require each department to decrease headcounts by 10%. In response, Millar confirmed that the chief executive already has the authority to “resize” the public service. She highlighted ongoing efforts to limit recruitment, streamline management structures, and decrease reliance on external consultants.
As the debate progressed, Chief Minister Deputy Lyndon Farnham underscored concerns about Jersey’s spending habits, likening them to those of larger jurisdictions. “We are spending like a big country, to be honest. We are regulating like a big country, we are centralising like a big country. We are in danger of borrowing like a big country,” he stated, emphasizing the need for a return to the island’s traditional fiscal conservatism.
In the final hours of the budget debate, Deputy Inna Gardiner, chair of the Public Accounts Committee, criticized the government for frequently making promises without adequate details. She warned that Jersey risks merely “managing decline” if it does not take decisive action.
Ultimately, the Budget passed with a vote count of 29 in favor, 10 against, and one abstention. Following the vote, former chief minister Deputy Kristina Moore remarked that the outcome was “hardly a strong endorsement.” In contrast, Sam Mézec, leader of Reform Jersey and Housing Minister, celebrated the Budget’s provisions for making a “real, practical difference” in residents’ lives. Highlighted measures include 15 hours of free childcare per week for children aged 2 to 3, an expanded Pension Plus scheme, a ‘back to school bonus’ for families, and incentives for those looking to downsize their homes.
The voting saw notable opposition, with several deputies—including Deputy Steve Ahier and Deputy Hilary Jeune—casting votes against the Budget. Deputy Lucy Stephenson abstained, while eight members, including Bailhache and Kirsten Morel, were absent from the final vote.
As Jersey navigates its financial future, the upcoming proposals in February will be critical in shaping the island’s public sector landscape and ensuring the viability of its essential services.
