Jersey unions unite in protest at States cuts plan

Unions said they were concerned about cuts hitting front-line services

Trade unions in Jersey say they are joining forces to challenge planned States cuts and tax rises.

The move will be led by the island's largest union, Unite, which said such changes would hit the sick and the vulnerable.

The government wants to make savings of £50m over three years as part of its comprehensive spending review.

The States said that the savings were needed to ensure foundations were in place for a sustainable future.

Jersey Unite spokesperson Nick Corbel said he was concerned by the lack of consultation over the plans.

He said: "No meaningful discussion has taken place over these proposed cuts.

"What we're asking is, for the time being, suspend these programmes of cuts, especially where it will result in redundancies or reductions in front-line services. and seek full consultation with users of these services and our employee representatives."

Last month, the States said a "pot" of £6m had been set aside to cover any redundancy costs.

Other unions involved include the Association of Dock Workers, the Communication Workers Union, the Jersey Prison Service Association, the National Union of Teachers, the Royal College of Nursing and the Jersey Nurses Association.