B U S I N E S S P L A N 2 0 0 5

D E P A R T M E N T O F A G R I C U L T U R E , F I S H E R I E S & F O R E S T R Y

INTRODUCTION The Department supports two of the Island’s traditional industries, Agriculture and Fisheries, both of which have to operate and survive in an economic and political environment in which the pace of change becomes ever more rapid. The Department also has a wide-ranging role in ensuring the maintenance and conservation of the natural environment of the Island. The richness of this valued asset is well recognised and appreciated by the Island’s people, and is significant in British Isles and European terms. Both agriculture and fisheries are directly affected by the Island’s relationship with the EU, which establishes parameters within which the industries and the Department have to operate. The challenge for all is to devise solutions which ensure the preservation of the Island’s unique characteristics, whilst honouring its commitments. For agriculture the key issues are primarily based on the renewal or granting by the EU to the Island of derogations permitting the Department to regulate imports of: meat; milk and cream; and bread and bread making flour. The existing derogation permitting controls to be exercised on meat imports expires at the end of 2005 and its renewal is a first priority for the Department. Pressure is also being maintained on the request for similar powers relating to milk, and one for bread and flour is still outstanding. However, with protection goes the need on the industry’s part to ensure customer focus and value for money. The fishing industry is also facing difficult times. In order to facilitate its survival the Department’s first priority is to negotiate with the UK for sole jurisdiction in the 3 – 12 mile belt of the Island’s territorial sea. This, once achieved, will not mean the Island will have untrammelled power to do what it likes in that area, as the traditional rights of UK fishermen will have to be respected. However, it will pave the way for the implementation of a sustainable fisheries policy which will be under the Island’s direct control, to the benefit of all entitled to fish in these waters.

The Island’s natural heritage is, as recognised by Tynwald, the “jewel in its crown”. The Department will do all it can to promote the preservation and conservation of this asset, whether by the implementation of its statutory powers, or by collaboration with other stakeholders both within and without government. In this regard, the sustainable use of the Department’s land will be encouraged and developed, whilst preserving the internationally recognised heather moor-land, which features so prominently in the upland areas. The Department’s approach in pursuing its objectives will be one of openness and consultation, as far as is reasonably possible. The aim is to bring everybody on board and go forward together in a working partnership. This document represents the Department’s work plan and aspirations for the period 1st April 2005 to31st March 2008. It provides a clear and accessible explanation of our policies and objectives, which are derived from, and contribute to, the attainment of the aims in the Government Plan. Our success will be demonstrated by the achievement of the targets set out in the plan. In addition, the plan provides a reference point for our staff by allowing them to identify their role in contributing to the aims and objectives set out therein. For others in government the plan identifies areas of common ambition where cooperation is called for and reduces the possibilities of conflict. For the industries we promote and the public at large, it provides an exposition of our ambitions on their behalf and a measure of our success. The plan is the product of input from staff at all levels in the organisation and we would like to express our sincere appreciation of their input and the hard work which will go in to its realisation.

Hon. R.W. Henderson Minister T. A. Warren Chief Executive

1

ABOUT US Our aims are: -

• To support, and work in partnership with, the Island’s agricultural and sea fishing industries to develop a vibrant rural economy, food security and maintenance of our natural environment.

• To promote and enhance the Island’s natural heritage, which is rightly considered to be the “jewel in its crown”.

• To maximise the potential for amenity and recreational enjoyment of the Department’s landholdings for the benefit of the Island’s people.

These are directly related to the Government aims of economic progress, quality environment, social well-being and positive national identity as set out in the Government Plan. Political Membership and Senior Management Minister Bill Henderson M.H.K. Member with delegated responsibility for Forestry, Amenity and Lands and Fisheries Mr. Peter Karran M.H.K. Member with delegated responsibility for Agriculture Mr. Phil Gawne M.H.K. Chief Executive: - Mr. Tony Warren Deputy Chief Executive: - Mrs. Sylvia Callister Chief Forestry Officer: - Mr. Robin Pollard Chief Veterinary Officer: - Mr. Eamon O’Donnell Senior Wildlife and Conservation Officer: - Ms Liz Charter Director of Agricultural Services: - Mr. Richard Lole Structure The Department is made up of five Divisions –

Agricultural Services Wildlife and Conservation Forestry, Amenity and Lands Animal Health Administration and Finance

The Department has a staffing budget of 132.25 including a high number of professionals and specialists and a net financial budget of £15,484,000 for the financial year 2005/06. WHAT WE DO Agricultural Services Division – Manager: Mr. Richard Lole

We provide technical advice, training, education and non-commercial services to the agricultural industry, working in partnership with the industry to develop farming businesses. We manage and develop support schemes for the industry and are the primary source of agricultural policy advice to the Minister and political members. Financial Budget 05/06: £ 9,787,350 Staffing Budget: 23.25

We aim to:

• Provide the industry with up-to-date, sound and relevant technical advice and training in order to promote best practice, initiative and market awareness to aid the sustainable viability of farm businesses

• Deliver timely and well-researched policy advice to the Department • Encourage the adoption of good practice as regards animal welfare

2

• Assist the agricultural industry to develop and maintain profitable, long-term markets through understanding and meeting consumer demand

• Help agricultural producers receive an economic price for their products to support the viability of the industry

• Promote an acceptable level of Island self-sufficiency in staple food products • Aid modernisation of the agricultural and horticultural industries to world-class standards. • Encourage ecologically sensitive farming as an important component of sustainability.

Animal Health Division - Manager: Mr. Eamon O’Donnell

We strive to achieve high standards of animal health and welfare in the industry within modern husbandry systems, balancing the needs of the animal with the promotion of the industry and facilitation of trade in agricultural produce.

Our work includes the prevention and control of animal diseases, enhancement of animal welfare, livestock protection, animal tracing and identification, regulation of meat imports and provision of a Veterinary Officer to supervise the Department of Local Government and the Environment’s meat hygiene team at the Meat Plant. Financial Budget 05/06: £683,200 Staffing Budget: 9 We aim to:

• Ensure conditions are met to facilitate the export of meat, live animals and other products. • Manage the Island’s Meat Import Licensing Regime to ensure local beef, sheepmeat and veal

producers maintain access to local markets. • Control and, where feasible, eradicate all notifiable diseases. • Ensure that statutory standards are maintained in breeding, boarding and riding

establishments. • Help safeguard public health and animal welfare in relation to the operation of the Meat

Plant.

Forestry, Amenity and Lands Division – Manager: Mr. Robin Pollard

We perform a variety of land, tree and woodland management as well as plant health functions, on land in Department, public and private ownership. We manage the Island’s commercial forestry plantations, the National Glens and the large area of hill land that is vested in the Department. We are responsible for protecting the Island’s tree and woodland population against plant health risks and loss through the unwarranted removal of healthy trees. We also operate a timber-processing unit to provide basic timber products for the home market. Financial Budget 05/06: £2,172,000 Staffing Budget: 73 We aim to:

• Manage and conserve the Department’s National Glens, amenity sites, hill lands and forest plantations in an integrated manner in order to balance the requirements of agriculture, nature conservation, scenic quality and public recreation.

• Take a proactive role in the preservation of trees affected by development proposals. • Protect the Island’s tree population from the threat of disease and encourage public and

private landowners to maintain existing trees and plant new ones. • Manage the Division’s forest estate according to sustainable forestry practice. • Promote the supply, sale, utilisation and conversion of Manx timber in order to meet a high

proportion of the demand for agricultural timber products from locally grown supplies.

3

Administration and Finance Division – Manager: Mrs. Sylvia Callister

We deliver core services such as the finance function, management information, support services, policy development and co-ordination, central management, management of the planning processes, drafting of legislation, dissemination of, and consultation on, non-sectional matters, inter-national relations, compliance with Government policies, procedures and legislation and political advice and support. Our work also includes the development of sea fisheries policy, management and development of related support schemes as well as sea fisheries enforcement and the management and development of inland fisheries. Financial Budget 05/06: £ 2,251,300 Staffing budget: 22 We aim to:

• Provide leadership, clarity of purpose and planning parameters for all the Department’s activities.

• Promote continuous improvement in the management of the Department’s services, focusing on obtaining increased value for money and compliance with policy, procedure and legislation.

• Provide quality support and comprehensive, well researched, advice to the Minister and Political Members.

• Assist the sea fishing industry in being market competitive and renewing and improving its infrastructure.

• Protect, manage and enhance freshwater fisheries and habitats and recreational angling facilities

Wildlife and Conservation Division – Manager: Ms Liz Charter We aim to ensure the Island’s most scarce and important species of wild plants, animals and their habitats are conserved effectively, for example through site designation, conservation advice and management agreements, in recognition of the high value of our natural heritage. The Division works with others to maintain and enhance the ecological health and biological diversity of the countryside and marine environment. We work to ensure that the trade in globally endangered species to and from the Island is controlled. The Division seeks active involvement in conventions, agreements and fora to ensure that the international significance of Manx habitats and species is recognised. We aim to:

• Conserve and enhance terrestrial habitats and the species they support. • Work towards healthy marine ecosystems around the Island. • Improve public understanding of conservation issues. • Encourage others, both within and outwith Government to take account of wildlife and

conservation in their activities and to provide them with appropriate support and information. • Ensure the Island meets the requirements of international conservation conventions to which

it is a signatory. • Base advice and decisions on the most accurate, up-to-date information available through

development of the biological database and through commissioning appropriate research and survey.

Financial Budget 05/06: £590,150 Staffing budget: 5

4

KEY CHALLENGES As with any plan, it is wise to remain conscious of external constraints and make planning assumptions accordingly. The Department, and the industries it deals with, needs to remain aware of national and inter-national developments. Our policies and plans for the next three years have been formulated to take account of the wider horizon and the following issues. Department Resources

We must provide services within the constraints of the Revenue, Capital and Personnel resources allocated by Tynwald, which are dependent on the total revenues available through taxation and duties and subject to prioritisation across all Government services. Within the Department, resources are allocated to service areas and activities according to priority and to maximise their effectiveness in achieving our aims and objectives. Financial Support

The Island has a special relationship with the European Union, as laid down in Protocol No. 3 to the Act concerning the UK’s accession to the EEC. This includes the level of support which may be granted and which may require notification to the European Union authorities. The European Union relationship also commits the Island to the free movement of goods and it is only with the E.U.’s sanction that measures can be taken to protect the home market for domestic production. This relationship is not expected to change during the period covered by this plan but it will be necessary for the Island’s authorities to continue to vigorously defend its situation. Departmental policy, most recently endorsed by Tynwald in 1995, is that the level of financial support provided to the Island’s agriculture and fisheries industries should be similar to that provided in the United Kingdom. The implications of the substantial reform of the European Union’s Common Agricultural Policy agreed in 2003 will be assessed in this light. The need for the Department’s support remains strong, particularly with the difficult trading and operating environment being experienced in the agricultural and sea fishing industries. Without any substantial improvement in these conditions, support measures provided by the Department will remain vital. The industries will rely on continued political and public support for this policy. Derogations Two major challenges to be faced within the period of this report are to obtain an extension of the European Union derogation which controls the importation of Beef and Sheepmeat and a further derogation on the import of milk and cream. Negotiations with the United Kingdom Authorities have resulted in their full support in respect of this endeavour. Further meetings have been held with European Union Commission officials. However, the Department remains committed to raising the understanding of the unique trading and constitutional position of the Island and the resulting impact on our agricultural and fishing industries. The Department is also committed to meeting these challenges with the intention of maintaining the Island’s rural communities as well as its self-sufficiency in staple food products. Sea Fisheries The Department is currently in the process of re-negotiating the Fisheries Management Agreement it has with the United Kingdom in order to extend the Island’s autonomy to frame legislation to the whole of the territorial sea. At present, the Island only has such autonomy out to the three-mile limit. It is the Department’s intention to negotiate a change to the Agreement which would give autonomy out to 12 miles. This brings with it the challenge of getting United Kingdom Ministerial approval to go out to consultation with the adjacent jurisdictions.

5

It is important that non-Island interested parties are assured that such autonomy would be applied to non-Island fishing vessels in an even-handed and non-discriminatory manner, so that they have confidence in the island’s governance of its increased autonomy. Department officials are robustly trying to win this concession so that the Island can legislate for its own sea area and ensure that it has a well regulated and sustainable fishery. The Department regards the Manx Fish Producers’ Organisation as an important component in a proactive and responsible sea fishing industry, and will continue to support it. Working with the M.F.P.O., the Department is actively seeking to assist the sea fishing industry through measures related to safety, investment, port infrastructure developments and marketing. This support is geared towards long-term, sustainable development for the benefit of all fishermen rather than the short-term benefit to individual vessel owners under the Fishing Vessels (Support) Scheme, which is being phased out. Environment The attractiveness and amenity value of the countryside and its wildlife are widely recognised as a major contributor to the quality of life enjoyed by the Manx public and to attracting visitors to the Island. Conservation of the environment and wildlife habitats continues to grow in importance as does pressure on land use from development. The Department is therefore working towards the development of a Countryside Stewardship Scheme to reward the farming community for their good stewardship of the Island’s most valued resource – the land. The Isle of Man is also pleased to be party to a number of international conservation conventions. However, these do place resource demands on the Department to ensure compliance. Such demands will increase if the Island signs up to further Conventions. It is anticipated that the Island’s commitment to conservation of our environmental assets will strengthen. The Department also expects that the demand for leisure and amenity use of land under the Department’s control will continue to increase. The review of the Forestry, Amenity and Lands Division will, amongst other things, aim to ensure that the Department clearly defines its policy in relation to the leisure and amenity requirements being placed on its land. A strategy will then be developed in order to ensure it works towards meeting the aspirations of that policy. WHAT WE WILL ACHIEVE

Government Aims Economic Progress - To facilitate a diverse economy External Relations - To develop and maintain constructive relations with the United Kingdom and the EU to promote the Island’s interests and rights to trade. Department Objective Promoting efficiency and sustainability in the agricultural and sea fishing industries to make them responsive to consumer demand and to changing economic and environmental circumstances.

Agricultural Industry We will:

• Monitor European Union developments affecting the Island, with particular reference to: - • developing new markets; • the agricultural economy;

6

• reform of the CAP; • subsidy payments;

to optimise opportunities identified and minimise any adverse impact through careful planning. • Negotiate with the UK and EU authorities for the renewal of the derogation on the import of

beef, sheepmeat and veal • Protect the home market by limiting the import of beef, sheepmeat and veal in line with the

EU derogation by management and enforcement of the meat import-licensing regime • Negotiate with the EU to achieve a derogation in order to limit imports of milk and cream,

then manage and enforce them • Continue to support the dairy industry in order to enable it to continue to develop its cheese

marketing strategy • Draft a new Agricultural Marketing Act to reflect modern trading conditions • Conclude the implementation of the Promar Report recommendations in respect of the Meat

and Dairy sectors and monitoring their success • Review all Island agricultural schemes by reporting on whether each is the most efficient and

effective means by which to assist the agricultural industry in achieving sustainable and profitable farming

• Operate support schemes to provide incentives for efficient and effective farmers to produce high quality products which meet consumer demand

• Provide grants for improvements to the infrastructure of farming and horticultural businesses in order that they can remain viable and to minimise adverse impact on the rural environment

• Provide grants and loans to assist young farmers establishing agricultural businesses • Develop a National Agricultural Advisory programme with both technical and business advice

objectives established in liaison with the Industry • Arrange discussions, seminars and group meetings on farms and on-site to improve technical

knowledge, efficiency and sustainability. • Maintain and improve the industry’s skills base by providing training for farmers for the

certificates of competence as required by legislation • Develop a veterinary surveillance strategy to enhance animal health and welfare • Provide inspection and certification for exports of livestock in order to facilitate trade • Operate milk recording and artificial insemination services to assist producers in improving

farm livestock • Provide a New Auction Mart to facilitate the local trade in livestock • Manage the annual wool clip purchase in order to provide a guaranteed market for wool

export. • Introduce a Countryside Stewardship Scheme to reward farmers to the maintenance of the

Island’s countryside • Continue implementing the accepted recommendations of the review of the Agriculture and

Wildlife Division, which entails a re-structuring of the provision of agricultural services in order to better meet industry needs.

Key Performance Indicators Performance Indicator Target Current Performance Sales value of Branded cheese

Sales value to exceed £1.6 million for 2005

Sales for 2004 - £1.1 million

Maintenance of a viable dairy industry to meet insular demand and service the developing branded cheese market.

Maintain Island production at above 25 million litres per annum

Production level for 2004 - 35,971,564 litres.

7

EU approval to a new derogation in respect of cream and milk to assist Island producers maintain access to local markets by reducing the impact of cheaper imported produce.

This remains a major Department priority, which we are actively working towards. However, the date of any approval is a matter for the EU Commission and a target date cannot be realistically set

Case submitted to the EU Commission in December 2004. Visit planned to put the case for a derogation in Spring 2005.

Secure extension of meat derogation by July 2005.

Visit by DAFF officials to Brussels to meet with the relevant Directorate in November 2004. Commission official to visit the Island in Spring 2005.

Continuation of control on sheepmeat and beef imports to assist local producers to maintain access to the Island market.

Maintain meat imports at below 20% of domestic consumption.

Imports for 2004 – 17.6%

Up dating of agricultural marketing legislation to reflect modern trading and business practices

Draft Agricultural Marketing Bill to House of Keys by May 2005.

Current Marketing Acts of 1934 and 1955 still in place.

Adaptation of Island agricultural support schemes to take account of the 2003 reform of the Common Agricultural Policy which is moving to de-couple support from production towards good land management.

Introduction of a new Countryside Stewardship Scheme in April 2006.

Countryside Stewardship Scheme out to consultation with the Industry by April 2005.

Improve Beef Producers’ ability to meet the demands of the local market by utilising Department schemes to assist in matching quality and production patterns to consumer demand.

New Beef Headage Scheme to Tynwald by June 2005.

Scheme ready to go out to consultation in May 2005.

8

Fishing Industry We will:

• Negotiate with the United Kingdom and the Manx fishing industry to achieve full jurisdiction over fisheries in the Island’s territorial waters in order to put in place the necessary conservation measures to facilitate a sustainable industry

• Provide financial assistance towards the cost of purchasing and modernising fishing vessels, safety equipment, gear purchase and maintenance to encourage investment in the infrastructure necessary for an efficient and effective catching sector

• Encouraging the Manx Fish Producers’ Organisation to interact with other British and European fishing groups and fora to increase the voice of the Island industry to promote its interests.

• Develop robust options for maintaining fisheries research when the University of Liverpool withdraws from Port Erin Marine Laboratory so that conservation measures can be made on the basis of good scientific advice for the benefit of the Manx industry

• Implement fisheries conservation measures within the territorial sea to help secure sustainability of the local fishery

• Assist the Manx Fish Producers’ Organisation to secure quota allocation of whitefish and pelagic species in order that it can diversify and lessen dependency on the scallop and queen fishery

• Hold regular meetings with the UK authorities to discuss issues arising from the Fisheries Management Agreement in order to vigorously promote the Island’s interests

• Operate the Fisheries Protection Vessel “Barrule” in order to monitor and regulate fishing activities within the territorial sea.

Key Performance Indicators Indicator Target Current Performance To have in place an economically viable Manx Fish Producers’ Organisation (MFPO), which can maximise collective industry representation, manage fish quota and diversify into new and profitable fisheries.

Quota access for directed fisheries to reach 60 tonnes by December 2006.

30 tonnes of directed fisheries quota available to MFPO members in 2004.

Extension of Island’s autonomy to manage fisheries activity within the territorial sea to ensure that the Island can legislate for conservation measures to promote a sustainable fishery within our waters.

Re-negotiated Fisheries Management Agreement in place before 1 November 2005.

Autonomy out to the three-mile limit. Joint consultation exercise with the United Kingdom administrations to start February 2005.

9

Government Aims Social Well-being – To encourage the development of recreational, leisure and cultural opportunities. Quality Environment - To promote the conservation of the countryside and its wildlife. Department Objectives Promoting an attractive and sensitively managed countryside for the enjoyment of all. Conserving and enhancing natural habitats and the species they support We will:-

• Develop a Countryside Stewardship Scheme to encourage environmentally sound land management and stocking levels by re-directing finance away from direct production support towards good land management practices.

• Promote the Code of Good Agricultural Practice and advise farmers on compliance with legislation associated with the environment so as to help facilitate more environmentally friendly farming practices

• Evaluate the effectiveness of the pilot Agri-Environmental Scheme in achieving its conservation objectives and using this information to develop the full scheme for consultation

• Advise farmers and other land users on management agreements made under the Wildlife Act in order to protect and enhance wildlife diversity and habitats

• Implement the Ayres Management Plan to balance the needs of nature conservation and public enjoyment of the land through wardening the site

• Comment on the wildlife and conservation implications of developments to the planning authority and seek to avoid or minimize damage to the most important habitats and species

• Progress the designation of further protected areas under the Wildlife Act to ensure that habitats and their flora and fauna are effectively conserved

• Negotiate management agreements for the conservation of particular protected species and their habitats on private land

• Continue to develop a species and habitats database in order to prioritise the work of the Wildlife and Conservation Division

• Assist voluntary groups and individuals to conserve Island wildlife and habitats through the Wildlife and Conservation Grant Scheme

• Rear salmon and rainbow trout to stock out our rivers and reservoirs and work to improve facilities for freshwater anglers

• Finalise a strategy for the development of a migratory salmonoid enhancement regime to encourage the return of native salmon to return and breed in Manx rivers

• Protect freshwater fisheries and other river life and their habitats by providing expert advice on river and other works to minimise the risk of adverse effects on the river environment

• Scrutinise planning applications to identify and minimise any potential adverse effects on protected species, freshwater fish, trees and important habitats

• Implement an integrated Dutch Elm Disease control programme to minimise the loss of trees through the disease

• Provide technical and financial assistance to landowners for the development of small tree planting schemes in order to improve the attractiveness of the Island’s landscape

• Plant broadleaf trees (local species where possible) when restocking felled stands of conifers where site conditions permit, in order to introduce a higher level of scenic attractiveness and amenity and wildlife interest

• Improve accessibility to plantations to promote their amenity value for sustainable public recreation

• Work in partnership with the Friends of the Glens to preserve and enhance the character of the National Glens as a public amenity

• Maintain the Island’s rural characteristics by continuing the programme for rebuilding of upland dry stone walls

• Develop the full potential of the Department’s large land estate to meet and develop recreational demand

10

• Establish new areas of semi-natural broad-leaf woodlands on the Department’s uplands to enhance the beauty of the Island’s countryside

• Maintain the natural beauty of the Island’s heath land by encouraging good management under the Heath Burning Act

• Protect the best of the Island’s woodlands by reviewing and improving the database on all woodlands scheduled as “Registered” under the Tree Preservation Act 1993

• Establish a mosaic of broad-leaved species and open space along river corridors within forest plantations so as to improve both the scenic value of the countryside and the freshwater habitat

• Select areas in plantations for management for their nature conservation interest • Work in partnership with other Departments and statutory bodies to protect and enhance the

Island’s landscape by progressing the designation of National Heritage Area sites. Key Performance Indicators Performance Indicator Target Current Performance Area of land under positive conservation management.

A further 125 acres (50 Ha.) in positive conservation management by March 2006.

Currently 279 acres (113Ha.) in management agreements and 2,594 acres (1,050 Ha.) in active management under the pilot Agri-Environment Scheme.

Area of most important habitat under statutory conservation designation under the Wildlife Act.

A further 3 sites designated as Areas of Special Scientific Interest by March 2006

Currently 4 sites designated (aiming at 5 by Spring 2005). Total area 1590 acres (646 Ha.)

Expansion of the area of the National Glens for the enjoyment of residents and visitors.

Acquisition of an additional 25 acres (10Ha.) of land by 2007.

Current area of National Glen – 355 acres (143.8 Ha.)

Development of a Migratory Fish Enhancement Strategy. to increase the numbers of native salmon returning to the Island to breed.

Preparation of fully costed strategy to be implemented from April 2006.

Draft report being prepared in Spring 2005.

11

Government Aim Social Well-being – To ensure the provision of a safe environment Economic Progress – To promote the reputation of the island as a competitive and well-regulated economy Department Objective Maintaining high standards of animal health and welfare and plant health as well as protecting the public's interests in respect of diseases that can be transmitted through animals, plants and water. We will:-

• Promote good practice, advise, and check for compliance in respect of animal welfare during farm visits and at the Meat Plant

• Investigate reports of suspected notifiable animal diseases in order to take containment action

• Conduct on-farm cattle identification inspections to ensure the integrity of the Bovine Identification and Traceability system

• Monitor incidences of Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathys in cattle and sheep to protect public health

• Implement the Isle of Man Scrapie Plan to increase the genetic resistance of the national sheep lock to the disease

• Undertake routine statutory testing of the national cattle herd for Tuberculosis, Brucellosis and Enzootic Bovine Leucosis to maintain the Island’s high health status

• Issue import licenses and inspect imports during isolation on farm to protect against the importation of disease

• Undertake routine disease testing, inspection and export certification for the Island’s fish farms to enable the international trade in live fish and eggs

• Encourage membership of voluntary disease control schemes to enhance the health and welfare of the Island’s livestock

• Ensure statutory standards are maintained in breeding, boarding and riding establishments by a system of inspection and licensing in order to protect the welfare of animals in such establishments

• Provide a Veterinary Officer to lead the Department of Local Government and the Environment’s Meat Hygiene Team at the Meat Plant for the protection of public health

• Carry out regular inspections of imported plant material at nurseries, propagators and retailers for the presence of quarantine pests and diseases in compliance with the Plant Health Order

• Maintain plant health measures regarding forest pests by monitoring for disease. Key Performance Indicators Performance Indicator Target Current Performance Percentage of unloading operations inspected at the Meat Plant.

20%

Target met.

Time taken to inspect stock arriving at the Meat plant.

All inspections within 2 hours

Target met.

Time taken to TB test imported cattle.

All cattle imports TB tested within 80 days of landing.

Target met.

12

Time taken to investigate reports suspected Sheep Scab outbreaks and treat confirmed outbreaks.

Suspected outbreaks investigated within 3 days. Confirmed outbreaks treated within 7 days

Target met.

Inspections of breeding, boarding and riding establishments.

All establishments inspected annually.

Target met.

On-farm inspections to ensure the integrity of the Bovine Identification and Traceability system.

At least 10% of holdings inspected annually.

Target exceeded.

Quality Environment – To pursue sustainable development and environment-friendly technology. Department Objective To operate and manage the Island's forestry industry in accordance with modern, sustainable and environment-friendly practices. We will:-

• Adopt best practice for forestry management as laid down within U.K. Forestry Commission “Guideline” series

• Manage the forestry plantations to achieve sustainable timber yield for the future • Introduce continuous cover forestry techniques, where practical, as an alternative to clear-

felling to minimise adverse visual impact on the Island’s landscape • Contract for an external review of the Forestry, amenity and Lands Division and implement its

accepted recommendations to ensure it meets public service objectives in the most effective and efficient way.

Key Performance Indicators Indicator Target Current Performance Number of plantations where Forest Design Plans address acidification concerns.

10 plantations by the end of March 2006.

4

Number or Forest Design Plans where sites are identified for management for nature conservation.

9 Forest Design Plans by the end of March 2006.

3

Area of broadleaf woodland within plantations.

270 acres (110 Ha.) by the end of March 2006.

250 acres (102 Ha).

Clear Policy and strategy in place for the Forestry, Amenity and Lands Division.

External review of the Forestry Division with a Final Report received by December 2005.

Tender process completed and contract awarded. Review to commence Spring 2005

13

Government Aim Quality Environment - To promote the conservation of the countryside and its wildlife International Reputation – To protect and enhance the Island’s external reputation Department Objective To ensure the Island meets the requirements of international conservation conventions to which it is a signatory. We will:-

• Ensure adequate safeguards on the movement of items and species covered by CITES, through the licensing system

• Review and maintain the schedules of the Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act 1981 to ensure consistency with United Kingdom and EU legislation

• Maximise support for biodiversity with the aim of the Island’s signing the Rio Convention on Biological Diversity

• Maximise support for OSPAR Annex V with the aim of the Island signing this agreement • Evaluate and put forward a site for international wetland recognition under the Ramsar

Convention

Government Aim Good Government – to ensure that Government complies with the principles of Corporate Governance, is responsive, accessible and focuses on equality of opportunity. Department Objectives - To manage and deliver the Department’s objectives and activities in an efficient, effective and economic manner and in accordance with legislative and regulatory requirements. We will:-

• Provide good governance and high-level leadership for all the Department’s core activities by holding monthly meetings of senior managers to discuss cross sectional and sectional matters, financial performance and delivery of the plan

• Facilitate the drafting of Tynwald and Keys Answers, Ministerial briefs and ad hoc papers as required by the Minister and Members

• Develop the legislation and research functions to bring the Department’s legislative instruments up to date and to facilitate well-informed policymaking

• Provide financial, staffing and administrative support to assist managers and staff in the delivery of services

• Attend meetings at least annually with the Island’s UK representatives in Europe to promote an effective working relationship with the European Commission and develop a greater recognition and profile for the Island

• Develop the Department’s financial management and corporate governance requirements by the appointment of a Director of Finance

• Ensure that the Department takes full cognisance of its responsibilities with regard to Health and Safety for its staff and the public that utilises its land.

14

Key Performance Indicators Indicator Target Current performance Completeness of Departmental Health and Safety inspections

Whole Department by end of March 2006.

Inspections commenced February 2005.

Appointment of Director of Finance

Appointment made by end of March 2006.

Finance and manpower in place. Business case prepared.

To ensure that the Department’s legislation is kept up to date and relevant.

Fertilisers and Feeding Stuffs (Amendment) Bill - June 2005

Introduced into the legislature – Spring 2005

Agriculture and Rural Industries (Amendment and Repeal) Bill - October 2005

Drafting instructions sent Spring 2005

Sea-Fisheries (Kippers and Herring Industry) (Repeals) Bill - October 2005

Drafting instructions sent Spring 2005

Agricultural Marketing Bill - January 2006

Drafting instructions in preparation Spring 2005

Plant Varieties and Seeds Bill - March 2006

Drafting instructions to be prepared

Farriers Bill - March 2006

Drafting instructions to be prepared

15

FINANCIAL INFORMATION (REVENUE) Revenue Estimates 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 £ £ £ Agricultural Services Division: Divisional Management Salaries 109,000 110,800

111,700 Agricultural Support Schemes Administration Salaries 213,800 215,000 215,800 Agricultural Support Schemes Administration costs 9,650 9,650 9,650 Agricultural Support Scheme budget 9,527,700 9,274,910

9,555,884 Agricultural Support Schemes income - 659,300 - 690,300 - 718,800 Agricultural Support Schemes net cost 9,091,850 8,809,260 9,062,534 Agricultural Advisory Services Salaries and Wages

223,800 224,800 225,800

Other costs - net 153,400 153,400 151,900

Agricultural Advisory Service Total net Cost 377,200 378,200 377,700

Artificial Insemination Service Salaries 71000 71000 71000 Artificial Insemination costs 31,600 31,600 31,600 Artificial Insemination income - 51,500 -51,900 -52,400

Artificial Insemination Service Total net Cost 51,100

50,700 50,200

Milk Recording Service Salaries & Fees 22,000 22,000 22,000 Milk Recording costs 30,000 30,000 30,000 Milk Recording income - 36,000 - 36,000 -36,000 Milk Recording net cost 16,000 16,000 16,000 Wool Control Salaries & Wages 71,100 71,100 71,100 Wool Control costs 176,400 176,400 176,400 Wool Control income -150,100 - 150,200 -

150,300 Wool Control net cost 97,400 97,300 97,200 Knockaloe Farm Wages 57,000 57,000 57,000 Knockaloe costs 108,300 108,300 108,300 Knockaloe Income -120,500 - 124,000 -127,754 Knockaloe Total net Costs 44,800

41,300 37,546

Agricultural Services Division Total 9,787,350 9,503,560 9,752,880 Wildlife and Conservation Division: Salary & contract staff costs 203,400 209,000 213,100 Other costs 82,900 82,900 82,900 Support Schemes, Agreements and Grants 304,980 304,980 304,980 Income - 1,130 -

1,140 - 1,160

Wildlife and Conservation Division Total 590,150 585,750 599,820

16

Animal Health Division: Salaries 396,400 399,600 401,400 Other costs 92,000 92,000 92,000 Income - 18,200 - 19,600 - 21,000 Industry Services 213,000 213,000 213,000 Animal Health Division Total 683,200 685,000 685,400

2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 Forestry, Amenity and Lands Division:

Managerial, Administration, Technical and Depots

Managerial, Administration and Technical staff Salaries 560,200 565,500 566,900 Other costs (net) 184,400 189,100 193,700 Forestry, Amenity and Lands Wages 900,700 900,700 900,700 Other costs (net) 282,700 274,200 265,200 Managerial, Administration, Technical and Depots Total 1,928,000 1,929,500 1,926,500 Commercial Forestry Sawmill Wages 340,000 340,000 340,000 Contract Harvesting 140,000 140,000 140,000 Other costs 45,000 45,000 45,000 Income - 281,000 - 291,200 - 303,700 Sawmill/Contractors Total 244,000 233,800 221,300 Forestry, Amenity and Lands Division Total 2,172,000 2,163,300 2,147,800 Administration and Finance Division: Central Administration Salaries 386,000 389,200 390,700 Other costs (net) 348,300 348,000 347,600 Central Administration Total costs 734,300 737,200 738,300

Sea Fisheries

Management and Support Schemes Administration Salaries 61,400 61,400 61,400 Sea Fisheries Support 1,105,050 1,105,750 1,106,050 Income 64,000 70,000 76,000

Sea Fisheries Support Total 1,102,450 1,097,150 1,091,450

Sea Fisheries Protection – Salaries and Wages 149,400 149,400 149,400 Other Sea Fisheries Protection costs (net) 70,300 70,300 70,300 Sea fisheries Protection Total 219,700 219,700 219,700 Sea Fisheries Total costs 1,322,150

1,316,850 1,311,150

17

Inland Fisheries

Salaries and Wages 170,300 170,300 170,300 Other costs 91,050 91,050 91,050 Income 66,500 69,000 71,700 Inland Fisheries Total costs 194,850

192,350 189,650

Administration and Finance Division Total: 2,251,300 2,246,400 2,239,100 Department Net Budget Total 15,484,000 15,194,000 15,425,000

ALLOCATION OF BUDGETS BY SERVICE AREA

Allocation of Budgets by Service Area

Sea Fisheries9%

Central Administration 5%

Inland Fisheries 1%

Forestry, Amenity and Lands 14%

Animal Health 4%

Wildlife and Conservation 4%

Agricultural Services 63%

18