The Briefing

The Weekly Briefing from The Quarry

All the latest from The Quarry newsroom.

The Policy & Resources Committee has released its latest proposals related to tax reform.
They outline a package including a 5% GST including on food and personal income tax cuts.
These proposals include protections against potential future GST increases.
Other options, including corporate tax reform, are still being reviewed.
A final decision will be made in June.

Les Varendes High School received a 'Good' rating for Behaviour and Attitudes, Personal Development and Welfare, and Leadership and Management in its first Ofsted inspection.
Quality of Education was rated as 'Requires Improvement'.
The inspection highlighted a welcoming school community and strong leadership post-merger with La Mare de Carteret High School.
Areas for improvement include assessment precision and meeting students’ needs more effectively.
School leadership remains committed to improvement while balancing staff wellbeing and workload.

P&R proposes Alderney runway renovations capped at £24m.
It scales back plans from 2022 which had included an extension.
Best offer for that work had been nearly £13m. more.
In 2019 the States had agreed to spend £12.2m. on reconstructing and widening the runway, a mirror of the latest scheme.

Environment & Infrastructure is seeking public input on proposed bus fare changes.
Proposed increases include standard fares rising by 10p to £1.70 and pay-as-you-go fares to £1.25.
Adjustments are suggested for family passes to align with the one-day unlimited journeys pass.
The fare for late-night services remains unchanged at £5.
Feedback on the proposals can be sent until 5pm on Wednesday 28th January.

The Jersey and Guernsey Chambers of Commerce have committed to collaboration across the Channel Islands.
The joint initiative focuses on delivering benefits for members, strengthening advocacy, and promoting economic growth.
Early priorities include improving inter-island connectivity and hosting joint events for knowledge sharing.
Both Chambers seek to present a unified voice to policymakers.
The partnership aims at providing support for businesses to thrive in a changing economic landscape.

During December 2025, officers stopped 576 vehicles as part of Operation Bauble.
Thirteen drivers were arrested on suspicion of drink driving.
The highest reading over three times the legal limit.
Authorities emphasise the dangers of drink driving and promote safe choices during festive celebrations.
The commitment to tackle drink driving will continue throughout the year.

The Joyous Childhood Family event is set for Saturday, 17 January 2026, at Les Beaucamps High School.
This year's event focuses on the significance of early childhood experiences in brain development.
Over 25 local agencies will participate, offering interactive activities aimed at early development.
Families can secure free tickets for a screening of ‘Tabby McTat’ and enjoy various stalls throughout the day.
The event promotes practical ideas for parents to support their children’s development at home.

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