Final government roadshow ends with focus on AI, housing and efficiencies

Peel event draws 66 attendees as ministers look to future workforce and technology challenges

The Isle of Man Government concluded its four-part ‘Listening to You’ public roadshow series with an event in Peel, which saw 66 residents gathered at Queen Elizabeth II High School to question ministers on topics ranging from public spending and housing to migration and artificial intelligence.

Chief Minister Alfred Cannan said the government remained committed to achieving £50 million in savings over five years through a targeted efficiencies programme. He acknowledged rising healthcare costs and a shrinking working-age population as key pressures, highlighting the need to grow the economy while maintaining a competitive tax structure.

Treasury Minister Alex Allinson reinforced the drive for financial discipline across, pointing to early interventions to prevent overspending and outlined savings made through digital modernisation.

Minister without Portfolio Tim Crookall said more £6 million had been saved in the past decade following 100 new systems, with further progress expected as artificial intelligence is gradually adopted across the public sector.

The potential impact of AI was a recurring theme, with concerns raised about its effect on the workforce.

Mr Cannan said attracting new residents and businesses would be key, noting a growing interest from individuals looking to leave the UK. Ministers also confirmed that natural staff attrition is being used to reduce headcount, and that underused government buildings are under review as part of asset streamlining.

Housing remained a core concern, particularly among young people considering whether to return to the Island after studying elsewhere. Dr Allinson and Cabinet Office Minister David Ashford reiterated the government’s commitment to building 100 affordable homes a year over the next decade, with more than 120 already in the pipeline for 2027. Affordable childcare and long-term housing availability were also identified as central to population retention.

On migration, ministers rejected the suggestion that the Island is at risk of being “swamped”, stressing that the Island has no asylum policy, strict visa requirements, and a migration strategy focused on attracting skilled workers. Home Affairs Minister Jane Poole-Wilson said there is no evidence of immigration fraud or asylum-related pressures on the Island.

A current student raised concerns over limited space at QEII High School’s sixth form, prompting an update from Education Minister Daphne Caine, who confirmed that design work on a new STEM block is nearing completion. She expressed hope a funding bid could be submitted by the end of the administration.

The roadshow concluded with questions on oil dependency, compulsory gas extraction, and the government's renewable energy strategy.

Environment Minister Clare Barber said new fossil fuel licences would not be issued and that renewables remained key to reducing the Island’s exposure to volatile global markets.

Surprisingly, the health service did not feature as prominently as one might have expected across the four roadshows, with relatively few questions focused on Manx Care or wider healthcare provision during Q&A sessions despite ongoing pressures within the system.

Health Minister Claire Christian spoke with Christian Jones: