'No flaw' in how ministers are held to account

The chief minister says Tynwald and scrutiny committees ensure policy decisions are justified.

The chief minister says he doesn't believe there's a flaw in accountability when it comes to decisions taken by government ministers.

Alfred Cannan insists the current system where ministers are held to account in Tynwald and when appearing before scrutiny committees ensures policy decisions are justified.

This year, the Manx public will head to the polls for the 2026 House of Keys General Election.

Manx Radio recently asked listeners which subjects are most important to them ahead of the election, with government accountability among the top issues.

Giving evidence to a recent Tynwald committee, Mr Cannan explained how ministers are held accountable:

Ramsey MHK and former health minister Lawrie Hooper stood down from the Council of Ministers in 2024 because he didn't agree with government's position on healthcare funding.

He insists that while civil servants often make recommendations on policy, decisions are ultimately made by politicians, and told Manx Radio it's important those who are elected are the ones who have the final say on policy matters:

We'll be exploring the other election issues you told us matter most to you throughout this week.