Castletown Commissioner resigns ahead of election next month

Jimmy Cubbon says handling of Market Square by DOI is to blame

A Castletown Commissioner has resigned from his post ahead of the Local Authority Elections next month over the Department of Infrastructure's handling of Market Square. 

In a letter announcing his departure Jimmy Cubbon says his decision follows 'continual delays' to a freedom of information request from the DOI to provide documentation about its decisions relating to the closure.

Mr Cubbon claims he asked for this information to be made publicly available prior to the electoral registration deadline to be able to make a 'fully informed decision' on standing in the Local Authority Elections.

But he says the request has not been honoured and the political reputations of the current board members have been 'unfairly tarnished'.
Mr Cubbon added he 'firmly believes' the handling of the square has created significant 'toxicity, uncertainty and division' within the town. 

He claims in the letter the 'ongoing confusion' and 'lack of transparency' have contributed to some board members deciding not to seek re-election due to 'undue stress and criticism'. 

Mr Cubbon also says the situation has led to the loss of several 'dedicated' local representatives, whose absence will be a 'significant blow' to the community. 

The letter he adds he is 'genuinely concerned' about the implications for the future governance and representation of Castletown.

However, Mr Cubbon 'remains optimistic' about the future role of the private sector, which he believes continues to drive 'positive change' and progression in Castletown. 

The full letter can be found HERE.

The Department of Infrastructure has been approached for comment.