Further concerns over new maritime legislation

Questions have been asked over who would police parts of the legislation

A scrutiny panel in Jersey has again raised concerns over proposed rule changes aimed at strengthening maritime legislation on the island.

The Economic and International Affairs Scrutiny Panel already raised doubts over the legislation not being able to stop people using boats while under the influence of drink or drugs.

Now it has asked for clarity on who would be carrying out breath tests if alcohol was suspected to have contributed to causing death or serious injury.

The panel said it understood there was a Memorandum of Understanding between the police and harbour to undertake breath tests, but it had "not yet been completed".

'Lack of clarity'

The panel said it would like to see a copy of the agreement so it can "better understand the impact on the resources available".

It has also requested details on the current legislation around careless or dangerous operation of a commercial vessel while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Chair of the panel, Deputy Montfort Tadier, said the proposed legislation put forward by the Minister for Sustainable Economic Development has a "lack of clarity".

He said there were questions over how it would be policed and where the different responsibilities will fall.

Mr Tadier said: "The panel is aware that budget constraints mean the States of Jersey are having to carefully consider how their resources are used.

"The panel has already made it clear that we are concerned that a specific offence relating to the operation of a vessel while intoxicated has not been included in the draft regulations."

He added: "Before we make any further recommendations or amendments to the proposition, we need to better understand how the current proposals would impact existing resources and what any further changes could mean for the police or Harbour Master."

The panel will present its findings and recommendations to the States Assembly ahead of further debate on the draft regulations, which is due to take place in October.