New era dawns for Manx agriculture

Agriculture officials are beginning to implement the Countryside Care Scheme, following its approval by Tynwald.

It signals the end of the long established system of production-based support for farmers, who will instead be paid for keeping their land in good agricultural order.

The scheme received overwhelming support from the court, with only three of the 26 members present voting against.

Agriculture Minister Phil Gawne (pictured) has made it clear breaking, or "decoupling", the link between subsidies for farmers and production is one of the most important decisions ever taken in Manx agriculture.

And he had this message for a group of outspoken opponents:

Mr Gawne will be live on Mandate on Friday morning, to talk about the Countryside Care Scheme, along with Manx Radio's farming correspondent, John Kennaugh.