Transport head gets backing from Minister

The Director of Public Transport has received a strong endorsement from his political boss.

Community, Culture and Leisure Minister David Cretney said the director had made significant progress in achieving efficiencies.

Mr Cretney's backing came in response to a question in Tynwald from Onchan MHK Peter Karran.

Ian Longworth has only been in the post since mid-2009 but Mr Cretney says he's made big strides.

Mr Cretney says the director has reduced the subsidy the railway receives by improving the marketing and introducing new events.

This has extended to working closely with Manx National Heritage to put on joint ventures - such as Christmas Specials - which proved successful.

Mr Cretney also highlights the progess made in eradicating outdated working practices amongst bus drivers.

The reply does not mention the recently threatened strike by the unions representing bus workers.