E-gaming to boost Isle of Man employment

The Manx e-gaming industry is expected to provide 80 more Isle of Man jobs within the year, says the government.

The news was announced at the January sitting of Tynwald by the island's economic development minister.

John Shimmin said the "rapidly growing industry" currently represents 8% of the Manx national income and employs about 800 people.

The e-gaming industry includes companies involved in online gambling and video game production.

Mr Shimmin said: "We are in discussion with 15 individuals or organisations considering locating on the island, of which seven are preparing applications for a gaming licence.

"If these are approved, the total number of licences will be in excess of 50."

Recent government figures show the industry contributed £164m to the Manx Exchequer in 2012.