Tynwald meets this morning (Tues) for what could be an expensive day for government.

The Department of Transport will ask for ?45 million for improvements to the airport, including a longer runway and new car park.

Meanwhile, the DHSS wants ?1.5 million for a new mental health facility as well as ?800,000 for a new GP surgery on Douglas Promenade.

And in a supplementary order paper, Tourism Minister Adrian Earnshaw will ask Tynwald for ?4.6 million to solve the problem of the Manx Electric Railway’s closed sections.

Jason Roberts reports:

(Text of attached audio)

The last time the Langness issue - of whether footpaths closed by landowners are public rights of way – was discussed by Tynwald was in January, when moves to create a select committee were delayed while talks were held.
That debate will make a return to the order paper today, as will the Poacher’s Pocket.

A report from the select committee which looked into how the planning application for the site was handled will recommend curbing the powers of the director of planning and building control.

Also to be laid before the court are reports on phone tapping and the council of ministers investigation into gas prices.