Government to sit down with MNFU after leadership criticism

Union says it has no confidence in senior figures in DEFA

Government has committed to prioritising discussions with the Manx National Farmers’ Union as soon a new environment, food and agriculture minister is appointed.

It follows a damning statement of no confidence in the department's senior leadership from the MNFU. 

A letter cited 'a considerable lack of understanding of the challenges for the sector, poor delivery of strategy, continual failure in decision-making and absence of progress from the department'.

It said also said the union was willing to work constructively with Tynwald Members and government but calls for an urgent review and 'the replacement of those whose leadership has demonstrably failed the industry'.

You can read more on that here.

In response a government spokesperson said: "The formation of a new administration and the appointment of a new minister provide a valuable opportunity to reset the relationship with the sector and establish constructive dialogue from the outset.

“The incoming minister will engage with the MNFU, stakeholders and departmental officers before deciding whether changes are needed.”

The spokesperson added that Chief Minister Chris Thomas, his new minister, the Chief Executive of the Isle of Man Government Mark Lewin and DEFA’s Chief Officer Tim Cowsill will meet the MNFU within 10 working days.