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19-21 Broad Street | St Helier Jersey | JE2 4WE
Constable Mike Jackson Chair, EHI Panel
BY EMAIL
08 November 2021 Dear Mike
Re: Inclusion of the Bailiwick of Jersey in the UK/EU Trade and Economic Co-operation Agreement – Fisheries [S.R.5/2021] – Update
I write in response to letter dated the 18 October concerning Jersey's inclusion in the TCA and fisheries. Firstly, may I thank you for agreeing to an extension to the deadline in which to respond.
With respect to the obligations under the TCA, I am very clear on my responsibilities. I am fully committed to the precautionary approach to fisheries management, the promotion of sustainability, minimising the wider impact on marine habitats from fishing and the preservation of marine biodiversity. License conditions, together with the overarching legislation, seek to establish a framework to achieve this. The correspondence from the NT and BLUE does reference the suspension of conditions that relate to "extent and nature". I agree fully that "extent and nature" are a fundamental part of the TCA that provide the conditions to fulfil the requirements above. However, this matter is part of wider discussions between the TCA parties and remains a live issue. At this time, the matter remains out of my control but I have made no secret of my desire to expedite this issue .Whilst I accept it is disappointing, we need to ensure that this is resolved by the parties, with our involvement, prior to their reintroduction in the license conditions. The development of license conditions is an iterative process, with new conditions and variations occurring as required.
With respect to the Panel's report, I stand by my commitment to accept those recommendations and my comments. Your request for an update on the timing and delivery of the actions is absolutely correct and we must push on with these very important issues. However, you will appreciate that further development and delivery have been delayed by the ongoing negotiations between the UK, EU France and Jersey in respect of fishing vessels licensing that has not only diverted resources, but also prevented detailed work, due to the absence of clarity on key aspects. I, together with officers, will be endeavouring to achieve the timetables set out but some re-assessment may be required depending on the outcome of these negotiations, and any reprioritisation in light of them.
I can confirm that work on the Marine Resources Strategy has begun and it remains my intention to discuss this with the Panel before the end of the year.
I, and officers, remain available and willing to discuss any of the above at any time. Yours sincerely
Deputy John Young Minister for the Environment D +44 (0)1534 440540
