Three resign over increased Guernsey car park charges

Three members of the Guernsey States Environment Department have resigned following the decision to introduce paid parking for long-stay spaces.

Environment Minister Roger Domaille said the fees were "unfair" as he, Deputy Tony Spruce and Deputy Barry Paint, all stood down.

Deputies Barry Brehaut and Yvonne Burford remain in post.

The 60p an hour charge to use public car parks in St Peter Port is due to start from April 2015.

The introduction of fees is part of a traffic project agreed by the States which aims to reduce the island's reliance on car use.

Other proposals include new taxes on vehicles and a free bus service.

'Unfair' charges

Deputy Domaille said: "I'm a consensus politician and I think the way the States works is generally very good. But I think you have to believe in some core things, and when I reflected on it I just cannot support paid parking.

"I think it's unfair, I think the charges are too high that are being levied, and I think it's for someone else to pick up the torch and go with it.

"I genuinely regret it, I really do enjoy being the environment minister."

Chief Minister Jonathan Le Tocq said: "I salute Roger for his integrity, good will and honest efforts to lead a department whose mandate ensures it is guaranteed not to attract widespread popularity.

"I hope that, along with his colleagues, Roger will find new space to put his talents and energies to good use for the remaining half of this term."