The government has pledged to meet the Manx National Farmers’ Union (MNFU) within 10 working days after the union declared a vote of no confidence in the senior leadership of the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA).

The commitment comes as the new administration takes shape, with Chief Minister Chris Thomas preparing to appoint a new minister for the department.

A government spokesperson said the appointment presented an opportunity to reset relations with the agricultural sector following concerns raised by the union about DEFA’s leadership and the support available to farmers.

They said: ‘The formation of a new administration and the appointment of a new Minister provide a valuable opportunity to reset the relationship with the sector and establish constructive dialogue from the outset.

‘The incoming Minister will engage with the MNFU, stakeholders and departmental officers before deciding whether changes are needed.’

The Chief Minister, the incoming minister (not yet confirmed), the Isle of Man Government’s chief executive Mark Lewin and DEFA’s chief officer will meet the union within 10 working days.

Government officers are arranging the meeting with the MNFU and its board.

The union formally declared its vote of no confidence in DEFA’s senior leadership on Wednesday, October 14 (yesterday), accusing the department of failing to address serious problems facing the island’s agricultural industry.

The union called on the incoming administration to carry out an urgent review of the department’s leadership and make changes.

It also raised concerns about rising production costs, declining farm profitability and what it described as a lack of progress on the Government’s Food Security Plan.

Isle of Man Today understands that Kirrie Jenkins, who lost Tuesday’s Chief Minister vote to Chris Thomas, is being tipped for the role of environment, food and agriculture minister because of her farming background, with Mr Thomas having hinted she could be offered a place in his Council of Ministers.

The letter highlighted difficulties importing breeding livestock from Northern Ireland following disruption to ferry services after the Manxman broke down, as well as concerns about the impact of differences in BSE risk status between the island and Great Britain on cattle trading.

The MNFU also questioned government spending on Isle of Man Meats, arguing that greater support was needed for agriculture more widely.

The union said it remained willing to work constructively with government but wanted leadership prepared to acknowledge problems and take decisive action.

The government’s response indicates that the incoming minister will consider whether changes are needed after engaging with the union, stakeholders and departmental officers.