Poverty on Island growing

Salvation Army, Foodbank and Graih give evidence to Tynwald committee

A Tynwald inquiry has heard how the issue of poverty on the Island is growing.

The select committee, tasked with recognising the struggle faced by the most vulnerable in Manx society, opened their first hearing in the legislative council chamber yesterday (3 Dec).

Spokespeople for the Foodbank and Salvation Army gave first hand experience of dealing with an increasing number of individuals and families coming to them for support.

The committee also heard evidence from Michael Manning of the homeless charity Graih.

On Thursday, the committee will hear from officials in social security and Treasury to learn of government's efforts in addressing the issue.