MHK attacks government record on public sector housing

"If you're a couple on minimum wage, working full time, you won't get access", says Moorhouse

A member of the House of Keys has attacked government's record on public sector housing.

Arbory, Castletown and Malew's Jason Moorhouse says housing issues were one of the pressing concerns in the run-up to the last general election.

He believes very little has been done despite the Isle of Man being 60 percent of the way through the life of the current administration.

Similar concerns have been raised by Onchan MHK Rob Callister who initially sent an open letter to the Department of Infrastructure in February 2024.

This was followed by an attempt to form a parliamentary committee to analyse public sector housing thresholds in June's Tynwald sitting.

That was adjourned following promises made by the infrastructure minister that he was bringing forward plans the following month (July).

During the final Tynwald sitting ahead of the summer recess, Tim Crookall set out his response to previous motions regarding the way the government ensures public sector housing is offered in a 'fair and equal way' to those who need it most.

However, Mr Callister criticised the DoI for 'ignoring' his concerns about thresholds.

The Department of Infrastructure has acknowledged the financial difference between single and joint applicants is insufficient and has committed to putting thresholds into review.

However, no date has been set for any subsequent plans to be brought forward in response to the review.

Mr Moorhouse thinks many of those in need of help aren't even eligible under the current criteria:

Jason Moorhouse alongside 15 other MHKs voted to receive the Department of Infrastructure's Allocation and Renewal of Public Sector Housing Fixed Term Tenancies.