Ministers face public questions at first 'Listening to You' roadshow

Ministers defend progress and outline long-term plans amid public scrutiny

The Isle of Man Government has held the first in a series of public ‘Listening to You’ roadshows, with ministers answering questions directly from residents in the north of the Island. 

In total, 64 people attended the event at Ramsey Grammar School, where the Council of Ministers responded to concerns spanning transport, immigration, housing, and healthcare:

Despite recurring themes of climate change and 20mph zones in public discussion, these topics featured minimally during the formal Q&A session. Instead, questions from the audience focused on ferry pricing, healthcare access for non-residents, and government accountability.

Chief Minister Alfred Cannan outlined government priorities including housing, security, skills development, and a £50 million efficiency programme. He reiterated that upcoming elections would not distract from delivering the administration’s strategic commitments.

Enterprise Minister Tim Johnston addressed concerns about Steam Packet fares and confirmed a tourism tax is not imminent, although it remains under consideration.

Home Affairs Minister Jane Poole-Wilson discussed identity checks within the Common Travel Area and plans to introduce facial recognition systems by 2026, while also responding to concerns about untaxed vehicles and organised crime.

Health Minister Claire Christian and Cabinet Office Minister David Ashford outlined a proposed immigration healthcare surcharge for visitors from outside the CTA, with plans to bring it before Tynwald in July.

A separate healthcare levy, which recently completed its public consultation phase, is not expected before 2027.

Questions about smartphones in schools prompted responses from Education Minister Daphne Caine and Environment Minister Clare Barber, who acknowledged broader societal concerns and the need for ongoing debate about digital habits among young people.