AI could help population management backlog

Home Affairs is considering using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to help clear a backlog of applications, according to the committee president.

Deputy Marc Leadbeater says the department could use systems similar to those being used at the revenue service.

"We'll be looking at all the options of system upgrades, AI agents and whatever we can do to try and modernise the process, streamline the process and make it more efficient."

Recent figures showed there were 4,000 outstanding population and immigration applications.

States chief executive Boley Smillie has previously announced there would be a review into population management.

The department is also under fresh leadership after the BBC revealed the previous boss was living in the British Virgin Islands while working for Guernsey's government.

Home Affairs has extended short-term employment permits (Step) by an extra nine months to ease challenges faced by employers, which was welcomed by the Hospitality Association.

Leadbeater admitted to the States that the current system at Population Management was "outdated".

"The system's upgrade is going to be part of the recovery plan to get us back on track.

"If we can, use AI agents to try and streamline the process of Step applications. Because some people need to travel and get to Guernsey and we've got businesses that are relying on a timely turnaround of applications.

"The system is outdated, it's as simple as that."

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