Law amendment proposed to make Jersey waters safer

Updates to the Harbours (Inshore Safety) Regulations would allow the police and harbourmaster to breath test ship operators if they suspect intoxication

Boat drivers who cause harm to others could face new penalties if the States of Jersey approves proposed amendments to the law.

Updates to the Harbours (Inshore Safety) Regulations would allow the police and harbourmaster to breath test ship operators if they suspect intoxication.

New offences include the dangerous operation of a ship, carless operation and operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Aggravated offences, a crime made more serious by its circumstances, could apply if a person causes serious injury or death whilst operating a vessel recklessly or while impaired.

Other proposed offences include operating a vessel with excessive emissions, providing false or misleading information and failing to have an experienced person onboard when engaging in activities such as water-skiing.

Also included are proposed changes to the Shipping (Jersey) Law and the Harbours (Administration) Law to implement broader maritime safety rules.

These would introduce new accident investigation procedures, updated regulations for passenger safety and compulsory insurance for passenger ships.

'Make waters safer'

Deputy Kirsten Morel, Sustainable Economic Development Minister, said the changes would standardise legal responsibilities for all seafarers.

He said: "The purpose of the amendments is to make Jersey's territorial waters safer for everyone and to hold everyone who uses Jersey's waters to the same level of responsibility."

In the proposition, a public consultation from 2023 found 75% of respondents supported the changes - "demonstrating broad community approval".

The earliest the propositions can be debated is 18 March - if approved, changes will come into effect seven days after and enforced by Ports of Jersey and the police.