Channel Islands sign nuclear incident agreement

The shared information would be provided to assist emergency planning across the Channel Islands, meeting attendees said

The Channel Islands and France have agreed to share information in the event of a nuclear or radiological incident.

The agreement was signed during a meeting between Guernsey and Jersey ministers joined by French representatives on Monday.

It meant if a nuclear or radiological incident was to occur in France's Cotentin Peninsula, the Channel Islands and France would provide information for emergency planning purposes, officials said.

Xavier Brunetière, of France's Préfet of la Manche, said the agreement marked "the common willingness to further our discussions in order to guarantee rapid and relevant responses in the event of a nuclear of incident".

According to the States of Guernsey and Government of Jersey, the meeting aimed to "strengthen diplomatic relationships and identify future areas for collaboration".

Other discussion topics included renewable energy and marine spatial plans.

Deputy Ian Gorst, representing Jersey, said: "Jersey, Guernsey and France are close partners across a range of areas and collaboration benefits us all.

"We continue to work alongside our French and Guernsey colleagues, and we recognise the importance of regular dialogue, particularly when it comes to renewable energy and marine protection."

Guernsey's Deputy Johnathan Le Tocq added: "The sharing of information is a valuable tool in framing how Guernsey, Jersey and France develop the use of the seas around the Channel Islands and in the surrounding area, as well as understanding the potential impact that our plans may have on each other."