The Department of Economic Development will be one of the sponsors, alongside principal sponsor SES Satellite Leasing (SES SL) and other local businesses, of a broadcast media event to promote investment and interest in the Isle of Man.

On 14th September at the Isle of Man Motor Museum in Jurby, the Department of Economic Development and other members of industry will host a forum of keynote speakers from the UK Media Industry. The event will also include speakers and advisors from the financial sector, including SPARK Impact, managers of the ?50m Isle of Man Government’s Enterprise Development Scheme.

Laurence Skelly, Minister for the Department of Economic Development, commented:

‘The Isle of Man has built a reputation as a test bed for new and innovative technology. Our strong infrastructure and telecoms systems, alongside our support for new and expanding businesses, have seen the Island draw interest from a range of technology sectors and companies. Attracting future investment to the Island is at the core of the work of the Department and we will continue to support our colleagues in industry as these exciting developments unfold.’

Alfred Cannan, Political Member with responsibility for Information and Communication Technology at the Department also commented:

‘SES SL’s investment into a new teleport combines the strong heritage within the Island’s re-merging video production and publishing sectors with the Island’s reputation as a centre of excellence for ICT based entrepreneurship. The Isle of Man will be able to provide media broadcasters with a broad ecosystem of infrastructure and services and I hope that this event will create even more interest and investment for the Island.’

Dr. Richard Arning, Vice President of Business Development at SES SL, commented:

‘SES SL’s investment in a high-tech teleport on the Isle of Man will form the basis to provide TV channels the technical opportunities to deliver an end-to-end solution for potential media customers. I have been encouraged by the assistance from the Isle of Man and anticipate that the new teleport will bring benefits to a number of local companies who provide additional ancillary activities.’

Stuart Semark, Special Advisor to the Isle of Man Government for Broadcast Media added:

‘We are delighted to support this event which marks the next stage of developing broadcast media opportunities in the Isle of Man. The bringing together of some of the most respected people in the UK Broadcast industry with established media companies on the island and potential business investors gives us the opportunity to establish the Isle of Man as an International Business Centre for Broadcast Media Companies.’

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