Guernsey cost of living 'really eats into pay'

The cost of living on Guernsey "really eats into a person's pay packet", a senior regional officer for the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has said.

It comes after health staff agreed a 3.7% pay increase with the Policy and Resources Committee (P&R). Health worker unions had requested a 5.7% increase but accepted the lower rate in line with inflation.

The RCN's Jacqui Carr previously said the "disappointing" pay offer "fell short", but she welcomed the opportunity to begin work on wider terms and conditions. She added: "Guernsey has a higher cost of living than many other areas. The price of rent, accommodation, those kinds of things."

Senior politicians said "progress is being made".

Carr said four unions were involved in the pay talks, adding: "We're all unanimous in wanting the best for workers on the island."

She added that attracting more nurses to the island could be a struggle in the future despite describing it as "a wonderful place".

"If these things were managed properly then I can't see why somebody wouldn't want to go [to Guernsey]," said Carr.

Deputy Gavin St Pier, P&R Vice-president and resources lead, said subject to unions agreeing pay offers, the proposals should be finalised by the end of June.

He said: "Naturally, we would like all pay deals to be agreed as soon as possible, not least so that individuals can benefit from their revised pay, but we are satisfied that progress is being made."

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