Telecoms regulator plans for 'reliable' 999 call service in Jersey

The Jersey Competition Regulatory Authority's said the proposed new code of practice for 999 calls was an important element to achieve a reliable service

Plans to update guidance for 999 calls in Jersey are being consulted on by the island's competition regulator.

The Jersey Competition Regulatory Authority said the update was needed following the recent creation of a new code of practice between telecom operators and emergency services.

It fined JT £380,000 after calls to emergency services were unavailable for most islanders for 57 minutes in 2022.

It said services would help establish a "framework of expectations" for all.

The authority added changes were being developed by all the organisations involved.

'Reliable and effective'

This includes the police, ambulance, fire service and marine rescue.

The authority said licences issued to local telecoms operators included a condition to ensure people could make 999 calls at all times.

The proposed changes to the 999 guidance included an update clarifying obligations and local telecoms operators to ensure end-to-end emergency call service connecting users to the emergency services, according to the authority.

Regulator CEO Tim Ringsdore said a collective process had been created to ensure Jersey's emergency calls were "as reliable and effective as possible".

He described the new code of practice as an "important element" to achieve it.

"Our 999 guidance has a key role in maintaining expectations on standards and reinforcing obligations," said Mr Ringsdore.

He added: "While fairly minor, the proposed changes will help ensure continued understanding and consistency."

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