Coronavirus: Calls for emergency support for Jersey businesses

There are calls for smaller businesses affected by Coronavirus to receive emergency support from Jersey's government.

A petition has been set up calling on the States to provide higher statutory sick pay.

It is also asking for rent deferrals and mortgage payment holidays to help businesses survive the crisis.

In response to the global outbreak of COVID-19, Jersey's government have introduced business measures including deferring GST payments, social security contributions and rental payments for business properties owned by the States.

At present, islanders can apply for Short Term Incapacity Allowance only if they have symptoms of Coronavirus and are quarantined at home.

The latest business measures introduced in Jersey to help support businesses in the island. Credit: ITV Channel TV

Iselin Jones has been speaking to members of Jersey's business community to find out what support they need.

Over 2,700 people have signed the petition so far, meaning Ministers will now have to give it a response. It needs 5,000 signatures before the States will consider it for debate in the Assembly.