Deputy Neil Inder said Economic Development, responsible for the Sea Fisheries service, said it was “disappointing” he only became aware of the issue and the fact the boat is unusable the previous evening. He said it’s a joint matter with Home Affairs. 

But the issue the boat was grounded without a licence was raised with the States in July 2023, with Deputy Inder himself accusing the States Trading Supervisory Board of withholding the information from the Committee. 

Deputy Inder said the boat will return later this year following a refurbishment, with treasury agreeing to use cash from the seized asset fund to complete the works. 

But he said it was unclear at this time what is being done to ensure patrols can continue in the interim. 

He said the boat will be back this year but is unsure of what will happen in the interim. Solutions could include a charter or sharing resources with Jersey. 

“We don’t know yet,” he told States members. 

Pictured: Tensions rose during Brexit negotiations into fishing rights, with disgruntled French fishermen demonstrating in Channel Island waters.

The last transmitted location of the Leopardess was made 119 days ago, according to marinetraffic.com 

The Leopardess helps to enforce fishing laws in the Bailiwick’s territorial waters, and is sometimes used by law enforcement, search and rescue, and harbour operations. 

It entered service in 1998 and spends around 500 hours at sea per year. 

It’s been credited with improving deterrence against unauthorised fishing activity and unlawful incursions into local waters.  

Express has questioned if the Leopardess can or has operated without a certificate.