MHKs have reacted with anger after an embargoed press released detailing proposed health cuts was published by a former minister.
Last night Lawrie Hooper published the release which was sent to him after its publication was cancelled by Manx Care.
That press release details steps Manx Care had planned to implement to save money this financial year.
That release, which was sent to the island’s media some two weeks ago, outlined plans to suspend elective surgeries, close selected impatient wards, hold a recruitment freeze across Manx Care, a centralisation of job planning and strengthen financial controls.
Mr Hooper said: “The Minister for Health, assured Tynwald on January 21 that there would be no service cuts amid Manx Care funding concerns.
“However, an embargoed press release from January 15 mentions cuts, raising questions about government transparency and the Minister’s earlier statements.”
He also outlined details of correspondents from islanders who say they have already had appointments cancelled despite no official plans being confirmed.
Response
Responding to Mr Hooper’s post, Onchan MHK Rob Callister said: “If the contents of this embargoed press release from January 16 2025, are accurate, then serious questions must be addressed by Manx Care, the Chief Minister, and the Health & Social Care Minister.
“I fully recognise and acknowledge the extreme financial pressures that Manx Care is currently facing. However, as a publicly elected Member of the House of Keys for Onchan, I find it deeply troubling that significant matters are unfolding behind the scenes without any official statements in either Tynwald Court or the House of Keys.
“This lack of transparency is disrespectful to Honourable Members and to the Constituents we have been elected to serve. Serious questions must be answered in next week’s House of Keys regarding this matter.”
While Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Tim Glover labeled it an “absolute disgrace” and “deplorable”.
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