Work Permit Suspension Plans Shelved

Proposed plans to reform the Isle of Man’s work permit system have been pulled, with the gov planning further consultation.

The DfE has said this is in response to ongoing concerns being raised over the proposed temporary suspension that was due to be considered at November’s Tynwald.

The proposed reforms included the implementation of a simplified single registration system and to improve the overall quality of information available to monitor the ongoing position.

However, several MHKs have expressed doubts over the plans, in essence saying they aren’t needed and would lead to a removal of protections for Manx workers.

The gov has also considered what the DfE termed ‘feedback’ from industry representatives and decided that ‘further engagement with stakeholders will be sought to ensure a wider understanding of the current proposals alongside an overview of the challenges with the current system that the reforms were intending to address’.

Minister Tim Johnston said: ‘The department’s consultation and review into the work permit system has been based on the commitment in both the Island Plan and Economic Strategy, which make clear the intention to remove barriers to ensure that employers are able to fill key vacancies where they are not able to recruit locally.

‘Since the Work Permit system was created some 60 years ago, there have been a number of adjustments, with the last reforms being implemented in 2018. As with any policy or system, it is important that these are reviewed periodically to ensure they are still fit for purpose in an ever evolving economic landscape.’

According to Mr Johnston,  90% of applications are approved within the same or next working day, and an overall approval rate of over 99.9% over the last five years

He added: ‘I understand the topic of work permits is one which often polarises views, and can be conflated with other subjects such as broader immigration from outside the British Isles, and the right to live in the Isle of Man, both of which are defined elsewhere and outside the Department’s responsibilities.

‘In light of the developing position, the Department believes further discussions will be beneficial to give stakeholders the opportunity to further consider the options, as we seek to strike the right balance of improving and simplifying the system, providing additional certainty and clarity, whilst maintaining appropriate controls and improving information.’

A further update will be provided later this month.