Lonan by-election candidate James Hewison has pledged to oppose the construction of the offshore windfarm, saying he is “100 per cent behind the stance taken by the Commissioners to oppose this”.
In his election manifesto, the 26-year-old said he could “write paragraphs” about why the plan is wrong.
Hewison, who was a member of the Laxey Lifeline team during the Covid pandemic, is calling for a new assistance hub at the Commissioners’ office to support residents struggling with digital services.
He said: “The push for digitization has left some members of the community vulnerable. Neither of my grandparents have computers or printers, so navigating some things is impossible for them at home.”
Opposition
The candidate also voiced opposition to the location of the sewage treatment works in Axnfell Plantation, describing it as “a mistake.” He said: “This will be with us for decades; we need to get it right.”
Hewison backs the development of a new elderly persons complex in Laxey, describing it as “a much needed and valued resource for our community.”
On the proposed All Island Rate, he said: “If this ever came up for debate then this is something that I would be opposed to.”
He pledged to act with “transparency, accountability and integrity” if elected.
The by-election takes place on May 21, with polling stations at Baldrine Methodist Hall and Laxey Working Men’s Institute.
James Curtis and Richard Taylor are also standing in the by-election.
