Farmers in the Isle of Man can't carry on producing animals which don't meet the needs of local consumers.

That's the belief of Agriculture Minister Phil Gawne, who replied to a number of questions about the future of the Island's meat plant in the House of Keys today (Tuesday).

He admitted that since the loss of the red meat derogation, at the end of 2010, the plant had been in decline and unable to compete with operations in the United Kingdom and further afield.

Mr Gawne said the export of animals which didn't meet the Island's needs could be tolerated in the short term, but the situation couldn't continue as they effectively ended up subsidising meat purchases made in the UK.

He told the House a way forward could only be found if all sides worked together (first part of audio file):

Mr Gawne said he was committed to finding a way forward which was right for farmers and the Isle of Man (second part of audio file):