Government 'committed to maintaining connectivity'

Chief Minister quizzed about cuts to Belfast flights

Chief Minister Alfred Cannan insists that the government is committed to maintaining connectivity, despite easyJet cancelling its Belfast route due to an increase in Air Passenger Duty.

Under the Customs and Excise Agreement, the Isle of Man must align its duty with that of the United Kingdom.

The Chamber of Commerce has previously identified the tax as a threat to the Island's connectivity.

easyJet will end its flights between Ronaldsway and the Northern Irish capital later this month, while Loganair recently announced plans to fly to Belfast City over the festive period.

Mr Cannan highlighted that Tynwald has already approved significant measures to safeguard connectivity: