DEFA minister admits agricultural shows weren't suitable alternative to Food and Drink Festival

Event would have been taking place this weekend

The environment, food and agriculture minister has admitted there were flaws using the agricultural shows as a replacement for this year's Food and Drink Festival.

The government-run event, which was cancelled in June, would have been taking place this weekend (14/15 September).

A previously agreed exclusivity agreement meant the Southern and Royal Manx shows weren't accessible to all producers or manufacturers.

It was highlighted by Gelatory owner Rory Dorling who told Manx Radio at the time what he thought of the situation:

DEFA Minister Clare Barber has admitted that, with hindsight, there were flaws when using private events as an alternative to the festival.

However she says she's confident there'll be a more suitable alternative next year:

You can listen to Minister Barber's full interview here: