DoI Minister opens consultation into Local Gov Amendment bill to authorities

Follows widespread criticism that clauses were being introduced without local authority knowledge

The Department of Infrastructure has opened a consultation for local authorities to have their say on a new bill. 

It follows widespread criticism from the Island's commissioners and council about the potential impact one of the new clauses could have - including mandating new functions without providing extra money and introducing 'standards' for work carried out. 

The bill was first introduced in 2021, and was brought back to parliament again in 2023, to 'strengthen' and 'update' current duties like byelaw processes and members expenses. 

It will now pass to the Legislative Council for its deliberation and scrutiny - including whether a clause rejected by the House of Keys should be re-introduced.

DoI Minister Michelle Haywood says there's been no consultation up to this point because the bill's amendments were introduced by a backbench MHK. 

Local Democracy Reporter Emma Draper has been speaking to her:

You can listen to the full interview on Manx Newscasts: