"How can we prep for this?": Concerns continue to mount over minimum wage rise

Business owners urged to attend meeting to discuss impact of rate increase

The owner of a pub on Douglas promenade says some business owners are 'scared' following the approval of an increase in the minimum wage.

It's as a meeting has been organised by the newly-formed Local Economy Forum to discuss the rise in the hourly rate to £13.46 from 1 April.

Andy Saunders of The Original Quids Inn says he, like others in the hospitality sector, had already made cutbacks before the new rate was announced.

Government says the fact the increase is five months away gives businesses time to prepare. 

Mr Saunders disagrees:

The meeting of the Local Economy Forum will take place on 10 November at 6:30pm at the Palace Hotel in Douglas.

Manx Radio has approached government for response. The treasury minister has agreed to respond in the coming days. 

Alex Allinson has previously stated that the decision to increase minimum wage is about supporting the local economy, employers and workers. 

Read more HERE.

Meanwhile, any businesses struggling to figure out how to adjust to the new minimum wage have been urged to speak to the Department for Enterprise.

Enterprise Minister Tim Johnston and Treasury Minister Alex Allinson are due to be questioned over aspects of the minimum wage increase during Tuesday's House of Keys sitting.

Find out more HERE.