States urged to set aside £130k for Sunday polls

he States of Jersey has been asked to set aside £130,000 to cover the extra costs of holding next year’s election on a Sunday instead of a weekday.

In April, the States voted to move the election to Sunday 7 June 2026, in a bid to boost voter turnout following the 41.7% participation in the 2022 general election.

A report by the Privileges and Procedures Committee (PPC) highlighted that a Sunday election would increase administrative expenses, as officials and Parish staff would need to work over the weekend. The requested funds would be used to cover Parish staffing costs and other related expenses.

Parish leaders have warned that holding the election on a Sunday will incur additional costs, including overtime pay for staff, hiring polling stations, and arranging adjoints. Staff will also be required on Saturday to set up polling stations, with duties beginning early on Sunday. Hospitality and refreshments at traditional venues may also be more expensive or less available on a weekend, according to the Comité des Connétables.

The PPC’s decision to explore weekend voting was influenced by practices in other jurisdictions with higher voter participation. The committee argued that holding elections on a Sunday would make it easier for working people, students, and families with children to vote. They also noted that weekday early voting can be inconvenient for those rushing to work, and some are unlikely to vote after work hours.

Historically, Jersey elections have been held on Wednesdays. According to the 2022 Jersey Opinions and Lifestyle Survey, 53% of residents over 65 voted in the last election, compared with just 17% of 16- to 34-year-olds, highlighting the challenge of engaging younger voters.