'Bring in the green de-icer to keep island moving next time'

GUERNSEY should be using the alternative to rock salt to keep the island moving, according to the Chamber of Commerce.

Director Barry Cash made the comments after Public Services announced on Friday that it had found a de-icing chemical – calcium magnesium acetate – that could be used to clear snow and ice without threatening the environment or water supplies.

The department said sufficient stocks were not available on-island but it could be imported if the cold weather continued.

'I think we should have stocks of CMA now as the airport closure for three days is unacceptable,' said Mr Cash.

He said it was a worthwhile investment and it would be prudent to have some now, as winter was really only just starting.

'There is no doubting that it should be on the States' shopping list.'

But Mr Cash said he could not criticise Public Services because no one had known how bad the weather was going to be.

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