18/03/2020
The Department for Enterprise has created a dedicated team to manage increased communication regarding COVID-19 measures, including a dedicated phone line and new hub at Barclays Eagle Lab to enable local companies to discuss concerns and potential support options for their business.
Businesses can get in touch directly with members of Finance Isle of Man, Digital Isle of Man, Business Isle of Man, Visit Isle of Man, and Enterprise Support. The team will be able to provide advice on the latest government support available, discuss concerns, and gather and distribute shared information.
Laurence Skelly MHK, Minister for Enterprise, commented:
‘The measures announced in Tynwald this week are very much a first phase of assistance and we are considering further significant action for our businesses this week. We do not underestimate the pressures currently facing our local economy and are in consistent dialogue with industry to ensure we have a response in place that works for the Isle of Man.
‘We want to maintain a strong and visible presence for our business community to give them the reassurance that help is available and the confidence to keep running their business. Through putting together a dedicated team and hub at Barclays Eagle Lab we hope to increase accessibility to the team and promote clear and open communication between Government and our business community. I would encourage any businesses affected to get in touch with the team via phone, email or in person.’
The team can also provide information on the Department’s £3,000 Coronavirus Business Support Scheme which looks to give immediate assistance to businesses (with at least two permanent employees) in tourist accommodation, catering, entertainment and leisure, travel and tour operators, and logistics.
The Department for Enterprise and Treasury are looking at various options to support businesses affected by COVID-19 and will be introducing a range of support measures, the first of which were announced in Tynwald yesterday with further measures to be introduced.
Businesses looking to speak with the team should email enterprisesupport@gov.im, call +44 1624 686455, or drop into Barclays Eagle Lab.