Pensions, pier and KSF in Tynwald

Some lively debate is expected at the first sitting of Tynwald in 2009, which gets underway this morning.

Items on the order paper include the proposed restructuring of public service pensions, the latest report on Ramsey's Queen's Pier, and the Early Payment Scheme for depositors with Kaupthing Singer and Friedlander Isle of Man.

Chief Minister Tony Brown will give a progress report on the pensions issue, with a public consultation - on the planned consolidation of 16 existing arrangements into a single scheme - due to start next month.

Rushen MHK Phil Gawne will present a report with recommendations which could finally decide what happens to the Queen's Pier.

His working group is suggesting the Victorian structure should either be refurbished by government, refurbished as part of a private sector marina development or demolished.

Tynwald will also be asked to approve an early payment of £1,000 to eligible depositors with Kaupthing Singer and Friedlander Isle of Man.

Before all that there is a question paper to consider, with 34 items, 23 of which are for oral answer.

Topics include the Langness footpaths, the possibility of a second casino licence being granted, the Commonwealth Youth Games, due to be held in the Island in 2011, and the current kerbside collection scheme in Douglas, Onchan and Braddan.

You can hear the whole sitting live on Manx Radio's AM1368 frequency, from 10.30 this morning.

(Picture: The public entrance at the front of the legislative buildings in Douglas, from manxscenes.com).