Guernsey deputies lodge motion to annul rise in mooring fee

The Guernsey Boat Owners Association complained the rises were unfair

A motion has been lodged by deputies in Guernsey to annul an increase in island mooring fees.

It comes after above-inflation increases to passenger fees and freight and mooring charges from April 2024 were approved.

The Guernsey Boat Owners Association complained the rises were unfair and disproportionate, while Guernsey Ports said they were necessary.

Deputy David de Lisle said the rise was "just too much".

He added: "We are a maritime community and boating is a traditional Guernsey pastime.

"The Moorings Charges Regulations will increase mooring fees by between 17% and 45%, depending on the size of the vessel, which is just too much."

Other deputies behind the move are Chris Blin, David de Lisle, John Dyke, Steve Falla, John Gollop, Victoria Oliver, Gavin St Pier, Lyndon Trott and Simon Vermeulen.

Deputy Dyke said: "While the ports need funding, an increase of this size in one go may drive boatowners to quit, especially as it is planned to be the first of three years of substantial, above inflation increases.

"We all know that boating is, by no means, the preserve of only the super rich."

'Significant inroads'

The changes would raise additional revenue of about £5m in 2024 and reduce Guernsey Ports' deficit, bosses said.

Ports managing director Colin Le Ray previously said: "Given the current pressure on States' finances, it was felt important to make significant inroads in reducing Guernsey Ports' reliance on general revenue.

"We are also aiming to reduce our operating costs.

"A full review of expenditure is under way to identify savings and efficiencies and those will be key to improving our financial position."

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