Guernsey to introduce £25 "contribution" for travellers' covid tests

Monday 19 April 2021

Guernsey will be asking people travelling in and out of the island to pay a £25 contribution towards their covid border test from next month.

There was previously no charge for travellers requiring self-swab tests when arriving in the island.

"So far the cost of testing has been met entirely by the taxpayer," said Guernsey's Chief Minister, Deputy Peter Ferbrache, "but public finances are under real strain - it's not unreasonable to ask those travelling to give some contribution."

The change will come into effect on 14 May. "We're giving people four weeks notice," said Deputy Ferbrache.

Pictured: "The £25 doesn't cover the real cost, it's a contribution," clarified Deputy Ferbrache at the most recent CCA media briefing.

Border test charges are currently under consideration by Jersey's Government.

Last month, Jersey's Economic Development Minister said last month that the Government would be looking at charging for border swabs “in the medium to long term”.

“Of course, the accuracy of the tests are improving and their costs are reducing, so I think it might be possible to look at providing a realistic and affordable charge.

“There are no immediate plans but I think that is likely to be introduced at some stage.”