This summer’s scorching temperatures have hit Guernsey’s freesia trade hard, reducing normal flower yields by up to 50 per cent.
Such heat brought on the flowers to the extent that they had to be harvested in three to four weeks, rather than the usual 12-week period.
And the adverse weather conditions, coupled with highest-ever oil costs and increased postal charges for flowers, have badly affected the island’s growers.
On top of this talks of a minimum wage for those working in the industry are underway.
There is a belief with the industry that if the £5.35 UK minimum were adopted in Guernsey, it would place growers under tremendous pressure.
Growers point out that in addition to hours worked, guest employees benefit from a package of benefits.
This can include medical cover, accommodation and some flights home, and there is an opportunity for such people to work longer hours than in the retail business.
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