More manpower needed 'to tackle nitrate levels'

More manpower is needed to tackle the high levels of nitrates in Jersey's water, according to a scrutiny report.

The panel recommends the Environment Department employs at least one new full time member of staff to help reduce levels and monitor compliance.

Latest tests show levels of potentially harmful nitrates in untreated watersupplies are among the highest in Europe.

The scrutiny panel's report supports evidence showing the contamination is having significant impact on Jersey's water supplies, as well as contributing to the sea lettuce problem in St Aubin's Bay.

Last year, the Environment Minister revealed the Water Management Plan to tackle the amount of nitrates, phosphates and pesticides.

The scrutiny reports commends the Minister's efforts to reduce levels, but adds he faces "a significant challenge" to achieve the aim of bringing down the amount by 25-33%.