The Department of Home Affairs is continuing to make an important contribution to the Isle of Man Government’s national priorities.

The Chief Minister’s statement to the July sitting of Tynwald reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to growing the economy, rebalancing the budget and protecting vulnerable members of society.

Home Affairs is supporting the Agenda for Change by driving forward a range of initiatives to safeguard local communities, generate significant cost savings and create an environment where people and businesses can flourish.

Work is currently taking place to streamline the Department’s estate, establish a new rehabilitation and resettlement centre and upgrade the Isle of Man’s emergency communications network. Home Affairs is also spearheading efforts to reduce reoffending rates as part of its flagship Criminal Justice Strategy and is leading the development of an integrated approach to the problem of domestic abuse.

Minister Juan Watterson MHK said: ‘The Department’s plans are fully aligned with Government’s strategic objectives. Our primary focus is on keeping people safe. In doing so, we are helping to encourage economic growth by making the Island an attractive place for new businesses and key workers.’

He added: ‘Home Affairs also remains at the forefront of efforts to rebalance public finances. The Department has achieved cost savings of ?10.6 million since 2007-08 and will build on that success this year by merging services, relocating staff and consolidating office and storage facilities. The first phase of transferring our corporate headquarters to the former Drill Hall in Tromode is already under way. This will allow the Homefield building on Woodbourne Road in Douglas to be offered for sale.’

Another prime site will be opened up for potential redevelopment early next year following the relocation of operational staff from Lower Douglas Police Station to Police Headquarters.

Proposals are currently being drawn up to create a rehabilitation and resettlement centre at Tromode House after planning approval was granted in May. New accommodation is needed for the Department to fulfil its statutory responsibility to provide services in relation to probation, bail and the after-care of offenders.

Part of Tromode House will serve as the administration hub for the Probation Service, allowing the Department to generate significant cost savings by vacating Prospect House in central Douglas.

In addition, the Department is working with other agencies, including those from the third sector, to develop a Domestic Abuse Pathway. This is intended to ensure a greater level of awareness of domestic abuse and of appropriate interventions to protect vulnerable individuals from its effects.

Minister Watterson has also confirmed that the upgrade of TETRA, the communications network that provides secure communications for the emergency services, is on budget and on schedule to go live in September 2015.

He said: ‘The procurement process for the replacement TETRA system highlighted the benefits of working in partnership across Government. It is an example of how Home Affairs is taking a lead in breaking down silos to deliver real savings for the taxpayer. The Criminal Justice Strategy is another area where the Department has brought together many different agencies to address common challenges and achieve positive change.’