A recently announced increase in the sewerage charge, described as 'regrettable but necessary' by MUA chairman Alf Cannan MHK, has been condemned by the Liberal Vannin party.

LibVan says that the decision, hot on the heels of new tariffs announced by Manx Gas, is a clear indication there are significant issues with the island's key energy and utilities infrastructure.

Liberal Vannin leader Kate Beecroft MHK says her party is often criticised for not offering alternatives and has come up with a list of suggestions:

· Prioritise budgeting on our key infrastructure, rather than on unproven investments like the Media Development Fund.

· Take a closer look at central government costs instead of passing on increased charges to local authorities and statutory bodies like the MUA and the Post Office.

· Take immediate steps to control the cost of the public sector pension scheme

· Review and modernise the budget process to better allocate limited government resources

· Stop hiding behind commercial confidentiality clauses.


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