Consultation favours lowering barriers
Proposed reforms to the Island's work permit regime are designed to benefit both the employer and the employee.
That's the message from economic development minister Laurence Skelly, after a public consultation this summer over his department's plans to 'move the goalposts' for permit applications.
The DED invited responses from individuals as well as representative bodies, and following largely positive feedback, a set of proposals will be put to Tynwald later this month.
Minister Skelly says they aim to address 'significant labour shortages' across many sectors of the economy, and to increase the economically active population.
Reforms include a simplified application and fee system, and giving cohabiting partners of Isle of Man workers automatic right to a one year permit.
The reforms also outline a reduced list of criteria for the granting of a work permit, focusing solely on issues 'directly relevant' to the employment.
A suggestion the entire work permit system could be 'flipped' - so that only designated employment categories and individuals would need a permit - is not being pursued.
Reaction from trade unions and the Island's Chamber of Commerce on Manx Radio's current affairs programme Mandate at 0730 Wednesday (11 October).
Mr Skelly is confident the proposed changes are necessary:
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