Friday, October 28, 2011

Linking Hands Across the World

Some snippets of interest from the Isle of Man Government website which shows that whilst the size of our respective populations is significantly different, the issues we have to address are not all that far apart.

New initiative between government and the business community to attract more visitors BBC news by Bill Dale posted 21 October 2011

“A NEW focus on attracting more tourists to the Isle of Man, particularly in the quiet months outside of the traditional visitor seasons, is about to be launched by government in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce. Working together with the Manx Hospitality Partnership, agreement has been reached by the Chamber and the Department of Economic Development to target more visitors to come to the Island and fill empty hotel bedrooms with a particular emphasis on business travellers. The plan brings together groups within the tourist industry into a collective group to exchange ideas and initiatives, working closely in a more structured manner to create new business for the economy. The Isle of Man offers a total of 5,328 bed spaces through its various tourism facilities, in hotels, guest houses, apartments and holiday homes. For some parts of the year the majority of the bedrooms are filled and at certain times - such as the TT and Manx Grand Prix - the Island has no extra capacity and opens up its home stay system.

However, there are some times of the year - in particular the periods in spring and autumn known as the “shoulder months” - where the government and the Chamber of Commerce believes there is potential for new business. Mike Hennessy, chief executive of the Chamber of Commerce, said the main aim of the initiative was to “enhance the overall proposition” with the eventual aim of increasing visitor numbers. “‘This is an exciting opportunity for members of the tourism sector with drive, energy and enthusiasm, to influence and contribute to the future development of the Isle of Man visitor economy.” I would hasten to add that it is not designed to be a pure Chamber member initiative. We welcome involvement from all across the business community.” It is intended to structure the new partnership with a main steering committee supported by stakeholder groups in the areas of accommodation, hospitality and services, events, travel and transport…………….Geoff Corkish MBE, MHK, political member for Isle of Man Tourism, said, “Developing a shared vision and concrete objectives for tourism will be at the heart of the group’s initial work.”

The next snippet is a very interesting concept!

Isle of Man government calls for community members BBC News Isle of Man
“Chief Minister Allan Bell is looking for people willing to serve the community. The Isle of Man government is looking for "community-spirited individuals" to work as lay members. People from all backgrounds and walks of life are asked to apply, to bring a different perspective to the running of the Isle of Man government.  Roles in nine organisations are available, including the Pensions Authority and the Post Office. Chief Minster Allan Bell said he wanted people who had an interest in serving the local community. He added: "This is an opportunity for community-spirited individuals to play their part in public life and make a real difference as the island moves forward." Other organisations looking for lay members include the Financial Supervision Commission, the Office of Fair Trading and the Water and Sewerage Authority.

Those appointed will hold their positions for five years. The closing date for applications is 31 October.”
Dated 28 October

From the Office of the Speaker on 28 October 2011 and posted on the blog site


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