Health staff accept 3.7% pay increase deal

Health staff have agreed a 3.7% pay increase with the Policy and Resources Committee (P&R) but about 15% of public sector staff have not, the States of Guernsey has said.

Unions representing health workers had requested a 5.7% increase but accepted the lower rate in line with annual inflation.

Postal workers and firefighters also received rises under the agreement, which were "the same value for 2026 as those who agreed two year deals in 2025", P&R said.

Deputy Gavin St Pier, P&R Vice-President and resources lead, said subject to unions agreeing pay offers, all 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."

The deputy has offered his resignation from the committee, but continues in post until it has been accepted by the States.

Groups who have not agreed a deal with P&R about their 2026 pay include public sector entities, prison officers, airport fire and rescue service (AFRS) staff and hospital consultants.

P&R said AFRS was currently balloting on the deal.

Jacqueline Carr, Royal College of Nursing Senior Regional Officer for Guernsey, said although the pay offer "fell short of what our members asked for which was disappointing" she welcomed "the opportunity to begin work on wider terms and conditions".

"We are hopeful that the states will engage with us as soon as possible and honour this commitment as our members continue to be impacted by the rising cost of living," she said.

Carr said she expected negotiations for pay in 2027 would begin later this year.

"It will be important to ensure these commitments are delivered if the States are to expect the continued support of nurses in Guernsey," she said.

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