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With less than a month left until Britain is expected to leave the European Union, the States are ramping up their Brexit preparations.
Boris Johnson's government today began to unveil the details of their final proposals to the EU negotiators for a deal as he gave his first speech at the Tory Party Conference.
The result of that deal will potentially signal whether Guernsey will be dragged behind a UK leaving the EU with a deal, or without one.
But because of ongoing uncertainty, the States are continuing to cover all of their bases. That ongoing work has included a refresh of gov.gg's Brexit pages, which now include all of the latest information available. The page includes the up-to-date 'No Deal Brexit Guide' and correspondence from the UK.
Pictured: The latest deal looks to resolve the deadlock over the Irish Backstop. (image from the Conservative's Facebook Page)
"We have made our representations to the very highest levels of the UK Government that a disorderly Brexit is not in the Bailiwick’s interests. But as a responsible government we are naturally planning for every eventuality," Deputy Gavin St Pier said.
"The re-launch of our Brexit webpages is part of our commitment to make sure the community has access to clear, relevant, information to help islanders and businesses take any necessary steps before the UK leaves the EU. We are maintaining close dialogue with our UK counterparts at all levels, and will monitor progress made in the ongoing negotiations. Reaching a deal is clearly in everyone’s best interests, but we have carried out a significant amount of work to prepare for a No Deal Brexit.”
Pictured: Deputy St Pier recently received a letter from Boris saying he wanted to tighten up the UK's links with Guernsey.
The redesigned Brexit section of the States of Guernsey’s website includes specific pages offering information and advice to the community on travel after Brexit, including how to check the validity of passports, driving in the EU post-Brexit, and no deal preparations including plans to ensure the continued supply of essential goods to the Bailiwick.
EU citizens living in Guernsey will find information about the Guernsey EU Settled Status scheme, which is free, including guidance on how to apply.
Jo Reeve, Director of International Relations and Constitutional Affairs, said: “Preparing for Brexit has undeniably been a massive task for the States of Guernsey. It has affected nearly all committees and many services areas. There has been a huge amount of coordination across the States to try and ensure we are as prepared as we can be for all potential scenarios and how they may impact our own island specific circumstances. The website is just one part of that work but aims to provide a comprehensive resource for everyone in our community.
“Anyone who has a question about Brexit should make this website their first destination, as it has been prepared in conjunction with multiple stakeholders and contains information about a wide variety of areas we have focused on as part of our Brexit preparations – but crucially offers advice for the community about issues potentially relevant to them.”
The website will continue to be updated with the very latest advice and guidance.
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