The proposal for all Steam Packet passengers to carry photo ID has received broad public support, according to the results of a seven‑week consultation.
More than 1,400 people responded, with over three quarters saying the measures would directly help reduce crime on island.
Respondents strongly supported passports, driving licences and other government‑issued photo ID as acceptable forms of identification.
The most common calls for exemptions were for children and minors, as well as emergency or medical travel.
Concerns
Concerns centred on potential delays, queueing and operational pressures, including staff training.
Many respondents asked for early communication, a phased rollout and a grace period if ID checks are introduced.
The consultation results were published under the Securing Our Island Strategy. The strategy aims to strengthen safety through Prevent, Protect and Pursue, with ID checks intended to make it harder for criminals or their assets to travel anonymously to and from the island.
The Department of Home Affairs will now use the findings in discussions with the Steam Packet on next steps, including guidance on verification processes and acceptable forms of ID.
Exemption options for children, vulnerable groups and medical travel will also be explored.
There is currently no implementation date, and further updates will be issued as the project progresses.
Full results are available on the Consultation Hub.
