Guernsey industry under review

A review of the Guernsey horticultural industry is being carried out by the States Department of Commerce and Employment with emphasis applied on the existing support schemes.

All growers and companies involved in the growing industry are being sent a consultation paper from the Department, together with an invitation to attend a meeting on June 6. At this meeting, consideration will be given to the Guernsey Growers’ Association making a response to proposals. The eventual outcome will be a debate in the States on the proposals produced.

President of the Guernsey Growers’ Association, David Miller, is urging all growers to attend the June meeting.

“It is obvious, in the current economic and trading climate that weather changes as experienced early this year, will have consequences on the profitability and future viability of those growers who remain and will influence what they decide to do next year,” said Miller. He revealed that his committee has held discussions with the Confederation of Guernsey Industries to explore the possibility of some form of affiliation, but at the same time keeping the identity of the association.