This in from Andrew Turner’s office, in their own words. Ed
Existing business organisations including the Island’s Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, the Federation of Small Businesses and various local business associations have already confirmed their attendance and representatives from individual businesses are also welcome.
Backed by the MP
The Ryde North East councillor and Conservative spokesman for business, Wayne Whittle is behind the new initiative and is working with the Island’s MP, Andrew Turner to establish a single body that brings together the existing work of various organisations.
Mr Whittle said:
“I hope that businessmen and anybody else who is interested in supporting our local economy will come along on Friday morning to the inaugural meeting of the Island Business Forum. We plan to consider the Council’s plans for temporary traders at our first meeting and will also discuss a business response to the Council’s plans to scrutinise the ferry companies. We are likely to organise a small delegation to attend the Ferry scrutiny meetings in order to give evidence putting forward the views and needs of the IBF members
“I know that many businessmen have a keen interest in both these issues so I look forward to discussing them on Friday.”
Mr Turner added:
“It is very good news that the existing business organisations are coming together and I hope that companies who are not a member of any of these bodies will see this as a forum where their voice can also be heard.
“There will be no membership fees – so I hope that in time it will grow to be an influential forum for businesses both big and small. I am very pleased to be working with Wayne on this important initiative.”
It would be helpful if those who intend to join the meeting could let Mr Turner’s office know by e-mailing [email protected] .
