Jersey marine protection plan gets States backing
- Deputies in Jersey's States Assembly voted to support a marine plan that protects 23% of local waters.
- The proposal to expand protected areas by an additional 4% was rejected due to concerns for the fishing industry.
- The decision highlights the ongoing struggle to balance environmental goals with economic interests in the fishing sector.
In Jersey, politicians have unanimously supported a marine plan proposed by the government while rejecting suggestions to expand protected marine areas. Presented by Environment Minister Deputy Steve Luce, the Marine Spatial Plan designates 23% of Jersey's waters as protected zones. The Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Scrutiny Panel aimed to increase this percentage by an additional 4% to safeguard offshore habitats, particularly around reefs, but this motion was not passed. Concerns regarding the impact on local fisheries influenced this decision, where mobile gear fishing would be prohibited in expanded protected areas. Luce highlighted the balance between environmental protection and the fishing industry’s sustainability, emphasizing that increasing protected areas could harm fishers economically. Dredging practices, viewed by some local politicians as severely damaging to marine ecosystems, were also a focal point of the debate. Those advocating for more restrictions argued that ecological preservation, particularly for unique habitats like maerl beds, was crucial for ensuring a viable marine economy in the long run. The discussion reflects a significant tension in Jersey between environmental objectives and the livelihood of local fishing communities.