Government and hospitality representatives hold 'positive talks' 

Possible initiatives to help are expected to be announced next week

A meeting between government and representatives of hospitality businesses to discuss the crisis in the sector has been described as 'positive' by the chair of the Licensed Victuallers Association, Andy Gibb.

No details of the talks have been made public, but a joint statement is expected to be released - hopefully by the middle of next week.

Friday's meeting followed earlier talks on the 3rd of May at which a small group of businesses made up of the LVA, the Restauraters' Association and the wider hospitality sector outlined their serious concerns for the future of the industry on the Island.

After that meeting Minister for Enterprise, Tim Johnston conceded the need for government to act quickly to mitigate concerns raised by businesses, and to maintain a dialogue to secure the continued vibrancy of the Isle of Man's hospitality sector.

Manx Radio understands that a number of possible initiatives to support hospitality and other small to medium sized businesses on the Island were put to yesterday's meeting, details of which will be released next week.