Tynwald members share views on local authority reform

General debate led by David Ashford MHK

Tynwald members have debated the way local authorities work on the Island.

Douglas North MHK David Ashford opened the debate, which he called for, by sharing his stance:

Mr Ashford explained why he thinks change to the current system is needed:

Members were largely in agreement that local authorities need to change, but differences in the way this could be achieved were vocalised.

Among the members supporting a "4+1" approach, where there would be five local authorities: North, South, East, West and Douglas - were Tim Glover MHK, Claire Christian MHK and Marlene Maska MLC:

MHK for Ayre and Michael, Tim Johnston, raised the impassioned thoughts of a rural commissioner he'd consulted from the North of the Island in support of the current set up of local authorities:

Ramsey MHK Lawrie Hooper said the numbers aren't a priority of his:

Rushen member and former Chair of Port St Mary Commissioners Michelle Haywood questioned the role local democracy plays on the Island:

The debate wasn't an opportunity for members to reach a conclusion on these matters, but David Ashford said it would support his work on bringing forward a future motion.