Wednesday 02 October 2019
The States of Guernsey is ramping up its Brexit preparations, with its Brexit webpages being relaunched today following a redesign.
With the latest Brexit deadline now less than a month away, www.gov.gg/brexit has been refreshed and all the latest information added. This page includes our up-to-date and comprehensive 'No Deal Brexit Guide', advice for individuals and businesses, the latest news, updates to the States of Deliberation and correspondence with the UK.
Deputy Gavin St Pier, President of the Policy & Resources Committee said:
"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. 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."
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. The States of Guernsey made a commitment in 2017 to respect the rights of EU national in the island.
Our online Brexit guidance also includes a new page specific to trade which offers advice to businesses on planning for a No Deal Brexit, customs arrangements post-Brexit, data protection, and work to extend the UK's membership of the World Trade Organization to the Bailiwick.
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.
