'It would appear that agriculture or agricultural related business have not been considered - again'
The Manx National Farmers' Union says the sector needs to be included in discussions over the minimum wage.
The topic is set to be on the agenda in Tynwald again today (20 January).
Ahead of the sitting, the union has submitted a statement to members and has shared it with the Island's media.
The body says that whilst a 'support package has been discussed for "high-risk" sectors such as hospitality and care, it would appear that agriculture or agricultural related business have not been considered - again'.
It's imploring Tynwald and government to 'address the pressures on the industry and include it in its considerations regarding employment' to ensure 'future economic stability, and food security'.
The updated statement comes as the union has further consulted with its members after comments were submitted originally back in December 2025.
The general feeling amongst farmers is that due to the 'economic contraction in agriculture and food on the Isle of Man', the new minimum wage level 'will further reduce capability and viability of the industry, even if introduced in phases'.
Indeed, many members stated that they 'do not pay themselves anywhere near the minimum wage based on the hours they do which stretch far beyond the "normal working week"'.
One Farm Business commented: "The increase in minimum wage makes it very difficult to consider employing a young worker.
"With the add-ons of NI, holiday pay etc. it makes a worker with little, or no experience very expensive given the returns available in agriculture.
"As with all trade apprentices, until a worker can work competently, safely and efficiently on their own it is expensive labour."
Another added: "If there is no change, we will reconsider the viability of employing the two school leavers we have at the moment.
"It will have a devastating effect on young people trying to enter agriculture and impact any business which may need additional help."
The union is calling for apprenticeship schemes to be revisited and 'be fit for purpose', and for 'better support for new entrants into the agricultural sector, firstly by supporting the existing farm businesses that would like to employ them and give them that essential training and skill set, but also by supporting the structure of farm employment and farm wages'.
Manx Radio has approached the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture/the Isle of Man Government for comment.
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