Manx Agriculture - Crisis or Crossroads? Documentary explores the industry that is now on the brink of collapse

Sun, 14 May 2023

An Energy FM commissioned documentary has explored the perilous state of agriculture in the Isle of Man and how the industry could collapse completely if Government policies are not supportive.

The 50 minute film hears from farmers from all sectors including arable, meat, dairy and also specialist markets such as goats and chickens.

Energy FM's Charlie Morrey, who now works as a multi media journalist for Agriland.ie in Dublin, puts questions to the Island's Agriculture Minister Clare Barber MHK and explores topics such as the meat plant which came in for damning criticism in a recent Government commissioned report.

In the documentary, Mrs Barber has committed to bringing forward a "Road Haulage Equivalency" scheme similar to Scotland where costs to export goods off Islands, are charged at a 'road cost equivalent' rather than shipping freight rates. Farmers say this would be a game changer to the industry and a lifeline for many who are operating at a loss; a loss that is unsustainable.

Farmers are needing, but also want to diversify, however Manx Government red tape and bureaucracy are preventing many from doing so. They say that government support does not alway mean money and subsidies.

The documentary can be viewed below.

 

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Videos

• Energy FM Documentary - Manx Agriculture