It would be a backward step to open our borders

We are in a unique situation here in Guernsey, most people are back to work, our children were able to go back to school, and the coronavirus is all but gone from our day to day lives, which is a luxury few can say they have. With the rising number of coronavirus cases in Britain and Europe, I, and many others, feel it would be a serious mistake and a backwards step to open the borders this year. We have seen the ‘quarantine, don’t quarantine fiasco’ in Britain and Spain.

While I understand the frustration of those in the tourist industry, as well as those wishing to see family abroad, the human cost is not worth it. As soon as Jersey reopened their borders, they saw an immediate increase in confirmed cases with infected people entering the island on the first day of open borders. I think it is naive and dangerous to assume the exact same thing wouldn’t happen to us.

Guernsey has been used as a benchmark for dealing with the pandemic correctly, with other politicians and the public being envious of our response and current situation. While many other countries, including the UK, still suffer from restrictions due to the growing number of cases, we are able to experience unparalleled freedom in our daily lives and we do not wish to see this jeopardised by the premature reopening of our borders.

I trust in the States and their judgement on this issue, but it would be irresponsible of myself and others not to make our voices heard. There is a vocal, financially motivated minority pressing for open borders; they do not have the interests of our vulnerable in their hearts. Showing respect for our vulnerable residents, front-line and care workers is the way Guernsey people are.

PHILIP BELL-SMITH