Local campaigner Alf Caine has sent an open letter to Members of Tynwald on the removal of Clause Five being an outcome of “common sense”.
Earlier this week the House of Keys voted to remove the controversial Clause 5 from the Local Government Amendment Bill.
Mr Caine’s open letter to the Members of Tynwald is as follows:
“In my view, this was a common sense outcome following months of concern raised by local authorities, ratepayers, and members of the public across the Island.
Clause 5 became a deeply divisive issue because it created the possibility that additional duties could be imposed on local authorities without guaranteed funding, placing further pressure on local rates and creating uncertainty for communities.
Over recent months I actively campaigned on this issue, communicating with Tynwald Members, local authorities, and the wider public to highlight the potential financial and democratic risks associated with the clause. I am pleased that Members ultimately listened to those concerns and reached what I believe is the correct decision.”
Moment of Reflection
Mr Caine continues: “However, while I welcome the outcome, I also believe it is important to reflect on how much valuable Tynwald time has been consumed debating a proposal that has now been removed entirely.
That time could have been spent addressing other urgent challenges facing the Isle of Man, including the growing cost of living crisis, affordable housing shortages, and the increasing difficulty many young people face in building a future on the Island.
We cannot ignore the reality that too many of our young people leave the Isle of Man for university and do not return. Rising housing costs, limited affordability, and economic uncertainty are all contributing factors.
At the same time, we must have an honest conversation about the spiralling cost of the public sector. Public sector pay is reported to average significantly higher than equivalent roles in the private sector. Unless this issue is addressed responsibly and transparently, the Island risks facing a future of higher taxation combined with declining public services.
Government must ensure that public spending remains sustainable, fair, and accountable to taxpayers. Without proper financial discipline, the burden ultimately falls on working households and businesses already under pressure.”
Better Use of Time
Mr Caine also raised concerns about the use of parliamentary time moving forwards: “In my view, future administrations must make better use of parliamentary time by focusing on practical policies that directly improve the lives of residents.
As someone intending to stand in the September General Election, I believe there is a strong need for a renewed focus on affordability, housing, economic fairness, responsible public spending, and long term sustainability for the Island.
The removal of Clause 5 should now allow government and local authorities to move forward, rebuild trust, and concentrate on the issues that matter most to the Manx public.”