lhooperiom – Member of the House of Keys for Ramsey, Leader of the Liberal Vannin Party – Thoughts and views on Isle of Man Politics
The recent government conference boasted several announcements, including a National Office for AI Development, expanded apprenticeships, and housing support revisions. However, these initiatives are superficial, lacking strategic backing or merely reversing past policy mistakes. Ultimately, the government appears focused on image rather than substantial progress, raising serious questions about their effectiveness.
The Government is consulting on proposed 20mph speed zones in Ramsey and the North, with the consultation open from July 7 to September 1, 2025. Maps are available online and at Ramsey Town Hall. Key discussion points include speed limits on main arterial routes like Bowring Road, Queens Pier Road, and Waterloo Road.
The discussions around the proposed 20mph zones have really captured the public discourse over the last few weeks So I figured I’d take the opportunity to just set out where this has all come from - I’m not commenting here on the merits or otherwise of the proposals or methodology just setting out some of the history to hopefully help inform the ongoing public discussions.
The Minister for Health, assured Tynwald on January 21 that there would be no service cuts amid Manx Care funding concerns. However, an embargoed press release from January 15 mentions cuts, raising questions about government transparency and the Minister's earlier statements.
This consultation is in respect of the Private Members Bill titled The Isle of Man Constitution Act 2023. The purpose of this Bill is to provide that the Lord Bishop shall remain a member of Tynwald and the Legislative Council but shall cease to have voting rights in Tynwald or in the Legislative Council The Bill will retain the Bishop's right to speak and his seat in Tynwald. The Bill does not decide whether we should retain the role of the Bishop in Tynwald. The constitution of the Diocese of Sodor and Man is a matter for the Church.
Lawrie Hooper MHK 