International Convention for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas: Proposed extension to Jersey

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A decision made 23 May 2025:

Decision Reference: MD-ENV-2025-392		Public
Subject: Proposed Extension to Jersey of the International Convention for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas
Report Title: Proposed Extension to Jersey of the International Convention for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas		Public
Decision(s): The Minister for the Environment decided to present a report on the proposed extension to Jersey of the International Convention for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT).
Reason for Decision(s): During Brexit negotiations, the United Kingdom (UK) became a contracting party to the International Convention for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (1966), the treaty which enshrines the rights and obligations of ICCAT and aims to ensure sustainable fishing and population management by signatory parties. As a Crown Dependency, Jersey is not recognised as an independent state by the United Nations and so cannot participate in the Convention in its own right. The UK represents Jersey as a matter of international law and, with Jersey’s consent, can extend the Convention to cover the Island. Extension of the Convention allows Jersey vessels to sustainably use this resource in Jersey territorial waters. Currently, the UK authorise charter, recreational and commercial fisheries for Atlantic bluefin tuna (ABT). The UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) have authorised charter fishing to take place in Jersey territorial waters in 2025 once extension is complete. These fisheries would benefit the Island’s fishing communities and allow diversification to the fishing industry.
Resource Implications: There are no financial or staffing implications arising from this decision.
Action Required: The Greffier of the States is requested to arrange for the report to be presented to the States.
Signature:	Signed By: Minister for the Environment
Date Signed:	Date of Decision (If different from Date Signed):