Public sector housing reforms pass major hurdle

Plans to reform public sector housing in the Isle of Man have overcome their first major hurdle.

Tynwald has approved measures in a wide-ranging review which will pave the way for the introduction of five regional housing bodies.  

The new bodies will eventually take over control from the 17 local authorities which curently have responsibility for housing in their own areas.

Each body will have its own board of management which will include local commissioners and councillors.

During a three hour debate, members voted in favour of the social care proposal by 25 votes to seven.

Amidst robust opposition from some local authorities and constituency MHKs, minister Chris Robertshaw said he’d gone out of his way to consult with them.

Mr Robertshaw says he's confident the new approach will ultimately transform housing services and make them sustainable for future generations: