THE DEPUTY BAILIFF: This is a case of evicting an unqualified couple because they cease to have the right to live in a property when the qualified person leaves. The company and its directors made known their problems to the Housing Department in January, 1997. In our view they were not helped by the advice they received and to a certain extent they have our sympathy on that point. But 18 months later that sympathy has dissipated.
The Housing Department called, perhaps on information supplied, and matters were eventually, and speedily, resolved. But the problem is not one for the Housing Department but for the company.
The company’s directors have an unblemished record. They have run the company for 12 years without any problem and whilst a fine is clearly necessary it need not, in our view, be as high as the conclusions moved for by the learned Crown Advocate. However, we must mark our disapproval, not for the breach itself but for the length of the breach. Therefore, we are going to fine the company £1,000; each of the two directors £250; or 2 weeks’ imprisonment in default of payment; with £500 costs.
Authorities
AG -v- Dorset Holdings, Ltd (2 nd March, 1998) Jersey Unreported. [1998.045]
AG -v- Saunter (10 th January, 1997) Jersey Unreported.
AG -v- Troys Estate Agency (16 th May, 1997) Jersey Unreported.
AG -v- Combe-Dingle (15 th May, 1993) Jersey Unreported.