Tax, built heritage and Steam Packet to be discussed in Tynwald

March sitting gets underway this morning

The Island Plan and government’s tax strategy will both be debated by Tynwald members this week.

After the 24 question paper is completed, Chief Minister Alfred Cannan will ask members to approve the updated version of his vision for the development of his administration.

Since the Budget last month, Mr Cannan been subject to a deal of criticism over the fiscal direction in which he and Treasury Minister Dr Alex Allinson are taking the Island, including talk of a vote of no confidence in the Council of Ministers - a threat that has seemingly evaporated.

These two motions, tax and the Island plan, will give members the chance to voice their concerns.

A lengthy debate is likely when the Isle of Man Electoral Commission puts forward a number of recommendations, including affirming that constituencies should be of equal size by population and that the existing 12 two-seat seat Keys constituencies be retained. 

Another says the Clerk of Tynwald should report on awareness campaigns aimed at new residents and people with English as a second language and on how much this would cost.

Tynwald could also see the return of former MLC Marlene Maska, who will give evidence at the bar on the final report of the Tynwald Built Heritage Committee if members agree to her appearing. 

The Committee has 19 recommendations including that all demolition should be classed as development, but there will be amendments put forward by the Council of Ministers.

The question paper that starts off the session includes queries on the Steam Packet, including details of back up vessels between November last year and this month and on leasing terms for the Liverpool Ferry Terminal, as well as a question on the Ben-my-Chree’s air pollution certificate.

Topics of other questions include access to school buses, whether the Prison is reaching capacity, an update on school relationship and sex education, progressing cattle through the Meat Plant, the lifespan of the Pulrose Power Station and Douglas City Council's Housing Development Strategy.

The March sitting of Tynwald gets underway at 10am. You can follow coverage live on Manx Radio's AM 1368 frequency, on DAB, online, on smartphone app or smart devices.