The Isle of Man is a wonderful place. It is a privilege to live here, and we are blessed in many ways. But in recent years things have been slipping.
Rising costs, declining services, unnecessary bureaucracy and inadequate scrutiny threaten what makes our island special. I am standing for the House of Keys because I believe government should serve the people, not the people serve the Government.
As an Advocate since 1999 and a Port St Mary Commissioner since 2017, I have experience of dealing with practical problems affecting individuals, families and our community. We urgently need stronger scrutiny of government.
The Liverpool ferry terminal has reached around £100 million, yet its passenger facilities do not match the capacity of our vessel. The new Manxman cannot routinely serve Dublin because its evacuation arrangements do not meet the requirements for that route. These are examples of expensive mistakes that should have been challenged before taxpayers were left with the consequences. We cannot accept mismanaged decline.
I oppose an onshore wind farm and the present offshore proposals. Nobody has demonstrated that either will reduce electricity bills for Manx residents. If our seabed is to be used for offshore wind, the Island must secure a substantially better financial return. I would consider a repositioned offshore development if it delivered real benefits to residents and a return capable of making a meaningful contribution towards eliminating our deficit.
Our public services must also improve. People tell me of unacceptable waits at A&E, for mental-health services and for routine operations. This is simply not good enough. Nobody should have to sell their home to pay for care.
I have called for a referendum on assisted dying. Whatever our personal views, the people should have a direct voice on such a profound issue. Palliative and hospice care must also be properly funded.
Travel and freight cost to and from the Isle of Man are too expensive and a brake on economic devolvement it should be possible to travel to London and back the same day by air.
As a Port St Mary Commissioner, I was the only Commissioner to oppose the proposed 8.9% rates increase. I also opposed the blanket 20mph speed-limit policy. I will not descend into personalities; voters can judge candidates by their records.
Government must support businesses and farmers, reduce unnecessary regulation, stimulate economic growth and cut waste.
Our roads and footpaths need attention, and Castle Rushen High School, the swimming pool and sporting facilities must finally be delivered.
I will listen before deciding, challenge waste and bureaucracy and remain accessible to the people I represent.
The Isle of Man remains a remarkable place. Let us protect what works, repair what is slipping and demand better from government.
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