The Briefing

The Weekly Briefing from The Quarry

All the latest from The Quarry newsroom.

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Guernsey outstrips China as the leading foreign funding source of Yale.

The data is contained in a US Department of Education programme tracking universities’ foreign gift and contracts amid concerns about overseas influence.

Since 2014, Yale has received $446m. that emanates from the island, which compares to $411m. from China.

We explore who could be behind this and why in this members' exclusive ...

In other news...

Guernsey publishes new five-year substance use strategy running from 2027-2032, building on previous integrated approach
Alcohol remains biggest harm with 23.7% of islanders exceeding recommended weekly limits and around 10 deaths annually attributed to alcohol
Smoking rates successfully reduced to 9.1%, below 10% target, but youth vaping has increased dramatically from 2% to 10% regular use
Strategy proposes minimum unit pricing for alcohol, tobacco duty increases, and restrictions on vaping in public places
Total funding of £871,020 allocated for 2025, with 82% going directly to community substance use services

The Office of the Director of Civil Aviation warns against unlicensed 'grey charter' flights that lack proper safety certifications
These flights carry extreme risks as operators may not undergo rigorous safety checks and often lack insurance coverage
Passengers and pilots using illegal grey charter services could face prosecution under local aviation laws
Cost-sharing flights are permitted under specific conditions but become illegal if pilots make a profit
Aviation authorities work with UK CAA and US FAA to identify and investigate suspected illegal charter operations

New Marine Biosecurity Guide launched by ACLMS and Guernsey Ports to help prevent spread of invasive species in marine environment
Guide promotes 'Check, Clean, Dry' approach for all marine users from swimmers to commercial fishermen
Invasive species pose significant threat to biodiversity and could damage boats, harbours and limit fishing production
Japanese wireweed already present in Guernsey waters, with hundreds more potentially invasive species on the horizon
Key information available at gov.gg/marinebiosecurity with posters and leaflets to be distributed to businesses and recreational users

DPA has relaxed planning rules for air source heat pump installations following industry feedback
Size limits increased for planning exemption
Units must be single installations, at ground level, and more than 1 metre from property boundaries
Changes expected to reduce costs for installers and make renewable heating more accessible
Move supports Guernsey's net zero pathway and economic objectives

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Second Twin Otter aircraft will be stationed in Guernsey from Easter weekend to provide backup for Alderney services
Two dedicated Twin Otter aircraft in Aurigny livery will operate all Alderney services from October 2026
Weather conditions caused more than 80% of flight delays in first two months of 2026, with 137 flights cancelled
Dedicated crew recruitment completed with training expected to finish by end of June
Over 14,000 passengers booked for summer season following promotional campaigns

Castel Primary School will trial a School Street scheme during summer term, closing nearby roads during school hours
The informal trial runs from 14th April to at least 8th May along sections of Ruette de la Generotte and Rue de la Masse
Roads will be closed to most vehicles between 8:15-9:00am and 2:45-3:30pm on weekdays, except cyclists, school buses and residents
The scheme aims to promote walking and cycling whilst creating safer school journeys
Traffic & Highway Services will monitor the trial before proposing a potential official 9-12 month trial

Liberation Tea Tent returns to Crown Pier on 9 May
Partnership between Old Government House Hotel and GROW charity continues for second year
Tent will serve tea, scones, sausage rolls and local treats from 11am to 5pm
GROW team members gain skills working alongside professional chefs in preparation
150 seats available in quieter space away from main Liberation Day crowds