The Cabinet Office says it has given guidance to election candidates regarding public statements they make on the proposed Mooir Vannin offshore windfarm.
It insists it does not want to stifle public debate on the issue but says it would be ‘irresponsible’ not set out candidates’ responsbilities to ensure there are no conflicts in the decision-making process.
Ørsted has applied to build 87 turbines between six to 12 miles off the east coast of the Island – stretching from Onchan to Maughold.
A public examination by an independent panel closed on September 9.
The examining body is in the process of considering its findings and will deliver its recommendations by December 1 to the Council of Ministers, which will ultimately decide whether or not to grant a marine infrastructure licence.
Election candidates have been advised that if they make public statements in support of or opposing the offshore windfarm, and are subsequently appointed as Ministers, they would have to declare a conflict and take no part in the decision.
In a statement, the Cabinet Office said: ‘The Cabinet Office can confirm that guidance has been shared with all candidates standing in the General Election on Thursday (September 24) aimed at explaining their responsibilities in relation to the ongoing Mooir Vannin wind farm planning application.
‘It is vital to ensure that the decision-making process for this important application is fairly undertaken. Any member of the Council of Ministers, if participating in the decision to approve or refuse the application, should only do so where they have not previously acted in such a way as to appear biased.
‘If a future Minister has made public statements demonstrating that they have a pre-determined position (either for or against the application) prior to it falling for formal determination, they would need to declare a bias / conflict and withdraw from the decision-making process.
‘While not wishing to stifle debate on a topic of such importance and interest, it would be irresponsible for the Isle of Man Government to fail to bring such matters to candidates’ attention.’