Cherbourg disruption short-lived – Le Tocq
PROBLEMS for Guernsey fishermen landing their catches in France was ‘short-lived’ and an ‘isolated incident’, Policy & Resources’ external relations lead has said.
Deputy Jonathan Le Tocq said Guernsey had good relationships with its regional partners in Normandy and Brittany – and that the issue relating to Cherbourg had been resolved accordingly – as part of a wider update about post-Brexit access for French fishing vessels to local waters.
‘Fishing is an important topic, culturally and economically, for both the Bailiwick and the neighbouring regions,’ said Deputy Le Tocq.
‘Throughout the Brexit process we have sought to ensure that the new licensing regime, to be implemented under the TCA, would provide certainty and economic stability for qualifying vessels who access Bailiwick waters while protecting sustainability and the historic rights of our local fleet to be able to continue to land their catch in the nearby French ports.’
The Bailiwick’s approach to licensing had been transparent and clearly communicated, he said, which had been welcomed by the regional authorities, French government and European Commission.
‘We are aware that there have recently been some difficulties for local vessels landing catch in one particular French port, following announcement of the issuing of licences to French vessels,’ he added.
‘This was disappointing and unwarranted given the clear explanation of our decision and transparency in our methodology for processing applications. We have raised the matter directly with our regional partners and I am pleased that such problems seem to have been short-lived.
‘We have received assurances that this issue, which was an isolated incident coordinated by certain individuals, has now been resolved.’
With France being Guernsey’s closest European neighbour, he stressed the desire to continue to strengthen important historic, cultural and economic links.
Deputy Le Tocq added: ‘We would always welcome the opportunity to discuss topics of mutual interest, but must also ensure that we are respecting the processes and requirements that are now in place through the TCA.’
Guernsey Fisherman’s Association vice-president Dougal Lane confirmed there had been an issue with Cherbourg – but that it had now been resolved.
