INTER-ISLAND connectivity and attracting more cruise ship visitors were among the priority topics during recent talks between the Economic Development Ministers of Jersey and Guernsey.
Deputy Gerald Voisin, who took on the Economic Development role in Jersey after the election in June, hosted his counterpart Deputy Sasha Kazantseva-Miller, President of Guernsey’s Committee for Economic Development.
The bid to establish a fresh rapport between the respective ministers follows a tetchy period between their predecessors, Deputies Kirsten Morel and Neil Inder. This culminated in Guernsey pulling out of a joint tender process for ferry services and the two islands signing contracts with separate operators.
A joint statement said discussions had been focused on practical cooperation and maintaining regular engagement on areas where the two Islands shared mutual interests.
“It is clear to me that we share a desire to address the challenges facing inter-island connectivity, and I look forward to us working constructively towards that shared goal,”Deputy Voisin said. “Such connectivity is important to businesses and community groups in both Jersey and Guernsey, and I am hopeful that we can find ways to make it easier for people to get between the islands.
“We both agreed to explore short- and medium-term options, and I look forward to the next meeting when we can agree on next steps.”
Deputy Kazantseva-Miller described reliable and affordable transport links as “vital for our communities, businesses and visitor economies”.
She added: “While there are no quick solutions, we share a commitment to exploring practical opportunities to improve connectivity by both sea and air and the opportunities to promote the Channel Islands tourism collectively and enhance the benefits that connectivity brings to both Bailiwicks.”
Cruise tourism was also identified as an area where greater cooperation could benefit both islands, working together to encourage cruise operators to include the Channel Islands in their programmes.
