New discrimination laws could be proposed in Guernsey before the end of 2020

Guernsey’s discrimination laws could be updated, making it illegal to discriminate against islanders on grounds of age, sex, disability, race, pregnancy or maternity, carer status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender reassignment/identity or religious belief.

Deputy Michelle Le Clerc, President of the Committee for Employment & Social Security, wants to deliver policy proposals for new discrimination legislation “before the next election in 2020”.

Currently, there is one discrimination law in Guernsey which only covers sex, marriage and gender reassignment when employing someone.

The model legislation to be considered by the Committee will be inspired by existing laws in Ireland and Australia.

The States plans to hold a public consultation in 2019 so islanders can have their say on the proposed new laws.