Ministers Meet To Decide Ukraine Immigration

Monday, 14 March 2022 16:30

The Council of Ministers is meeting tonight to decide how many Ukrainian refugees should be allowed to settle in Jersey.

The Chief Minister says they need to decide on an immigration policy that's the 'most appropriate' for Jersey.

Senator John Le Fondré says the government's priority is making sure refugees with family on the island are welcomed, and have access for everything they need. That includes proper housing of their own, education and jobs 'so they can settle properly into island life'.

It comes after the UK announced 'tens of thousands' of refugees will be welcomed to the country, with those offering accommodation being given a £350 'thank you' payment from the government - but the room has to be available for at least six months.

Several Ukrainian nationals with family ties to Jersey have already been reunited with their families here.

Senator Le Fondré says officers are looking at the 'full and practical implications' of allowing even more refugees to settle on the island:

"The essential supplies donated last week are being delivered to the region, and money continues to come into the Bailiff’s Ukraine Appeal.

Financial donations remain the best method for Islanders to provide support and Jersey Overseas Aid is already channelling these funds to where they will be most effective."