Ministers face packed hall as government roadshow heads south

Castle Rushen event draws largest turnout yet, with questions on schools, housing and 20mph zones

The Isle of Man Government’s third ‘Listening to You’ roadshow drew its biggest audience so far, as ministers faced a packed hall at Castle Rushen High School in the south of the Island.

Officials recorded 97 attendees, with wide-ranging questions covering everything from housing and education to renewable energy and the ongoing debate over 20mph speed limits:

Chief Minister Alfred Cannan opened the session by acknowledging the economic and demographic challenges facing the Island, urging the need to build a sustainable future for the next generation while safeguarding existing assets and values.

There was substantial interest focused on the long-awaited redevelopment of Castle Rushen High School.

Education Minister Daphne Caine confirmed the project is beginning to see movements:

Infrastructure Minister Michelle Haywood added that spades could be in the ground by summer 2026.

Public feeling was strong on the proposed 20mph zones, which were described by one attendee as a “significant attack on our quality of life.”

In response, ministers reiterated that the proposal had been instructed by Tynwald and remained subject to public consultation. Dr Haywood explained that objections would be reviewed thoroughly, with roads reevaluated on a case-by-case basis.

The topic of renewable energy also drew sharp criticism, particularly over proposed onshore wind farms. The chief minister clarified that when he referred to such projects as “cheaper and easier”, this referred solely to infrastructure and maintenance costs – not community impact. He acknowledged the upset caused and but stressed the need for a more secure, low-carbon future.

Representatives from the Cair Vie Resistance group were displaying banners outside the school, its spokesperson is Kirrie Jenkins:

On housing, Treasury Minister Alex Allinson said current legislation failed to discourage long-term disrepair of empty homes and confirmed plans were underway to incentivise redevelopment through changes to the rating system.

Cabinet Office Minister David Ashford added that a review of local authority powers was a priority. Both ministers stressed the importance of accelerating affordable housing delivery, citing nearly 180 homes delivered since the start of the administration, and a target of 100 new homes a year.

Manx Care’s achievements were also raised, with Health Minister Claire Christian highlighting improved access to services through the MCALS system, new nurse training programmes, and a £4 million commitment to support mental health services.

The event also featured questions on energy efficiency, National Insurance sustainability, and government-wide cost-saving efforts. Ministers said efficiency programmes were in progress, with plans to reduce headcount, assess underused assets, and gather public suggestions for savings.

The fourth and final roadshow in the series takes place at Queen Elizabeth II High School, Peel, from 5.30pm.