Statement issued after backlash from Island's agricultural sector
The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture says it understands the concerns raised over payments to the Board of Isle of Man Meats.
Data published in response to a Tynwald Question for Written Answer from Onchan MHK Julie Edge showed total compensation had more than tripled in recent years.
It's the first time DEFA has issued a statement on this since the figures were published on 20 January, sparking backlash from the Island's agricultural sector.
The Isle of Man Fatstock Marketing Association said it was 'shocked and dismayed', while the Manx National Farmers Union has demanded answers as to why the payments were ever allowed to increase as significantly as they had.
The Department assures additional payments to the Board have now ceased, and says a full review of the Board’s roles, structure, and remuneration framework is due for completion by this coming April.
Meanwhile, Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Jason Moorhouse has submitted two Tynwald Questions for Written Answer concerning this matter; on whether the directors were recused from discussions regarding their own remuneration; and what the roles of DEFA and the Treasury were in relation to the arrangements for Director pay.
Answers to both questions are due to be published by 10 February.
Statement from DEFA in full
'(DEFA) understands the concerns this information has raised within the farming community and among taxpayers regarding payments to the Board of Isle of Man Meats Ltd.
'Additional payments to the Board have now ceased, and Directors are remunerated by the Company in line with their Board responsibilities.
'After almost two years, a full review of the Board’s roles, structure, and remuneration framework is planned for completion by April 2026. DEFA has also facilitated additional support on governance and marketing to help stabilise operations and improve transparency, without affecting other DEFA services.
'DEFA remains committed to ensuring that support to the Plant delivers clear benefits to both the farming community and taxpayers. We will continue to work closely with the Board, the Fatstock Marketing Association, and industry representatives to ensure the Meat Plant operates sustainably, provides value for money, and supports the Island’s agricultural sector.'
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