Veteran journalist Sue Woolley doubts the new House of Keys will engage in robust debate on the controversial Mooir Vannin Wind Farm proposals.
Woolley, an opponent of the plans, expressed her fear during an interview for last night’s Vote 2026 election results special.
Asked whether she was optimistic the new House of Keys would engage in robust debate on the plans for the offshore wind farm, she said: “I am not terribly confident at all.
“Money talks.”
No Clear Economic Argument
There had not been a “clearly set out” economic argument, she said.
“There is a lot of obfuscation about it.”
Woolley covered northern news for Manx newspapers for decades. She said: “I have approached people and the majority of the Ramsey people I have spoken to, the Ramsey candidates, have been firmly sitting on the fence.”
In a wide-ranging interview, Woolley also warned Ramsey MHKs would have to deal with the Ramsey Cottage Hospital situation. Housing would also be a key issue. You can watch the full interview here:
Concern Over Handling of Wind Farm Plan
The government’s handling of the controversial offshore wind farm proposals led to Garff Commissioners calling for reform of the scrutiny process.
In July, demonstrators gathered outside Tynwald, many from the No Offshore Turbines 4 Isle of Man campaign, calling for a halt to the plans.
Orsted has applied to build 87 turbines between six to 12 miles off the east coast of the island. The area covered stretches from Onchan Head to Maughold.
A series of public hearings into the proposals was held. But many people are frustrated at advice given to the then sitting MHKs not to discuss the project in public.