Although there are gaps to be filled following the KPMG Economic Strategy Report, deliberations of the Climate Change Transformation Board and others, Liberal Vannin broadly welcomes the final version of Our Island Plan, subject to Tynwald approval:
Our Island Plan 2021-2026 – Cabinet Office of the Isle of Man Government – Citizen Space
It covers many of the issues that we have campaigned to have included. Particularly:
- Support for businesses and job opportunities;
- A commitment to have the Manx legal minimum wage align with the Manx Living Wage by April 2025;
- Reducing waiting times for health care;
- A focus on roads maintenance with local community input;
- Improving support for first-time buyers
Although Liberal Vannin support this administration’s plan, we will continue to scrutinise and hold our government to account where necessary. We are concerned for instance that the re-introduction of the Animal Welfare Bill may turn out to be just a re-hash of the totally inadequate bill that was withdrawn last year. An “enabling bill” is not sufficient. It must deliver real and immediate improvements to animal welfare on the Island; for wildlife and livestock, not just for companion animals. We are also anxious to see real progress on climate change mitigation measures, with a clear and affordable action plan presented to Tynwald as a matter of urgency.
We regret that the Island’s electorate have not had and will not get an opportunity to have a direct say on “Our” Island Plan. Stronger support for candidates from political parties with clear policy objectives, such as Liberal Vannin, would provide a clearer mandate for an administration’s Programme for Government.