Chamber questionnaire seeks views on island economy

BUSINESSES in Alderney are again being asked to give their views on the island's economy.

This time, the Chamber of Commerce is looking for people's opinions – just weeks after the States compiled a similar survey.

Guernsey-based Island Analysis is working on both questionnaires and offered to gather data for the Chamber for free – much to the delight of president Andrew Eggleston (pictured).

'Having spent about three hours with Island Analysis chatting about the island's economy and commerce, they volunteered to set up a survey for us,' he said. 'They have previously conducted one for Guernsey's Chamber of Commerce and feel it is a good way of putting something back into the islands.'

The survey includes questions on business and commerce and has a section where people can rate which aspects of the economy are most important.

Andrew said he has an idea what response to expect.

'I would think it's going to be infinitely more negative than positive. Every subject we talk about generally comes full circle and ends with the word "transport" – how to get here and the cost of getting here are major issues,' he said.

'I feel sorry sometimes for the marketing people, as they work their hind legs off. They attract people to our island, only for them to find out how difficult – and costly – it is to get here.'

Andrew thinks the island should begin by gathering simple data, such as how many people live in Alderney and the number of genuine tourists.

'When we talk about the economy, we have to start with the basics.

'We cannot get answers on how many people live here and that's why it's such a shame we're not having a census this year. It is like me saying I don't know how many people I employ,' he said.

'We also want to know how many tourists are coming. Compulsory registration at hotels and guest houses would help, but Alderney seems to be the only place in the world where information about visitors isn't gathered. These are simple things that don't take much effort.'

Andrew is also disappointed that the States failed to follow up a Chamber idea.

'We suggested two years ago that Alderney could register ships and aircraft. There is office space and staffing here to support that type of industry, but nothing was done.

'We're not trying to blow our own trumpet, but Guernsey is discussing it now and we seem to have missed out.'

Despite the gloomy economic outlook, Andrew said people must remain positive. He also said the survey would allow the Chamber to again work closely with the States.

'It's so easy to be negative, but we must look on the bright side. At least our electricity doesn't keep cutting out.

'It will be good to work with the States. This work is positive and we must remain positive.'

The form can be completed anonymously by logging on to www.islandopinion.com. The password is 'AYeconomy2011'. The closing date for replies is today.

All the responses will be read by Island Analysis, which will then pass its conclusions to the Chamber, whose members will not be able to read what individuals have said.