Monday 23 November 2015
The Scrutiny Committee has released its report relating to the Security of Strategic Air Links.
In 2014 the Committee decided to review the Government's policy framework in place to ensure the security of the Bailiwick's strategic air links. The Committee sought to clarify how the States of Guernsey strives to secure its strategic air routes, determine how effectively policy is implemented and adhered to; and assess whether Guernsey's current air links policy is fit for purpose.
The Committee has established that there is a lack of overarching government policy regarding air links. All the Government witnesses who attended the Committee's public hearings noted the need to ensure frequent, reliable and secure air links. Responsibility for air services is currently split between three government departments; the division itself is not a problem but the lack of leadership and direction is problematic.
The Government has several levers at its disposal relating to air links as it owns the Airport, Aurigny and controls air route licensing. The Committee concluded that the Government is failing to make best use of these valuable 'tools in the box.'
Aurigny's key role in maintaining the Bailiwick's economic, social and cultural wellbeing needs to be embraced and enhanced. Where Aurigny is operating as a social enterprise the subsidy element needs to be made explicit and agreed politically. For too long Aurigny has lacked a clear statement of what it is there to do, other than 'try to not lose too much money.'
The Committee concluded that 'open skies' is not the answer for Guernsey. The Committee heard some unrealistic expectations regarding new air links and is convinced that the focus must remain on maintaining and developing the strategic air links we already have in place.
The findings outlined in the Report are based on the responses submitted to our Call for Evidence consultation, the oral evidence gathered at the three public hearings and additional research conducted throughout the process.
The Scrutiny Committee Air Links Panel which carried out this review comprised Deputies Paul Le Pelley (Chair), Barry Paint, Lester Queripel, Peter Sherbourne and Arrun Wilkie.
Deputy Paul Le Pelley said:
"The Scrutiny Panel is pleased to announce the publication of this Report. This review recognises the critical importance of the Bailiwick's air links and makes twenty-seven recommendations designed to ensure that future government policy for air links is joined-up, coherent and fit for purpose. The Report highlighted that the Bailiwick is currently well served in terms of its air links provision in spite of the absence of a coherent, overarching government policy."
The full report can be found here
ENDS
Contact details
Suzanne Randle, Scrutiny Officer
Tel: 01481 717116
Email: suzanne.randle@gov.gg
