Normandy cuts ties with Jersey due to row over new fishing licences

Andrea Savorani Neri/NurPhoto/PA Images
The Honorary Consulate is also closing its offices in Jersey. Credit: PA Images

The Normandy region of France has cut ties with Jersey in a row over new fishing licences.

It is after post-Brexit rules came into force on Friday (30 April), which limit the number of days French boats can catch in Bailiwick waters.

French officials say there are more restrictions placed on the licences than was ever agreed with Jersey's External Relation's Minister, Senator Ian Gorst.

They are calling on the national government to refer the case to the European Commission.

There are even some reports in the French media encouraging officials to switch off the electricity to both Jersey and Guernsey.

The above is translated in English to:

"Some fishermen are ready to leave for #jersey to block the island. The anger is palpable even if it means risking boarding. Others are campaigning for legal pressure tactics like cutting off the electricity or the supply."

Maison de la Nomrandie et de la manche also houses the Honorary French Consulate which is also cutting ties with the island. Credit: ITV Channel TV

In 1995, the Lower Normandy and Manche Regional Council opened the Maison de la Normandie et la Manche in Saint Helier.

This will now close and means there will no longer be the Honorary Consulate of France in Jersey either.

In response, Jersey's government says it regrets the decision by the Normandy Presidents to close the Bureau de Normandie in St Helier. The Minister for External Relations believes this action results from a misunderstanding that can be put right.