No delays to reform of government

There's to be a radical reform of the Manx government.

That's after Tynwald gave its backing to significant restructuring proposals - the second shake-up in just four years.

The major reorganisation from April includes a reduction in the number of government departments and ministers, the merger of the MEA and Water Authority and the creation of a new Cabinet Office and Minister for Policy and Reform.

Chief Minister Allan Bell says it will make government ‘smaller, simpler and stronger’ but admits it will take a few years before there’s any noticeable differences.

Calls to delay the merger of the MEA and Water Authority and departments of health and social care - to allow time for a smooth integration – were unsuccessful.

This month's sitting of Tynwald continues this morning (Wed)