The Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce is urging all businesses to submit a response to the Equality Bill consultation before this Friday’s [November 28] deadline for submissions. The introduction of this legislation will impact every business on the Island with goods, services, and employment all covered under the proposals.

Jane Dellar, Chief Executive of the Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce, said: “There isn’t anyone who would argue with the principles of eliminating discrimination on any grounds, but the practical realities mean many businesses will struggle to comply with the legislation and indeed might end up falling foul unintentionally. For example, placing an advert for a ‘mature’ worker is obviously age discriminatory, but under the new legislation will you be able to give long service awards to your employees? Could a well-intentioned gesture of reward turn into a claim on the basis of age discrimination? The legislation covers discrimination on the grounds of age; disability; gender reassignment; race; religion or belief; sex; sexual orientation; marriage and civil partnership; and pregnancy and maternity. It raises many questions for businesses such as what reasonable adjustments will you be expected to make to your workplace, office, shop or factory to meet the new requirements? Would you know how to produce an easy to read service contract? Do you have the knowledge and capability - if not, where can you get help? Significant compensation could be awarded against you if your business fails to comply with equality legislation. The target for implementation is only 18 months away - and ignorance of the law and non-capability are not defences, so it is imperative that all businesses have their say now.”

The consultation papers can be found at http://www.gov.im/ConsultationDetail.gov?id=454