Financial assistance will be offered to hospitality sector employees. 

The Department for Enterprise is extending its FAS scheme following ongoing discussion with the industry. 

It’s after a survey of tourism providers on the Island found there was a lack of available applicants with the desired skills and experience to fill vacancies within the sector. 

Minister Laurence Skelly says: “We continue to work closely with local businesses to encourage the promotion of courses and apprenticeships for residents but appreciate the immediate request for resolution from the industry. 

“The scheme is also designed to reward businesses who encourage skilled Islanders working or studying in the UK and abroad to return to the Isle of Man.” 

The department will offer financial assistance of 20 per cent of the salary paid to the employee for the first year of their employment where their salary is more than ?25,000 per year. 

Head of Visit Isle of Man Angela Byrne says: “Having seen the success of the Employee Relocation Incentive for other sectors we are looking forward to working with our Tourism and Hospitality providers to address the issues they have been facing in meeting skills shortages. 

“Quality accommodation and food and beverage tourism are priorities for our visitors and in order to remain competitive as a destination of choice for our target audiences we need to ensure continued improvement which is only possible with experienced and skilled workers.”