The government has expressed its intention to be part of any proposed UK-EU youth mobility scheme, ensuring young islanders have the same opportunities as their UK counterparts.
The matter was raised in Tynwald by Julie Edge, who highlighted the importance of free movement for 18 to 30-year-olds to live and work in Europe for up to three years.
Chief Minister Alf Cannan confirmed discussions are ongoing but noted uncertainty remains.
“The UK Government is still developing its policy on what it wishes to achieve in a reset of its relationship with the EU,” he said. “It is not yet clear whether a youth mobility scheme will be part of that package.”
Edge emphasised the value of such a scheme to the island and of ensuring fairness for young islanders compared to their UK counterparts.
Mr Cannan assured Tynwald that the Isle of Man would push for equal treatment if a deal emerges.
He said: “We have made it clear to the UK that if there is a new mobility deal, we would expect British citizens from the island who travel to the EU to be treated in exactly the same way as British citizens who live in the UK.”
Concerns were also raised about current travel restrictions, including the 90-day rule for stays in the EU. Edge sought reassurance that the External Affairs Department is prioritising the issue, to which Cannan replied, “The Honourable member has my assurance.”
A supplementary question regarding the gov.im website’s existing youth mobility scheme was deferred, with Cannan promising clarification at a later date.
The debate underscores the Isle of Man’s efforts to secure post-Brexit opportunities for its youth amid ongoing UK-EU negotiations.
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