The move came from the two Alderney representatives in the States, who wanted to add £364,000 to the public service obligation contract with Aurigny.
Both Alderney members were passionate about the need to improve the island’s air connectivity. In opening, Alex Snowdon stressed that things were ‘getting desperate’.
‘The situation is getting tougher. It’s very concerning, a continuous pattern of disruption is impacting the whole community.’
He stressed that the impact was not just social but economic too.
‘Our finance sector has done really well, providing back-office services, but it relies on reliable connectivity.'
Mr Snowdon said that he understood that one of the main problems was a shortage of crew and he believed the extra cash he was proposing could help to put that right.
His cri de coeur was echoed by his fellow Alderney member Edward Hill, who described the situation as an emergency which needed urgent action.
Mr Hill said his island’s hospitality industry was suffering particularly badly as a result of the poor air service.
‘I have a letter from the sector saying that the disruption has caused them a direct loss of £450,000 so far this year,’ he said.
He went on to describe the impact on those travelling for medical reasons, including a revelation that oncologists were reluctant to prescribe some treatments to Alderney residents, because they could not be sure it could be administered on schedule.
Nearly every Guernsey member was sympathetic, but there was disagreement over the best way forward.
Deputy John Gollop said he was fond of the island where his late mother had lived for many years and wanted to help it.
‘Now is the time to show a bit of generosity, to help Alderney to get back to where it was two or three years ago.’
Deputy David Goy claimed Guernsey tended to treat Alderney as ‘a least favourite child’. Other members acknowledged the problems but felt the amendment was not the right solution.
That included STSB president Deputy Mark Helyar, who asked for his committee to be more involved in managing the PSO.
Meanwhile Deputy Yvonne Burford, speaking for P&R, revealed the worsening financial position with the PSO this year.
‘It has a target of £1.5m., and a cap of £2m., to allow for unexpected costs.
‘Until recently the estimated cost for 2026 was £1.66m., driven by high fuel costs, now we are being told it is likely to worsen to £1.95m. due to weak ticket sales.’
The States rejected the amendment asking for the extra cash by 23 votes to 10.
Despite the defeat Mr Snowdon said he hoped the discussion would serve as ‘a stepping stone to get some action’.
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