A couple from the remotest group of islands in the world are today (Tuesday, February 19) starting special work placements in the Isle of Man.
 
Martin and Iris Green have a busy time ahead in the Island, and are hoping to acquire new skills to put into practice when they return home to Tristan Da Cunha.
 
The four-month placements have been arranged as part of the Isle of Man Government’s ongoing commitment towards international development.
 
Funding is being provided by Tristan Da Cunha, a British Overseas Territory located 1,750 miles away from South Africa and 1,500 miles away from the nearest land mass of St Helena. The volcanic island is accessible only by a seven-day boat journey from Cape Town.
 
The Greens are part of a population of 260 Tristanians and play active roles in a local economy based around farming and fishing.
 
Martin, who has been employed within Tristan Da Cunha’s Agriculture Department for 23 years, will be working with the Isle of Man’s Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture. His programme includes placements on Manx farms and veterinary practices, and with the Isle of Man Creamery.
 
Iris heads the Post Office and Philatelic Bureau in Tristan and a major part of her role focuses on the production of commemorative coins and stamps. She also works alongside the tourism and handicraft industries.
 
During her time in the Isle of Man, Iris will gain an insight into the operations of the Isle of Man Post Office, the Department of Economic Development’s Tourism Division and Manx National Heritage.
 
Martin said: ‘We have enjoyed a very warm welcome in the Isle of Man and are looking forward to experiencing life in another island community.’
 
Iris added: ‘This is a fantastic opportunity to work alongside the people of the Isle of Man to see how things are done here and to develop our knowledge and skills.’