MHKs praise move to ease labour shortage
A move to ease staffing shortages in the Manx hospitality sector has been hailed a success by the Minister for Economic Development.
In March, a temporary work permit exemption was introduced for the summer season, lasting from 1 March to the 31 October - a decision largely welcomed by hoteliers.
Unions claimed it could lead to lower wages.
In Tynwald today (Tues 17th), Minister Laurence Skelly said 87 people were recruited in the hospitality trade this summer with temporary work permit exemptions, all of whom had been inspected.
He added some permanent posts had also been filled as a result.
38 Island businesses had registered for the scheme and requested a total of 204 exemptions.
East Douglas MHK Chris Robertshaw said the exemption had been 'invaluable and well received' by the sector.
Minister Skelly says the scheme will be reviewed by the DED at the end of the season:
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