'Overwhelming support' from local authorities for free period products says Douglas MHK

Joney Faragher says most have been worried about potential cost of the scheme

A Douglas East MHK says she’s had ‘overwhelming support’ from local authorities with her free period products bill.

Joney Faragher has been speaking to various commissioners and councils about the proposed legislation and how it would affect their operations, which includes public toilets.

The commissioners raised concerns about anti-social behaviour in the facilities, stockpiling and monitoring the items.  

Ms Faragher said she had spoken to Argyll and Bute Council who confirmed to her that often these issues occur in the early stages of the scheme being introduced before slowing down. 

She added that University College Isle of Man trialled the project, and said stockpiling was happening until it was realised the supplies were being restocked. 

The commissioners said they had looked into vending machines with timers and other mechanisms to prevent people abusing the provision - however Ms Faragher said she was confident people wouldn't do this. 

Ms Faragher says one of the key concerns for local authorities was the cost of the scheme, but she said these would be borne by central government. 

Local Democracy Reporter Emma Draper has been speaking to her: