Temporary Ban on Importation of Live Birds.

Information about the publication of Ministerial Decisions

A formal published “Ministerial Decision” is required as a record of the decision of a Minister (or an Assistant Minister where they have delegated authority) as they exercise their responsibilities and powers.

Ministers are elected by the States Assembly and have legal responsibilities and powers as “corporation sole” under the States of Jersey Law 2005 by virtue of their office and in their areas of responsibility, including entering into agreements, and under any legislation conferring on them powers.

An accurate record of “Ministerial Decisions” is vital to effective governance, including:

demonstrating that good governance, and clear lines of accountability and authority, are in place around decisions-making – including the reasons and basis on which a decision is made, and the action required to implement a decision
providing a record of decisions and actions that will be available for examination by States Members, and Panels and Committees of the States Assembly; the public, organisations, and the media; and as a historical record and point of reference for the conduct of public affairs

Ministers are individually accountable to the States Assembly, including for the actions of the departments and agencies which discharge their responsibilities.

The Freedom of Information Law (Jersey) Law 2011 is used as a guide when determining what information is be published. While there is a presumption toward publication to support of transparency and accountability, detailed information may not be published if, for example, it would constitute a breach of data protection, or disclosure would prejudice commercial interest.

A decision made (03/02/2007) regarding: Temporary Ban on Importation of Live Birds.

Subject:	Import Live Birds
Decision Reference:	MD-PE-2007-0027		Exempt clause(s):
Type of Report: (oral or written)	Oral		Person Giving Report (if oral):	Linda Lowseck
Telephone or e-mail Meeting?	Meeting		Report File ref:	ED\15\01\03\02
Written report – Title	Import Live Birds: Suffolk Avian Influenza
Written report – Author (name and job title)	Linda Lowseck, States Veterinary Officer
Decision(s): Introduce temporary ban on import of all live birds following confirmation of H5N1 Avian Influenza in Suffolk, England.
Reason(s) for decision: Until more information is available identifying virus, source and possible spread, this measure will protect Jersey’s bird population from virus introduction.
Action required: Agree no import licences are issued for live birds to Jersey.
Signature: (Minister/ Assistant Minister)		Date of Decision: RETROSPECTIVE 3rd February 2007

Temporary Ban on Importation of Live Birds.

PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT DEPARTMENT

ENVIRONMENT DIVISION

Import Ban Live Birds

Public

Purpose of the Report

To protect Jersey’s domestic poultry and other birds e.g. Durrell collection, from incursion of a notifiable disease, Avian Influenza.

Background

H5N1 strain of Avian Influenza virus has been confirmed at turkey rearing premises in Sullofk England. Source of infection unknown.

Discussion

Avian Influenza can cause enormous losses to the poultry industry and could have serious consequences for endangered species if confirmed in Jersey. He disease is mainly spread through movement of infected birds or contaminated equipment or personnel

Conclusion

Until further official information is available, a ban on importation of all live birds will immediately reduce the risk to Jersey’s bird population.

Recommendation

Agree that no import licences are issued until further information is available.

Written by:	Linda Lowseck

Approved by:	Chris Newton, Director

ED\15\01\03\02

Ministerial Decision ref: MD-PE-2007-0027

3RD February 2007