European Market was good for economy, says Minister

John Shimmin was quizzed about the issue in Tynwald this week by Onchan MHK Peter Karran.

 

The Christmas market was held for a week last month and saw complaints from some business owners.

 

Minister Shimmin said although the direct benefit to the Manx exchequer can’t be calculated exactly, traders spent £25,000 on accommodation and paid £7,400 to the OFT for licences for off-island sellers.

 

Workers were granted an administrative exemption from work permits but will have to declare their earnings here on their VAT returns.

 

Although the market was organised by Douglas Council and not the government, Mr Shimmin says he’s supportive of it as a means of trying to stimulate interest and bring additional visitors to the town centre, which has hopefully brought benefits to retailers and the public.