A minister has reiterated that asylum seekers cannot claim refuge on the island directly, dispelling “myths” circulating on social media.
The clarification came during a debate on migration policy, where concerns about housing asylum seekers in hotels were addressed.
David Ashford told Tynwald: “The people cannot claim asylum in the Isle of Man.
“We do not, we do not have hotels stacked with asylum seekers. If people seek asylum, they have to do so through the UK.”
Mr Ashford criticised misinformation online, remarking: “I would actually suggest that the people who’ve been creating these stories, if they turn their mind to something else, they will probably have a great future in fiction writing.”
He emphasised that the island’s migration challenges are distinct from those in the UK, where asylum claims are processed.
The debate also highlighted efforts to integrate new residents, with the minister noting: “The people we are attracting here to the island are culturally fitting in very well.
“They are adding a positive contribution, both culturally and economically.”
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