Commissioners have raised concerns about proposed changes
Should where you live on the Isle of Man impact on the services you can access?
That’s the question a Ramsey MHK is asking after introducing a new clause to the Local Government Amendment Bill.
Lawrie Hooper’s efforts have come under fire from some local authorities which have called the proposals 'inequitable' and 'scary' whilst also raising concerns about the lack of consultation.
A provision for consultations has been included which he says will 'safeguard' the boards and allow them to have their say before new functions are allocated.
The Local Government Amendment Bill has now moved to the Legislative Council for its next reading after passing its third reading in the House of Keys.
Douglas Central MHK Chris Thomas – who invited local authorities to contact him with their thoughts on the clauses – has described the situation as ‘a mess’ saying the House of Keys and Government have ‘let themselves down’.
But Mr Hooper says he wants to ensure there is 'parity' of service provision in each constituency and believes there shouldn't be a 'postcode lottery' for people to get what they need.
He maintains the bill is not a ‘particularly contentious’ piece of legislation and has been speaking to Local Democracy Reporter Emma Draper:
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