'Rates modernisation must be fair'

Braddan Commissioners chairman concerned about reform

Changing the way the Island's rates are collected and distributed has been mooted earlier this year by government.

Policy and Reform Minister Chris Thomas announced a batch of ideas in Tynwald during a speech on rates modernisation, which included changes to both business and domestic rating.

He's due to report back to the Court in October on the progress of new legislation designed to tackle the issue.

A tax based on the gross valuation of your property as assessed in 1969, rates are used by local authorities to provide services

The chairman of Braddan Commissioners is wary about 'swapping one unfair rating system for another'.

Andrew Jessop is worried government may skim off rates from some local authorities, and create an 'additional layer of bureaucracy' that would require commissioners to 'bid' for funding.

Braddan residents pay 200p in the pound in rates, which is low compared to other authorities of a similar size.