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5th February 2021 Private & Confidential
Deputy David Johnson Chair, Brexit Review Panel StatesGreffe: Scrutiny Morier House
St Helier
Jersey
JE1 1DD
Dear Deputy Johnson ,
- WhatareyourviewsontheTECAin relationtoitsimpacton Jersey?
The TECA presents both opportunities for Jersey and also challenges. Regarding the trade in goods, jersey only participates in the TECA to the extent necessary to facilitate the trade in goods, and on a "chapterbychapter" basis. This enables jersey to benefit from reciprocal market access with EU markets on a "zero tariffs, zero quotas" basis, and will reducethepotentialdisruption forthetrade
in goods between the Islands and the EU.
Regarding fisheries the overall impact of the TECA on Jersey is positive, providing a stable and predictable fisheries relationship with France in particular, also preventing overfishing of Jersey's waters.
- Do you have any specific concerns about the TECA in relation to your sector?
The TECA is near silent on financial services, an area where Unite has considerable membership. This is a concern as the TECA could be stronger here.
Following the cancellation of the informal interim permit scheme for French fishing vessels to access Jersey waters, Jersey's fishing vessels are reported to be having issues landing their catches in the EU. Whatever the resolution, it is vital steps are taken immediately to resolve this issue, so Jersey workers do not suffer a detriment.
- What impact would there be ifJerseyterminateditsinvolvement in the TECA?
AsthingsstandtheTECA contains mechanisms for monitoring and developing trade policies and practices between the UK and the EU through Trade Committees, as well as enforcement mechanisms. Were Jersey to withdraw, equivalent mechanisms would need to be put in place to protect Jersey's interests. As things stand, Jersey will continue to depend on the UK to protect their interests in such matters. Whilst this removes some autonomy in decision making from the island, it also appears these mechanisms are in the interests of Jersey's employers and by extension employees.
Unite notes that Jersey terminating its involvement in the TECA may have a direct impact on those exporting goods to the EU. Whilst this represents a relatively modest part of the economies of the Islands, for those impacted this is their livelihood. As such, any decisions about withdrawing from said agreement should ensure this impact is neutral or positive, and does not put these worker's livelihoods in jeopardy.
Yours sincerely,
Gareth Lowe James Turner
Regional Officer, Unite the Union Regional Officer, Unite the Union Submission ends