Jersey’s Competition Regulatory Authority (JCRA) has published its Annual Report and Accounts for 2020 and looks ahead to the future.
The Report covers a significant year for the JCRA, following its demerger from CICRA and the ongoing pandemic. The report addresses the period during which the JCRA was part of CICRA and following the JCRA’s formal separation from CICRA on 30th June last year. During 2020 it was necessary to assemble a new Board, appoint senior executive officers whilst managing a challenging case load.
The JCRA’s tasks included investigating JT in relation to wholesale broadband pricing and the failure of Jersey’s emergency call services on several occasions, which resulted in substantial fines for two of the Island’s licensed telecoms operators.
The JCRA licenses activity in the ports, post and telecommunications sectors of the economy of Jersey and, as a competition law enforcement body, it has strategic choices to make in deciding which areas to focus its limited resources and the appropriate approach to further its aim.
The JCRA 2021 business plan can be read here. The four areas of focus for 2021 are as follows:
- Markets that work well for Jersey, encouraging innovation and investment
- Value for money for Jersey and Jersey consumers
- Desirable goods and quality services
- Consumer choice
Stephanie Liston, who was appointed Chair of the Authority during the year, explained to Channel Eye: “The last twelve months have presented significant challenges for Jersey and particularly the sectors we regulate. In these unprecedented times, the JCRA has worked collaboratively with Government and initiated early engagement with all our stakeholders.
“I am honoured to have been appointed to Chair the JCRA and lead the renewed focus on our strategy for the future. We are pleased to have the opportunity for a fresh start for competition and regulatory oversight in Jersey.”
Tim Ringsdore, Chief Executive Officer added: “We have built a new team and have adapted to new ways of working. The recent publication of our Prioritisation Principles demonstrates a flexible and pragmatic approach to managing our caseload, so that we continue to deliver an efficient, effective and valuable service for our stakeholders.
“Our focus has been on building the capacity of the JCRA for the future and we have begun 2021 with a full-strength Board that represents a broad spectrum of experience and a skilled executive team who are equipped to deliver our ambitious business plan.”
