Union official confused by 'mixed messages'

A local union official says the Manx government is sending out 'mixed messages' about the financial well-being of the Island.

Angela Moffatt's comments come as the Conservatives announce plans to raise the retirement age in the United Kingdom to 66 by 2016, and freeze public sector pay in 2011.

The proposed changes, which would be subject to the party winning the next general election, are designed to cut the UK's budget deficit.

Ms Moffatt, who is negotiations officer for the Prospect union in the Island, says statements being made here don't add up.

One one hand the govenrment is saying the Island isn't in recession, while on the other it says belts need to be tightened: