The new system of government may be in place by 2005

They follow a public meeting in St Martin concerning reforms to Jersey's political make-up.

Deputy Roy Le Herrisier is president of the committee tasked with reforming the island's government.

He is proposing changes to how States members are elected and government is organised. But Advocate David Le Quesne has said the time for talking is over.

Replacement ministries

A decision was taken in 2001 to set up a ministerial-style government after a report from the Clothier review panel.

In August, Jersey's government published the amendments to existing laws needed to implement the switch to the new system, which is expected take place in late 2005.

As part of it, the 15 committees presently administering the island will be replaced by 10 ministries.

But questions remain over whether the offices of Deputies, who represent individual parishes; and Senators, who are elected across the island, should remain.

Debate date

At last week's public meeting in St Martin, one of the members of the Clothier panel, Advocate David Le Quesne, said he thought the time for talking was over, but he was glad amendments were under way to introduce the new system.

He said: "I think the introduction of ministerial government is the key to all sorts of changes and I'm very relieved that we've achieved the step of wanting to bring it in."

The matter is due to be debated in the States again next month.