Guernsey Press

Light industry 'being treated like the enemy'

PROBLEMS for light industry on the island are no closer to being solved, claims one Fontaine Vinery tenant, who said fellow businesses were 'on their knees' with nowhere to go.

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Ross Le Brun, owner of Mole Excavating and Labour Force Guernsey, both based at the Fontaine Vinery, said the 11 privately-owned businesses should never have been issued with notice to leave without advance plans for their relocation.

His comments come despite assurances being given that progress is being made in the States efforts to rehome the businesses, with nine prospective alternative sites identified.

'I made a point to organise a meeting with Property Services, but I still know nothing more than any of the other tenants,' he said. 'Property Services said they "should" be able to find somewhere – how are we supposed to be encouraged by that?

'There is still nothing in the pipeline and nowhere to go.'

Mr Le Brun commended the work done by Vale deputy Laurie Queripel and former deputy Graham Guille in support of their cause, but said he expected more from politicians island-wide.

He said light industry provided a valuable service to the island in terms of employment, but felt there was little recognition of the important role they played in the community.

'The government does not protect its own people – we are all taxpaying businesses but we have been treated like the enemy,' he said.

'My businesses have put over 200 people into work in the last six years.'

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