Former deputy backs tourism minister idea

Mike O’Hara, who was the Culture and Leisure minister in the previous States, agrees with Andy Coleman, managing director of La Barbarie Hotel, who said that creating such post could help boost the hospitality sector.

‘I have tried in the past to champion the need for a separate department for tourism,’ said Mr O’Hara. ‘To expand on this, the department would take under its wing culture, plus sport.

‘The opportunity to form such a department, or committee as it is now known, came in the last review of government.

‘However, support from the reviewing body could have been better, so sadly it did not happen. Perhaps on reflection I should have placed the proposition in front of the Assembly.

‘However, with my experience as a States member at that time I felt it would not gain support, so I chose not to do so. It is something I regret and I am thankful that the idea seems to be raising its head again.’

Economic Development president Charles Parkinson does not agree, though.

‘It is hard to see why tourism should be given special treatment. The promotion of tourism rests with Economic Development, which has responsibility for all of Guernsey’s industry sectors.’

Mr O’Hara strongly believes that tourism, sport and culture should be put together. He added: ‘I am sure that most people will understand the very important role that our culture plays in Guernsey’s identity and that sport is a magnet for tourists to visit the island.

‘There’s also our many sporting ambassadors who carry the island flag when visiting other areas throughout the UK and beyond.’

He also felt that the States could help the industry in other ways, and said, ‘Investment can be in many ways, such as low interest loans and, importantly, relaxing the housing laws in allowing the hospitality industry to be able to employ staff, which at the moment is creating real difficulties.

‘The importance that tourism plays and the potential it can play in the future needs to be recognised.’

Echoing this view is Stretch Kontelj, vice chairman of the Institute of Directors Guernsey branch.

‘Cultural and heritage tourism is the fastest growing sector of European tourism. Against this trend, in recent years, visitor numbers to Guernsey have flat-lined,’ he said.

‘Whilst a myriad of factors have contributed to this malaise, what is certain is that without a change in approach and focus, Guernsey’s tourism numbers will continue to deteriorate.

‘If Guernsey sees value in tourism as an economic driver, then the States of Guernsey should give serious consideration to appointing a minister for tourism and major events to help focus action and resources to the promotion of Guernsey as a tourist hotspot.

‘Secondly, it should facilitate a must-see international tourist destination, such as an iconic arts venue, to create a hero attraction for the island.’