The Government of Jersey has published a report containing the results of the Brexit Residents’ Survey, which was completed by over 800 islanders earlier this year in conjunction with the Let’s Talk Brexit public engagement campaign.
The survey was designed to examine the reasons people move to and from Jersey, including periods of residency in the island; to find out more about resident travel off-island and the importance of visa-free travel; and to investigate attitudes toward the potential impact of Brexit on Jersey.
The responses have helped to provide clarity on pressing issues for islanders, as well as areas in which respondents think Jersey could benefit:
• Two-thirds of respondents were concerned to some extent with regard to the impact of Brexit on Jersey. Residents born in the EU or EEA were most likely to be concerned (83 per cent), but a majority (61 per cent) of those born in Jersey were also concerned.
• The primary concerns regarding Brexit related in some way to potentially higher costs to Jersey’s residents following Brexit. Secondary concerns related to the impact on Jersey’s economy, some of its specific industries and its workforce.
• The greatest opportunity presented was perceived to be Jersey having more control over immigration and the size of its population, followed by increased incentives and opportunities to develop new relationships and expand trade with markets outside of the EU (including the UK).
• A majority of residents considered it important for EU nationals to be able to move to Jersey to live and work, subject to Jersey’s own system of housing and employment licensing. Two-thirds felt this was important to Jersey’s economy, while half felt it was of social and cultural importance to the island.
The Minister for External Relations, Senator Sir Philip Bailhache, said “As Brexit negotiations progress, the government of Jersey will continue to engage islanders through Let’s Talk Brexit.
“Alongside the publication of the report, we will be producing an accessible online presentation and sharing the results across social media platforms.
"Drawing on public feedback, we will also be producing a regular electronic newsletter – ensuring that Islanders are provided with the timeliest and most relevant Brexit information.”