The Cabinet Office has come under scrutiny after confirming no work is currently underway to deliver government services through regional community hubs.
This is despite overwhelming public support for a 2021 pilot scheme.
During Keys this week, Ramsey MHK Lawrie Hooper questioned why the initiative, which saw 87% approval from 390 respondents, was abandoned.
“It was relatively low-cost, practically nil to the government, and desperately needed,” he said.
Rescources
The pilot, which operated via existing Welcome Centre budgets, attracted 107 visits across sessions, averaging 15 people per hub.
Rob Callister, responding on behalf of the Cabinet Office, acknowledged the support but cited efficiency concerns.
“Fifteen people visiting a hub may not be the best use of resources,” he said, though he pledged to revisit the issue with the Minister.
Chris Thomas criticised the concept, recalling the minister’s earlier rejection of the pilot. “Creating costs while chasing efficiencies seems odd,” he argued, noting past failures to secure departmental buy-in for regional services.
Julie Edge also sought clarity on which services might be offered, pointing to existing “pockets” of local provision.
Mr Callister clarified the hubs were initially proposed to enhance public engagement but deferred details to the Minister.
Mr Hooper countered, stressing government’s role is “not to make a profit but to provide services,” even at a cost.
Mr Callister agreed, promising to publish the pilot’s cost analysis and consult further.
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