Infrastructure Minister says airlines wanted baggage handling change
The Infrastructure Minister says ending the baggage handling service at the Isle of Man Airport is what the airlines wanted.
Ray Harmer revealed the operators at Ronaldsway have been asking to use private handling agents for the last 18 months.
Airlines already use private firms for a number of services at Ronaldsway, but have been required to use the Department's baggage handlers until now.
The Government announced it will end its baggage and cargo services later this year, resulting in job losses at the airport.
Mr Harmer insists the decision was in response to a request for change from those using the service, rather than a form of privatisation or contracting out.