This week’s Manx Independent takes an in-depth look at the situation of alcohol and drug misuse in the Isle of Man.

It comes as a report is to be laid before Tynwald on the issue.

There are some stark findings.

Also this week:

Former health minister Kate Beecroft MHK wants Tynwald to rule out the privatisation of the health service.

Why Highland cattle are being brought in to help rare grasshoppers.

The business case for a local authority’s purchase and renovation of a rundown Port St Mary landmark has been released after Isle of Man Newspapers made a Freedom of Information request.

In the meantime, the Manxonia building has been described as a ’millstone’ for the village.

A Douglas man has been sentenced after he threatened to stab a group of people after a work night out.

The future funding of nursing care in the island comes under the spotlight.

A report on the Abortion Reform Bill’s latest debate in the House of Keys.

Sixth form drama students staged the gothic tale of ’Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street’ as their school play. We were there.

Peter Fisher, from Douglas, is to run 155 miles through the Sahara Desert. We find out why.

An apprentice roofer has been handed been sentenced in court after brandishing a roof pick outside a pub and smashing his former boss’s car windows.

A £1m programme of works in the national glens will see access improved and facilities enhanced.

Retired firefighter Bobby Moore has received an award on behalf of the Royal Humane Society for saving an elderly man’s life.

The skeleton of a prehistoric deer has been found on the shore near Kirk Michael. See photos in the paper.

A special meet and greet between Royal Air Force pilots and island Air Cadets.

The government wants to spend £3.6m to extend and refurbish the island’s Roman Catholic primary school.

A review and photos from the Young Farmers’ concert.

A preview of a memorial concert for music promoter Jonno Gollow.

Plus: A look forward to the weekend’s sport, your 20-page leisure and entertainment section, Island Life, readers’ views, the Isle of Man’s What’s On guide, a seven-day television guide and lots of community news.

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