Benefits 'not enough to live on' - committee

Report on income and benefits to go before July Tynwald

Concerns have been raised that benefits on the Island are not enough to live on and often lack any policy basis.

That's according to a report from the Select Committee on Poverty which will go before Tynwald next week (20 July).

The panel also says it has concerns that instead of assessing need the system is based solely on what can be afforded.

Another observation is that the Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted the best and worst of the Manx benefits system.

This includes what they call the 'crystal-clear' simplicity of the MERA initiative in contrast to the complexities in most of the benefits structure.

Fifteen recommendations have been made to improve the system.

They include transitioning the minimum wage to the living wage, in five years, as well as free travel passes for those on low incomes.

Government telephone numbers - relating to health, housing or finances - should also be free of charge.