Guernsey Press

Futuristic thinking could give new life to island’s growing industry

HAVING been brought up in the growing industry, both tomatoes and, to a lesser degree, the wonderful Cannon Hall grapes and flowers of many varieties, all of which were greatly sought after in the markets of Great Britain, creating employment for many, and indeed prosperity, one ponders in view of worldwide food security, plus the advent of Brexit, would it not make infinite sense to revitalise the growing industry?

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The infrastructure is still here, albeit somewhat dilapidated, but with a great deal of will and capital the industry could be reconstructed.

After Brexit all imports will be, and indeed are, expensive, not just for the islands but Great Britain as a whole.

Why import beans, roses, tomatoes et al from the Southern Hemisphere, adding to global environmental problems, when most could be grown here?

Modern technology is advancing in every sphere. The old vineries could have a new life, without a lot of the old labour intensive methods such as steam soil sterilising and the many labour difficulties of the past.

With careful understanding, Guernsey could once more be ‘a big player’ in the growing industry. Employment, and the economy as a whole, would benefit as a result.

It just needs futuristic thinking and a sensible input of enthusiasm, huge hard work and financial input, but growing could ‘rise from the ashes’ back to the glory days.

Prosperity could come back like a variety of eggs, but in numerous baskets, not just the one golden egg in one basket.

Name and address withheld