MHK calls for urgent HoK sitting to discuss connectivity issues

Edge says it should be 'top priority' for Island

An Onchan MHK is calling for an extra sitting of the House of Keys to be organised so issues with connectivity can be discussed.

Julie Edge says she’s written to a number of her political colleagues saying ‘urgent’ action is needed.

It follows recent disruption to the Island’s public transport network – after numerous bus routes were cancelled – and issues with sailings and flight cancellations.

Ms Edge says connectivity should be ‘one of our top priorities as an Island’ and has questioned why the Manannan has been able to sail when the Manxman could not.

On X she asked: “Where is our chief minister – the public need action, answers and solutions to restore services to levels pre-Manxman.”

CONNECTIVITY-should be one of our top priorities as an Island- how can the Mannanan sail but not the Manxman our main supply boat? Where is our Chief Minster the public need action, answers and solutions, to restore services to levels pre-Manxman. @alfredcannan @BBCIsleofMan https://t.co/J8TUYw9ypa

— Julie Edge -for Onchan its people &🇮🇲 (@VOTEJulieEdge) September 10, 2024

The Steam Packet has since published a 'blog' aiming to explain the reason for the cancellation of some services. 

You can read it HERE.

Her constituency colleague Rob Callister says he will support an extra sitting of the House of Keys if it means the chief minister will ‘get a grip of the situation’.

He claims issues with connectivity are ‘damaging business and what is left of our tourism economy’ adding confidence is ‘at an all-time low’ and ‘urgent improvements are necessary’.  

Mr Callister says if the infrastructure minister and enterprise minister cannot ‘effectively address the urgent need for improved connectivity’ then the chief minister ‘must take responsibility’.

Manx Radio has made repeated attempts to seek clarity on the bus situation from the DoI following the cancellation of bus services at the weekend and reports that drivers had ‘walked out’.

We are still waiting for a response.

Manx Radio has also invited Chief Minister Alfred Cannan to respond.

The next sitting of the House of Keys is due to take place on 22 October.