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Restructuring of Government comes into effect 31 March 2010  THE Isle of Man enters an important new era in its political and social history on April 1 as the restructuring of Government comes into effect.
The changes, approved by Tynwald in February, represent the most comprehensive overhaul of Government since the introduction of the Ministerial system in 1986. At the centre of the plan is the creation of a Department of Economic Development which will take responsibility for enhancing the Island’s status as a leading international business centre. Attention will be focused on generating new revenue streams as Government seeks to manage the reduction in the Isle of Man’s share of VAT revenue. Chief Minister Tony Brown MHK said: ‘Restructuring will not affect the level of services provided to the public. What it will do is drive greater efficiencies within Government through a more co-ordinated and effective framework of Departments. The changes have been carefully and properly considered and are aimed at helping the Island to emerge leaner, fitter and even better equipped to face the future. Reorganising Government is a major task and one that will continue in the weeks and months ahead. However, every care will be taken to minimise disruption to the provision of our services. We intend for it to be very much a case of “business as usual” wherever possible.’ A great deal of preparatory work has been undertaken since the proposals were first announced in January, including measures to establish the new Departments in legal terms and to ensure that budgets are properly set. There will be a period of transition as the restructuring programme beds down. However, members of the public should remain largely unaffected by the impact of these changes. The Island is entering this period of readjustment on a firm footing, with low unemployment, no external borrowing, sound reserves and a solid reputation as a centre for international business. In addition to targeting economic growth, the restructuring programme has also paved the way for a Department of Social Care to help deliver a cohesive social policy embracing social services, social security and housing. The changes have resulted in the creation of six entirely new Departments – Economic Development; Social Care; Health; Community, Culture and Leisure; Environment, Food and Agriculture; and the Department of Infrastructure. Treasury has seen responsibility for the promotion of financial services transferred to Economic Development. Home Affairs and Education have remained intact, although the latter has been renamed Education and Children. The Chief Minister said: ‘The Isle of Man is a resilient and resourceful nation with a track record of adapting to changing circumstances. This spirit of co-operation will be crucial to our continued success and I am confident that everybody will pull together to serve the best interests of the Isle of Man.’ More stories >>>
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