Moutier: Bern and Jura sign deal on cantonal switch

Residents of Moutier celebrate the "yes" vote for a switch in cantons from Bern to canton Jura. The flag of canton Jura was erected following the announcement of the result of the vote in Moutier on Sunday, March 28, 2021. Keystone / Jean-christophe Bott

On Friday, government representatives from canton of Bern and Jura signed an agreement for the village of Moutier's change of canton.

It regulates the most important points so that Moutier can make the administrative switch from canton Bern to canton Jura at the beginning of 2026.

The next step is for the two cantonal parliaments to approve the concordat, or agreement. The consultation carried out last summer broadly confirmed a solution had been worked out.

+Moutier: the Swiss conflict that has been ongoing for more than 200 years

Among other things, the concordat deals with continuity in administration, schools, justice and hospitals as well as the issue surrounding taxes. The agreement also covers the distribution of assets and equalisation provisions in relation to financial flows.

+Bye bye Bern: Moutier to join canton Jura by 2026

Once the cantons have approved the concordat, a vote in the Federal Assembly is required in 2025.

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