Ferry dispute sparks meeting

The Jersey Save Emeraude Group is demanding drastic action

A dispute in Jersey over the financial problems faced by a French ferry company is set to spill onto Guernsey shores.

Emeraude Ferries' Solidor Five was impounded by Jersey harbour authorities last month in a row over unpaid harbour dues, though it was later released.

Jersey's Harbours Committee is currently fighting a vote of no confidence over its handling of the situation and its decision to impound the ferry.

Two Guernsey men are now asking islanders for their opinions on the issue at a public meeting on Wednesday night.

The meeting, at the Castel Church Hall, is being organised by Gordon Tostevin and Ron Le Moignan.

Mr Tostevin has previously voiced support for the Jersey Save Emeraude campaign, while Mr Le Moignan feels Guernsey's authorities should be taking a more active role in the situation.

The Jersey campaigners have demanded the island's Harbours Committee apologise to Emeraude and its passengers, restore the company's monopoly on the route and then resign.