Weak economy could affect Sark's viability

A DROP in Sark's population due to a weak economy and lack of job opportunities could eventually threaten its ongoing viability as a self-governing Crown Dependency, its former temporary chief secretary has warned.

Colin Kniveton, pictured, who has returned to the Isle of Man following his placement, has urged conseillers to be 'proactive' not 'reactive' to safeguard the island against changing economic pressures.

'Jobs are drying up as tourist numbers are dropping, the construction sector has stopped as there is no more investment in hotels – all these things have a knock-on effect. If there are less people coming in and out and less freight, that has a knock-on effect on shipping,' he said.

'Some people may say that's fine, Sark may be quieter but that's the way we like it. But if you're a younger person in Sark, you may be thinking what are my kids going to be doing when they finish their education?'

He said the island needed to invest in its economy to make sure families stayed in Sark.