Guernsey and Jersey’s political economic leads are arguing over the inter-island ferry service.
Jersey’s Economic Development Minister has claimed that both Guernsey and Jersey have been approached by a provider wanting to operate an inter-island car ferry passenger and freight service.
Deputy Kirsten Morel told BBC Jersey earlier this week that he is supportive of the third party’s proposal, but Guernsey has not been “positive” about it.
“We want a proper inter-island solution,” Deputy Morel said on BBC Jersey.
“Jersey and Guernsey have been approached by provider to provide a car ferry passenger and freight service between the islands. Jersey has said it’s absolutely willing to support that, we’ve not received positive responses from Guernsey.
“I am slightly concerned that we’re being offered solutions and Jersey wants these solutions but we’re being pushed back elsewhere, and I do wonder why that’s the case.”
Guernsey’s Economic President, Deputy Neil Inder has issued a robust response – saying that he’s “incredulous” at what Deputy Morel is saying.
He claims that Guernsey has done more than Jersey to secure inter-island services.
Further, Deputy Inder has accused Deputy Morel of trying to “deflect attention”.
“I’m incredulous that a Minister in Jersey appears to have no ability to look in the rear-view mirror,” said Deputy Inder.
“I’ll remind the Jersey and Guernsey population that the only inter-island service that came out of the joint tender is Brittany Ferries’ and its Wednesday schedule.
“Jersey’s own tender did not include inter-island services and today islanders in both Islands, even after months of overtures from Jersey – specifically, phone calls from Deputy Morel personally assuring me that he and Senator Farnham have given direction to DFDS to provide that reciprocated schedule – still we have no DFDS vessels.
“Deputy Morel has written to me about a proposal we have received called FerryBridge. I have already advised the people behind FerryBridge that it is too early in the new ferry arrangements and any ferry proposal seeking ramp access would at this time be incompatible with Guernsey’s current contractual, legal and ramp licensing arrangements, which differ from Jersey’s. Deputy Morel is fully aware of our position, so there shouldn’t be any lack of clarity on his part.
“Notwithstanding, Deputy Morel has asked me to reconsider that position, following a meeting with FerryBridge, and has approached me through a letter. It doesn’t surprise me that he has taken to the media in the full knowledge that government business is normally conducted through letters and in confidence. A reply is being drafted by officers and legal advisers so that we can provide further information to Deputy Morel on Guernsey’s position.
“Deputy Morel appears, not for the first time, to be attempting to deflect attention to Guernsey through the media, as once again we’re being asked to respond to comments he has made. But the facts clearly demonstrate our willingness to find solutions for inter-island travel with our commitment to Brittany Ferries, Manche-Iles Express and Islands Unlimited.”
Deputy Inder has posted his statement to his political Facebook page, which he is currently using to canvass votes in his bid to be re-elected to the States in June.
Deputy Inder has been nominated for a return to office by David Ummels and seconded by Chad Murray.
He is one of 82 candidates standing for 38 seats in the States of Deliberation.
Deputy Inder has highlighted the Brittany Ferries contract – which was borne out of a failed pan-island tender process – as one of his successes during the 2020-2025 term of office.
Deputy Morel told the Jersey Evening Post that he was “disappointed by the attitude towards Jersey from the neighbouring jurisdiction in recent weeks”.
He added: “I think it’s a shame that a Guernsey politician has chosen to make Jersey and our decisions a target for their election campaign, but I have no intention to get involved in Guernsey’s election.”
The Islands Unlimited foot passenger service between Guernsey and Jersey is being managed by Captain Chad Murray, Guernsey’s former harbourmaster.
Captain Murray’s new service is expected to start on schedule on 30 May.
Islands Unlimited has received £150,000 from the States of Guernsey to help launch its business model. Jersey did not make any financial contribution.
Jersey, Guernsey, and Sark together contributed £300,000 to Manches Iles to support its passenger only ferry services between the islands and France going during 2025.
When the Islands Unlimited service launches next week, it will be for foot passengers only travelling aboard the San Pawl, which arrived in Guernsey earlier this week.
A once per week sailing between Guernsey and Jersey for vehicles and passengers is operating on Wednesdays as part of Brittany Ferries schedules for Guernsey, the UK and St Malo.
DFDS has not yet included any inter-island services in its schedules for Jersey.