John Mills, Jersey’s charity commissioner, presented Dr Lesley Dickie, Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust’s CEO, with a certificate of registration at a ceremony yesterday at Jersey Zoo.
The new regulatory regime began on 1 May 2018 when organisations started applying to the Commissioner for registration as Jersey Charities. And in the first four months since the application process opened, nearly 200 organisations have created online applications with 50 submitting them for approval by the Commissioner.
And as Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust is the first charity to gain approval, it will be posted on the public register of charities which the public will be able to view on the Commissioner’s website at charitycommissioner.je
Mr Mills said: ‘I am delighted to be able to present the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust with their certificate of registration as Jersey’s first Registered Charity. The important work of the Trust in the advancement of environmental protection is known across the globe and they can now add being the ‘number one’ charity on the register to their long list of accolades in supporting endangered species around the world.’
Commenting on the news, Dr Dickie said: ‘It is a huge honour for Durrell to be recognised as the first registered charity in Jersey. This island has been Durrell’s home for nearly 60 years and this recognition of our charitable work allows us to continue our vital mission of saving species from extinction. I would also like to thank all our visitors, members, donors and supporters who believe in our vision for creating a wilder, healthier more colourful world.’
