The adjournment until 11, 12 and 13 February, followed the filing of an affidavit from Jersey Fishermen’s Association chairman, Deputy Mike Taylor.The JFA is challenging the scheme on behalf of Jersey fishermen penalised by the introduction of the scheme last November.
The scheme stops them from fishing in Guernsey waters.
Only eight fishermen received a licence out of the 76 who applied last autumn.Calls for a delay in proceedings by Crown Advocate Richard McMahon, acting on behalf of the States of Guernsey and the Sea Fisheries Committee, said his principal concern was the affidavit’s late timing, and this was accepted by presiding UK judge, Mr Patrick Talbot, QC.He accepted that the proceedings raised important questions which might touch on fundamental issues relating to the constitutional position of Guernsey in relation to the Crown and the UK Parliament.The affidavit, which contained evidential material, including discussions at various meetings between inter-island authorities and various allegations, was only sworn on Monday afternoon and was not served on the respondents until the following afternoon.No Jersey fishing representative was present in court.
