The latest round of discussions with local authorities has provided further momentum to the process of bringing power back to the people through modernising the relationship between central and local government.
Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne MHK outlined the potential for delivering more local services at a local level during meetings held in Laxey, Ramsey, Castletown, Peel and Douglas.
A total of 54 local authority members joined the Minister for talks about the possible transfer of responsibility for functions including:
- Waste management
- Housing
- Car parking
- Governance and support
- Public toilets
- Public rights of way
Minister Gawne said: ‘The meetings were very positive and productive and helped to build on the enormous progress that has already been made. I am encouraged by the level of support for the basic principle of local authorities providing local services at a local level – effectively bringing power back to local communities.’
He added: ‘The initial phase of the process appears to be working well, with many local authorities taking over responsibility for a range of highway maintenance functions from the Department of Infrastructure. We are now working together to look at some of the bigger and more complex issues such as housing and waste management. This process is one of evolution and I am confident that we can seize the opportunity to achieve real change.’
Minister Gawne said the proposals provide scope for delivering cost savings for the tax and rate paying public. Identifying areas of duplicated effort may lead to the streamlining of operational practices, while the development of joint policies and initiatives could generate significant new efficiencies.
It is hoped that giving local authorities a bigger say in how their towns and villages are run will also stimulate greater public engagement in politics.
Minister Gawne said: ‘There is currently a disconnect between people and politics, not only in the Isle of Man but across many parts of the world. It is generally accepted that people take an interest in issues that directly affect their daily lives. Delivering more local services at a local level will encourage people to get actively involved in the decisions that matter to them and their communities. This in turn could benefit the wider democratic process in the Isle of Man.’
The aim of the latest discussions is to reach agreement on the transfer of any additional services by December 2015. This would enable candidates standing in local authority elections in April 2016 to have clarity on the new responsibilities they would be taking on.
Minister Gawne said: ‘Local authority reform has been on the political agenda for decades. By taking a collaborative approach I believe we can make meaningful progress. If we get this right it will not only be an important step in the development of a stronger system of local government, but also a key step in reinvigorating the interest of the Manx people in local and national politics.’
