Relaxation of work permit rules for certain sectors of the Manx economy is reaping benefits.

That’s the message from Economic Development Minister Laurence Skelly who says posts for 76 skilled workers were filled as a direct result of exempting certain roles in ICT and e-Business.

He said his department has reviewed the impact of the exemptions introduced in March last year. And returns submitted by employers show that 17 local businesses made use of the new exemptions, employing 76 additional skilled and experienced workers as a result.

The DED has also introduced temporary work permit exemptions for seasonal workers in hospitality and tourism - and is considering doing the same for the construction sector which is also facing a skills shortage.

Mr Skelly insisted he did not want the work permit system scrapped altogether.

He said: ’I support the retention of the work permit system as I support the principle of Manx first.

’However, work permits can be used as a tap that can be turned on and turned off that can help fill a demand when there is no highly skilled local labour available.’