New Sark shipping licences may 'open up opportunities'

A NEW Sark shipping licensing policy should allow more opportunities for tourism in the island, the Office of the Lt-Governor believes.

Operators of shipping services to Sark have had their licences renewed as part of the recently-approved policy, which was developed by the office and the Sark Shipping Committee in consultation with shipping operators across the Channel Islands and France.

Major Marco Ciotti, for the Office of the Lt-Governor, said all current operators within the Bailiwick had been sent their new licences through the post, with a copy of the licensing policy.

He added that anyone wishing to operate in Sark waters for the first time could make an application online.

The office launched a policy consultation in March to assist with the implementation of the necessary regime, which comes under the amended vessel licensing legislation approved by the Chief Pleas of Sark in 2010.

Under the amended legislation, subject to certain specific exceptions, all passenger and cargo shipping services to and from Sark must be operated in accordance with the existing Shipping Law, which might require a licence to be granted by the Lt-Governor.

'We were delighted with the results of the consultation, which received 16 responses from operators in Jersey, Guernsey, Sark and France,' added Major Ciotti.

'They provided some very useful feedback on the first draft, which has helped to refine the new shipping licensing policy.'

Sark Shipping Committee chairman Conseiller Andrew Cook said the island would remain freely accessible to private pleasure vessel owners, and operators, making personal trips.

'Licensing only applies to those specific vessels covered by the legislation operating passenger or cargo shipping services to Sark.'

He added that the Sark shipping licensing policy would be kept under constant review.

'The policy is a living document and the Office of the Lt-Governor may also amend or restrict a licence if there is evidence that it is having an adverse effect on Sark's lifeline service.'

n Anyone seeking to run a passenger or cargo service in Sark waters for the first time can apply for a licence by visiting www.gov.sark.gg and downloading a form. Questions relating to the licensing of shipping services in Sark waters should be addressed to the Sark Shipping Committee on 832118 or at shipping@gov.sark.gg