Ministers: we need to talk about Brexit

Wednesday 08 March 2017

Ministers are inviting islanders to chat all things Brexit online through a new socially-driven consultation campaign.

Tweets, comments, likes and healthy debate are all encouraged as part of the ‘Let’s talk Brexit’ public engagement exercise, which it's claimed will see Ministers respond directly to questions through social media.

Championed by the Ministry of External Relations, the "cross-departmental consultation" will take place across popular social networks Twitter and Facebook.

YouTube will also play a part, with ‘Vox Pop’-style videos featuring opinions from members of the public and Ministers alike.

VIDEO: 'Jersey: Let's Talk Brexit' will gather public opinions via 'vox-pop' interviews. (Source: Let's Talk Brexit)

A public questionnaire – available in print and electronic formats – will be circulated later in the campaign to gather views, while schools and public groups will have the opportunity to quiz Ministers directly in meetings.

It is hoped that the campaign will generate discussion about the UK’s departure from the EU and the implications for Jersey among islanders from a variety of age, social and professional groups – there’s just one rule: be respectful.

Senator Sir Philip Bailhache, Minister for External Relations, said that he was “delighted” to launch the scheme.

“The government has made a clear commitment to communicate with the public on our preparations for Brexit and this campaign is designed to achieve exactly that aim. We will be utilising all forms of communication available to us, and our team will be ensuring that all questions and comments are considered.”

What opportunities do you think there will be for Jersey after #Brexit? Join the conversation and let us know! https://t.co/z7EZAsyay4

— Let's Talk Brexit (@letstalkbrexit) February 28, 2017

‘Jersey: Let’s Talk Brexit’ will run across the coming four months, with further engagements planned for Autumn 2017.

More traditional communication methods can also be used, with islanders invited to write to the Ministry of External Relations, email [email protected] or telephone 440406 with their views.