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Guernsey aims to remove travel restrictions for UK visitors from July

The islands of Guernsey expects to remove all testing and self-isolation requirements for visitors from the UK and other parts of the Common Travel Area including Ireland from July.

The easing of current restrictions will apply to Guernsey, Alderney, Sark and Herm and is expected to be introduced on or close to July 1 if vaccination progress continues at current levels.

Guernsey expects to have all of its adult population vaccinated with at least one dose, and the most vulnerable with two doses, by the start of July.

A traffic light system is to be used for those travelling to Guernsey via the UK from other destinations.

Deputy Peter Ferbrache, chief minister of Guernsey, said: “Islanders have worked together fantastically since our first Covid case in spring 2020, and thanks to them we have avoided some of the worst effects of the pandemic compared with many other parts of the world.

“But it’s still been challenging, and one of the hardest parts is how we have had to restrict travel meaning many Island residents have been separated from family and friends, and we have not been able to welcome the many visitors who normally come to our shores for holidays and business each year.

“It’s a part of Island life that’s been on hold, but finally we’re near the point we can un-pause and reconnect with the rest of the British Isles and the rest of the world.”

Ant Ford-Parker, founder of Outdoor Guernsey and chair of the Guernsey Tourism Partnership added: “This is great news for everyone involved in the tourism and hospitality industries in the Islands.  We are thankful to all those making the decisions and most especially the community, who have been so supportive, for getting us to this moment.

“We now look forward with excitement to welcoming UK visitors, family and friends again. To rebuilding and revitalising our businesses and working to make the most of the new opportunities as people look for safe, welcoming and uniquely different destinations in a changed world.”

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