Feeding the Nation

“I am pleased to confirm my support for the MNFU Manifesto and the positive vision it sets out for the future of farming and rural communities.”

Ariculture is not simply a policy area for me – it is part of my life and my family’s history. I grew up on Moorhouse Farm in the south of the Island and have spent most of my life around farming. From an early age, I understood the dedication and hard work required to produce food and sustain rural communities.

My commitment to agriculture has continued beyond the farm gate. I served on the Board of the Agricultural Marketing Society, was a member of the Institute of Agricultural Secretaries and Administrators, and have supported many organisations that contribute to the success of our farming community, including the Southern Young Farmers, Southern Agricultural Show, Royal Manx Agricultural Show, the Flockmasters, the Farmers Wildlife Advisory Group, and the Manx National Farmers’ Union (MNFU).

During the pandemic, I worked alongside the MNFU to establish the Rural Support Group. That experience reinforced something I have long believed - food security is about resilience, self-reliance and ensuring that our Island can continue to feed itself when global events disrupt supply chains.

Food Security Must Be a National Priority

The Isle of Man imports much of the food we consume. While trade will always remain important, recent global events have demonstrated how vulnerable international supply chains can be.

A strong domestic agricultural and fishing sector is essential to our resilience. Supporting local food production strengthens food security, supports rural and coastal communities, protects our landscape and marine environment and helps safeguard our economy.

Every pound spent on Manx produce supports a wider network of businesses, including processors, hauliers, machinery suppliers, veterinarians, retailers and hospitality providers. Money spent locally creates jobs and economic activity throughout our communities.

If we allow local supply chains to weaken, we risk creating a ‘leaky bucket’ economy where wealth generated on the island increasingly flows elsewhere rather than supporting local businesses and families

Supporting Local Production

Delivering food security depends on having strong and sustainable primary industries. Farmers and fishermen need certainty, practical support and the confidence to invest for the future. I support targeted investment where it delivers the greatest benefit for food production, economic resilience and sustainability.

We must continue investing in the infrastructure that underpins the sector, including processing facilities, education, skills development and have long-term strategic planning.

Government also has an important role to play - where practical, public procurement should prioritise Manx produce. Food served in our schools, hospitals and public services should support local producers while providing high-quality, nutritious food for our communities. I support a target of increasing local food consumption to at least 25% within five years. Doing so would strengthen food security, support local jobs and keep more money circulating within the Manx economy.

Promoting Manx Produce

The Isle of Man has a unique story to tell. We have real strengths we can build on:

• UNESCO Biosphere status

• Strong animal welfare standards

• Excellent biosecurity record

• Reputation for quality

Together, these provide a strong foundation for promoting Manx produce both at home and internationally.

We should be ambitious in developing a recognised national food brand that showcases the quality, sustainability and provenance of our produce. At the same time, we must continue improving access to UK and international markets and ensuring fair trading opportunities for Manx producers

A Balanced and Sustainable Future

Food security does not mean complete self-sufficiency. Imports will always play an important role in providing variety and choice. However, a healthy balance between local production and external trade is essential.

By strengthening local supply chains, celebrating seasonal Manx produce and supporting the families who help feed our Island, we can build a more resilient economy while preserving an important part of our heritage and identity.

Farming and fishing has shaped our landscape, our communities and our way of life for generations. As your MHK, I will continue to champion Manx Produce and work to ensure it remains a valued part of our economy.