Jersey Shellfish Exporters Seek Increased Government Assistance

Shellfish exporters are requesting additional assistance from the Government of Jersey, citing hold-ups in the establishment of a new border inspection facility in France. Following Brexit, all shellfish consignments have been routed via St Malo, France, a journey described as both expensive and time-consuming for those involved in transport. Exporters have been anticipating the commencement of operations at a new border inspection post in Granville for four years, a facility they state would substantially lower expenses by shortening travel durations. Economic Minister Deputy Kirsten Morel stated his collaboration with the Departmental Council of La Manche regarding this matter. These appeals follow a recent meeting earlier this week, which involved ministers from the Channel Islands and their French counterparts, where topics such as renewable energy, the marine spatial plan, and emergency planning were discussed. Additionally, issues were highlighted concerning the grading of fish harvested in Jersey’s waters. Chris Le Masurier, representing the Jersey Oyster Company, expressed the company’s need for increased financial aid from the government. He also urged ministers to exert greater influence on French officials to expedite the opening of the Granville inspection post. He stated: “Since we have been going to St Malo, it has cost us in the region of £400,000 to £500,000. We can’t weather that anymore.” President Jean Morin of La Manche Council affirmed his strong commitment to advancing solutions for the problem. He remarked: “It was agreed during our discussions that there will be an inter-ministerial meeting co-organised by the region and the Manche department so that we can exchange ideas with the Minister of the Sea and possibly another minister from Europe, for example, to bring to the table everything that could lead us to a solution.” Morel commented: “Going via Granville would be much cheaper for our fishing industry and likely much easier as well.” He added: “It’s a question, though, for the French national government and I believe that, by working together, La Manche and Jersey really hope to convince the French central government that this would be a good thing to do.” Fishermen also expressed dissatisfaction with the differing grading standards for produce, despite operating in the same waters. Products originating from Jersey destined for Europe are classified as grade B, necessitating passage through water purification tanks. Conversely, French fishermen, who are permitted to fish in Jersey waters with a valid licence, receive an A grade, indicating direct suitability for human consumption. Mr Le Masurier asserted that the grading system was inequitable and required resolution. He questioned: “How can you have the EU fishing in our waters, selling their products direct for human consumption, yet they’re penalising our own community saying our waters are grade B? It’s not right.” Environment Minister Deputy Steve Luce described the system as complex and not formulated with the island’s close proximity to France as a consideration. He further stated: “Government officers and the fishing community are in discussions with colleagues from the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, the French government and the European Commission.” He concluded: “These discussions will continue with a view to coming to resolution.”