A meeting this evening will give members of the union Unite a chance to air any concerns they have about proposed changes to public sector pensions in the Isle of Man.

National pensions adviser for the organisation Peter Smith will address the gathering, and answer questions.

The review of public service pensions will be debated in Tynwald before the end of the year, with existing scheme members concerned about a possible increase in pension age, and a reduction in benefits.

Chief Minister Tony Brown has indicated the aim is to unify the 19 different government pension schemes, but it's been made clear there would be full consultation before any changes were made.

Regional industrial organiser for Unite Mick Hewer says the issue is of paramount importance: "Timing in crucial and what I'm hoping Peter will be able to do is answer various questions regarding the different pension schemes and some of the proposals that are being put forward in the discussion document that's being circulated. Also (I hope he will) make some comment on the possible changes to the Superannuation Act.

"The other thing I am hoping he can do is answer individual questions, if the members want to ask those questions of him.

"It's an open meeting for anybody affected by the proposed changes."

The open meeting, for members of Unite, is at Keyll Darree, from 7pm.