18/01/2017 Channel Islands News

Plans to borrow hundreds of millions of pounds for Jersey's new hospital

It is the biggest level of debt that has faced this island for many

years. It is important that scrutiny and due process is followed for

governance purposes and we have seen very recently what happens when

governance fails. A stronger Britain in

charge of it's own laws. But how will Brexit

affect local businesses? And little chapel big costs but just

how much to save one The plan to borrow hundreds

of millions of pounds to pay for Jersey's new hospital has been

thrown into question. Ministers want to fund

the project by borrowing up But the plans haven't been reviewed

by a scrutiny panel, who say they weren't

given enough time. The question of where Jersey's

new hospital should be has of course But today, the big question

and the subject of lengthy debate The budget for the new

hospital is ?466 million. Rather than funding it entirely

through the Strategic Reserve, the so-called rainy-day fund,

which currently stands The plan is to help pay for it

by borrowing up to ?400 million. This would be the biggest debt ever

taken on by the States. But the plans haven't been reviewed

by the scrutiny panel, who say they weren't

given enough time. The item that we're

debating is so important. It is important is that scrutiny go

through in the idea of Government. But the Treasury Minister says

time was of the essence. Interest rates are predicted to move

and every 0.1% increase could cost hundreds of thousands of pounds over

a 40 year period. Equally, I do support the scrutiny

process and it's regrettable that scrutiny weren't able to review

this before now. But it's not just

the lack of scrutiny. It's emerged in the past hour

or so that the plans may not Under the law, The States

can't borrow more than They've already borrowed

millions for social housing, so 400-million more to pay

for the hospital could However, there's confusion over

whether the Long Term Care Benefit If it does, the the States

taxation pot is bigger, so it could borrow enough to fund

the new hospital. So the debate's on hold

until tomorrow once the States More certainty and confidence,

that s how one Jersey company is feeling following

the Biritish Prime Theresa May has been

answering questions today following her announcement

that the UK will leave But there's still lots

of negotiations on where the Channel Islands sit within these

plans, as Emma Chambers has What I am proposing cannot mean

membership of the single market. But it does mean more freedom

to trade, or that's what the British Its unclear if that freedom

will also be carried to the Channel Islands,

who are also not in This is a typical example

of a product where we have the bottle made in italy

and shipped from there. The foil is in Germany and the label

in the UK and the case Tim imports lots of

goods from the EU. He's distilled yesterday's

Brexit speech positively. He still has concerns and new trade

deal could cost them more. Definitely. We've already seen the

uncertainty of Brexit in the first place. Trade prices are in disarray

and we have probably seen in the markets that food ingredients have

raised by about five or 10%. We maybe don't know yet. As awhile

before that filters through. Wallace to slightly clearer, whether Channel

Islands set within these agreements have not been made.

The most important thing for us is that we maintain our existing

relationship with the UK and that's about the common travel area with

the UK, its about the customs union with the UK and they are the most

important things not only for individuals but right

And it will be the local businesses like Tim's who will be listening

closely to this to make sure all the imports in and out of the Channel

Islands will be made smoothly in the future.

A Jersey constable hopes that giving prisoners the chance to vote

in island elections will mean they're more likely to integrate

Len Norman's proposition was passed yesterday.

Now prisoners who serve four years or less for their crimes will be

The move will bring Jersey in line with most other European countries,

except the UK where prisoners still don't have the right to vote.

Going to prison is not just a matter of punishment, not just up matter of

revenge, it is also rehabilitation and education. Hopefully those who

are impacted by this we'll think about their place in society and

think about whether they're going to vote or not.

Concerns over funding for a new benefits system have been

raised at a scrutiny hearing in Guernsey.

Members of the Employment and Social Security Committee also

faced questions on pension funds, family allowances and tax

Its president says they're committed to the principle of universal

benefits rather than means-testing, but admits there are doubts over

how sustainable current funding models are.

That all has to come. That all has to be paid for. We've only got a

certain pot of money. We are under pressure to deliver more with that

money, but actually we have got a declining pot of money. So for us as

a committee, that is always the difficulty in getting that balance.

Meanwhile, an independent report's found that Jersey's social

security fund is healthy, with ?1.4 billion

to meet the costs of future pensions and benefits.

However the report written by the UK Government Actuary

also concluded that these assets will gradually be used up

But it said that action doesn't need to be taken

Fundraisers are turning to the public in a desperate bid

to save one of Guernsey's most popular tourist attractions.

Structural work on the Little Chapel has revealed its condition is much

worse than anyone thought, and the clock is ticking,

as Mark Inchley has been finding out.

In its prime it was one of Guernsey's hidden gems

But now the race is on to save it and it's proving to be a bigger

job than ever imagined, with restoration costs

One side is on rock and one side is not. The tower was completely moving

very very slowly down the hill. That was going to go. We had to start the

work immediately or there would have been trouble.

It had been hoped the roof could be saved,

but that's now had to be removed and there's concern

And that's why the group is appealing to islanders to help

raise the ?500,000 needed, something they're

We have had a wonderful coastline in Guernsey, I want of town, but also a

wonderful centre. The valleys are wonderful. This little chapel

sitting here all through the seasons is tremendous. This morning when you

came with the moon sell-outs and a little bit dark, seeing this chapel

going across the valley is lovely. But time isn't on their side

and campaigners are hoping islanders will dig deep into their pockets

to help save one of Guernsey's most Should learner drivers

in the Channel Islands have to spend more time behind the wheel before

taking their test? It's something that's

being considered in the UK. And it's an idea that's got

support locally too, So driving in Guernsey is pretty

different to the UK. Although not without

it's challenges. But pass your test here and you can

nip over and be on those bigger, And wanting that to remain the case

Guernsey tends to mimic the UK when it comes to

things like driving tests. What is important is that although

we pass our test in Guernsey in the Channel Islands we drive in the UK.

Our test has to be rigid and can parable for other areas. -- can

parable. So if plans in the UK go ahead,

to make learners spend a minimum of a many as 120 hours behind

the wheel before taking their test. This local instructor thinks

there'd be merit in the idea. You know, having a certain amount of

hours to do before they do their test is a really good idea. Some

people passed their test very quickly and I think it leaves them

open to danger on the roads with not enough knowledge, just being taught

how to do a test. That is one thing, but being able to drive properly and

have the skills to react well is another thing. In reality of

Guernsey does not want full behind and the UK decides more practice is

what learners need, then Guernsey might have to consider going for it,

too. Well, my boiler is certainly

burning the oil as the cold But will we be scraping the wind

screens in the morning? And they get well. Another frost

overnight. The figure might help these temperatures go above freezing

is a keen wind and easterly wind. It will remain with us overnight. It

will remain with us. Lovely sunrises and sunsets. This was an rise across

Guernsey which was taken by Chris, one of our weather watchers and fine

weather continues. Dry tomorrow, plenty of sunshine, but that cold

wind means you really will need to wrap up properly. There is not a

great deal of change. High pressure. Southern area of high pressure

across Central parts of Britain. That will not move too far away at

the moment. The easterly winds continuing, very similar picture

tomorrow. Not a great deal of change. Showers may be moving

through the English Channel and they will mainly Saint to the north of

us. Great deal of clear sky means that the temperatures falling and

will continue to drop and we will see some frost on the grass and the

Greens tomorrow morning. Temperatures around zero or plus

one. Cold enough for most of us first thing tomorrow morning.

Tomorrow is a lovely day until you get outside and just realise how

cold it feels that Britain is silly wind is not there to help either.

Six or 7 degrees, but because -- feel how cold is that Windows. There

is not much because the beaches will be flat. The coastal waters forecast

Eastern or suitably five but occasionally six. Fair with good

visibility. Friday, there is a bit more cloud around. The same kind of

setup. Slightly less windy on Friday. Not any warmer, five or 6

degrees. This dry spell of fine cold weather continues.

I'm dreading those winter bills coming in. The plan to borrow

hundreds of billions of pounds to pay for Jersey's new hospital has

been thrown into question. They want to borrow up to ?400 million in the

plans had not been reviewed as yet. We'll be back at eight o'clock this

evening to them. 17,500 fans are expected

to be here at Home Park tonight for the game -

many of them have made it already. But there are many many

more who won't be here - some of them are in far flung

corners of the world. I've tracked a few of them down -

from Afghanistan to the USA to Australia and New Zealand -

all members of the I will be watching in Kaboul,

Afghanistan. I'm from Perth Western Australia, here is my mum Sue and my

dad Mike, and we are all going to be watching the game against Liverpool

on Monday morning at 3:45am. I'm Claire and this is Kevin and we will

be watching from the beautiful island in Honduras. I'm going to be

watching from Mick Ugen USA. My name's Andy Soper, I'm calling from

New Zealand. I'll be watching from 5am tomorrow morning. I'm very

passionate with the North Argyll. I'd rather be there in real life.

He's the reason I'm so Argyll mad. He took me when I was seven and it

has carried on from them. How does it feel to be so far away from the

big game? It's so frustrating. One of the best feelings is to look at

the app on my mobile phone and to see the next game is Liverpool

against Plymouth Argyle. I've considered flying home on a couple

of occasions. Unfortunately, losing at Wembley. I was never able to make

it. It's a great thing that they are airing on screen here. Not only one

game, but two, and maybe three if they beat Liverpool. I've told my

mates that I won't be at golf because this is far more important.

Did you watch the first game at Anfield? We were on the edge of our

seats. They took so much pressure in the second half but they worse

magnificent. Were hoping for more of the same on Wednesday. We had a

slight problem with the electric for the last five or six minutes so we

didn't know the result until it came back on again. The one thing I miss

more than anything is the trip from hail up to Argyll. I would eat my

pasty, watch the game with my mates. Block three, C 92. It's a close

game, really exciting. At 3:45am, it's hard work. It will be a mid

afternoon kick-off for me with the time difference. Everything will be

on hold for me. Albee watching the game, really excited. Albee back in

a few weeks. I'll be home for the next round match. Can they do it?

Come on, Argyll! Such lovely people and it was fantastic to talk to them

all. If you are watching the match anywhere unusual, take a picture and

post it on our Facebook page. Keep it clean though.

Now let's see now how the managers are feeling.

The superstars landed in Devon this morning,

But how many of their big name players will be

In the first match, three players who cost Liverpool more

than ?60 million pounds between them,

were brought on to try and break the deadlock - to no avail.

The manager has no regrets, but there's a big hint

We want to win the game and go to the next round. So, you will see it.

Probably, it will be different to the team that we had in the first

game. But that's not 100% sure. Have to wait a little bit.

His opposite number has a much more simplistic approach.

You've got to go and enjoy the match. It's just another game. A

very good spectacle for everybody in the city but as a footballer, it's

11 against 11 on the park and you never know what can happen. Well

said, Derek Adams. Did you know that here in Plymouth,

Liverpool fans have a meeting place where they can go and

enjoy games together? It's Porters on the Barbican

and tonight it's welcoming new visitors who've made the trip

from Merseyside and have stopped off there for a pasty before

they come here to Home Park. Hamish Marshall has

been to meet them. The atmosphere is building here. The

flag says it all. This is where the Liverpool fans of Plymouth com to

watch the match. Some of them are able to get to home Park tonight.

Steve, you're the landlord. How big is this? Over the last two seasons

it has built and built. Whatever game is on, we have a great time.

They are nice people. You've been out of Liverpool for a while but you

are still a fan. I've been here 42 years. Supporters do a fantastic

job. It's a home from home. How's it going to go tonight? I firmly

believe it should be 3- 02. But Argyll did really well. I'm really

pleased that they got the money for the replay but I honestly think that

we'll win 3-0. Scott, what do you think will happen tonight? Any win

is fine by me. I know a lot of locals and if they win, I won't hear

the end of it. How nice would be to get home before midnight? It's

brilliant. Normally, I wouldn't be home before midnight. Tonight, taxi

home, five minutes. It's brilliant. I'm just heading up to home Park to

join you up there. But those here in the pub are going to have a

brilliant time. It sounds fantastic. There are loads of famous people

here. I've seen Steven Gerrard, Neil Warnock. I've got some more famous

people. John Houston. You are here to work for five live. Did you

expect to be here for the replay? I don't think any others expected to

be here. I have to say, you've deserved the right to be here. A

wonderful defensive display from Plymouth. Derek Adam Scott his

tactics spot on. Financially, they will be in a better place for the

replay. I feel it will push them on. League 2, second at the minute, this

is a fantastic boost for the club. Great atmosphere, isn't it? It's

brilliant. A pleasure to be here. Not only the Argyle fans. The

Liverpool fans. People have spent a whole day coming here tonight and it

is a big game for both clubs but it is huge for Plymouth. They deserve

it. They've worked so hard to get here. Ryan, you are injured. Are you

gutted to be missing it? I am gutted. But I'm pleased to be here

watching and involved in the club today. You are both summarising for

radio Devon. Are you looking forward to it? I've done it all season and

it's been really good, keeping my mind close to the team. He's had a

blinder every game. Don't get used to the radio, we need you back,

pitch. John, who do you think is going to do it tonight? The FA Cup

is stoked traditionally with shocks and upsets. It can happen. You saw

Lincoln knockout Ipswich last night. Already, six Premier League clubs

have gone out. It can happen. You have got to dream. I think Liverpool

will be too strong on the night. They will play with a strong front

three but Plymouth will give it everything and it won't be a stroll

in the park for Liverpool tonight. I'm hoping for an Argyll win. It's a

tough test. It would be memorable. Fingers crossed. And, Ryan? No goals

during the game but late on somebody can nick it. That is my guess. They

have all got jobs to do here so I am going to let them get on with it.

From here at home Park, but to you in the studio. What an exciting

night. Don't worry if you cannot be there.

BBC Radio Devon will have full commentary from seven o'clock

and you can also follow the game online.

And we'll be live at Home Park in Spotlight's late news

for all the reaction to tonight's match, that's at half past ten.

I'm not a big fan of football but even I am quite excited. One of our

viewers is excited about daffodils in full bloom.

It's been very cold but quite a lot of sunshine. Starting with the

football, it's going to be very cold tonight. But on an extra pair of

socks. By the end of the match, temperatures could be close to

freezing. It's going to be a chilly night but hopefully one from the

players and spectators. More frost tonight than we've seen recently. It

is cold. Six or 7 degrees, the top temperature for most others. -- for

most of us. The fog is trafficking slowly back four as. It may act as a

focal point for a fuchsia hours. The overall picture is a big area of

high pressure. A lot of settled weather to come. Not everyone has

had sunshine today. The four northern parts of Devon and Somerset

have kept the cloud. For most others, quickly it's going to turn

frosty. There will be a fair amount of frost tomorrow morning. A range

of temperatures along the coastline. Two or three degrees above freezing.

You don't have to go far inland to find temperatures in the minus

numbers. Another lovely day with sunshine helping the daffodils to

come out in bloom. But it is cold. Just a bit more of a breeze. An

easterly wind developing. If you want to set your barometer, a very

settled pressure at the moment. Thereafter temperatures. On the

thermometer, possibly 8 degrees but it will feel colder. For the owls of

Scilly, fine and dry with sunny spells. Cold wind from the East.

There isn't a huge amount for surfing at the moment.

This is the outlook as we head right through the weekend. More cloud

developing on Friday. Still quite cold. We will start to see a lot

more cloud creeping in. Cold at night. The main story is a dry one.

Finally, a lovely sunrise from this morning in the Channel Islands. Have

a good evening. That's all from others. From all

others, come on Argyll! Good night. Hello. I hope you're well.

I really do. Because if you're not, then chances

are the NHS won't be able to look after you as well as it should.

And that's wrong.