Brakes off for economic growth

Wednesday 30th June 2004, 12:00AM BST.

STATES Members have signed up to a vision for the Island which will set government policy for the next five years.

It marks the end of strict controls on employment – 500 new jobs a year for the next five years will be allowed to boost the economy.

The overall aim of the Strategic Plan will be to produce: ‘An Island where people enjoy a good quality of life because of a high-value, prosperous economy which supports a pleasant environment and an inclusive society.’ The approval of the plan, by 32 votes to 13, was ‘a great day’ for the Island, according to Policy and Resources president Senator Frank Walker, who proposed it.

His committee’s plan now becomes the States operating manual until 2010 and includes the targets of growing the economy but safeguarding the environment, of promoting pride in the Island and investing in its youth and of ‘reconnecting’ the States with the people.

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