The governments of Jersey, Guernsey, and Sark have reached an agreement to subsidize a passenger ferry service to France through the end of 2025.
The three islands will provide a total of €370,000 (£309,600) to ensure the Manche Iles Express continues operating, as rising costs have put the service in jeopardy. Jersey’s government noted that the Departmental Council of La Manche (DCLM), which manages the service, is also seeking additional financial support from the French ports served by the ferry.
Since its inception in 2005, DCLM has invested approximately €20 million (£16.7 million) in the ferry service, according to the Government of Jersey.
Guernsey’s Chief Minister, Lyndon Trott, emphasised that losing this ferry service would have a "significant loss" on the islands and their economies. Jersey's Minister for Sustainable Economic Development, Kirsten Morel, highlighted the ferry’s importance, stating, "From increasing tourism to enabling business opportunities and connecting friends and family across the channel, Islanders have benefited from the passenger services offered by Manche Iles Express for two decades. It is crucial that we support the service in the short term while collaborating on a long-term solution."
Jersey’s government confirmed that the financial support from the islands is contingent on the ferry service operating as scheduled in 2025.
Breakdown of Contributions
The total combined contribution from the Channel Islands amounts to €370,000:
Government of Jersey: €200,000 (£167,425)
States of Guernsey: €167,000 (£139,750)
Sark's Chief Pleas: €3,000 (£2,500)