Scrutiny launches review into Marine Spatial Plan its development and implementation
22 July 2024
The Environment, Housing, and Infrastructure Scrutiny Panel (the Panel) has launched a review into the proposed Jersey Marine Spatial Plan (MSP). The main priority of the Review, is to consider the proposed extension of the Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), how these have been set and will be managed. In particular, whether the proposals are fit for purpose and can be enforced.
The previous Government launched its consultation in October of last year, with further stakeholder discussions with the fishing industry undertaken by the current Minister for the Environment, Deputy Steve Luce. There have been adjustments made to the Marine Protection Areas as a result. While the MSP aims to balance the needs of the natural environment with commercial, leisure and cultural heritage needs, the Panel is keen to find out if it has got that balance right and whether it will allow Jersey to meet its international obligation to meet the ’30 by 30’ target to protect 30% of the marine environment by 2030.
The Panel will seek to engage an expert adviser to consider if the Plan meets its objectives, the stakeholder engagement has been robust and balanced fairly in the final Plan, is in line with scientific evidence, and to advise on implementation. It will also be considered in the global context.
Deputy Hilary Jeune, Chair of the Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Panel, said: ‘While the aims of the MSP, to protect our marine environment for future generations, are laudable, we have to ensure the Plan as it is being proposed is the right one for our Island. The MSP will not be statutory, but it could lead to legislative and fishing regulation changes. We want to consider what influences have led to the finalised proposals and whether these are fit for purpose for all stakeholders, including the natural environment. We are aware that the Government has undertaken significant stakeholder engagement, but we urge those who perhaps feel their voices haven’t been heard, to get in contact with the Panel.’
For further information, visit the Review page on our website.
You can also email the Panel Officer: a.thorne2@gov.je
