Government presents final Island Plan update to Tynwald

But document was met with scepticism from backbenchers

The Isle of Man Government has presented its final update to the Island Plan to Tynwald setting out a 'roadmap' for the next 18 months.

It focusses on financial discipline, housing delivery, travel connectivity, and security measures.

The document, which builds upon the 2021 Island Plan, signals a shift from long-term vision-setting to practical execution and measurable results.

That's despite confirmation that 15 legislative bills have been dropped from it already. You can find out more HERE.

With increasing budget pressures government has announced a £50 million efficiency savings target over five years to be achieved through AI adoption, digital transformation, and improved procurement.

Monthly spending reviews will be introduced to hold departments accountable ensuring public money is spent effectively.

The document states: 'The pressure on public finances is well documented.

'Now, more than ever, we need to squeeze maximum value out of every pound of taxpayers’ money.'

While more than 1,000 new homes have been approved government is now prioritising ensuring they are occupied quickly.

The update outlines plans to remove barriers to 'market readiness' including expediting developments through the Manx Development Corporation.

After public dissatisfaction with unreliable transport links government has also confirmed that a long-term Strategic Air Services Policy has been approved by Tynwald.

It’s claimed this will allow negotiations to secure key air routes to London, Dublin, and other regional hubs.

Additionally ferry travel remains under review with efforts to improve affordability and reliability.

Government highlights a 22 percent decrease in cancelled flights in 2024 and an expansion of special offer fares on the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company services.

The updated Island Plan gives increased prominence to energy security, with commitments to solar energy integration on government estates and the implementation of the Marine Infrastructure Management Act which establishes the legal framework for offshore wind development.

Manx Utilities is also progressing with solar and wind projects alongside a blueprint for long-term power generation.

New security policies have been introduced in response to concerns over border control and organised crime.

Government plans to install ANPR technology at ports and introduce facial recognition measures.  

A "Securing Our Island" strategy has also been launched targeting organised crime with 208 disruptions reported over the past year.

Additionally stricter controls on employment agencies and immigration advisory services will be introduced requiring them to register and comply with new regulations.

Healthcare remains a central focus with £4 million allocated to improve children’s mental health services.

Other commitments include reducing NHS waiting lists and the completion of the new £3.3 million Sexual Assault Referral Centre.

DEBATE

The updated Island Plan document was subject to a debate on the Tynwald floor (18 March) which spanned more than two hours.

For Alfred Cannan and his Council of Ministers the message was clear- that they are 'proud' of the steps they have taken since the plan was first published:

But several backbench MHKs hit back at the government line:

In his summing up the chief minister insisted, however, that everyone was on the same side:

One of the outspoken backbenchers was Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Jason Moorhouse. 

He reiterated his view that there is a 'massive disconnect' between what the ministers were saying, and what politicians are hearing from their constituents, to Manx Radio's Christian Jones: