Onchan MHK Rob Callister has been appointed to the new position of Housing and Communities Minister.
Chief Minister Chris Thomas has created the new role, a move that had been widely touted.
Thomas said he had pledged to create the role when he brought forward his manifesto for the Chief Minister position.
In his role, Callister will lead development of a “prioritised action plan” for meeting housing need, including the existing approved Tynwald commitment to build, provide or facilitate up to 1,000 affordable homes over ten years from April 2025.
Thomas said: “There is action we can take, but there is a significant amount of work ahead, and I am grateful to Mr Callister for taking on this critical area of responsibility.
“In the coming days, we will meet to agree clear objectives and priorities for the work ahead.”
One of the Biggest Challenges
Mr Callister said: “Housing is one of the biggest challenges facing the Isle of Man, and I am delighted to take on the role of Minister for Housing and Communities.
“Having a safe, secure and affordable home matters to every individual and family, but housing is also fundamental to the island’s future prosperity.”
He added: “I am pleased to join the Council of Ministers and look forward to working with colleagues, local authorities and the wider community to turn ambition into action, increase the delivery of the homes our Island needs and make a real difference to people’s lives over the next five years.”
