The official version of this document can be found via the PDF button.
The below content has been automatically generated from the original PDF and some formatting may have been lost, therefore it should not be relied upon to extract citations or propose amendments.
1240/5(3751)
WRITTEN QUESTION TO THE CHIEF MINISTER BY DEPUTY R.G. LE HÉRISSIER OF ST. SAVIOUR
ANSWER TO BE TABLED ON TUESDAY 26th FEBRUARY 2008
Question
During the research undertaken in connection with the preparation of R.9/2008 entitled Status of Channel Islanders in the European Union' did the Chief Minister's Department receive any evidence of Islanders whose applications for work permits had been refused as a result of the Channel Islander status stamp in their passport?
Answer
During the preparation of the Report on the status of Channel Islanders in the European Union, the Chief Minister's Department collated evidence from a variety of sources, including letters in the correspondence column of the local newspaper and advice from the Passport and Immigration Department on the number of individuals potentially affected. Information was also obtained on the procedures to apply for a work permit from an EU member state and the opportunities for Channel Islanders to study in the EU.
The Report stated:
"In recent times there has been correspondence in the media, including letters pages of the Jersey Evening Post, from members of the public regarding the position of Channel Islanders in the EU. These letters indicate a level of concern about the issue and indicate a feeling that the arrangements are in some ways unfair or discriminatory against Channel Islanders.
For the individuals affected, the existing arrangements can be the cause of concern and distress."
The purpose of the report, whilst recognising those real concerns, was to explain how this position has come about, to discuss the policy options and to identify the assistance that would be provided to Channel Islanders who are affected.
It was therefore not necessary to carry out a wider public consultation exercise or seek further views from those affected, as it was already recognised that the status of Channel Islanders seeking to work in the European Union is a problem causing some concern.