Comments on the effectiveness and suitability of the Island's work permit system can be sent to the Department of Trade and Industry from today.

A major review of the system's current procedures is being held.

Submissions are being invited from members of the public, major employers, trade associations, trade unions and bodies in the public sector.

It has been ordered by the new DTI Minister, David Cretney (pictured), who wants to make sure the current system works to the benefit of the economy and Isle of Man workers.

Marian Kenny reports:

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Mr Cretney is stressing the importance of basing any assessment on hard facts, rather than, what he calls "anecdotal facts, which cannot be substantiated".

Among other things the review will look at the impact, effectiveness, enforcement and administration of the current system and make recommendations for any improvements.

Efforts will also be made to identify any conflicts or dependencies that arise out of controls currently in place. These would relate to immigration, residency, state benefits and other key economic factors.

The work is being carried out by the Chief Officer at the Office of Fair Trading, and submissions must be received by the DTI by February the 12th.