Agenda - Manx Radio: Recent Episodes
Manx Radio
A weekly look at the Manx political scene in which Phil Gawne talks to the politicians who are raising the issues and asking the questions in Tynwald and the House of Keys, ex-politicians about their time in power and exploring the wider world of politics and the workings of Government.
There will be eight Keys seats undefended at the general election one of which belongs to Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Tim Glover. He looks back on his five years in office, compares what he’s learned as an MHK with what he thought before he was elected and admits to some frustrations along the way. He gives good advice to wannabe MHKs and helps us the voters understand what’s reasonable to expect from our new political brooms. Do MHKs need thicker skins or should we all try to be more respectful of people in public life? The hide of a rhino helps I fear.
In the latest of our pre-election broadcasts we’re looking at tax. One way to fill the £100m gap in government finances would be to pay more tax, but what could a future government do to boost its income? Tax is seen by many as an inhibitor to the enterprise needed to grow our economy, so tax rises need to be considered very carefully. Find out more about Manx taxes on this week’s Agenda. Over several centuries lower tax and duties have been the cornerstone of Manx economic success but can we rely on that in the future? A very taxing conversation on this week’s show.
If Bill Clinton was right in saying “it’s the economy, stupid” then we could be in for a very interesting election. Global financial and political factors have had a big impact on the Manx economy but could the Isle of Man Government have done more. Why does economic growth matter so much for government finances and making us all feel happier? Are we living through a period economic stagnation here and if so what needs to be done to get things moving again? It would be a brave politician who told us that we need to accept fewer services but unless a new ‘magic money tree’ can be found they might have to.
In our pre-election series of handy guides to understanding the big election issues this week’s Agenda looks at health and social care. Most of the candidates seem to think that Manx Care is the problem rather than the solution and with the eyewatering amounts being poured in to health they may have a point. Is it time now though for a very frank discussion about whether our current expectations on health are affordable. With the new UK Prime Minister promising to spend a lot of political capital on a better solution for care home funding it seems big changes lie ahead in the next five years.
With the general election just over two months away Agenda will be focussing on what we can reasonably expect to see in prospective MHKs manifestos. How should our expectations differ between sitting MHKs’ election promises and those entering politics for the first time? Is it fair to blame the civil service for government failures and how much of that blame should be placed on outgoing MHKs’ shoulders? Lots to contemplate on this week’s Agenda. If this is the worst government we’ve ever had should we be more careful in choosing our MHKs for the next five years?
Continuing on my recent attempt to convince you that politics is quite exciting on tonight’s Agenda we have a quashed mini-revolt in LegCo, when is a rates Bill not a rates Bill and one of the best speeches in June Tynwald. Pharmacists are concerned about changes being proposed in the National Health Service Reform Bill 2026 but attempts by one MLC to support their cause did not convince a majority in Legislative Council. The Treasury Minister has withdrawn the Rates Bill deciding its better to leave it until after the election, and there’s a cracking speech on horse trams. Politics? … Boring? … Never!
Despite neither Tynwald nor the public knowing why Royal Assent wasn’t granted amendments were moved which according to the Attorney General were all that’s needed to get the greenlight from the UK. We hear from mover of the Bill Alex Allinson and some of its critics on this week’s Agenda. There is little doubt that this legislation has been controversial and there remains some doubt about whether the safeguards in the Bill are strong enough, but two or three people have seen the Home Office advice on why royal assent hasn’t been granted and one of those, the attorney general, thinks the amendments will do the trick. Are you reassured?
A Rushen hustings meeting will be held this Thursday evening to give people an opportunity to raise in a public forum the issues they think should be a priority for the next government. In what is a fairly novel approach this meeting is not called by candidates and doesn’t invite candidates to share their views with the public, but instead it invites the public to share their views on what really matters to them. This should be a refreshing change to the tried and tested formula of previous hustings, but will we learn anything new from the process. I certainly hope so!
Renewable energy firm IPV Flexgen will be hosting a public consultation at Andreas Parish Hall on Wednesday between 10.00am and 7.00pm to share updated proposals for the redevelopment of Andreas Airfield. This farmer led project includes agricultural growing units, an Anaerobic Digestor plant, ground mounted solar PV and battery storage to provide the site with electricity and heat. Could this project develop into a sustainable energy scheme that most people can get behind? IPV Flexgen claims to be paving the way for a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future for farming. Let’s hope they’re right.
Last month the Positive Action Group held a meeting to discuss our failing policies on dealing with drugs. They invited speakers from the Transform Drug Policy Foundation and Anyone’s Child and I spoke to them for this evening’s Agenda. Our drugs enforcement regime has the same effect as pruning a bush according to our speakers, merely encouraging growth in other areas, so is it time for a radical rethink? Criminalising drug use appears to be doing little to discourage use of recreational drugs so should the Isle of Man consider a more radical approach which could save lives?
In April’s Tynwald sitting the Health Minister moved a General Debate on the Mandate to Manx Care and Manx Care Operating Plan. With the recently anounced resignation of Manx Care’s Chief Executive Teresa Cope, I thought it was timely to listen to highlights from the debate. Other than the Minister and Chief Minister just two MHKs took part in the debate. We hear their contributions and a gentle spat between two MLCs who also spoke on this week’s Agenda. Is health spending really under control or is Tynwald just kicking that can of worms down the road?
Manx Gaelic and the state: opportunities and challenges was the title of a talk delivered last week by Dr Christopher Lewin, from the University of Edinburgh. As this is Blein ny Gaelgey - Year of the Manx Language it seems a timely opportunity to take stock of the Isle of Man’s achivements in reviving our native language over the past four decades. The talk considered what further steps could be taken to consolidate the position of Manx during the course of the next Tynwald. To find out more listen in to this week’s Agenda. Does Tynwald need to get its Act together on support for the Manx language?
Tynwald debated a couple of items about tourism last week. The Enterprise Minister brought a report to Tynwald on the possibility of introducing a tourism after being asked to do so by Tynwald. The report was received though not without some criticism from Onchan MHK Rob Callister. There was then a motion from Manx National Heritage on the sale of the old Castletown police station with the cash strapped heritage organisation unable to find a sustainable long term use for the building. Hear the conflicting views on these items on this week's Agenda. MNH clearly needs the money but would a tourism levy work for Manx tourism?
About a month ago Paul Craine told Agenda about the quite stark findings of his second IoM population atlas. The statistics showing a significantly aging population were bad enough in Mr Craine’s first population atlas but the latest version tells an increasingly concerning tale. So what’s to be done? Find out on this week’s Agenda. Have we been too focussed on policies to keep growing the economy and the public services we need and enjoy? Should we instead be developing policy that leads to a happier, more contented society that’s not forever chasing its tail. Anyone out there bold enough to have a dream?!
The Public Accounts Committee heard from the Treasury Minister and some of his officers last week. During a lengthy session topics included the structural deficit in the government’s budget, the sustainability of ever increasing health spending, government pay and the triple lock pension guarantee. Listen to some of the highlights of that session on this week’s Agenda. The Treasury Minister was talking a tough talk on getting public finances but will we see the talk turn into real action?
Kirstie Morphet has certainly not allowed the grass to grow under her feet since being elected to the Legislative Council just over a year ago. She’s not shy of tackling issues like homelessness and social exclusion and is not afraid of rocking the political boat to get things done. In tomorrow’s LegCo sitting she’ll take the lengthy Justice and Home Affairs (Reform and Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2025 through its final stage which should result in much needed reform to our criminal justice system. Find out more about this new kid on the Tynwald block on this week’s Agenda. Has Tynwald found a new radical voice?
Before becoming an MLC Paul Craine was a geographer and judging on his latest publication he still is in his spare time. So what is a population atlas and why should we be quite concerned about the evidence contained in this second edition? The statistics showing a significantly aging population were bad enough in the first population atlas but the latest version tells an increasingly concerning tale. Dry statistics have never been more exciting than this - you’ll be on the edge of your seats by the end of the program - be warned.
Michelle Hawood and Ann Corlett have recently returned from the annual Commonwealth Women’s Parliamentary Conference. It’s a sad reflection of the world we live in that it is still felt necessary to hold such events but, unlike the Isle of Man, most parliaments around the world continue to be male dominated. Find out why women continue to struggle to get equal representation on Agenda with Amy Griffiths. Are women unfairly targeted in social media just because they are women? Why is it so hard to break down centuries old prejudices? And how have the women faired in this more equal House of Keys?
Douglas Central MHK Ann Corlett may not be the most vocal of our politicians but she is definitely busy. In a wide ranging interview for Agenda she explains how the Gas (Economic Regulation) Bill will help protect customers, discusses her role as Deputy Speaker of the House of Keys, and tells us what she’s doing as a member of the Enterprise Department. She also gives an update on her often misquoted proposal to make the streets of Central Douglas safer. Mrs Corlett’s Gas Bill seems to be timely with the Iranian war driving up prices, making it the only gas bill people will be pleased to see!
The Legislative Council considered four Bills at it’s sitting last week including Bills covering Gambling Legislation, Public Records, Income Tax and Employment. Legislation tends to be the poor relation of all the duties performed by Tynwald but it really does influence all our lives. In an attempt to bring these Bills alive to you Agenda spoke with MLCs Gary Clueit and Tanya August-Phillips. E-gaming represents a big part of our economy so it’s important Tynwald gets the regulation right and what’s not to like about cementing Income Tax rules so that large international companies based here pay a bit back to fund government services?
Fed up with all the hype and spin surrounding last week’s budget? Still not entirely sure what the budget was supposed to deliver? Agenda caught up with the Treasury Minister before his budget was debated in Tynwald to find out what he hoped it will achieve and why it was formed in the way we eventually saw last Tuesday. To find out what he thought before he had to react to public comment listen to this week's Agenda. It’s understandable that Chris Thomas maybe isn’t fully behind a budget that was largely constructed before he got there but he puts on a pretty good show of sounding convincing.
Agenda 16.2.26 - Chris Robertshaw and Future IoM
Former Douglas East MHK Chris Robertshaw has a new political vision for the Isle of Man. Describing itself as a movement towards good governance, Future Isle of Man has three core pillars to its thinking. ‘The Democratic Process’, which introduces the concept of holding Referenda into our existing system; ‘A Unified Government’ which bring government operations together under a single legal entity; and the introduction of high level cross-departmental strategic thinking. Is the Manx political system fundamentally broken or have we just been the really, really unlucky victim of events over the past few decades?
The Isle of Man’s native language and status as the world’s first whole-nation UNESCO Biosphere Reserve were highlighted at the Celtic Forum in Scotland this month. It was the first time the Isle of Man has attended the forum, which brings together Celtic regions to collaborate on shared interests. Education Minister Daphne Caine tells Agenda all about this relatively new Forum and how the Isle of Man could benefit from it. The Forum appears to offer some big opportunities for Manx musicians and linguists but could it provide invaluable links for Manx business. Oh yes, … and how’s the new Castle Rushen High School progressing
Legislative Council sittings are generally quite brief affairs but lately they have been stretching out as Keys and Council of Ministers have finally realised that part of their role is making good laws to assist society. In last week’s LegCo sitting the Extradition Bill, the Safeguarding (Amendment) Bill and the City of Douglas Bill completed their passage through Council, the Public Records (Amendment) Bill was read for a first time and the Elections (Keys and Local Authorities) (Amendment) Bill almost made it through its Clause Stage. Find out how these Bills will impact on you on this week's Agenda. And why have the Captains of the Parish been sharpening their pitchforks and raising the militia?
Depending on which side of the growing divide in Manx politics you sit, last week was the best of times or the worst of times. As the old Treasury Minister faced the Cannan guillotine a new Treasury Minister rose back up from the political abyss. So what can Chris Thomas really achieve in the relatively short eight months he has as new Treasury Minister? And was departing Treasury Minister Alex Allinson naively persuing his personal ideology or pragmatically implementing what Tynwald thought it wanted? Find out on this evening’s extended Agenda. Are we heading to a political winter of despair or is a spring of hope just round the corner?
They say that a week is a long time in politics well, if today is anything to go by, it’s going to be a long week! Just after 8am this morning we learned that Alex Allinson had stepped down as Treasury Minister and then shortly after Michelle Haywood had left her role as Minister of Infrastructure. The new DoI Minister is Tim Crookall (this is his third time as Infrastructure Minister since the 2021 election) and as Chanelle Sukhoo was getting Lawrie Hooper’s reaction to the departures we learned that Chris Thomas takes over as Treasury Minister.
The Tynwald Committee on Constitutional and Legal Affairs and Justice is reviewing the Manx Ministerial System which has been in place now for nearly four decades. So far the Committee has heard plenty of evidence to suggest that in good times Council of Ministers works very effectively but when circumstances are difficult CoMin has struggled to take the tough decisions. On Agenda we hear part of the evidence given by Chief Minister Alf Cannan who seems keen to focus more power in the Chief Minister’s hands. Is that good for democracy and will it help get things done, or is this returning us to the days when the governor had absolute power to rule?
Onchan MHK Rob Callister was in the Falkland Islands last month as part of a Commonwealth Parliametary Association team of election observers. You’ll be pleased to know this visit was not funded by the tax payer but you may be interested to know what the Isle of Man can learn from such trips. Mr Callister tells us all about the trip on Agenda. With a 90% turn out in Falklands elections it seems trust in politicians is much higher there than it is here. Unlike here they don’t call each other clowns in the Falklands government but is it ok for us to call Tynwald members clowns …. or just think it but don’t say it out loud?
As 2026 splutters into action this evening’s Agenda takes a look at the year ahead and offers a few predictions and insights into the year that lies before us. This year will see 24 members elected to the House of Keys for a new 5 year term so will any of the current members who stand again fall victim to public dissatisfaction. Also, with the Treasury Minister being stretched in all directions will he be able to deliver a popular budget to help sitting Keys members retain their seats? Will our political crystal balls prove to be accurate? Hmmm - Probably not!
Just over sixty years ago the BBC produced an extraordinary film which couldn’t have been more critical of the Isle of Man had it tried. If you think Donald Trump was hard done to last year by the BBC well this short documentary the Other Island is a master class in how to destroy a country’s reputation. Was it a coincidence that Manx Radio was established the year before much to the BBC’s great displeasure?
Stu Peters tried to persuade Tynwald to ask the public what they think of Tynwald and government’s net zero policies. As the overwhelming majority of Tynwald members back the net zero initiatives they rejected the referendum call and suggested this will be better settled at the 2026 election. Chris Thomas narrowly missed out on persuading Tynwald to reopen gas exploration and John Wannenburgh succeeded in persuading Tynwald and government to do more to back Manx produce. Was Tynwald right to reject the referendum call and instead rely on who you choose as your MHK to make the right decision?
The Extradition Bill 2025 is making its way through the legislative process and for all but a handful of people its impact on our lives will be minimal. So why do we need this legislation? Well, according to the notes on the Bill, no one should be able to escape justice simply by crossing a border, and our current extradition law relies on a largely repealed piece of dated UK legislation. In other news the electricity inter-connector is 25 years old and during its life 25 billion units of electricity have been exported to the UK providing the MUA with an £80 million profit. Exporting electricity and criminals - some good news at last.
There are two new Bills progressing through the House of Keys at the moment and on Agenda we find out what the motivation is for bringing them forward and what their impact will be on our lives. The Education Bill is a mere shadow of the Bill which had previously been brought forward by the education department but it will have a significant impact on home schooling and children with additional educational needs. And do we really need a law to give women access to free period products? The Education Minister has taken her department back to school to produce the slimmer Bill but will the Keys give it ten out of ten or a “see me after the lesson?”
The Area Plan for the North and West would have completed the planning picture for the Island but it was defeated in and extraordinary vote in Tynwald with both Keys and LegCo tied - 12 - 12 and 4 - 4 which meant the President of Tynwald had to use his casting vote which by convention means voting against change? So what happened in Tynwald and why did Tynwald vote to defeat this plan which was the result of around five years hard work by officers. On Agenda we hear some of the highlights of this unprecedented debate. Was there some filibustering going on? Was government complacent? Were the Tynwald members who voted against right to demand facts and detail to back up the shaky housing figures?
The Bishop’s vote moved a step closer to extinction last Tuesday when the Bill which seeks to abolish it finished its passage through the Legislative Council. The Bill had been paused for some time while a LegCo committee considered the impact of this measure but despite setting out clearly that the loss of the Bishop’s vote would most likely result in the loss of a Bishop of Sodor and Mann LegCo supported Key’s resolve to remove what many see as an undemocratic vote. Two of the more prominent speakers in the debate Gary Clueit and Paul Craine explain the process and the two sides of the debate on Agenda. With the Bishop’s vote all but gone will Keys shift their attention to the undemocratic Legislative Council next?
Agenda 10.11.25
Is government’s whistle blowing policy fit for purpose? Well a new Tynwald Committee has been set up to answer that very question? Should concerned government employees be able to take their concerns directly to an MHK or is this best left to HR experts to handle? Also, there were several questions raised in October Tynwald about young people not in work or education, is government flip flopping on apprenticeship support, are reservoir repairs over the top and concerns in the south over changes in the rating system. Agenda blowing the whistle on the big political stories of the day ........ or was that just the kettle boiling?
The Government’s Transport Strategy was considered by Tynwald last month and while there was no request for it to be supported it was merely noted by our politicians. Where does leave the strategy if it’s not supported by Tynwald? Also why did Tynwald pick one of the highest year’s for green house gas emissions as the base line on which future emissions reductions are referenced? Has Tynwald done a disservice to itself in not acknowledging significant impacts of previous political actions to reduce climate harming emissions? Is our transport strategy on a road to nowhere and should emissions reduction targets be allowed to go up in smoke?
The Area Plan for the North and West was defeated by three votes in last week’s Tynwald sitting and while it remains possible that it could scrape through in the November sitting it will require all of Cabinet Office Minister David Ashford’s political guile to make that happen. So why has it failed? On Agenda this week Chris Thomas and Paul Craine explain what their concerns are and even the Treasury Minister acknowledges weaknesses in the process. With no plan B, defeat of the plan means the north and west are relying on plans now several decades old. Is Tynwald playing high stakes poker with our planning system?
Would party politics work in the Isle of Man? Lord Finkelstein thinks that on the one hand it might and yet on the other hand it might be no better than what we’ve got! Mitch Sorbie on the other hand seems keen to establish his new party Isle of Man First which, at first glance would substantially reduce government income while being rather vague on how expenditure reduction would be delivered. Mr Sorbie suggests “where there’s a will there’s a way” while Lord Finkelstein notes the only thing the public hates more than a politician is a politician who’s rubbish at politics.
Has the all encompassing enthusiasm and bold ambition of the early years of Alf Cannan’s administration finally been smothered by the inhospitable atmosphere of consensus politics? Is our current system capable of delivering a bold and ambitious vision for the Island? And how do we assess our MHKs’ ability when manifestos appear light on policy commitments? Agenda’s back after its six week summer recess and Alistair Ramsay helps us answer these questions. Yes the political season reopens soon so expect the next 12 months to be a rocky ride!
Junior Tynwald included some searching questions about 20mph zones, health spending and government spending on water and electricity infrastructure. On Agenda we’ll hear these questions and those we’ve not yet squeezed in to previous programs. We also hear from Speaker of the House of Keys Juan Watterson - a former Junior Tynwald member on the importance of this annual sitting and what Tynwald members get up to when sittings stop for the summer recess. Keys members do like to be beside the seaside but they’ve got plenty of hefty committee reports as their holiday reading.
Junior Tynwald sat last month and as we heard on last week’s Agenda it was a very thoughtful and well considered sitting. On Agenda this week we hear the debate on a motion which considered what can be done to counter the dangers of social media. We also hear from some of students who took part and one of their teachers. It’s been a real privilege to cover Junior Tynwald and good to know that I’ve got competition with Olivia and Ellie from QE2 keen to take on my job covering senior Tynwald.
Junior Tynwald sat last month and a very interesting, thoughtful and at times provocative sitting it was too. A motion which considered whether wind turbines should form an essential part of the Island’s future energy supply was amended by students who expressed concern that the potential damage to biodiversity and habits should be considered alongside any benefits of using this renewable energy source. Good to know that a new generation of potential politicians clearly have a passion for Manx politics.
Still catching up on July Tynwald highlights we’ve got questions from Jason Moorhouse, an answer from John Wannenburgh on the delays in getting a planning application submitted for the Earystane windfarm. Also Rob Callister and Michelle Haywood consider how Tynwald members should pay for their parking, agreeing that they should but disagreeing on how the recent request for payment missed out senior civil servants. A parking storm in a teacup and a windfarm answer that appears to be blowin’ in the wind.
A near eight year campaign by a mum whose son tragically lost his life concluded in last week’s Tynwald when a law that makes it easier for people to donate their organs was brought into force. Campaigner Diane Taylor and former MHK Martyn Perkins tell of their pride in finally seeing this through. We also hear Speaker of the House of Keys Juan Watterson’s view on the Health overspend and minimum wage and Health Minister Claire Christian explains what her department and Manx Care are doing to turn around the Island’s health finances
There’s a saying that if you want a job doing ask a busy man. Well, David Ashford seems to be the man to ask as he’s taking the Safeguarding (Amendment) Bill 2025 through Keys, is taking four pieces of legislation through Tynwald relating to the Human Tissue and Organ Donation Act 2021, he’s got the Cabinet Office Department Plan to move as well as the Council of Ministers Update Report on Inward Migration. So what does all that mean in relation to our lives. Is government so busy being busy that it hasn’t got time to get anything done?
Chris Thomas has been a regular thorn in government’s side since the Chief Minister asked him to vacate his office. In recent months he’s been championing the cause of local government and he has an interesting take on the current leadership in the Isle of Man Government. Expect an interesting , wide ranging discussion and if you listen very carefully you might just spot the bombshells.
On last week’s Agenda Lawrie Hooper called out government for requiring higher pay for migrant workers than Manx workers but was he right? The Treasury Minister doesn’t think so and he puts his case to Agenda. Mr Hooper also suggested he would pull his Tynwald motion on releasing more detail about school assessments if the Education Minister conceded an improved position. The motion wasn’t moved so Agenda asks the Minister what did she do to pacify Mr Hooper. Is a war of words developing in Ramsey between the town’s MHKs?
In last week’s sitting of the House of Keys Lawrie Hooper asked the Enterprise Minister Tim Johnston “Whether the Minimum Wage will be increased to £13.05 by 1st October 2025 to reach equivalence with the minimum salary threshold for Worker Migrant visas at that date? In an interesting exchange it emerged that government’s position appears to be that it didn’t want migrant workers to undercut Manx workers in the job’s market. Of course that then means that the minimum wage for immigrant workers is higher than that for Manx workers. We’ll also hear from Dawn Kinnish MLC who’s taking her first Bill through LegCo which has just the faintest hint of poacher turned game keeper.
It's the first time in 100 years that a sitting president came over to the Island to meet with volunteers.
Rotary provides service and goodwill to create lasting change with three branches locally of Douglas, Onchan and Rushen & Western Mann.
President Stephanie Urchick has described this visit as 'a special one'
Dr Edward Fitzgerald is the Health Equity and Access Co-Lead at KPMG International and Head of Healthcare & Life Sciences at KPMG Islands Group. He talks to Agenda about health care policy and the policy differences of delivering health services in Island situations. With spiralling health costs threatening the economic development of the Island he has some important lessons for us on how we can improve our health services and make them affordable. A useful dose of health policy medicine from the good doctor.
A few May Tynwald leftovers on Agenda this week. Some conflicting views on the 20mph zones proposed for the Island. What was Ann Corlett MHK looking for when she first raised the subject in Tynwald? DoI Minister Michelle Haywood MHK offered a consultation olive branch which some members were loathe to accept. And how an innocent little question on economic growth developed into a full blown warts and all debate. No angsty engine revving on this week’s show, just a gentle tour through the speed limit question.
The Global Minimum Tax (Pillar Two) Order 2024 (Confirmation) Bill 2025 received its principles stage reading at last week’s sitting of the Legislative Council. While the Bill’s title is to say the least a little bureaucratic it cements in Manx law an ability to bring in much needed tax revenue to Treasury while not impacting on the Isle of Man’s competitiveness. Find out more about the Bill and the role of a Member of the Legislative Council from Gary Clueit MLC on this week’s Agenda. Tax and legislation can be fun …. honest!
Just over a month ago Perspective heard from Robert Morrey who explained his plan to build an anaerobic digestor and energy hub at Andreas. Just over a week ago a group of farmers and government officials visited Scotland to see how AD plants work. I joined them as an independent observer and this week’s Agenda gives the farmers’ view on how energy crops could work for Manx agriculture. Some positive news for farmers and more stable energy bills …. but will government back it?
In Tynwald last week Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Jason Moorhouse had two motions on the Order Paper. The first related to DoI’s refusal to allow the outgoing airport director to attend a hearing of the Economic Review Committee and the second related to a report by the Select Committee on the Regulation of the Steam Packet Company. The Steam Packet is of course wholly owned by the Isle of Man Government but is kept at arm’s length from government - except of course for when political pressure builds and the arm becomes considerably shorter.
Paul Craine has been researching our population for well over 40 years and he’s concerned about the Manx birth rate falling to it’s lowest since 1920. Births in the Isle of Man are now 43.9% lower than in 2010 with just 574 babies born last year. What’s causing this trend and how concerned should we be about it? Paul Craine joins me on this evening’s Agenda at 5.30pm on Manx Radio to consider these weighty issues. Demographer Paul Morland outlines the extent of the global decline in births and concludes that: “…governments can have no higher priority than addressing the demographic question”. He advocates “…the making of a pro-natal (pro-birth) culture” and suggests that this is “a role for all of us”. Reckon I’m getting too old for that sort of thing.
The Department for Enterprise is progressing a new Employment (Amendment) Bill which will feature new rights for rest breaks, neonatal care leave and carer’s leave with the Bill being framed round feedback from a series of public consultations held in 2024.The Department will also be undertaking further research on a number of other areas including statutory annual leave provision, the maximum awards available at the Employment and Equality Tribunal, and reforms to the licensing of Employment Agencies and Businesses.We’ll also hear about the local economy strategy. Yes they’re busy bees at the DfE!
Retired law lecturer Peter Murcott is concerned about Michelle Haywood’s private member’s Bill which provides for Safe Access Zones and Protected Public Places. He believes that if enacted this law would lead to a significant erosion of free speech and could criminalise people merely for living in their own homes. If his interpretation of the Bill is correct than this should be a concern for us all, but is he right? He presents his case to Agenda this evening at 5.30pm on Manx Radio with me Phil Gawne. Is it reasonable to expect to be able to go about your business without being harangued by a vociferous campaigner? I guess the answer is yes but who decides what’s reasonable and is this Bill pushing us down the slippery slope to an authoritarian regime?
Manx Care’s Mandate was supposed to be on Tynwald’s Agenda last week but despite the Minister’s best endeavours the debate didn’t happen. The Minister remains eager to hear the views of politicians, patients and medical professionals so she’s in for a treat on this episode of Agenda. The Isle of Man Medical Society had plenty to say about the Mandate and Drs Crerand and Prakash explain why. This is the second time in as many months I’ve interviewed the Drs - maybe I need to eat more apples?
It’s been a few weeks now since we talked about LegCo but Onchan MHK Julie Edge has prompted Agenda back to the topic as she has a motion in Tynwald calling for the role of Members of the Legislative Council and the method of their election to be reformed. So what is this all about and what’s provoked Ms Edge to seek such reforms? Has Julie Edge been playing politics with her questions on cancer care and is she right to suggest UK government health reforms should see an end to Manx Care being independent from the Health Department?
The Local Government Amendment Bill appeared to be a largely uncontroversial piece of legislation providing updates and improvements to the Acts which allow the Commissioners and Councillors to deliver services to us the Rate payers. Uncontroversial until Lawrie Hooper tried to introduce three new clauses which significantly alter the relationship between central and local government. Local authorities are far from happy but is this a much needed reform to drive forward better local services? Expect fiery brands and pitch forks at dawn.
Tomorrow the House of Keys will choose four people to become members of the Legislative Council. On Agenda and Perspective we’ve spoken to 14 of the candidates with the 15th being unavailable for interview. This evening we hear from our final candidate, civil servant, Claire Newall who while new to politics has a good understanding of how the system works. Tomorrow the House of Keys has a big job to do in sifting through the excellent field of candidates. Will they go for comfortable fits or rough diamonds?
On the 4th March the House of Keys will choose four people to become members of the Legislative Council. Prior to that vote, Agenda and Perspective will be speaking with all the candidates so that you can find out more about the people that hope to become national politicians. We hear from social worker Kirstie Morphet. So we’ve heard from some very informed and experienced candidates - who will be chosen by the Keys next week?
On the 4th March the House of Keys will choose four people to become members of the Legislative Council. Prior to that vote, Agenda and Perspective will be speaking with all the candidates so that you can find out more about the people that hope to become national politicians. We hear from retired engineer Andrew Jones. So we’ve heard from some very informed and experienced candidates - who will be chosen by the Keys next week?
On the 4th March the House of Keys will choose four people to become members of the Legislative Council. On part 2 of our LegCo special we hear from businessman Mark Cleator. Some very people standing for LegCo so worth a listen just for the skeet!
On the 4th March the House of Keys will choose four people to become members of the Legislative Council. Prior to that vote, Agenda and Perspective will be speaking with all the candidates so that you can find out more about the people that hope to become national politicians. On Agenda this evening we hear from businessman Barry Duncan. There are some very interesting people standing for LegCo so worth a listen just for the skeet!
On the 4th March the House of Keys will choose four people to become members of the Legislative Council. Prior to that vote, Agenda and Perspective will be speaking with all the candidates so that you can find out more about the people that hope to become national politicians. On this LegCo Perspective special we hear from businessmen Ron Berry I hope you’re enjoying listening to the people standing for LegCo as much as I’m enjoying interviewing them.
On the 4th March the House of Keys will choose four people to become members of the Legislative Council. Prior to that vote, Agenda and Perspective will be speaking with all the candidates so that you can find out more about the people that hope to become national politicians. On this LegCo Perspective special we hear from businessmen Matt Gough I hope you’re enjoying listening to the people standing for LegCo as much as I’m enjoying interviewing them.
On the 4th March the House of Keys will choose four people to become members of the Legislative Council. Prior to that vote, Agenda will be speaking with all the candidates so that you can find out more about the people that hope to become national politicians, voting in Tynwald on policy and finance and playing a significant role in shaping the laws of our Island. We hear this week from businessman Gary Clueit who is hoping to get elected to LegCo at his second attempt. LegCo can have a big impact on your life so it’s well worth a listen to tonight’s Agenda.
On the 4th March the House of Keys will choose four people to become members of the Legislative Council. Prior to that vote, Agenda will be speaking with all the candidates so that you can find out more about the people that hope to become national politicians, voting in Tynwald on policy and finance and playing a significant role in shaping the laws of our Island. We hear this week from businessman Peter Reid who is hoping to get elected to LegCo at his second attempt. LegCo can have a big impact on your life so it’s well worth a listen to tonight’s Agenda.
On the 4th March the House of Keys will choose four people to become members of the Legislative Council. Prior to that vote, Agenda will be speaking with all the candidates so that you can find out more about the people that hope to become national politicians, voting in Tynwald on policy and finance and playing a significant role in shaping the laws of our Island. We hear this week from MLC Rob Mercer who is hoping to get elected to LegCo for a second term. LegCo can have a big impact on your life so it’s well worth a listen to tonight’s Agenda.
On the 4th March the House of Keys will choose four people to become members of the Legislative Council. Prior to that vote, Agenda will be speaking with all the candidates so that you can find out more about the people that hope to become national politicians, voting in Tynwald on policy and finance and playing a significant role in shaping the laws of our Island. We hear this week from former Garff MHK Martyn Perkins who is hoping to get elected to LegCo. LegCo can have a big impact on your life so it’s well worth a listen to tonight’s show.
On the 4th March the House of Keys will choose four people to become members of the Legislative Council. Prior to that vote, Agenda will be speaking with all the candidates so that you can find out more about the people that hope to become national politicians, voting in Tynwald on policy and finance and playing a significant role in shaping the laws of our Island. We hear this week from dyslexia campaigner Julia Bell who is hoping to grab one of the LegCo seats. LegCo can have a big impact on your life so it’s well worth a listen to tonight’s Agenda.
On the 4th March the House of Keys will choose four people to become members of the Legislative Council, one of which will replace Peter Greenhill MLC, who has decided to step down at the end of February when his 5 year term ends. He tells Agenda about his experiences over the past five years and gives some advice to prospective LegCo candidates. If you are hoping to be nominated for one of the LegCo seats please get in touch so we can arrange an interview. Candidate or not though, it’s interesting to hear Peter Greenhill’s thoughts on the role he’s about to leave.
On the 4th March the House of Keys will choose four people to become members of the Legislative Council. Prior to that vote, Agenda will be speaking with all the candidates so that you can find out more about the people that hope to become national politicians, voting in Tynwald on policy and finance and playing a significant role in shaping the laws of our Island. We hear this week from Kerry Sharpe MLC, who is hoping to retain her LegCo seat. LegCo members have a big say on how our island is run so it’s important to know who they are!
On the 4th March the House of Keys will choose four people to become members of the Legislative Council. Prior to that vote, Agenda will be speaking with all the candidates so that you can find out more about the people that hope to become national politicians, voting in Tynwald on policy and finance and playing a significant role in shaping the laws of our Island. We hear this week from the longest serving Tynwald Member, Bill Henderson MLC, who is hoping to retain his seat. LegCo members have a big say on how our Island is run so it’s important to know who they are!
Agenda 6.1.25
In the final November sitting of Legislative Council members held their second Evidence Stage on the Assisted Dying Bill and MLCs heard from two expert witnesses Bridget Carter and Dr Claud Regnard as well as the Bill’s promoter Alex Allinson. Ms Carter works to prevent coercive behaviour towards vulnerable elderly people and Dr Regnard is a life long Palliative Care expert. As the Assisted Dying Bill approaches the end of its consideration by LegCo, Agenda extracts some of the highlights from the evidence session including the advice given by the Attorney General on the Bill.
As an early Christmas present we’ve got a yuletide topped and tailed Agenda, stuffed with an interview with newly appointed Cabinet Office Minister David Ashford. What does Mr Ashford hope to achieve in his return to Ministerial politics and does his appointment herald the start of a program of delivery of the much trumpted headline grabbing targets which government has been so good at talking about over the past three years. Government appears to be nibbling through the last of the financial leftovers at an alarming rate so can we expect some more ample portions in the year to come? A message of Christmas hope or crackers without a pop?
Some December Tynwald leftovers to dig into on Agenda. We hear from the new and former chairs of the Public Services Commission as Tynwald considered why the Commission hadn’t published its annual reports. The Commission is the employer of around four thousand civil servants so it’s kind of important that we get to find out what they’re up to. We also hear opposing views on Stu Peters’ attempt to persuade government to review its Net Zero targets and budgets. Is it just virtue signalling from Tynwald or will we actually see our energy bills reducing? I’d buy a big coat if I were you.
Does prison work? Clearly it protects us from people who’ve shown a willingness to harm fellow citizens; and it acts as a deterrent to people who might be thinking about committing a crime. It’s less successful in rehabilitation of offenders though and Andrew Neilson from the Howard League for Penal Reform believes that in some cases more effective and lower cost alternatives are available. Surely half an hour listening to Agenda would be enough to soften the hardest of criminal hearts?
The Reproductive Rights Bill seeks to bring up to date our somewhat archaic legislation . This private members Bill has been brought forward by Tanya August Philips MLC and addresses matters relating to fertilization, embryology and surrogacy. We’ve also had some important international tax orders in Tynwald and an Income Tax Bill going through Keys. On Agenda we attempt to explain why these pieces of legislation matter. Encouragingly a Tax Bill in Keys tends to mean more money to pay for essential services and this time we won’t be paying?
Getting withdrawal symptoms from last week’s bumper Tynwald sitting? Well this evenings Agenda is just the answer. All the Tynwald highlights we couldn’t squeeze in to Sunday’s Perspective, including education, the post office, a bit more on the NI Fund and a few bonus questions thrown in too. There are certainly some big issues being discussed at the moment by Tynwald members but are they getting any closer to the answers? Spoiler alert - no, not really - but I guess you’d probably worked that out.
You wait around for an environment, food or agriculture strategy and then suddenly three appear all at once. DEFA Minister Clare Barber tells Agenda all about the energy strategy, the food security strategy and the agriculture strategy. There's no new money to help deliver the food security and agriculture strategies which may leave farmers feeling they’ve heard warm words before, but the Minister puts some convincing arguments that things will get better. The Department suggests just 6% of food consumed in the Island is Manx, is government moooooving quick enough to help the Manx food sector?
The debate that preceded the vote of no confidence into the Chief Minister raised a number of interesting points about the importance of the role. Some MHKs suggested that the policies of government would not change regardless of the person leading the Council of Ministers. Others felt that a change of Chief Minister was needed but seemed somewhat vague on why and indeed what a replacement might do differently. On Agenda this week former Douglas East MHK Chris Robertshaw considers the debate and explains what they should be talking about. Yes - more from Chairman Robertshaw’s little Green Book.
We’ve had some high octane politics over the past few weeks so Agenda takes a look at some of the less headline grabbing, calmer issues going through Keys and LegCo. Bill Henderson tells us about the Public Sector Payments Bill which “tidies up” some outdates legislation particularly relating to members expenses and Alex Allinson reveals what’s behind the Treasury (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill. From the relatively obscure clause amending the 1928 Allotments Act to making it easier to increase fees its all considered on Agenda. And is the Treasury Minister really trying to pinch our pennies?
There’s been so much happening in Manx politics lately and with the vote of confidence in the Chief Minister taking place in the Keys tomorrow we have two interviews from October Tynwald on Agenda this week. One from the Chief Minister which explains his position on health and what he proposes to do about it. We also hear from Joney Faragher on why she resigned at the same time as the former health Minister. Better late than never on Agenda this week. Will the Chief Minister survive tomorrow’s vote? Who would you replace him with. Lots to consider.
In what appeared to be a relatively uninspiring Tynwald Order Paper one of the expected highlights was the Treasury Minister’s statement. As things turned out, Lawrie Hoopers resignation overshadowed everything else but Alex Allinson’s statement explained a lot, both in what he did and didn’t say. The temporary rise in the higher rate of income tax is looking more permanent than we’d been led to believe and the pension triple lock is likely to be removed, but there was some good news hinted at in the statement too. No give aways from Treasury but perhaps some jam tomorrow?
Agenda 14.10.24 - parking in Castletown and saving our town centres.
You’d wonder what all the fuss is about over closing off a few parking spaces in Castletown but it’s seen a couple of former town MHKs breaking cover on the subject. The latest of these is Richard Ronan who led the regeneration work in Castletown during his time as MHK. What was the thinking behind these regeneration schemes, have they worked, is government and Tynwald doing enough to try to bring vibrancy back to our struggling town centres. All this and more on Agenda - assuming I can find somewhere to park of course!
How do we manage waste across the Island, who’s responsible for recycling and why do some local authorities pay substantially more for their regional recycling centres than others? Is the current Rates system fair and if not why has Rates reform never been tackled? And while we’re discussing reform why do we still have such a disparate range of local authorities from very large to tiny? All these questions and more will be answered on this week’s Agenda. Everything you’ve ever wanted to know about local government … and probably a bit more!
Local Democracy Reporter Emma Draper has been in post for just under two years now so what has she learned about local government in the Isle of Man? What is a local democracy reporter and why do we need one? Why does it take so long to get an answer from government, how does central government interact with local government and why do so few people vote in local elections given the important role played by your Commissioners and Councillors in making your community a great place to live and work. So what has local democracy ever done for us?
There was an interesting flare up in Tynwald over the appointment of two new directors to the government owned Isle of Man Steam Packet Company. Some members were incensed by a particular line of questioning from Douglas Central MHK Chris Thomas and he was asked to withdraw what were described as disparaging remarks. Is it possible to question candidates’ suitability for certain roles in such a public forum, and if it isn’t then perhaps Tynwald’s role in the process is merely to rubber stamp decisions taken behind closed doors. Agenda considers whether legitimate debate was being stifled or were Chris Thomas’ comments beyond the pale.
The assisted dying Bill is due to be read a third time tomorrow in an extra Keys sitting and Agenda asks what’s the rush. We also ponder whether Tynwald and government are capable of delivering a bus station in Douglas, why developers need support to build luxury flats in Port Erin and why Tynwald rejected the opportunity to save money by allowing private member’s Bills to appear on the government consultation website. If you are struggling to understand government’s spending priorities then this week’s Agenda may well be able to help - mind you it might not and all.
Rushen MHK Michelle Haywood wants to progressively prevent new generations from being able to purchase tobacco products. Her private member’s Bill would in effect see the age at which you can buy tobacco products increase by a year each year until eventually nobody could buy them. With an estimated 25% of the health budget spent treating smoking relate illness this seems like an obvious thing to do. Will the health budget savings outweigh the lost tobacco tax income? Surely helping us lead longer healthier live must be a good thing?
Lawrie Hooper’s homework was marked by June Tynwald and he passed with flying colours. The waiting list initiative supported by Tynwald last year appears to have had a significant impact in reducing numbers of people waiting for treatment. Minister Hooper tells us about that initiative and new adoption law changes before moving on to the Carer’s Strategy. Julie Edge gave an impassioned speech in support of carers which we’ll hear too in this week’s Agenda. Good news about waiting lists but does government care about carers?
The 41st Summit of the British-Irish Council took place here just over a week ago with senior politicians focussing on unlocking the economic and social opportunities of renewables across these islands. The Irish Taoiseach was here as was the Scottish Government First Minister but do these summits actually deliver anything meaningful? And has any progress been made to give the Isle of Man a share of the spoils extracted from windfarm licences that would be ours if we were independent?
If we had a house for every report, review, investigation, and new policy and recommendation then we probably wouldn’t have a housing crisis. So why does Rob Callister want to set up another committee investigation on housing? Should public sector housing be more accessible for people on low incomes and if so how do we pay for the new houses required to satisfy demand? Surely it’s time for more obvious action rather than endless words, excuses and “jam tomorrow”?
The Manx Development Corporation has its supporters and critics but what is it for and how was it formed? It aims to be a catalyst for the positive transformation of the Island’s urban landscape for the benefit of all Manx Citizens and has a vision to create an urban landscape which will be perceived as vibrant, safe, of high design quality and environmentally efficient. So how is that working? Well, Dane Harrop, Managing Director of the Manx Development Corporation is keen to tell us on Agenda. A bold initiative to provide us with beautiful and inspiring places to live or more tax payers millions down the drain?
Long serving political figure Eddie Lowey passed away recently and on Agenda long term friend and occasional political ally Peter Karran pays tribute to a towering Manx statesman. Mr Lowey was first elected to the House of Keys in the old Rushen constituency. He went on to serve in many position in both government and Tynwald stepping down from Legislative Council about ten years ago. But it was his dedication to the Manx people through the Labour Party which defines him as one of the most influential politicians in living memory.
The Island’s first set of Biodiversity Action Plans mark a significant step in the Island’s commitment to nature conservation. Agenda asks the experts what are they and why do they matter? There certainly seems to be a greater focus on protecting the Island’s biodiversity but will these plans make a difference? Is there any budget to help deliver the plans? We live in a beautiful part of the world with a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Are you pleased that government is looking after the birds and the bees? Are they doing enough or is it just bluff and bluster with no real substance?
More from the new political alliance on this week’s Agenda. Julie Edge MHK gives her warts and all assessment of government and what needs to change. So what did she do as Minister to solve these problems? Is this just sour grapes on the recently replaced education Minister? Ms Edge certainly has some interesting thoughts and ideas for the future which she shares with you on Agenda. Will the Chief Minister live to regret losing so many Ministers? Do you find it refreshing to hear the unbridled views of ex-Ministers or do you just wish they’d all shut up and focus on delivering the change promised at the last election?
In Tynwald last week Onchan MHK Rob Callister asked his colleagues to reaffirm a 2017 Tynwald decision relating to the role LegCo members should fulfil and in particular that they should not be a member of more than one government department. The government website tells us that one MLC is a member of two departments and since last month’s reshuffle there may be two, but does any of this really matter? As is often the case there were mixed views in Tynwald and we hear some of them on Agenda. Should MLCs make decisions on government policy bearing in mind their at best tenuous mandate from the people?
On Agenda last week Tynwald Youth Select Committee members Zara Molnova, Aidan Clarke and Alex Cowley told us about the work of their Committee. This week these sixth form students talk about their political aspirations and run rings round me in a discussion about the perils and opportunities presented by Artificial Intelligence. As someone who’s political thinking inhabits the margins of the Tynwald/CoMin bubble I found it encouraging to be challenged by their fresh ideas and inciteful comment. Well worth a listen as you’re getting your tea later.
Very occasionally when conducting interviews Phil Gawne is particularly impressed by the refreshing honestly and clarity of my guests. The Youth Select Committee was established by Tynwald to give a voice to students and Castle Rushen High School students Zara Molnova and Aidan Clarke, and Chair of the Select Committee Alex Cowley from St Ninians High School join Phil Gawne on Agenda. In the first of what will be a two part interview they tell me about their role and how they intend to help Tynwald solve the Island’s housing crisis. Honest, straight talking and passionate about politics - certainly a breath of fresh air on this week’s Agenda.
An Agenda of two halves this week with Paul Craine MLC assessing the latest population figures and MLC and Children’s Champion Kerry Sharp assessing the recently announced Ballakermeen toilet policy and how children’s rights have changed over the decades. Government has set its sights on growing the economically active population and the latest figures seem to suggest they are beginning to succeed. And the toilet policy has certainly attracted a lot of interest with vociferous argument for and against so good to have a philosophical reflection on the topic. Well worth crossing your legs and holding on for!
At a meeting last week more than a hundred people heard from Canadian campaigner, Alex Schadenberg, Chair of Euthanasia Prevention Coalition and Dr Duncan Gerry consultant geriatrician. Both spoke with passion and expressed deep concern about Alex Allinson’s attempt to introduce Assisted Dying in the Isle of Man. So are the safeguards in the Assisted Dying Bill strong enough? We hear the views of those concerned about the new Bill on Agenda. There’s no doubt that the Bill will have a dramatic impact on end of life care in the Isle of Man. Should we be worried about that?
The scandal surrounding the actions of the UK Post Office in connection with wrongful persecution of sub postmasters is rarely off the news lately, thanks in part to the significant campaign for justice led by Alan Bates. Looking at the fact as we now know them it seems remarkable that a common sense test hadn’t been applied by Post Office Chiefs. Corporate investigator Rob Kinrade explains how properly trained staff should be able spot such situations and avoid the huge stress and embarrassment caused when things go so badly wrong. Sadly protecting corporate reputations seems to trump common sense.
Julie Edge has been replaced as education minister in what the Chief Minister has termed a strategic change. All parties are at pains to mention that this was not a sacking but Ms Edge responded to news of her departure by saying that as the “difficult woman” who regularly challenges decisions and offers the public perspective, I am not surprised. So what’s going on? We hear the departing Minister’s view on Agenda. Is this the start of a much needed reshuffle of the Council of Ministers? Will more Ministerial heads roll? Or is this just a convenient way to get an unpopular budget off the headlines?
The Isle of Man Electoral Commission recently published its report which makes recommendations to Tynwald in relation to House of Keys constituency boundaries. The report is due to be debated in March and on Agenda Commission members Sally Bolton and Nigel Davis explain the Commission’s findings and recommendations. Should MHKs make decisions about the future shape and size of their constituencies? Should they follow international standards? With just under half the voting age population not bothering to vote should we be looking at much bolder steps in relation to Keys elections?
We’re half way through the Cannan administration and the Chief Minister is facing growing pressure to deliver on the promises contained in the glitzy strategy documents and plans. So how does Alf Cannan think he’s doing? Is the housing crisis solved? Find out on Agenda with Amy Griffiths who caught up with the Chief Minister earlier this month. Are the recent green shoots of economic growth a sign that all is well in the government garden or merely the expected bounce that follows the forced constraint of Covid restrictions.
The Cannan administration has had bold ambition to radically change the government and the prospects for our economic future but half way through this government’s term in office what meaningful change can they point to. Is the Cannan government’s ambition one you share or are their aspects of it that you’re not signed up to? On Agenda political commentator Alistair Ramsay joins me Phil Gawne to pick through the policies and ponder what meaningful change will be delivered prior to the 2026 election. Are we witnessing a bold revolution or some deckchair rearrangement to get a better view of the iceberg?
There was quite a heated exchange in Tynwald this month about government’s policy relating to accepting refugees. Minister Kate Lord Brennan was surprisingly robust in defending the Cabinet Office’s approach and this led to several members including the mover of the motion Joney Faragher giving as good as they got. On Agenda this week we hear from both protagonists and get seasoned politician Juan Watterson’s take on how the apparent misunderstandings may have occurred. A heated debate to warm this dark January evening.
The Energy Strategy was debated in Tynwald last week and Minister Clare Barber didn’t have it all her own way. Ann Corlett again questioned the Infrastructure Minister about when his Department will lower speed limits in residential areas. Also Lawrie Hooper talks about proposed changes to constituency boundaries. Clare Barber on Energy Strategy, Ann Corlett on Speed Limits and Lawrie Hooper on the Boundary review. Buckle up for another high octane Agenda.
There was no room in the Perspective inn yesterday for the Homlessness Strategy and Children’s Champion’s Report. So in the Agenda before Christmas all through the House (of Keys) we have a Minister stirring and even some cows. No wise men but Tynwald stars David Ashford, Claire Barber and Kerry Sharpe are with us to give some good news good for the homeless and for vulnerable children, as well as encouragement for campaigners seeking new laws to protect puppies and kittens. Loads to stuff in to this week’s bumper Tynwald Christmas Agenda stocking!
We’ve got a new Fisheries Management Agreement and there’s more tweaking of the planning system being proposed. Planning and Fisheries Minister Clare Barber tells us about both including the usual proposal to increase fees - well Government needs the money I suppose! But tucked in the planning consultation there’s a proposal that the planning committee should be allowed to consider applications linked to DEFA, which of course is the Department which provides the policy and legislation which the Planning Committee must follow. Do I hear an alarm bell ringing or is it just Santa’s sleigh?
A damning report into children’s social care services was debated in November Tynwald, painting a very bleak picture for children in care or leaving care at 16. The report found that a lack of adequate support systems to promote the safety and well-being of these children is significantly failing them, the impact of substance misuse on children is of significant concern, and too many children do not have access to appropriate education, training or employment. We consider these findings on Agenda. Lets hope that 2024 brings more comfort to these vulnerable children.
Anyone fancy some free money this Christmas? That appears to be what’s on offer from Paul Craine MLC as he asks Tynwald to support his motion which calls for the Isle of Man to benefit from the revenue generated on the seabed out to the median line between the Isle of Man and the UK. Scotland was granted similar benefits just prior to the independence referendum so surely the Isle of Man has a strong case. All the angles are explored on Agenda. Mr Craine does describe this as a David and Golliath sitution but perhaps it’s worth the Isle of Man placing a polite request in its civil service sling and taking aim at the UK?
Looking for some straight talking no nonsense politician to say it how it is? Well, a semi-retired former MHK is pulling no punches when it comes to government’s housing policy. Peter Karran has written to the new Housing Board Chair, David Ashford, with some clear policy ideas to try to find housing solutions for the many Manx workers who contnue to struggle to find affordable homes. Is this a return to front line politics for Mr Karran or a genuinely heartfelt attempt to intervene positively to resolve the housing crisis. Cut through his rhetoric and there are some pretty good policies which David Ashford would be wise to consider!
Departmental Plans came in for a bit of stick in Tynwald last week but are they the “meaningless drivel” that John Rimmington once described his Department’s plan about twenty years ago? Speaker Watterson didn’t quite go that far but it is fair to say he wasn’t impressed. The Department of Education’s was one of the plans he criticised so what did Minister Edge make of the criticism? We also hear about a rather disturbing case of some one with deep pockets using the legal system to financially ruin one of Stu Peter’s constituents. Are the government’s plans meaningless nonsense or a valiant attempt to keep Department’s accountable?
A bit of déjà vu on Agenda this week as the Bishop’s vote is once more called into question this time by the House of Keys who narrowly voted to allow Lawrie Hooper to introduce a private member’s Bill to remove the vote from the Bishop. Mr Hooper was accused of having malevolent purpose and being distracted by trivial matters when he should be getting on with the day job of fixing health services. We consider the latest debate on Agenda. Is the vote of the non elected Bishop any different to the votes of the other eight democratically unaccountable LegCo members? Or is this a necessary change to bring our parliament into the 21st Century?
The Isle of Man Government Risks Fanning the Flames of a World on Fire according to the Green Party’s Andrew Langan Newton but is he right? The claim is made as government looks to vary the conditions of Crogga’s gas exploration licence which has received intense scrutiny in recent Keys sittings. There does seem to be a growing chorus of international organisations and governments suggesting that further attempts to find fossil fuels will cause real danger to the future of humanity but is this just scaremongering? More screetchy green washing or a wake up call for our future - you decide?
The Cooish drew to a close yesterday after yet another successful week of events associated with the Manx language. So what do those attending this Manx language festival think about the language and its place in Island life. The language has grown in numbers of speakers, learning resources and activities over the past three decades but how relevant is it to modern life in the Isle of Man? Is it as some suggest a waste of time and money, or does it hold an essential place at the heart of Manx culture and identity? No prizes for guessing what Phil Gawne thinks!
Manx Care has been in the news lately more for its troubles than successes. One of Manx Care’s board members expressed concern at what our Health Services would become if doesn’t receive a substantial budgetary increase. Questions have been asked about whether indeed the separation of services from the Health Department to Manx Care is working. The Health Minister had a very public spat with his consultative committee and is planning to change their terms of reference in Tynwald next week. The Minister gives his warts and all assessment on Agenda. £20 - £30 million funding gap and Manx Care under fire. Who’d be the Health Minister?
Some interesting Bills making their way through Keys and LegCo at the moment. An Income Tax Bill and Sanctions Bill which were primarily tidying up existing provision. A Vaping Bill and an Employment Bill introduce more significant changes to existing law and we hear a bit about both. We hear from Alex Allinson about the Assisted Dying Bill and Enterprise Minister Tim Johnston also tells us that there’s “nothing to see here” regarding Government’s plan to mothball work permits legislation. Do you think he’s right or are you convinced by MHKs who refer to the floodgates being opened?
We hear a lot about the threats to the Island’s biodiversity with climate and land mismanagement often held up as the culprits. On Agenda this week Simon Clarke talks to farmers who have been recognised for getting things right and giving a helping hand to the rich Manx biodiversity that so many of us cherish. A fortnight ago the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group held their annual Manx Farm Conservation Challenge ceremony in which farmers were applauded for the very best in wildlife friendly farming. Agenda focussing on happy things, rainbows and butterflies this week - which is nice!
Political commentator Alastair Ramsay is known for his thoughtful assessments of issues which face our Island so what’s got him so wound up lately? Alastair lets rip on this week’s Agenda about his deep concerns over the process which has led to the proposed site in the south for a wind farm development. An episode not to be missed. Is Alastair right to be so concerned? Surely we’ve been talking about wind farms for long enough and now’s the time for action? Is Alastair right in suggesting Tynwald is not up to the job of holding government to account?
Revision to government’s capital procedures and regulations might not sound like the most riveting of subjects and yet tens of millions of taxpayers pounds are spent each year on government’s capital program. From big projects such as the Promenade and Liverpool Sea Terminal down much smaller things like new hospital equipment or a still proposed flight simulator for the airport are all delivered using these procedures, so changes can potentially reduce cost and bureaucracy. On Agenda Andrew Smith MHK tells us what has changed and why. Government is not known for reducing red tape and bureaucracy - will this time be different?
Lewis Foster looks back at the highs and lows of 2023 Isle of Man Government Conference.
Tanya August-Hanson MLC is at it again, spearheading new legislation and helping the Manx public lead easier lives. She’s consulting on a private member’s Bill which would allow some bits of legislation to catch up with societal changes surrounding same sex families. She’s also helping the Planning Department steer and amendment Bill through which will help simplify the planning process. And she’s also looking for views on how Charities Registration and Regulations are functioning. In the absence of Keys members driving legislative change do you welcome LegCo picking up the law-making cudgel?
Sarah Maltby is one of the new crop of MHKs elected at the 2021 general election. One of two Manx Labour MHKs Sarah has taken up the Social Security role in Treasury. She’s had a busy summer knocking on doors and finding out what her constituents in Douglas South are thinking. Sarah gives us all the skeet on what she’s been finding out. There is something quite admirable about giving over so much time to canvassing the views of your constituents but is this the best use of limited time? Is there too much talk and not enough action, or do you value spending more time with your MHK?
With all the exam results out now how does Education Minister Julie Edge MHK think Manx students have done? Relations between teachers and the Department have been shakey at best over the past few years. Are there signs of improvement now? And what’s the latest on the QE2 drag queen affair? Were you inspired by your teachers? Is there too much bureaucracy in education these days? So much to talk about, so little time!
Onchan MHK Julie Edge brought two motions to July Tynwald which sought to increase the impartiality of the Tynwald committee that polices the standards and conduct of Tynwald members. In an emotional speech Ms Edge refered to an episode of bullying which she claimed to be the victim of in the previous House of Keys. Is it reasonable that the Speaker who ensures that Keys Members act appropriately in the Keys sittings is also responsible for considering members conduct and issuing punishment in his role on the Tynwald Standards and Members Interest Committee. Some interesting comment on education too!
The Health Services Consultative Committee released its annual report a few weeks back which was mildly critical of the the Health Department. Outgoing Chair Andrew Cole in an interview about his Committee’s report felt that the Health Minister tried to bully his committee. The Minister strongly refutes this allegation and describes the report as riddled with errors. In the meantime the broadcaster who interviewed the outgoing chair claims he’s being threatened with lawyers letters. What is going on? Is the Minister being too robust in defending his Department or is he right to kick back at criticism?
Tanya August Hanson and Bill Henderson MLC gave a strong defence of the role and workload of members of the Legislative Council a few weeks back which incensed Positive Action Group founder and seasoned Tynwald watcher Roger Tomlinson so on Agenda this week he gives a different perspective on the Legislative Council and Tynwald. Should LegCo be directly elected by the people? Should the Chief Minister be voted in by the Manx people? Do we really care provided government and Tynwald are making our lives better?Should Roger be given a medal for dedicating so much of his time to following Tynwald?
With the Assisted Dying Bill receiving it’s first reading in the House of Keys last week Agenda speaks to assisted dying advocates Trevor Moore and Paul Weatherall. Trevor is chair of UK campaign group My Death My Decision and Paul is a member of the Manx branch and member of Facebook group Let Me Choose. They paint an eloquent picture in favour of the Bill but are they right? Lots to consider on Agenda. Should politicians be giving power to people to choose when and how their lives should end? Should doctors be given power to be able to end your life if you ask them to help you. Lots to think about on this week’s program.
Legislative Council has come in for a fair bit of stick recently for its very short sittings, just twenty one sittings each year outside of Tynwald and the relatively passive if not silent public face of Leg Co members. On Agenda MLCs Tanya August Hanson and Bill Henderson fight back. Is legislative scrutiny more than just passing comment in LegCo. Is the lack of legislation coming through the branches the fault of government and limited availability of legislative drafters? Does government have far more important stuff to be getting on with than creating new law, or is new law essential to fixing the problems we face?
Ever wondered why our children’s teeth are full of fillings? Did you know that children’s dental health here is among the worst in these Islands? In last month’s Tynwald the Social Affairs Committee presented a report on Children’s Oral Health which the Health Minister felt was a bit weak in its demands. We hear from the Minister and one of the Committee members on Agenda. And yes the ‘f' word is mentioned. Is fluoridation of our water the cure for our children’s bad teeth or is it mass medication and much to be avoided?
Do we need need a Bishop? Some might argue that as we fall into a pit of moral decline their has never been a more important time to have the moral and spiritual guidance the Bishop provides. Others would suggest that changes in society and community mean that organised religion is very much yesterday’s news. With our current Bishop stepping down this year Joney Faragher MHK is hoping to gain Tynwald support to remove the Bishop from Tynwald. Does she have a good case? Does Tynwald still need moral guidance?
Looking for some adrenaline fuelled excitement? The motor bikes just not thrilling enough for you? Well Agenda might be just what you’re looking for as we considered two Bills which are currently making their way through Keys and LegCo. The Sanctions Bill aims to provide a modern and flexible framework to allow Manx authorities to implement United Kingdom sanctions, and the Income Tax Bill clarifies a possible technical flaw in Manx tax law. Yes, two fascinating Bills on this week’s show - three if you include Bill Henderson.
One of the speakers at the recent conference on Language and Society in the Isle of Man was Ben Ó Ceallaigh, a Lecturer in the Department of Welsh and Celtic Studies at Aberystwyth University. His talk on language policies and neoliberal retrenchment in Ireland, Scotland and Man was certainly thought provoking and on Agenda this week he tells us why lesser used languages are important and how global financial turmoil is impacting on language support and development. Are solutions to environmental protection and supporting indigenous languages and cultures connected? Do you think it’s all a waste of money or is there something to this Manx language and culture?
Are the constituencies too big, or too small. Are two seat constituencies better than three seat, one seat or all Island elections. Is our electoral system fit for purpose and if it is why do only half the electorate turn out to vote? These questions and many more are being asked by Electoral Commission Chair, Sally Bolton and her colleagues on the Commission. The House of Keys is elected just once in five years, so what would encourage you to vote or indeed make it easier for you to vote. Are you an eager and enthusiastic participant in our electoral process, or do you view it all with a healthy dose of cynicism? Either way the Government get’s elected regardless.
Co-Founders of Reayrtys, Dr Simon Collister and Nick Hawkes, gave evidence to Tynwald’s Constitutional and Legal Affairs and Justice Committee last week. What is Reayrtys I hear you ask? Well they are a group that wants to start an open and honest discussion about the kind of country we can be, now and in the future. They’re keen on constitutional reform claiming it to be a solution to the cost of living crisis, the ageing population, climate change, low election turnout and creaking public services. Find out if Reayrtys’s bold claim has any merit on Agenda. Is the constitution holding us back? Or perhaps you’re thinking if it ain’t broke don’t fix it?
As the Isle of Man finally signs up to the Paris Agreement Agenda asks is it worth the paper it’s written on, the Infrastructure Minister gives us some insights in to Road Tax and looks forward to its future reform and former Chair of the MUA explains the electricity price hikes. The talk on tackling climate change is good but are we really seeing anything other than a promise of things to come. Is vehicle duty really a tax to pay for road improvements or just another stealth tax, and are the significant electricity price hikes justifiable or should government be doing more to help?
Founder of the Eden Project, Sir Tim Smit, attended a conference on Friday which explored the economic opportunities for the Isle of Man through its strong cultural and business links with the North of England. The event, was a joint initiative by the Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce and the Northern Powerhouse Partnership. The ambition to replicate the success of the Eden Project in Cornwall with the new site in Morecambe is expected to attract thousands of visitors to North West England. Will the Isle of Man benefit from all these visitors just across the water?
In perhaps the most emotionally charged sitting of Tynwald I’ve ever witnessed the former Health Minister Rob Callister MHK was found to have breached Tynwald standards. Mr Callister accepted the findings and gave a full apology to Tynwald but made clear that he had always tried to live up to the highest standards of openness honesty and integrity. On Agenda Rob Callister gives his take on the events that led up to last week’s Tynwald debate on his sacking. Is Rob Callister a dishonest bully? Or has he been harshly judged by his colleagues?
In tomorrow’s Tynwald the Chair of the Tynwald Standards and Members’ Interests Committee, Speaker Watterson will move his Committee’s report into matters relating to the dismissal of Rob Callister as Minister for Health and Social Care. This was to say the least an extraordinary event in the colourful history of Ministerial politics, so what actually happened to provoke it. We’ll hear from Rob Callister on next week’s Agenda but this week Michelle Haywood one of the three Health Department members involved in this case gives her take on things.
This Saturday is Global Recycling Day so on Agenda this week Minister for waste Chris Thomas MHK and government waste guru Stephanie Gray tell us why we should all recycle whenever we can. Some popular myths about recycling are exploded and suggestions are given on how we can all do more to recycle valuable resources. Who is responsible for recycling policy and implementation? Should central government lead on recycling or should local authorities step up on this one. Not often we hear Chris Thomas talking rubbish on the radio … is it?
A LegCo bonus podcast - Alastair Ramsay discusses all things LegCo on this podcast extra. Does anyone really know what LegCo is for and what MHKs are actually looking for? There doesn't appear to be a collective view on this with MHKs split on a number of core issues. Will Alastair and Phil get to the bottom of this? Perhaps not but they have fun pondering! Everything you've ever wanted to know about LegCo but didn't dare ask.
On an extened Agenda this week we hear from the final two candidates for the Legislative Council election. Banker Peter Reid and David Prictor give us a full account of their backgrounds and motivation to become national politicians. Do the skills obtained from running a bank equip you for running our country? With the LegCo election taking place in just over a week’s time you can find out about all the candidates by listening to Manx Radio’s LegCo candidate Agenda and Perspective podcasts and lobby your MHKs to vote for your favourite candidates.
On Agenda this week we hear from Douglas housing manager Marie Birtles, another LegCo hopeful. Why does she want the role and does she have what it takes to be an effective Member of the Legislative Council? This is the ninth candidate we’ll have heard and each one has brings their own unique qualities to the contest. The successful candidates will play a significant role in shaping the future of our Island so even though you don’t get to choose them, it’s good to know who they are. Is your future safe in their hands?
On Agenda this week another Legislative Council hopeful sets out her cause. Chair of Arbory and Rushen Parish Commissioners Kirrie Jenkins has plenty of life experiences but does she have what it takes to play an active or perhaps more importantly a useful role in national politics? Does Chairing the local parish commissioners provide sufficient experience for someone seeking a role in national politics? Do we have even the faintest idea as to what the House of Keys wants from LegCo? Would anyone even notice if LegCo didn’t exist?
As interest in the Legislative Council election begins to hot up, we hear from another wannabe member of LegCo Tanya August Hanson MLC. Ms August Hanson was elected to LegCo 5 years ago so what has she been doing and why does she think her work warrants another five year term? What do you expect from people in our parliament’s second chamber? Should they be seen and not heard, or do you expect your national politicians to be both visible and outspoken? Is being busy the same as being effective?
There's an election to the Legislative Council coming soon and Paul Craine MLC is looking for votes. Is the role of the Council changing, what are Keys members looking for and how do they decide. Mr Craine was elected in November 21, shortly after the general election and has certainly been vocal since then. So what does he want to achieve and what can he offer? Is Mr Craine doing a good job and worth a further 5 years in LegCo, is it time for fresh faces, or do you think it doesn’t matter who gets in as they’re only in it for themselves?
Dr Roger Barker is the Institute of Directors’ London-based Director of Policy and Corporate Governance and a former investment banker so why has he been asked to give a talk for Biosphere Isle of Man? Are we finally acknowledging that climate change, mass extinctions and loss of habitat is connected to the lives we lead and the business models of the companies which supply our services? And even if you’re not convinced, surely it can’t be bad if we live in a cleaner more sustainable world?
Last year the Isle of Man was warmer and sunnier than it has been since records began so why is Paul Craine MLC so worried? 2022 had 3 times more thunder storm than usual but slightly less rain, so we’re more likely to get flooding when it does rain, and only one of the past 25 years has been cooler than average. Mr Craine may be a bit of a statistics nerd but he’s concerned and these long term trends. Are you happier that its warmer and sunnier, or do you share Mr Craine’s concerns about global warming? Too much green wash or is it all a storm in a tea cup?
At its sitting on 14th March 2023 the House of Keys will elect four Members of the Legislative Council. MHKs will want to elect the best people for the job, although it is not always clear what that job entails. Following the 2021 general election two legislative council seats became available and on was filled by Diane Kelsey. Mrs Kelsey has been relatively quiet since she was elected so what does she stand for and what does she make of her new role? Everything you ever wanted to know about one of our newest Tynwald members but didn’t like to ask.
An hour long irreverent look back over the year just gone and the year to come with Sam Turton, Paul Moulton, Bernard Moffatt and me Phil Gawne. Will a great light been shone in the darkness? I wouldn’t get your hopes up.
Last week Rob Mercer MLC called on Tynwald to reaffirms its opinion that the Meat Plant is a significant strategic asset for the Isle of Man which has been severely affected by a number of changes in agricultural policies and external legislative pressures over the last 15 years. At the same sitting Daphne Caine MHK succeeded in persuading Tynwald to acknowledge the global biodiversity and ecological crisis we are currently living through. They join former leader of the Manx farmers union Tim Johnston MHK. Is government serious about food security or is it just Jam tomorrow!
At the sitting of the House of Keys on 14th June 2022 Dr Alex Allinson, MHK for Ramsey was given leave to introduce a Private Member’s Bill which would “enable adults who are terminally ill to be provided at their request with specified assistance to end their own life”. A public consultation has been launched which seeks your views and opinions on this controversial and very complex matter. Dr Allinson explains his motivation for seeking to introduce the Bill. Should you have the right to decide how and when you die, or is the sanctity of life not something politicians should be interfering with?
There is currently no statutory framework to assist where adults either cannot communicate decisions or are unable to make decisions for themselves, but all that is about to change. Last Tuesday the Capacity Bill 2022 received its final reading in Legislative Council and returns to Keys this week for final approval. So why has it taken so long to introduce this legislation, and what impact will it have? Some of the most difficult decisions we ever have to make affect our loved ones as they approach the end of their lives so will the new Act help or hinder?
The saying goes, “there’s lies, dang lies and statistics” but Agenda this week is speaking to three people who beg to differ. Treasury Minister Alex Allinson and Jonny Platten, Head of Economic Advisory, tell us about the new Isle of Man Government dashboard and why it's important. Also, Kelvin Corlett head of Statistics Isle of Man explains how statistics are gathered and why his organisation is staunchly independent of political interference.
Phil Gawne challenges Courtenay Heading on his views and opinions surrounding vaccination and Covid.
Tucked away in the December Tynwald business is an apparently modest and unassuming item which seeks to allow far greater access to the Isle of Man’s beneficial ownership register, and yet this is a significant step in removing the secrecy jurisdiction label through which the Isle of Man’s international reputation has been attached for several decades. Treasury Minister Alex Allinson and, long-time critic of the Isle of Man’s financial secrecy, Phil Craine, join Phil Gawne to discuss this weighty topic. The Minister also discusses the impact of the UK financial statement on the Manx economy.
The Clerk of Tynwald’s Office is calling for interested parties to apply for a new role - the Tynwald Auditor General. The estimated budget for the appointment and their associated office is around £400,000 so how can this be justified at a time of financial constraint. Speaker of the House of Keys Juan Watterson has long been an advocate for introducing this role and he explains all on Agenda at 6pm this evening with me Phil Gawne on Manx Radio. Can we afford to spend £400,000 to save at least £1.2m. Indeed, can we afford not to?
A Wall Street Journal article recently accused Isle of Man firms of helping Russian oligarchs to hide their wealth from sanctions.
In this episode of Agenda, Lewis Foster turns to the company in the centre of the article - Bridgewaters - as he speaks with Managing Director Mark Veale
The 2022 Farm Conservation Challenge and Chough Awards had dozens of entries and celebrate the strong role farmers play in protecting and encouraging the Isle of Man’s rich biodiversity. Organised by the Isle of Man Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group the awards celebrate our farming community as the guardians of our cherished natural landscape, recognising that they successfully combine commercial farming with conservation initiatives. The Chough award winners are of course experts in their field and were well chuffed with the award.
Jason Moorhouse, MHK for Arbory, Castletown and Malew finds himself as wholly detached from any government responsibility, leaving him free to grill Ministers on all areas of policy and delivery. His approach has been criticised for being too focussed on local, constituency matters but on Agenda this week he talks about big national topics like housing, cost of living crises and an all-Island rate. Is there a national politician lurking beneath the surface or is he just seagulls and dog poo - only one way to find out!
A blast from the past on Agenda this week with Liberal Vannin founder and spokesperson Peter Karran who has raised a number of topical items in recent months. Peter calls for changes to the IoM Pension supplement, broadening the 5% VAT rate, and raises concerns over human rights.
Organisations contributing to a more sustainable Isle of Man were recognised last week at the fourth UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man Awards. The awards celebrate those contributing to the Man and the Biosphere Programme’s global aims of sustainable development, conservation and education and are organised in line with Biosphere Isle of Man’s strategy, ‘Working Together for a Sustainable Future’. At a time when dark forces seem to be lurking around a bit of really positive news for a change. It’ll never catch on though!
Everything you ever wanted to know about the government’s economic strategy, the inaugural government conference and how the House of Keys has fared during the 12 months since the election. Does the government have a bold an exciting vision set to change our lives for the better or is it just the same old plan with a glitzy new cover.
Our constitutional monarchy and receiving an honour - Agenda revisits part of a program first broadcast earlier this summer.
On this episode of Agenda Simon Pickering Head of Insurance and Pensions at Finance Isle of Man reveals a whole new realm to those of us who are largely unfamiliar with the world of high finance, but this is such an important sector in providing nearly half the income on which government relies to pay for the services we all enjoy. The Manx finance industry has moved on significantly from the 1980’s when it was likened to the wild west. Despite it’s good international reputation though it remains very much dependent on the vaguaries of international politics. How safe is this vital sector on which our economy and government is so reliant?
Chief Constable Gary Roberts has been in post for over a decade but will be stepping back from the role at the end of the year. He talks about the changing nature of policing in the Isle of Man and the vast range of issues covered from petty crime to international money laundering. Financial pressures restrict how effective policing can be and relatively low starting salaries means that recruitment of new officers is becoming increasingly difficult. Do you feel safe in your home and community? The statistics certainly suggest the Isle of Man is one of the safest places to live in these Islands, but you know what they say about lies, damned lies and statistics!
The Treasury Minister has had a lot to deal with since taking over from David Ashford three months ago. A flurry of announcements this week demonstrated an understanding of the significant financial difficulties many of us are facing, and short term fixes have been delivered - but are these sustainable? Can the government continue to burn the economic candle at both ends. On tonight’s Agenda Alex Allinson MHK tells me why we need a radical shift in economic strategy and what the Cannan administration’s brave new world will look like. Are you convinced by government’s new strategy or is it just wishful thinking? We’ve got to hope someone knows what they’re talking about.
In this extended Agenda the Chief Minister Alf Cannan MHK explains in some depth his government’s thinking in developing this bold ambition. Is his government all spin and glitzy brochures or is there real substance to what he says? Whatever you think you really should take the opportunity to engage with government if you want your views to help shape the future of our Island.
On Agenda this week Health Minister Lawrie Hooper MHK and Tynwald Petitioner Alison Ritchie consider the health and social care complaints regulations due to be considered this week in Tynwald. In previous debates on this topic have described the process of getting your complaint heard as a bureaucratic minefield and talked about health professionals closing ranks against complainants. So are the regulations independent enough to satisfy the growing number of complainants who feel badly let down by the current process?
Last week the Isle of Man welcomed delegates from around the world to the Small Countries Financial Management Programme. Twenty two officials representing finance ministries, central banks and regulatory bodies came to the Island from as far afield as the Caribbean, Pacific, Indian Ocean and Africa. So what is the Programme all about and does it represent good value for the tax payers investment. I talk to programme participants and officials about the value of what’s taught, the impact that the programme has for countries that participate and whether it’s worthy of our support. Yes - the Cook Islands have finally discovered the Isle of Man!
What is the significance of the outdoor sitting of Tynwald, what’s actually involved in the ceremony and is there any chance we’ll resurrect settling disputes with sword fights? Will you be going to the Tynwald fair? Is it just a good excuse for tea, cakes and a bit of a yarn or does this thousand year old institution hold a significant place in Manx hearts. Maybe both?
Fed up with the inefficiencies of government? Think the planning system is too restrictive? Or maybe not restrictive enough? Well, this week’s Agenda might well have the answer for you. Clerk of Tynwald, Jonathan King talks us through how to present a petition to Tynwald. We also hear from campaigner Bridge Carter who is concerned about the lack of a legislative framework for preventing financial crime against elderly and vulnerable people and holding perpetrators to account.
It is said that the higher you climb, the harder the fall. We speak to a politician who still bears the political bruises of his rather dramatic departure from office just three weeks ago. David Ashford MHK had a meteoric political rise to some of the most senior political roles in Manx politics. So how does he feel after his resignation?
Is enough being done for our footpaths, glens and heritage attractions. We consider an MLC’s bid to improve government support and protection of our built heritage. We hear from Marlene Maska MLC - that rare thing a politician who knows what she’s talking about - and Daphne Caine MHK a strong champion for our heritage.
It is one of the biggest challenges in Manx politics and the Minister is not unique in struggling to get to grips with this very large and unwieldy government department. We talk about the ongoing issues on the Promenade, horse trams, problems at the airport and much more with Infrastructure Minister Tim Crookall MHK
Alastair Ramsay tries to help Phil cut through the rhetoric and consider the implications of the Chief Minister's statement to May Tynwald on the Ranson case.
Daphne Caine MHK tells us why Keys were so concerned about prayers, we consider whether the Manx political system is fit for purpose and is government serious about addressing Climate Change?
Important complaints regulations moved a step closer in Leg Co last week - Phil speaks to the Health Minister Lawrie Hooper MHK about it and, after Crogga's license was extended to explore our seas for gas, Stu Peters MHK and Paul Craine MLC discuss gas extraction.
Ralph Peake tell us how the Energy and Sustainability Centre can deliver a greener future without resorting to government funding.
Chris Thomas tells us about his hard hitting questions in April Tynwald and also Government's stuttering response to the housing crisis and how the Housing Board, which he chairs, is working.
Phil Gawne speaks with DEFA member Michelle Haywood MHK about climate change's impact on the sea around us and how blue carbon could help; he also takes the opportunity to quiz Michelle and fellow Southern MHK Jason Moorhouse about the lack of progress on Castle Rushen High School and the recent debacle over the Southern Swimming Pool
Dark Money and how it influences international finance. Graham Barrow - a man who speaks about international finance, sanctions on Russian oligarchs, and financial secrecy
In this week's programme, Phil talks to Jason Moorhouse MHK about returning graduates and he attempts to get to the bottom of the Income Tax Bill with Treasury Minister David Ashford MHK.
Minister Lawrie Hooper discusses his request for another £10Million for his Health Department, while recently elected MLC Paul Craine talks to Phil about the growing imbalance between the economically active population and those who depend on them.
Phil Gawne talks to Manx TaxPayers' Alliance representative Michael Josem. Who are they, what do they do and what do they want to see happen in the Island's political landscape?
Phil Gawne speaks to Treasury Minister David Ashford, former MHK Peter Karran and Phil Craine from Taxwatch about the unfolding and evolving situation in Ukraine.
Phil Gawne with reaction to the Budget from: Mr Speaker Juan Watterson, on reform to the Budget process; Health Minister Lawrie Hooper explaining the £8m a year increases in his Department's budget; Tim Glover MHK with strong words for former DESC Minister Cregeen regarding Castle Rushen High School; and Claire Christian MHK explains why she voted against the Budget.
Phil Gawne in conversation with Chief Minister Alfred Cannan, talking about the final draft of his administration's 5 year strategy - 'Our Island Plan' (extended interview)
This week, we’re talking Rates, tax and budget setting. Everyone knows where to spend more money but nobody wants to pay more Rates or tax. Colin Kniveton held various roles as Chief Executive and finance officer in Government and tried to deliver the decades old political ambition of Rates reform. Phil Gawne has prised him out of retirement to tell all on Agenda. Ever wondered how all these dark and mysterious process work? You’ll wish you hadn’t asked.
This week, Phil Gawne is in conversation with Rob Mercer MLC, who explains why he believes it’s time to update the 2014 Council of Ministers Strategy for Offshore Energy Production - and Stu Peters MHK, who tells us why it’s not.
On Agenda this week we’re considering what’s gone wrong with the Department of Infrastructure. Was it set up to fail by former Chief Minister Tony Brown? Is the DoI unmanageable, unwieldy and just too big to keep under control? Former DoI Chief Executive, Ian Thompson gives us his thoughts.
Controversy and conflict undoubtedly lie ahead for Clare Barber MHK, the new Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture. Phil Gawne talks to her out about her plans for the Department and finds out how she's settling in to her new role.
Out with the old, in with the new. Following on from last week’s programme with former Chief Ministers Allan Bell and Tony Brown, this week, Phil Gawne speaks with new MHKs Andrew Smith and John Wannenburgh, highlighting the contrast between the old and new political opinions.
Phil Gawne speaks with two former Chief Ministers - Allan Bell and Tony Brown. The three of them take a look back at their highlights for 2021 and ahead to 2022 to see what the year might bring. Have they become the Grumpy Old Men of Manx Politics?!
Phil Gawne takes a look back at the year just gone and asks what seasoned journalists Alistair Ramsey and Paul Moulton made of 2021 and will they be prepared to make predictions for the coming year?
An explosive mix on this long Agenda special. Should we extract our gas and profit from it? Phil Gawne speaks to Diccen Sargent CEO of Crogga, gas extraction expert Jon Curtis, Leader of the Green Party Andrew Newton and former MHK and Crogga investor Chris Robertshaw.
Exploring the housing crisis - is it real or perceived? Phil Gawne hosts a robust exchange between retired political warrior Peter Karran and the Manx professor of detail and complicated Chris Thomas. More than just chestnuts roasting on tonight’s show!
Phil Gawne speaks to a Minister with just over two months of experience in the House of Keys. Kate Lord-Brennan though holds a very important role in the heart of government and has several years of parliamentary experience from her days in LegCo. So what’s changed with her Ministerial role, is the brighter and more radical future promised by the new House of Keys likely to be realised or is it just a naive political fantasy?
Phil Gawne speaks with the 41 year old grandfather of the House of Keys. Juan Watterson was reappointed to the role of Speaker following the election but is that the extent of his ambition? Phil scrutinises the island’s most experienced political scrutineer and tries to get answers. Young Mr Watterson is always entertaining and his fascinating insights into Manx politics are not to be missed!
This week, a round table discussion between candidates for this Thursday's bye-election for Ramsey's North Ward
Chair of the Climate Change Transformation Board, Daphne Caine MHK and Rob Mercer MLC join Phil to discuss COP 26, the impacts of climate change and the role the Isle of Man can play.
In this week's programme, Phil talks to Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Jason Moorhouse and MHK for Ayre and Michael Tim Johnston.
Phil talks to new Chief Minister Alfred Cannan on his plans for taking the Island forward in what have been - and remain to be - challenging times.
The pair discuss the election result, Peter's time in government, and his hopes for the future
In part two of this Agenda Special, Phil Gawne speaks to MHKs Daphne Caine and Chris Thomas ahead of tomorrow's big fixture - the nomination of a new Chief Minister
In part one of this Agenda Special, Phil Gawne speaks to MHKs Lawrie Hooper and Rob Callister ahead of tomorrow's big fixture - the nomination of a new Chief Minister
New MHKs Dr Michelle Haywood (Rushen) and Stu Peters (Middle) join Phil Gawne in the studio in part 1 of this hour-long special. Phil also hears the thoughts of former MLC Juan Turner
Two of the newest voices in Manx politics talk transparency, connecting with the people, and the remarkable shift in representation of women in the new House of Keys - Joney Faragher and Sarah Maltby join Phil Gawne for part two of this post-election special
The old guard links government's communication policy with the loss of four ministerial seats during last week's election, and the qualities needed for the next Chief Minister - Phil is joined by former Chief Ministers Allan Bell and Tony Brown
This week, Phil is joined by former MHK for Castletown Richard Ronan, who discusses the scope of government, the influence the civil service has on politicians, and the great importance of casting your vote this Thursday
Lord Bishop Peter Eagles is Phil Gawne's guest this week on Agenda. They discuss the role of the church in politics, in Tynwald, and in society in general; religion has significantly influenced many aspects of life in the island in the past two millennia - but has it lost its' relevance?
This week, Phil Gawne continues his discussion with MLC Kerry Sharpe, former MHKs Hazel Hannan and Eddie Teare, and Alistair Ramsey, a journalist and political commentator. They consider coverage of politics, why many people are switched off by politics, and much more
This week, Phil Gawne speaks to Douglas Councillor and Labour Party Member Devon Watson, who, despite being relatively new to politics has already developed a reputation for his very clear and forthright views on Manx politics. He discusses inequality in Manx society, local democracy being trampled on, and the the latest report by the Independent Panel on Climate Change
On Agenda this week, presenter Phil Gawne is joined by outgoing MHK Chris Robertshaw, who has a very clear view of what needs to change to make government more effective and responsive to the needs of the people. Enjoy this extended edition of the programme as a podcast
This week four experienced political commentators share their thoughts with us on what they think the top election issues will be, how Covid might impact on and after the election, and what the key election issues should be. I’m joined by Member of the Legislative Council Kerry Sharpe, former MHKs Hazel Hannan and Eddie Teare, and Alistair Ramsay - a journalist and political commentator.
A new series of Agenda starts with 'Ewan Gawne's Dad' who has taken on the mantle of presenter and producer. In this first episode, he speaks to outgoing President of Tynwald, Steve Roden about his political career and hopes for the future of the island's parliament
There’s going to be a changing of the guard at Douglas Council whatever the result of Thursday’s local elections. Seven experienced councillors have called time on their careers at the Corporation.
This edition of Agenda is brought to us by Tessa Hawley who will be reflecting on policing during the pandemic and just why the island has recorded an 18% spike in crime
The visitors come marching 2+2 with a new double jab border regime in force, but how’s it all going to work? On the show we run through the new borders and speak to police about their concurrent operation to stop drug debt collection. And the chief minster hits out at sensational reporting, but should he have lodged an official complaint?
On this episode we take a deep dive into how the first ‘closed area’ of sea bed on the Island, and possibly Europe was set up. We speak to the man who was instrumental in setting up the Port Erin closed Area, including gradually winning over the Island’s fishermen. We also hear from one of the divers who surveyed the bottom of the bay.
Why join a union? The question put to representatives of Prospect, Unite and the NASUWT on this edition of Agenda.
The man who was governor at Strangeways during the longest prison riot in British history has written an account of his career. Brendan O'Friel has published 'Prison Governor's Journal' exclusively on the Isle of Man. It charts his thirty-year career working in the Prison Service of England and Wales, and considers the impact of cell overcrowding, and offender rehabilitation.
Chief Minister Howard Quayle has announced he won't be seeking re-election this September after ten years in politics, representing his consituency of Middle. In this special edition, Alex Wotton speaks to Mr Quayle in an extended interview about his time as both MHK and chief minister.
With the third sector facing challenges like new regulations, bank charges and the impact of Covid, this week on Agenda we find out where the Council of Voluntary Organisations see the future for charities on the Island. As well as that, we find out what links are being made with Manx Care, and about a conference on the third sector due late this year.
Three new heritage sites look set to join the Island's registered buildings list, but is government doing enough to keep it updated? Campaigners say no, but DEFA says its improving. And in the second half of the show, the Manx Labour Party leader explains why she’s hoping more progressive politicians are elected this year.
Leaders of the Green Party and Liberal Vannin react to the latest budget, along with Speaker of the House of Keys Juan Watterson MHK.
There's been a rise in suicide verdicts delivered at inquests. A former politician who led a committee investigation into the issue wants to see government take action to address the troubling increase.
Meanwhile, there’s been a decade-long decline in the Island’s birth rate according to a local statistician. Paul Craine, the author of the Isle of Man ‘Population Atlas’ has been crunching the numbers to reveal the trend.
The Brexit deal could bring the Manx fishing industry the chance to catch more, and have more control over management of its waters. That’s the hope of some, with more quota to become available in the next five years as EU relinquishes some of its catch.
A medicalised approach to mental health is failing those who’ve suffered trauma in their lives, according to the director of a local charity. And the Post Office has recorded a £500k loss, but the chair of the board says finances are improving.
Will the tourism and hospitality sector recover from the cancellation of another TT? Much of the impact will depend on the type, size and location of businesses, and how finances have been managed. A Douglas hotelier explains how the loss of bookings will hit some more than others. Self-catered accommodation providers accept the decision, and say it’s a ‘mixed bag’ in terms of impact on the sector.
Those campaigning for a specialist ME service are growing frustrated with a lack of government progress on the issue. Meanwhile, similarities between illness and Long Covid have been identified, leading some to hope any new support will be able to help those with both post-viral conditions.
There’s growing interest in renewable energy installations for the home. Manx Solar Electrical talks through what’s available, improvements in battery storage, and the future for green power. Meanwhile, Manx Gas is a step closer to a new deal with government. CEO David Cruddace explains what the agreement means for customers, and about the company’s plans to offset its carbon.
Super-fast internet is going to be available for 99% of premises by the end of 2024, as Manx Telecom rolls out fibre broadband. CEO Gary Lamb explains more, and we find out why it’s led to the sudden erection of polls in a Colby estate. And a new way to help those without a job find one, and to boost business growth, has been announced.
A journalist who spent his childhood on the Isle of Man stood in a race to join local government in Washington DC last week. Peter Bolton, who ran as a member of the DC Statehood Green Party, got more than 500 votes in the election for Ward 2, losing out to the Democrats. He's described his politics as 'radical and progressive'. In an interview recorded before the results were announced, we spoke to Peter about his Manx connection, his politics and his reason for running.