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Manifesto

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MANIFESTO FOR A FAIRER, STRONGER ISLAND

PUTTING OUR COMMUNITY FIRST
 

For too long, the people of this Island have been promised change while facing rising costs, failing services, and growing frustration. We are seeing young people leave because they cannot afford homes, families struggling to access healthcare, and infrastructure that no longer meets the needs of our communities.
 

This manifesto is about practical solutions, accountability, and restoring confidence in government. It is about ensuring that ordinary people — not bureaucracy, consultants, or special interests — are at the centre of decision-making once again

MANX SOLUTIONS TO MANX PROBLEMS

Housing

Housing: Making Home Ownership and Affordable Living Possible
 

The housing crisis has worsened significantly over recent years, despite repeated promises to fix it. Affordable housing remains out of reach for many working people, young families, and first-time buyers.

The reality is simple:
 

  • Rents are too high

  • Deposits are too difficult to save for

  • Current support schemes are outdated and ineffective

  • Social housing waiting lists continue to grow
     

This is driving young people off the Island and making it harder to attract and retain working-age families and skilled workers.
 

My Commitments
 

A New First-Time Buyer Bond Scheme
 

I will push for a government-backed investment bond scheme to create a dedicated Housing Fund.

This fund would:
 

  • Help first-time buyers with deposits

  • Allow residents to invest in the Island’s future

  • Give government a return on investment

  • Provide security through shared equity until loans are repaid
     

This would create a practical pathway onto the property ladder for people currently locked out of the market.
 

More Social and Affordable Housing
 

We must dramatically increase investment in social and affordable housing across the Island, including in the West.

I will support:
 

  • Faster delivery of new social housing developments

  • Greater provision for single people, who are currently disadvantaged by the system

  • Better movement pathways for tenants wanting to transition into home ownership


Stronger Planning Rules for Developers


Developers must contribute more meaningfully to solving the housing crisis.  I believe:
 

  • New developments should contain significantly higher percentages of affordable and social housing

  • Those percentages should not later be reduced after planning approval

  • Planning authorities must use the powers they already have to put communities first
     

The needs of residents must come before developer convenience.

Health and Social Care

Health and Social Care: Putting Patients Before Management
 

Healthcare should be one of the Island’s greatest strengths. Instead, too many residents are facing:
 

  • Long waiting times

  • Difficulty seeing GPs

  • Limited access to NHS dentists

  • Increasing frustration with services that feel disconnected and overstretched
     

Frontline staff are working incredibly hard, but they are being failed by poor systems and ineffective management.
 

A Full Review of Manx Healthcare
 

The current structure is not delivering for patients or staff.
 

I will push for:
 

  • A comprehensive review of how the healthcare system operates

  • Direct consultation with frontline workers, patients, carers, and families

  • Less reliance on outside consultants

  • Practical reforms focused on efficiency and patient outcomes
     

Throwing more money at broken systems without meaningful reform is not sustainable.
 

Smarter and More Efficient Care
 

There are many examples of waste and inefficient working practices within the current system.
 

We need:
 

  • Better use of technology, including remote consultations where appropriate

  • Joined-up GP and hospital systems

  • Greater flexibility in patient care decisions

  • Less “tick-box” management and more common-sense decision making
     

It is unacceptable that hospital and GP systems still struggle to communicate effectively in modern healthcare.
 

Fairer Long-Term Care
 

The current approach to long-term care funding is simply not fair.

People who worked hard and saved throughout their lives should not be disproportionately penalised.
 

I will support:
 

  • A fairer funding model for long-term care

  • Greater support for families caring for loved ones

  • Exploring future community care facilities in the West
     

The loss of the Corrin Memorial Home left a major gap in local care provision, and we must look seriously at how facilities like this could once again serve our communities.

The Economy

Building a Stronger Economy for the Isle of Man
 

The Isle of Man faces significant economic challenges. If we are to maintain our public services, invest in our future, and protect our quality of life, we must create a stronger and more sustainable economy.
 

Economic growth is not an option—it is a necessity. However, growth must be carefully planned, properly managed, and designed to benefit the people who already call the Isle of Man home.
 

My priority is to build an economy that attracts investment, creates opportunities, strengthens public finances, and ensures that future generations can prosper without facing ever-increasing taxes and declining public services.
 

Sustainable Population and Workforce Growth
 

To sustain current levels of public expenditure and support economic growth, the Island needs more economically active workers.

However, population growth must be accompanied by sensible planning and a clear understanding of the impact on housing, healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
 

I support a workforce strategy that focuses on attracting people whose skills, experience, and economic contribution will help strengthen our Island.
 

I will advocate for:
 

  • A comprehensive review of the work permit system.

  • Immigration policies that focus on filling genuine skills shortages.  Closing loopholes so we don't create a "back door" route and the lost revenue that comes with it.

  • Workforce planning that aligns with housing, healthcare, and education capacity.

  • Greater emphasis on attracting skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and innovators.

  • Policies that maximise economic contribution while protecting public services.
     

Economic growth should be sustainable, strategic, and beneficial for the whole community.
 

Fair Contributions and Sustainable Public Services
 

As our population grows and visitor numbers increase, we must ensure that public services are properly funded and protected.  Healthcare, in particular, faces increasing pressures, and it is essential that systems are in place to recover costs where appropriate and ensure that services remain sustainable for residents.
 

I believe Government should examine successful models used elsewhere and explore practical ways of ensuring healthcare-related costs are properly administered and recovered where applicable.
 

This is not about creating barriers to visitors or workers; it is about ensuring that our healthcare system remains fair, resilient, and financially sustainable for those who rely upon it.
 

Tackling the Cost-of-Living Crisis
 

Across the Island, families are facing increasing financial pressure.

Rising energy costs, higher household bills, and increasing day-to-day expenses have left many people struggling to make ends meet. The growing reliance on food banks and community support services demonstrates that too many residents feel left behind.
 

The answer cannot simply be higher taxes.
 

I believe Government must focus on growing the economy, improving efficiency, and creating opportunities rather than continually asking residents to bear a greater financial burden.
 

My priorities include:
 

  • Supporting measures that reduce the cost of living for working families.

  • Encouraging competition and innovation to help reduce costs.

  • Growing the Island's economy to strengthen public finances.

  • Protecting vulnerable households from unnecessary financial hardship.

  • Ensuring taxation remains fair and proportionate.
     

The people of the Isle of Man should not be expected to pay more and receive less.
 

Delivering a More Efficient Government
 

Government must lead by example when it comes to value for money.

The public rightly expects their taxes to be spent efficiently, transparently, and responsibly. As financial pressures continue to grow, every department and public body must be prepared to demonstrate that resources are being used effectively.
 

I will support:
 

  • A comprehensive review of Government efficiency and expenditure.

  • Greater accountability across departments and public bodies.

  • Reducing unnecessary bureaucracy and duplication.

  • Ensuring public spending is focused on frontline services and essential infrastructure.

  • Long-term financial planning that prioritises sustainability over short-term fixes.
     

A healthy economy cannot rely solely on public-sector expansion. We must create an environment where private enterprise, innovation, and investment can thrive.
 

Attracting Investment and Creating Opportunity
 

The Isle of Man has many strengths: political stability, a skilled workforce, an excellent quality of life, and a strong international reputation. Yet we are not fully capitalising on these advantages.
 

We need a fresh approach to economic development that focuses on attracting high-value industries, encouraging entrepreneurship, and creating opportunities for local businesses to grow.
 

I will advocate for:
 

  • A review of current economic development strategies to ensure they are delivering measurable results.

  • Policies that attract innovative businesses and high-skilled employment.

  • Greater support for local entrepreneurs and small businesses.

  • Learning from the success of other island economies and jurisdictions that have successfully attracted investment and created sustainable growth.

  • A clear long-term economic strategy focused on resilience, diversification, and prosperity.
     

While I strongly believe in finding Manx solutions to Manx challenges, we should never be afraid to learn from successful examples elsewhere and adapt those ideas to suit our Island's needs.
 

Prioritising Essential Infrastructure
 

Before committing to major non-essential capital projects, Government must ensure that the foundations of our Island are strong.
 

Residents expect functioning healthcare services, reliable infrastructure, affordable housing, quality education, and effective public services. These essentials must take priority.
 

I will support a more disciplined approach to capital spending that focuses on:
 

  • Critical infrastructure improvements.

  • Essential public services.

  • Projects that deliver measurable long-term value.

  • Responsible management of public finances.
     

The priority must be fixing what is not working before embarking on costly new projects.
 

A Stronger Future for the Isle of Man
 

The Isle of Man has enormous potential, but unlocking that potential requires leadership, ambition, and a willingness to make difficult decisions.
 

My vision is for an Island that attracts investment, supports enterprise, manages public money responsibly, and creates opportunities for future generations.
 

By growing our economy, improving efficiency, supporting local businesses, and focusing on essential priorities, we can build a more prosperous, resilient, and sustainable future for everyone who calls the Isle of Man home.

Infrastructure




Infrastructure: Reliable Services and Smarter Spending
 

Infrastructure affects every part of daily life — from roads and transport to our ports and airport.
 

We need practical improvements, not endless layers of management and costly inefficiency.
 

Ports and Borders
 

Our Island’s port and airport are essential to our economy and security.
 

I support:
 

  • Proper oversight and checks at our ports

  • Practical border monitoring to protect the Island from criminal exploitation

  • Improving confidence in our transport gateways
     

This can be achieved sensibly and proportionately without excessive spending.
 

Improving the Airport
 

The airport should provide visitors and residents with confidence, efficiency, and reliability.
 

I will support:
 

  • Continued improvements to air traffic control systems

  • Better operational management

  • Reduced delays and cancellations

  • Making the airport a positive first impression of the Island

      Roads and Maintenance
 

Too many roads across the Island, particularly in Glenfaba and Peel, have been neglected for years.


I believe we need:
 

  • A long-term Island wide road improvement programme

  • More frontline workers delivering repairs and maintenance

  • Less reliance on expensive outsourcing contracts

  • Fewer management layers and more investment in actual delivery staff


Taxpayers deserve quality work that lasts.
 

Smarter Public Transport
 

Public transport must serve communities effectively — especially rural and remote areas.
 

I support:
 

  • A more flexible and targeted bus network

  • Smaller buses on lightly used daytime routes

  • Better use of passenger data to improve efficiency

  • Reinstating a direct College bus service for students in the West
     

Public services should be designed around the needs of users, not bureaucracy.

Environment, Sustainability and Common-Sense Green Policies

Protecting our environment is important, but environmental policy must be based on common sense, transparency, and affordability. I believe we have a responsibility to care for our Island, reduce waste, and leave a better environment for future generations. However, I do not believe that pursuing Net Zero targets at any cost should take precedence over the needs of our residents, our economy, or our public services.
 

The Isle of Man needs practical environmental solutions that work for our community—not expensive policies that burden taxpayers while delivering little measurable benefit.

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Better Recycling, Less Waste, and Fairer Disposal Costs

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Many residents already do their part. We recycle, reuse, reduce waste, and support initiatives that prevent unnecessary landfill and food waste. The problem is not a lack of public willingness; it is a lack of effective Government infrastructure and support.

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For too long, residents have been encouraged to recycle and dispose of waste responsibly while facing excessive disposal charges and limited opportunities for reuse. In some cases, these costs have had the unintended consequence of encouraging fly-tipping and illegal dumping.

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I will campaign for:

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  • A full review of waste disposal and recycling charges.

  • Improved reuse and refurbishment facilities at Island amenity sites.

  • Greater transparency about what happens to recyclable materials after collection.

  • Practical measures to reduce fly-tipping by making responsible disposal more accessible and affordable.

  • Investment in a circular economy that prioritises reuse before disposal.

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I am particularly concerned that Manx residents already pay twice when disposing of electrical goods. We already contribute through Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) charges included in the purchase price of many products, yet additional charges can still apply when those items are disposed of on the Island.

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This is not fair. I will seek to explore mechanisms that allow the Isle of Man to benefit more effectively from existing producer responsibility schemes, reducing costs for residents and creating a disposal system that is both environmentally responsible and financially fair.

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Transparency and Accountability in Energy Policy

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I support renewable energy and reducing our environmental impact. However, any major energy project must be judged on one simple question: does it genuinely benefit the people of the Isle of Man?

At present, I do not support the proposed offshore wind farm development in its current form.

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The proposal raises significant questions regarding costs, long-term benefits, environmental impact, and public transparency. Despite years of discussion, residents are still being asked to support a project without having access to all the information needed to make an informed judgement.

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The people of the Isle of Man deserve clear answers:

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  • What are the guaranteed financial benefits?

  • How will residents benefit directly?

  • Will energy costs be reduced?

  • What are the long-term environmental and economic implications?

  • What protections are in place for our marine environment and heritage?

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Until these questions are fully answered, I do not believe the project has earned public support.  No business would sign a contract without understanding its terms. Government should be held to the same standard.

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An Energy Strategy Designed for the Isle of Man

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I also believe it is time to reconsider whether large-scale onshore wind developments remain the best solution for our Island.

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Technology has advanced significantly since many of these proposals were first conceived. Rather than relying on outdated models, we should be examining the latest innovations and developing an energy strategy tailored specifically to the Isle of Man's needs.

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I want to see Government explore:

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  • Greater support for domestic and community solar generation.

  • Incentives for households to install renewable technologies.

  • Investment in modern energy storage solutions.

  • Emerging clean-energy technologies that offer better value and lower environmental impact.

  • Smarter use of local generation to strengthen energy security and resilience.

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If Government wishes to pursue environmental targets, the benefits should flow directly to residents and communities—not simply to large external corporations.

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A Balanced Approach to Net Zero

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The Isle of Man contributes only a tiny fraction of global carbon emissions. That does not mean we should ignore environmental responsibility, but it does mean we must be realistic about the costs and consequences of the decisions we make. I will always support sensible measures that improve our environment, reduce waste, and strengthen our energy resilience. What I will not support is placing unsustainable financial burdens on residents or committing the Island to costly projects that fail to deliver clear benefits.
 

Environmental responsibility and economic responsibility must go hand in hand.
 

My approach is straightforward:
 

  • Protect our environment.

  • Support practical and affordable green solutions.

  • Demand transparency from Government.

  • Put residents before corporate interests.

  • Deliver policies that work for the Isle of Man.
     

Together, we can build a cleaner, greener future without compromising the prosperity, independence, and quality of life that make our Island special.

Education

Education, Opportunity and Investing in Our Future
 

Education is the single most important investment we can make in the future of the Isle of Man. Every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless of their background, ability, or circumstances. If we fail to provide strong foundations for our young people, we cannot expect to build a successful future for our Island.
 

My priorities are simple: provide properly funded schools, support children with additional needs, create real pathways into employment, and ensure that local talent is developed and retained for the benefit of our community.
 

Supporting Every Child to Succeed
 

As the aunt of children with disabilities, I understand the importance of creating an Island that is truly inclusive. Inclusion should not stop at the classroom door. We must ensure that children of all abilities have access to suitable recreational facilities, opportunities, and community spaces.
 

I will support:
 

  • More inclusive public play areas across the Island.

  • Investment in accessible and specialist play equipment.

  • Greater consideration of the needs of children with disabilities in community planning and development.

  • Policies that ensure all children can participate fully in Island life.
     

Every child deserves the opportunity to play, learn, and thrive.
 

Delivering Better Support for Special Educational Needs
 

Children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) deserve support that is tailored to their individual circumstances and designed around achieving the best possible outcomes.  While inclusion should remain an important principle, we must be willing to have an honest conversation about whether current arrangements are always delivering the best educational experience for every child.
 

I believe we need a comprehensive review of SEN provision across the Island, including:
 

  • Whether current staffing levels are sufficient to meet demand.

  • Whether schools are receiving adequate funding to support children with additional needs.

  • Whether existing integrated models are achieving the best outcomes for pupils.

  • Whether specialist hubs or centres of excellence could provide more effective support in some circumstances.
     

The priority must always be what is best for the child. Inclusion should never become a box-ticking exercise if alternative approaches would better support a child's educational development, wellbeing, and long-term success.
 

Properly Funding Our Schools
 

Schools are increasingly being asked to do more with less.  Teachers and support staff are working tirelessly to support children with a wide range of educational, social, and language needs, often within budgets that fail to reflect the realities they face.
 

Growing numbers of pupils requiring additional support, including children with Special Educational Needs and those for whom English is not their first language, place additional demands on already stretched resources.
 

I will campaign for:
 

  • Fairer and more responsive school funding.

  • Budget allocations that reflect changing pupil needs.

  • Investment in qualified support staff and specialist services.

  • Greater flexibility for schools to respond to local challenges.

  • Long-term education funding that prioritises outcomes over short-term savings.
     

Education should never be viewed as an area for cost-cutting. The success of our future workforce depends on the investment we make today.
 

Taking a Stronger Stand Against Bullying
 

Every child has the right to feel safe at school.
 

Bullying can have devastating consequences that last well into adulthood, affecting confidence, mental health, educational attainment, and future opportunities.
 

I believe schools need a stronger and more consistent approach to tackling bullying across the Island.
 

I will support:
 

  • A robust Island-wide anti-bullying policy.

  • Consistent standards and procedures across all schools.

  • Stronger accountability for persistent offenders.

  • Greater support for victims and their families.

  • Early intervention programmes to address behavioural issues before they escalate.
     

No child should feel unsafe in their place of education, and victims should never be the ones disadvantaged by the actions of others.
 

Expanding Apprenticeships and Vocational Pathways
 

Not every young person wishes to follow a traditional university route, and our economy depends upon a skilled workforce across a wide range of practical professions.
 

The Isle of Man faces ongoing shortages in skilled trades and essential occupations, including construction, engineering, agriculture, care work, healthcare support, hospitality, beauty services, and vehicle maintenance.

I believe apprenticeships and vocational training should be treated as equal in value and importance to academic qualifications.
 

I will support:
 

  • Increased funding for apprenticeship programmes.

  • Stronger incentives for employers to take on apprentices.

  • Clear and accessible pathways from school into vocational careers.

  • Greater support for mature learners and those returning to work.

  • Assistance with training costs and barriers such as childcare where appropriate.

     

A stronger apprenticeship system will help fill skills shortages, reduce dependency on imported labour, and create more opportunities for local people to build rewarding careers.
 

Developing Local Talent for Essential Public Services
 

The Isle of Man must become better at training, retaining, and supporting its own workforce, particularly in critical sectors such as healthcare.

We should be investing directly in local students who are willing to commit their skills and expertise to serving our community.
 

I will advocate for:
 

  • Fully funded degree programmes for priority professions, including medicine, dentistry, nursing, and other essential healthcare disciplines.

  • Service agreements requiring graduates who receive public funding to work within the Isle of Man's healthcare system for a defined period after qualification.

  • Long-term workforce planning to reduce reliance on overseas recruitment.

  • Greater support for local students pursuing careers in public service.
     

This approach would create a sustainable pipeline of locally trained professionals, strengthen our healthcare system, and provide life-changing opportunities for Manx students.
 

Building Strong Foundations for the Future
 

The Isle of Man has outstanding young people, dedicated teachers, and excellent educational institutions. What is needed now is a commitment to provide the resources, opportunities, and long-term planning necessary to unlock their full potential.
 

By investing in education, supporting apprenticeships, strengthening Special Educational Needs provision, and developing local talent, we can create a stronger, more resilient Island that is better prepared for the future.
 

Because when we invest in our children and young people, we invest in the future success of the Isle of Man itself.

Policing

Safer Communities and Stronger Policing

 

Every resident deserves to feel safe in their home, their neighbourhood, and their community. Effective policing is one of the most important public services we rely upon, and maintaining public confidence in law enforcement must remain a priority.
 

The Isle of Man is a fantastic place to live, work, and raise a family. That is why I believe we need to take a closer look at why we continue to face challenges recruiting and retaining police officers, despite offering a unique policing environment and an exceptional quality of life.

Strengthening Police Recruitment and Retention
 

Our police service plays a vital role in protecting communities across the Island, yet recruitment and retention remain ongoing challenges.

I believe Government must work closely with the Constabulary to identify the barriers preventing suitable candidates from choosing a policing career on the Isle of Man and develop practical solutions to address them.
 

I will support:
 

  • A review of police recruitment and retention strategies.

  • Measures to make policing an attractive long-term career.

  • Greater support for officer wellbeing and professional development.

  • Workforce planning that ensures the Constabulary has the resources needed to meet future demands.

  • Efforts to attract experienced officers and new recruits who are committed to serving Island communities.
     

A well-resourced and motivated police force is essential to maintaining public safety and confidence.
 

Bringing Back Community Policing
 

Residents across the West have raised concerns about anti-social behaviour, vandalism, and criminal damage in their communities.

As someone who has personally experienced the impact of anti-social behaviour and property damage, I understand the frustration felt by many residents who are left to deal with the financial and emotional consequences of these incidents.
 

I believe we need a renewed focus on visible community policing.
 

I will advocate for:
 

  • Increased neighbourhood patrols in communities across the West.

  • A stronger visible police presence in known problem areas.

  • Greater engagement between police officers and local residents.

  • Early intervention measures to tackle anti-social behaviour before it escalates.

  • Improved responsiveness to community concerns and local crime trends.
     

Visible policing not only helps detect crime—it helps prevent it.

Protecting Peel and Our Local Communities

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I believe more can be done to protect residents and deter criminal behaviour.
 

I will support:
 

  • A review of CCTV coverage in key public areas where crime and anti-social behaviour are regularly reported.

  • Investment in modern crime-prevention measures where they can deliver clear benefits.

  • Closer cooperation between local authorities, residents, and the police to identify problem areas.

  • Stronger action against repeat offenders who negatively impact our communities.

     

Communities have the right to expect that reasonable steps are being taken to prevent crime and protect public spaces.
 

Improving Local Access to Policing
 

Residents should have confidence that they can access police support when they need it.  Concerns have been raised about the accessibility of local policing services outside standard office hours, particularly in the West. While operational decisions must remain with the Constabulary, it is important that local concerns are heard and addressed.
 

I will work with residents, local representatives, and the police to explore ways of improving public confidence in local policing services and ensuring that communities feel supported and connected to those responsible for keeping them safe.
 

Putting Communities First
 

A safe community is the foundation of a strong community.

By supporting police recruitment, strengthening neighbourhood policing, tackling anti-social behaviour, and ensuring local concerns are properly addressed, we can create safer towns and villages where residents feel protected, respected, and confident in the future.
 

My commitment is simple: to stand up for safer communities, stronger policing, and a justice system that puts victims and residents first.

Farming and Fishing

Supporting Farming, Food Security and Fishing
 

Agriculture and fishing are not just industries; they are part of our heritage, our economy, and our future. They provide employment, support rural communities, maintain our landscape, and play a critical role in ensuring the Isle of Man can feed itself.
 

Following discussions with representatives of the farming community, it is clear that we need a renewed commitment to supporting local food production, protecting rural livelihoods, and ensuring these vital industries remain sustainable for generations to come.
 

Food Security Must Be a National Priority
 

Recent disruptions to transport links have highlighted how vulnerable the Island can be when supply chains are interrupted. With a limited number of major retailers operating on the Island, it has become increasingly apparent that food security cannot be taken for granted.

I believe Government must place food security at the heart of its agricultural policy by supporting local farmers to maximise production and ensuring that Manx-grown produce is given priority wherever possible.
 

I will support:
 

  • Policies that encourage and incentivise active food production on agricultural land.

  • Greater use of Manx produce within schools, hospitals, care facilities, and public-sector catering.

  • Measures that strengthen local supply chains and reduce reliance on imported food.

  • Fair opportunities for local producers to supply supermarkets and major retailers.
     

The Isle of Man should be producing more of the food we consume, strengthening both our economy and our resilience against external disruptions.
 

Backing Farmers, Not Burdening Them
 

Our farmers are already among the strongest environmental stewards on the Island. Their work has helped shape and preserve the landscapes that contributed to the Isle of Man's status as an internationally recognised Biosphere.  Too often, however, agricultural policy has become dominated by environmental targets and regulatory requirements that do not always reflect the practical realities of farming.
 

I believe environmental goals must be balanced with economic sustainability. Farmers should be trusted to manage their land responsibly while maintaining viable and profitable businesses. Protecting our environment is important, but it should never come at the expense of food security, rural livelihoods, or the long-term future of farming.
 

I will advocate for policies that recognise the contribution farmers already make to environmental protection while ensuring they retain the flexibility needed to run successful businesses.
 

Reducing Costs and Opening Export Opportunities
 

One of the greatest challenges facing Manx agriculture is the cost of moving goods on and off the Island.
 

High transport costs make it difficult for farmers to access export markets, invest in new stock, and grow their businesses. At the same time, the rising cost of importing feed, fertiliser, machinery, and other essential supplies places additional pressure on already tight margins.
 

I will support:
 

  • Measures to reduce export costs for agricultural products and livestock.

  • Action to lower the costs associated with importing essential farming supplies.

  • Progress on amendments to sea services agreements to ensure Island businesses are not placed at a competitive disadvantage.

  • Greater support for expanding access to export markets for Manx produce.
     

Our farmers should be competing on the quality of their products, not being held back by unnecessary transport costs.
 

Creating New Opportunities Through Rural Innovation
 

Renewable energy and green technologies can provide valuable opportunities for farming businesses when implemented correctly.

Where appropriate, diversification through renewable energy projects can create additional income streams that help secure the long-term future of farms while contributing to the Island's energy security.
 

I support exploring opportunities such as:
 

  • Agricultural involvement in Anaerobic Digestion (AD) projects.

  • Farm-based renewable energy generation where it is commercially viable.

  • Fair and transparent compensation for farmers whose land is affected by solar developments or other energy infrastructure.

  • Policies that ensure local communities and landowners benefit from renewable energy investment.
     

Any renewable energy policy must work alongside farming, not at its expense.
 

Investing in the Next Generation of Farmers
 

The future of farming depends on attracting and retaining young people within the industry. Currently, there are too few clear pathways for young people who wish to pursue a career in agriculture. Without proper support, training opportunities, and apprenticeships, we risk losing vital skills and knowledge that have been passed down through generations.
 

I will campaign for:
 

  • The introduction of properly funded agricultural apprenticeship programmes.

  • Stronger links between schools, colleges, and the agricultural sector.

  • Greater promotion of farming as a skilled and rewarding career.

  • Clear training and development pathways for young people entering the industry.
     

We must ensure that the next generation has the opportunity to build successful careers in farming and continue supporting our rural communities.
 

Protecting the Future of Fishing
 

Fishing remains one of the Isle of Man's most important traditional industries and a vital contributor to our coastal communities and economy.

Encouragingly, discussions with those working within the sector suggest that cooperation between the industry and Government has helped create a positive working relationship focused on sustainability, responsible catch management, and long-term planning.
 

I support continuing this collaborative approach and ensuring that fishing communities have a strong voice in future decision-making.


I will work to:
 

  • Protect the long-term sustainability of Manx fisheries.

  • Support policies that balance environmental protection with economic viability.

  • Ensure local fishermen remain fully involved in shaping future regulations.

  • Promote investment and opportunities that strengthen the future of the industry.
     

By supporting both farming and fishing, we can strengthen food security, protect rural and coastal communities, and build a more resilient and self-sufficient Isle of Man.

Conclusions

Accountability, Efficient Government and Value for Taxpayers
 

The people of the Isle of Man work hard for every pound they earn. They have every right to expect that Government spends public money responsibly, delivers effective services, and remains accountable for its performance.
 

Too often, residents see increasing costs, growing bureaucracy, and disappointing outcomes while essential frontline services continue to struggle. This must change.
 

I believe it is time for a fundamental review of how Government operates, ensuring that resources are focused where they are needed most: delivering services for the people of the Isle of Man.
 

Restoring Accountability in Government
 

Public trust depends on accountability.
 

When departments fail to meet objectives, projects run over budget, or services fail to deliver expected outcomes, there must be greater transparency about what went wrong and how improvements will be made.
 

I will support:
 

  • Stronger accountability across Government departments and public bodies.

  • Clear performance measures and reporting for major projects and services.

  • Greater transparency in public spending and decision-making.

  • Regular reviews of programmes, policies, and departments to ensure they remain effective and relevant.

  • A culture that rewards delivery, innovation, and efficiency.
     

Government should be judged not by the number of initiatives it creates, but by the results it achieves.
 

Prioritising Frontline Services
 

Across many areas of Government, residents often see increasing layers of administration while frontline services remain under pressure.

Whether it is healthcare, infrastructure, or public services, resources must be directed towards the people delivering services on the ground rather than unnecessary duplication and bureaucracy.  I believe we need a comprehensive review of staffing structures across Government to ensure that resources are being used effectively and efficiently.
 

This should include examining:
 

  • Areas where responsibilities overlap unnecessarily.

  • Opportunities to reduce duplication between organisations and departments.

  • Whether management structures are proportionate to operational needs.

  • How savings can be redirected towards frontline services and staffing. 
     

The goal should not be arbitrary cuts, but better outcomes through smarter use of resources.
 

Delivering Better Value for Money
 

The Isle of Man cannot afford to continue spending public money without consistently assessing whether programmes are delivering value.

Government is not a profit-making organisation, but that does not remove the responsibility to spend wisely.
 

I will support:
 

  • Independent reviews of major spending programmes.

  • Greater scrutiny of projects that exceed budgets or fail to meet objectives.

  • Improved procurement and project management processes.

  • Evidence-based decision-making when allocating public funds.

  • A focus on long-term value rather than short-term political gain.
     

Every pound spent by Government should deliver a clear benefit to the public.
 

Focusing on Essential Priorities
 

Residents are increasingly concerned that major capital projects continue to move forward while fundamental services and infrastructure face significant challenges.
 

Before embarking on new non-essential developments, Government must ensure that the basics are working effectively.
 

My priorities are clear:
 

  • Reliable healthcare services.

  • Safe and well-maintained roads and infrastructure.

  • High-quality education.

  • Effective public services.

  • Affordable and accessible housing.

  • Strong support for local communities.
     

Only when these foundations are secure should Government consider pursuing large-scale discretionary projects.
 

Building Government Around Results
 

Government should be focused on delivering outcomes that improve people's lives. That means setting clear priorities, measuring success honestly, and being willing to change course when something is not working.
 

I will support a root-and-branch review of Government structures, spending, and service delivery to ensure that public money is being used as effectively as possible.
 

Where systems are working, they should be supported. Where they are failing, they should be reformed. Where duplication exists, it should be removed.
 

The objective is simple: a Government that is leaner, more accountable, more efficient, and more focused on delivering for the people it serves.
 

Getting the Basics Right
 

The Isle of Man has enormous potential, but lasting success begins with strong foundations.
 

Before we expand, we must stabilise. Before we launch new initiatives, we must ensure existing services are delivering. Before we spend more, we must demonstrate value.
 

My commitment is to put taxpayers first, restore accountability, strengthen frontline services, and ensure that Government focuses on what matters most.
 

Because good government is not measured by how much it spends—it is measured by how effectively it serves its people.

MANX SOLUTIONS FOR MANX PROBLEMS• HAVE YOUR SAY• STRAIGHT LINE THINKING• VOTE COLLEEN DALE-BEETON •

FOCUS

I want to see a return of fiscal accountability and transparency. Straight line thinking and above all Manx solutions to Manx problems.

Campaign Strategy

I will attend all local meetings and hustings and will endevaour to visit as many people as I can. If  there are any issues you wish to discuss please contact me.

Contact Me

Please feel free to contact me using phone or email or via my Facebook page.

I will NOT respond to any anonymous posts.

Electional Compliance

I will be campaigning in line with all policies set out by the Election Office.

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