'Political involvement' may delay appointments

The commission said it had seen an "increased desire for political involvement" in its recommendations

Ministers could be delaying the appointment of senior civil servants by involving themselves in the recruitment process, a commission has said.

The Jersey Appointments Commission is an independent body that oversees appointments to top jobs to make sure the process is fair.

In its annual report, the commission said it had seen an "increased desire for political involvement" in its recommendations - especially the Health and Community Services Advisory Board.

The Government of Jersey has been contacted for comment.

'Significant challenges'

It said ministers were free to decline its recommendations but added it meant they were missing out on "the best and most appointable candidates".

Ministerial decisions to decline recommendations "may extend the process and have some negative implications for future recruitment exercises", the report said.

The commission also said in the report there were "significant challenges" in attracting and securing candidates to relocate to Jersey.

"The cost and availability of accommodation and property in Jersey is also a significant barrier for many overseas candidates," it said.

The government had substantial support and a relocation package in place but some candidates viewed the cost of living in Jersey as a "negative factor" that "outweighs the increased remuneration and quality of life", it said.