Jersey telecoms could see new rules for emergency 999 calls

Wednesday, 3 April 2024 12:03

Jersey telecoms companies' handling of emergency calls could be changed to ensure the island has end-to-end 999 calls.

Islanders could see extra measures taken in the future to make sure they can contact the emergency services at all times.

It follows two incidents in 2022 when islanders could not contact 999 for almost an hour in September and two hours in December of the same year.

JT was fined £380,000 for the first network failure incident in November 2023.

Since then, a new code of practice has been created, used by The Jersey Competition Regulatory Authority to develop new guidance for telecoms companies.

The Authority is launching a public consultation on the suggested new guidelines, which will open until 31 May.

Tim Ringsdore, CEO of the Authority, says its 999 guidance has a key role in maintaining expectations on standards and reinforcing obligations.

"There’s been real collective progress made recently towards ensuring Jersey’s emergency calls service is as reliable and effective as possible, with the new code of practice an important element in helping achieve this.

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

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