Concerns are mounting that the push to digitise public services is excluding vulnerable and elderly residents who lack online access or skills.
The issue was spotlighted during a Public Accounts Committee hearing on the government’s efficiency programme.
Committee Chair, Juan Watterson, warned of a dangerous imbalance, saying: “We’re going at a lightning pace on digitalisation. We’re going at a snail’s pace with regards to supporting the digitally excluded.”
The government admitted that while digital inclusion is considered, there is no dedicated project to address it within the central efficiency plan.
Dr Megan Mathias, Chief Operating Officer, confirmed: “Within the programme at the moment, there isn’t a work stream that’s on digital inclusion.”
Chief Minister Alf Cannan acknowledged the political challenge, saying:”We have a responsibility to try and ensure that we are educating and assisting and enabling those who have been digitally excluded.”
The removal of services like the MiCard and vehicle tax from local post offices has intensified the problem, with no clear alternative for those unable to use online systems.