Rules governing children working are set to change.

Tynwald will next week be asked to approve alterations to the Employment of Children (Amendment) Regulations.

The existing rule that allows a 15-year-old to work up to 35 hours’ paid work per week is due to change, with children of compulsory school age allowed only to work up to 28 hours per week.

Education and Children Minister Graham Cregeen said: ’We recognise the value of young people working, whether it be a traditional Saturday job, after-school employment or work during school holidays.

’This gives them an income, experience of the workplace and skills that prove useful when they gain full-time employment.’

He added: ’However, the regulations exist to safeguard young people at a crucial time in their education and we are seeking to update them.

’Existing regulations allow 15-year-olds to work up to 35 hours’ paid work a week, which is not realistic considering they are engaged in studies.’

Another amendment would allow 16- to 18-year-olds to work as glass collectors or cleaners in a nightclub.

’At present, even 16- to 18-year olds who have left school can’t occupy such roles, which is a clear anomaly,’ said Mr Cregeen.

’This change is welcomed by the Licensing Forum, whose members struggle to recruit people for these roles.’

The changes would also clarify the rules on rest breaks, using a scale depending on the hours worked.

Employers are bound by the regulations to maintain a detailed register of children they employ, which can be inspected by the DEC.