Lack of on Island market and export costs among concerns for farming sector
A Manx farmer says the lack of price increases for producers in the current financial climate is 'frightening'.
Robert Morrey of Ballacorey in Andreas is calling for farmers to be paid a fair price for their goods without the need for additional support.
He warns the export market doesn't give many producers the margin they need to make a profit, and is keen to see more Manx produce sold on Island.
Brian Brumby, a former president of the Manx National Farmers Union, agrees; he says there's a very small market for Manx producers to sell their goods on Island.
Mr Brumby, who owns a farm in Lezayre, believes farms on Island are often not big enough to be competitive in the UK market, and the cost of exporting goods on the ferry as a barrier for the Island's agriculture sector.
They've both been speaking to Manx Radio's Political Correspondent Phil Gawne:
Manx Radio has invited the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture and the Steam Packet Company to respond.
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