The memorandum of understanding with Liverpool has led to a bizarre exchange in Keys today between the Chief Minister and an MHK.
Alf Cannan lost his temper with Julie Edge and suggested that she could be writing a book on conspiracy theories.
Signed in March, the memorandum sets out areas of cooperation that the island and Liverpool can assist and learn from each other on. and “improve the prosperity and wellbeing of our communities through further strengthening our economic, cultural, and political ties”.
However, during questions about it in Keys, Ms Edge took issue with the part of the document which outlines sharing “expertise and collaborate further on public service delivery and governance”.
Ridiculous
Ms Edge said: “I’m very concerned to see that Health and Public Services is in there, and I’d like an explanation around that, and also education, collaboration. This is new, and I don’t want to see the Isle of Man being sold down to a borough of Liverpool through Liverpool Mersey.”
Responding Mr Cannan blasted that suggestion as “absolutely ridiculous”.
He added: “What it says is we will endeavour to share expertise and collaborate further on public service delivery and governance, promoting positive outcomes through service delivery for those living in both regions, both parties in particular, wish to improve improve health and well being outcomes for their residents, including through the support provided within Liverpool and excess institutions for healthcare for Isle of Man residents.”
The Chief Minister further added that it is sensible for the island to “try and learn best practice where that is available”
Conspiracies
Ms Edge however then accused the Chief Minister of saying that “we don’t have a very good record in public service”, something which not only saw him object across the Chamber, but forced the Speaker to intervene.
Mr Cannan said: “If there was a book published this Christmas that says conspiracy theories, do not be surprised if the author is Julie Edge, because, frankly, there is nothing but a recognition in terms of the value of understanding how the Isle of Man can best improve its public service delivery, and where there are lessons to be learned, then we should seek to understand those lessons.”
Listen
You can hear the full exchange here:
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