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New Government Plan puts emphasis on families and the community 5 October 2007 THE importance of families and an inclusive sense of community to the Island’s quality of life is highlighted in a new publication outlining the Isle of Man Government’s policy priorities. The Government Strategic Plan 2007-2011 will be presented to the October sitting of Tynwald by Chief Minister Tony Brown MHK. It identifies the overall aim of Mr Brown’s Government as: ‘To protect and promote the well-being of the family and provide for the economic and social inclusion of all in our community.’ In his introduction to the document the Chief Minister declares: ‘What makes the Isle of Man special as a place in which to live and work is its combination of economic success with a strong sense of community. ‘Growth in the economy has brought better job opportunities, higher standards of living and enhanced public services for the people of the Island. To maintain and build on that prosperity we must ensure that our businesses can continue to succeed in increasingly competitive global markets.’ Mr Brown continues: ‘To safeguard and strengthen our sense of community it is important that the benefits of a buoyant economy are shared and felt across society. We should also recognise the role and responsibilities of families – of all sorts – as vital support networks within our communities.’ Explaining the purpose of the Strategic Plan, he writes: ‘As with any Government we are not able to do everything and we will inevitably be faced with having to make many difficult decisions. I consider that it is vitally important from the outset that we as a Government consider and agree our policy priorities, giving clear direction as to how we can continue to support and build on what has been achieved over the past twenty years.’ The Chief Minister’s introduction concludes: ‘What is vital if we are to progress and succeed is the commitment of everyone to actively work together to secure the Island’s future and to bring about changes that will benefit those we are all here to serve – the people of our Island. ‘I will continue to provide positive leadership to ensure stability and provide cohesive Government that will take us forward with confidence and pride,’ he pledges, ‘I will robustly promote and defend our position as a Nation.’ The Plan is divided into four central strategic themes – Income, Employment and the Economy; Government Spending and Revenues; Legislation and Regulation; and Quality of Life. Under these headings it lists a wide range of actions Government will take in such areas as economic diversification, training and education, international relations, transport links, support for children and young people, welfare benefits, health and social services, housing, regulation, public communications, local government, social integration, cultural heritage, the environment, drugs and alcohol, population management, law and order, public transport, planning and the built environment. A copy of the Plan can be downloaded from the Isle of Man Government website at: www.gov.im/cso More stories >>>
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