Treasury Minister Eddie Teare MHK has announced a series of open public meetings around the Island to discuss options for reform of the social security system.
 
The meetings, to be held during the week beginning Monday March 2, will form part of consultation on proposals from consultants Ci65 first published in November last year. Their report said a ‘bold transformation’ of the system is needed to make it meet the Island’s needs and protect the future of state pensions and benefits.
 
The consultants concluded that the system is out of date, has not kept pace with the ageing population, is based on UK policies rather than local priorities, and has become far too complex.
 
In his budget speech this week Mr Teare said of the consultation: ‘The issues at hand are of the greatest national importance and it is vital that we hear what the public thinks. How to reform will be one of the most important decisions to be made since the introduction of the welfare state.’
 
The public meetings are listed below. All are at 7pm for 7.30pm and are open to anyone who is interested in the future of the state pensions and benefits system.
 
• Monday  March 2, Manx Museum, Douglas
• Tuesday March 3, Bunscoill Rhumsaa, Ree Gorree assembly hall, Ramsey
• Wednesday March 4, Erin Arts Centre, Port Erin          
• Thursday March 5, Centenary Centre, Peel              
 
The consultation programme will also include meetings with the Junior Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber of Commerce.