The Treasury remains satisfied that it is right to continue to provide free TV licences to all over 75s.
Minister Dr Alex Allison was asked about the most recent Equality Impact Assessment was done for the policy, and to published it, by Ramsey MHK Lawrie Hooper.
In November the government said it would maintain the free licences for over 75s for the rest of the Cannan administration through to after the 2026 General Election.
BBC
Dr Allinson said that no EIA had ever been done for the policy, but it Treasury “has taken note of the Equality Impact Assessment undertaken by the BBC in June 2019 regarding its decision making in relation to age-related concessions for TV licences”.
He added: “This position is consistent with the Tynwald resolution of October 2016 that all Isle of Man residents over 75s should receive a free TV licence.
“There was no equality impact assessment undertaken at the time of this Tynwald resolution as it pre-dates the introduction of the Equality Act 2017.
“Treasury and the Council of Ministers are cognisant that the provision of free TV licences for the over 75s who don’t get income support may be viewed as inequitable as regards the protected characteristic of age.
“Notwithstanding, Treasury and the Council of Ministers are satisfied that the continued provision of free TV licences to the over 75s who don’t get income support is justifiable.”
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