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Chamber of Commerce wants work permit changes

Wed, 16 Nov 2016

The Island's Chamber of Commerce says two-thirds of its members believe the work permit system hinders economic growth.

The comments come after Douglas North MHK Ralph Peake called for changes to be made in a recent sitting of the House of Keys.

Economic Development Minister Laurence Skelly has pledged to look into reducing restrictions for some sectors, while Chief Minister Howard Quayle's programme for Government includes changes to work permits.

The Chamber says the current system encourages adequacy over excellence, is inefficient and lacks flexibility.

Over half of the organisation's members want the system to remain in some form, but many want to see exemptions for some sectors.

Non-Manx workers currently need a work permit for the first five years after they move to the Island.

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