Breton and Guernsey politicians to visit Jersey

23 July 2014

The President of the General Council of Ille et Vilaine, Mr Jean-Louis Tourenne, and the Deputy Chief Minister of Guernsey, Deputy Allister Langlois, will both make their first official visits to Jersey tomorrow (24 July 2014).

They will be welcomed to the Island by the Minister for External Relations, Senator Sir Philip Bailhache. The visit is part of an ongoing commitment by the Governments of Jersey and Guernsey to further develop relations with France. It is expected that subjects under discussion will include health, tourism and culture.

As part of their visit, Mr Tourenne and Deputy Langlois will be shown around Durrell Wildlife Park and taken on a tour of the Celtic Coin Hoard at Jersey Museum.

Senator Bailhache said “This visit will provide an important opportunity to build on Jersey’s valued relationship with Ille et Vilaine. I look forward to meeting with the President of the General Council and Deputy Langlois, and discussing the many areas in which we can continue to work with our French neighbours for the benefit of Jersey, Guernsey and Breton citizens alike.”

Deputy Langlois added “I am delighted to be meeting with the President of the General Council for the first time. As Channel Islands, we share valuable cultural and economic links with the French departments. Ille-et-Vilaine is of course important for Guernsey as it is the gateway into France for many Islanders. The link with St Malo is a vital link in so many respects, not least culturally and economically.

"These meetings will be an opportunity to hold constructive discussions on strengthening and building new relationships in other areas as well.”