What we can expect in 2026

We take a look at what's promised for this year

You may have heard our News Review of 2025 on Manx Radio over the Christmas period.

We put together a round-up of all the biggest events of last year, set to a soundtrack of hits from across the last 12 months.

You can give it a listen back HERE.

But what can we expect to see making the headlines this year?

Let's take a look forward at some of the possible highlights, shall we?

FINANCIALS

Starting with financials...

We've bid goodbye (mostly) to the MiCard, but the debate continues over how it will be phased out, and what provision will look like for those without access to a bank account. 

And speaking of ongoing debates, the Island's minimum wage is set to rise in two phases this year, despite outcry from some businesses here on the Island regarding the impacts the changes will have.

Another big financial story this year is likely to be the upcoming MONEYVAL assessment, with its outcome having repercussions for the Island going forward.

STRIKE ACTION

Elsewhere, we could see bus drivers go on strike this year after Unite the Union confirmed Bus Vannin drivers voted in favour of industrial action early last month.

It's over an ongoing dispute over pay, conditions and changes to 'long-standing entitlements', with the union saying proposals from the Department of Infrastructure include reductions in established allowances and alterations to terms that members rely on. 

Updating Tynwald before the Christmas break, Infrastructure Minister Dr Michelle Haywood said talks between her department and the trade union were continuing though:

VOTING TIME

Love an election? 2026 is your year!

It's a big year for the Island politically - as we'll head to the polls in September to welcome in a new crop of MHKs.

The general election is scheduled to take place on Thursday 24 September, when voters in all 12 constituencies will choose two members each to sit in the House of Keys, the elected branch of Tynwald.

But what will be the big topics for you on the doorstep?

Douglas Central MHK Chris Thomas reckons it'll be energy security:

In the meantime, what should the current MHKs be focussing on?

We asked you back in September last year:

CULTURE

Culturally, the big topic this year will likely be us marking the Year of the Manx Language.

Blein ny Gaelgey is a year-long programme featuring concerts, events, workshops, educational projects, and cultural experiences across the Island and internationally.

Hosted by Jeebin - the Manx Language Network - and Culture Vannin, there'll be a whole host of events on offer.

Back at the launch event, Chief Minister Alfred Cannan was asked why it's important - from a government perspective - to support things like this:

PROJECTS

Work to upgrade the wastewater works at Kewaigue is set to restart early this year. 

Manx Utilities hopes to have it all completed by May, before the start of the TT.

Work is continuing out west at the site of the new Peel sewage treatment works, and current plans for a treatment works at Axnfell Plantation in Garff appear to be progressing too.

Here's Garff MHK Daphne Caine, who says the only matters that have been raised to her about the works are about improving public access and amenity:

Looking south, this time last year we told you not to hold your breath regarding the breaking of ground for the elusive new Castle Rushen High School... and we're here this January with the same message.

Even with funding secured back in 2024 for the development of plans, as of December, the project was still at the design stage.

The DESC now says it plans to appeal for expressions of interest for the design and build contractor before appointing them in February.

The Guaranteed Maximum Price is hoped to be agreed by early April, before a planning application is submitted later that month.

All going well, the plans will be brought to Tynwald in June and, if supported, work could start on the site in the summer - but like we said, we'll wait and see on that one.

As for wind farms, a meeting, which will set out the timetable and process for the examination of the Mooir Vannin Offshore Wind Farm application, will be held on Tuesday 3 March.

SPORT

Sports fan? There's a whole host of things to look forward to this year.

The usual suspects will be back; with the TT (25 May - 6 June), Parish Walk (20 June), Southern 100 and Manx Grand Prix and Classic TT (16 August 28 August) all lined up in our calendars this summer.

It's also a Commonwealth Games year!

In a change from previous events, the new-look games taking place in Glasgow in 2026 will feature ten sports, down from the 19 seen in Birmingham back in 2022.

Despite this, the Isle of Man Commonwealth Games Association (IOMCGA) is anticipating the total amount of contenders they can take could be 'in the mid-20's'.

Erica Bellhouse is from Team Isle of Man:

Good luck to all of those flying the flag for the Isle of Man!