Farms focus on 'positive living conditions' for workers

A union says farms across the island are putting a "strong emphasis" on providing "positive working and living conditions that encourage worker retention and return.

Jersey Farmers Union said it is a "fundamental" part of how the industry operates.

It comes after hundreds of hazards were reported following inspections.

The standard of accommodation has been assessed after an inquest into the death of a Filipino farm worker, George Castrudes.

A spokesperson for Jersey Farmers Union said the agricultural industry in Jersey "relies heavily on people to operate and recognises that providing safe, comfortable, and well-managed accommodation where workers require it, is a fundamental part of the industry's sustainable way of working".

It said that farms have a "clear incentive to ensure workers have a positive experience" and that they are placing a "strong emphasis on creating positive working and living conditions that encourage worker retention and return".

The union described regulation and oversight of the industry as "robust", citing government inspections and health and safety standards as "core responsibilities" for its members.

Earlier this week in the States Assembly, Planning & Regulation Minister Sir Mark Boleat responded to a written question on the subject.

He said: "Since 1 May 2026, officers have inspected 295 units of agricultural accommodation and identified 315 hazards requiring remedial action.

"The majority of inspected units were found to contain one or more hazards requiring remedial action.

"The most common hazards identified related to excess cold, electrical safety, damp and mould, falls and water supply issues."

He later told the BBC that the majorty had since been "dealt with".

The standard of farm worker accommodation was brought into focus after an inquest into the death of Filipino farm worker, Geore Castrudes, which found his living conditions contributed to his death.

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