The government is engaging with Westminster over proposals to extend the emissions trading scheme to international sailings, which could affect crossings to and from the island from 2028.
Treasury Minister Chris Thomas told Tynwald that while domestic UK maritime voyages due to be included in July 2026 will not affect the Isle of Man.
However, we added that “separate proposals relating to international journeys may come into force in 2028 and could affect sailings to and from the Isle of Man.”
Mr Thomas confirmed that officers are engaging with the UK’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, and that the Cabinet Office has made representations through external relations.
Economic
“That engagement, which was informed by input from relevant government departments, has made clear the Isle of Man government’s position that ferry services are essential lifeline links and that applying additional emissions related costs to UK Isle of Man routes could have disproportionate economic and cost of living impacts,” Mr Thomas said.
Responding to a supplementary question from Jason Moorhouse MHK about discussions with other jurisdictions, Mr Thomas confirmed engagement with the Channel Islands but said he was not aware of direct contact with the Republic of Ireland.
He also revealed direct correspondence between the Chief Minister and the UK’s Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Ed Miliband, with a response received from Minister of State Chris McDonald MP.
The minister also warned that any additional costs could be passed on to passengers and businesses, saying: “One of the main issues for us is to make sure that the island’s economy, the cost of living and our essential transport links are maintained into the future.”