PRIVATE testing for Islanders who require proof of their Covid status before leaving the Island will continue to use a facility at Jersey Aero Club, it has been confirmed.
The OpenCell laboratory was used for government PCR tests until a new lab opened at the Hospital in November last year, and has remained in operation as a private facility since then.
Although the lab was initially due to remain in place until the end of January, it will now stay operational at the Aero Club site until at least the end of March.
Stephen Robinson, practice manager of 7 David Place Medical Practice, one of the private providers which offers testing, said he thought it was likely that a service would remain in place until after the Easter holidays. While Jersey’s Safer Travel Policy will be suspended from Monday as part of plans to de-escalate Covid measures, certification remains a condition of entry for many countries.
Mr Robinson said that the OpenCell lab was now closed on a Sunday, leaving some potential challenges for those who might be leaving Jersey on a Tuesday or Wednesday. He recommended that anyone travelling should contact their provider in advance to discuss the available options.
Although there were discussions between private providers and the government about the use of the Hospital lab, a government spokesperson confirmed that no agreement had yet been reached.
