Hotelier calls for a tourism minister to help strengthen sector 

Tim Johnston to issue apology to Tynwald members

A call has been made for the enterprise minister to apologise to Tynwald once it resumes over comments he made during the last sitting about the Island's hotels. 

While debating the Biosphere Levy, Onchan MHK Rob Callister expressed his concerns for the hospitality industry, saying accommodation spots are only full during the three racing events in the calendar - which was met with a response by Minister Tim Johnston:

The comments, however, upset hoteliers on the Isle of Man, and Manx Radio has been told that an apology was issued to them privately. 

Norman Mackey, the owner of The Ascot Hotel in Douglas says in his 45 years in the industry, it's never needed help 'more than it does now'. 

"The industry is not okay, the hotels aren't full and we don't need new hotels to compete with the current system at this moment in time" - Norman Mackey

He's calling for the creation a Minister of Tourism to assist the sector:

Back to Rob Callister, who wants the minister to issue a public apology. 

He's told Manx Radio several owners contacted him after the debate and revealed their guest numbers to him:

In response, Minister Johnston says, "During the July sitting of Tynwald, when intervening in an attempt to emphasise our collective efforts to expand the Island’s tourism offering, I misstated that hotels were ‘full all season’.

"I acknowledge that this was an overstatement and not accurate, particularly for all hotel operators.

"Whilst it was not my intention to do so, I accept that my words have caused concern with some businesses, and have taken the opportunity to apologise to those who contacted me directly, and for that apology to be conveyed to other hotel businesses at a scheduled meeting last week.

"I will also take the opportunity to correct and clarify my comments directly to Tynwald Members.

"I remain encouraged by the growth in visitor numbers in recent years, and the increasing interest in the Island as a visitor destination.

"These positive indicators reflect the Island’s strong tourism offering, thanks in large part to the local businesses that make the visitor experience so special.

"However, while momentum is clear, I also recognise that the sector continues to face challenges and we must work together to maximise our potential.

"I fully support the Visit Agency’s work to promote the Isle of Man as a premier year-round destination, in line with the Our Island, Our Future: Visitor Economy Strategy."

The Steam Packet has also been contacted for a statement.