The Department of Economic Development and the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) have announced the creation of 55 new full-time and seasonal jobs within DEFA’s recently-established Isle of Man Food Park.

The jobs, largely in scallop processing companies, are accessible to all and require no special training or qualifications.  Full training will be made available to all recruits.

While the majority of the jobs will be based in Peel, there will be 10-15 jobs available at Carrick Bay Seafoods in Port St Mary.  All the jobs offer a performance-based rewards system as well as paid holiday and protective clothing.

The Isle of Man has a thriving scallop export industry supporting around 150 jobs at sea and 200 on land.  96% of the £8m of products are exported, largely to France, Spain and Italy.

Additionally, in a new collaboration between the food companies, the Food Park and the Department of Economic Development, a package of measures has been put in place to target those on the Island seeking work and to support them through the early days of employment.

Laurence Skelly MHK, Political Member for the Department of Economic Development with responsibility for Manufacturing said:

‘DEFA’s Isle of Man Food Park is an example of how Government departments can work together to not only help to grow the economy, but maximise the impact that it has on the Island. This is great news for Peel and Port St Mary and for the Isle of Man as a whole.’

Phil Gawne MHK, Minister for the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture said:

‘It is testament to the resilience of the Manx fish processing industry that it is winning new export markets even in these difficult times .These new jobs are very welcome and can make a real contribution to the Manx economy. DEFA’s creation of the Isle of Man Food Park as a centre of excellence for our food industry demonstrates the Government’s commitment to supporting this industry.’

Billy Caley, Managing Director of Isle of Man Seafoods said:

‘We are benefiting now from three years of relentless investment and pursuit of quality markets for our product. The Isle of Man has a premium product, caught in pristine waters and processed in line with the standards required by our supermarket customers.  The jobs that we have available will repay that investment, not only to the company, but will boost the economy of the Island.’

There will be an opportunity for those interested in finding out more about the jobs on offer to visit the Food Park. Interested parties can visit between 9.00am and 11.00am on Wednesday 2nd May. Further information is available from DEFA’s Seafood Development Officer, Alastair Hamilton on 375515 or alastair@seafood.org.im

Information about the opportunities available can also be obtained from the Jobcentre in Douglas or via the Jobcentre website at  www.gov.im/ded/jobcentre