Express readers say 'no' to CI 'bubble'

Friday 22 May 2020

An overwhelming majority of readers who voted in an online poll run by Express this week have said they do not want the Bailiwick of Guernsey to 'bubble' with Jersey based on the current situation.

The idea has been discussed in Jersey as it looks to open its borders with the UK - in an apparent bid to protect the island's economy.

With no confirmed cases in Alderney, Sark, Herm or the private islands of our Bailiwick, and decreasing numbers of active cases in Guernsey, the aim is now to eliminate the corona virus locally.

Pictured: Alderney, Sark and Herm remain covid-19 free.

The islands have moved into phase three of the lockdown measures, with a further relaxation expected today in a briefing to be live streamed at 13:00.

Jersey's lockdown has been more relaxed, and one Deputy there this week tried to get her government to follow Guernsey's lead and aim for elimination too.

Deputy Jess Perchard's effort's failed and Jersey is sticking with its aim of 'delay, contain, and shield'.

With that in mind, Express asked if you wanted to see either a Bailiwick bubble for travel purposes this summer, or would you welcome a bubble with Jersey too.

The results so far indicate that 80% of the nearly 3,000 respondents would welcome a bubble including Alderney, Sark, Herm and Guernsey, while 74% would not welcome a bubble including Jersey.

Pictured: We asked what you thought about a Channel Islands wide bubble, but most respondents to our survey said no to including Jersey.

By 10:00 today, 2,636 had responded to our two question survey.

80% said yes to bubbling within our Bailiwick with comments including "If Herm, Sark and Alderney are covid free it would be nice to visit" and "to boost the local economy".

Of those who opposed the idea of a Bailiwick bubble some said they would prefer the chance to visit relatives in the UK, while others wanted to ensure the smaller islands stay Covid-free.

Above: The majority of respondents are keen to bubble within our Bailiwick.

Nearly 2,000 people, or just under 74% said no to including Jersey in a Channel Island wide bubble though, with comments ranging from "not until Jersey has eliminated the virus too" to "only if Jersey closes its borders to the UK and ROW".

Some of those supporting a bubble including Jersey said they would also like to see us include the UK.

Above: Most people said no to a bubble including Jersey.

The survey remains live if you wish to have your say:

Create your own user feedback survey

The next live-streamed press briefing is due to be held at 13:00, and Deputy Gavin St Pier has promised "important information" on the next phase of the lockdown exit strategy.