Government faces questions ahead of 'Listening to You' roadshows

Political commentator raises concerns over fraud scandal, housing law delays, and public disconnect

The Isle of Man Government is preparing to host a new series of ‘Listening to You’ public roadshows across the Island next week, offering residents a chance to speak directly with the chief minister and the Council of Ministers.

However, ahead of the sessions, political commentator, journalist, and former government press officer Alistair Ramsay has raised several questions he believes remain unanswered – spanning transparency, governance, housing, and electoral reform.

One of the central issues he highlights is the government's handling of King Gaming. The company had its Isle of Man e-gaming licence revoked in July 2024 following international media investigations following allegations of its involvement in a large-scale fraud and money laundering operation. Dalmine Limited, which also held a licence, was similarly affected.

While the Department for Enterprise previously praised King Gaming’s investment in the Island as a ‘landmark’ move, questions have since been raised over the extent of support received from government agencies – including assistance with immigration processes.

However, the chief minister has confirmed that although representatives of the two companies did meet with the enterprise minister in October 2023, the government has not provided any direct or indirect financial support to either business. Criminal investigations remain ongoing.

Mr Ramsay argues the situation nonetheless warrants an independent inquiry into how the companies were welcomed to the Island, and whether sufficient due diligence was carried out – a step he says would be standard in other jurisdictions facing similar reputational concerns.

He also points to a recent public sentiment survey suggesting a widespread disconnection between the Manx public and their elected representatives. In particular, he raises the question of whether the Island should consider direct election of the Chief Minister, in light of findings that many residents feel they have little to no influence over government decision-making.

The introduction of a proposed health levy – a tax aimed at funding health and social care – is another point of contention for Mr Ramsay.

While Treasury is consulting on the plan, Mr Ramsay believes it remains unclear whether it has the full backing of the Council of Ministers. He questions whether such a significant policy proposal should proceed without a clear, collective mandate.

On housing, the implementation of the Landlord Registration (Private Housing) Act remains stalled nearly three years after it was passed by Tynwald. The legislation, designed to enforce minimum standards in the private rental sector, was due to be accompanied by supporting regulations in 2022. However, these have yet to materialise. With housing consistently ranking as a public concern, Mr Ramsay questions why the policy has been deprioritised.

Rushen MHK Juan Watterson has previously said some of the most vulnerable people in society are still living in ‘inadequate housing’. He believes a key mistake was shifting responsibility for housing to an external board, rather than keeping it at the heart of government and addressing the issues collectively.

Finally, Mr Ramsay draws attention to the structure of local government on the Island. Just five of the 21 local authority areas held contested elections in April 2025. He queries the viability of the current system and whether reform is needed to improve representation and accountability.

The Listening to You roadshows all begin at 5.30 pm and take place on the following dates:

• Monday, 30 June – Ramsey Grammar School
• Tuesday, 1 July – Ballakermeen High School, Douglas
• Wednesday, 2 July – Castle Rushen High School, Castletown
• Thursday, 3 July – QEII High School, Peel

You can read Mr Ramsay’s blog post in full HERE.