As part of the Isle of Man Government’s commitments to Our Island Plan, approved by Tynwald in February, a two-day conference is planned to take place at the Villa Marina on Tuesday 20th and Wednesday 21st September.
Our Island Plan sets out five clear themes and associated actions to build a secure, vibrant and sustainable future for our Island. The two-day conference will assist in bringing the plan to life and provide a unique opportunity for the Manx public to engage with both Government and political representatives on big issues important to the future of our Island.
Following an opening address from the Chief Minister, the two days will consist of keynotes, presentations and panel Q&As on pressing topics such as climate change, future energy and the Island’s Economic Strategy to name a few. Attendees can also hear first-hand about progress made to date and upcoming plans for each of the five priorities set out in the plan, whilst a series of smaller breakout sessions will give individuals the opportunity to put their questions directly to key decision makers in a more intimate setting.
Click here to view the full agenda.
Chief Minister, Alfred Cannan MHK commented:
‘The aim of the Isle of Man Government Conference is to assist in bringing Our Island Plan to life and provide a unique opportunity for the Manx public to engage with both Government and political representatives at a grass roots level on big issues important to the future of our Island.
‘The Island is and will continue to face significant challenges, but there are also significant opportunities for us to embrace. The big policy issues all require in-depth thought and planning not only to resolve immediate issues but also to ensure that we have long-term plans and associated structures that deliver sustainable policies for the future. As a diverse set of political representatives and communities, there are always going to be individual differences between us - but there will also be common ground. Differences can be a source of strength, offering a range of viewpoints and experience, of which forms the core of this event- providing an open platform for differing voices to be heard.
As I have previously emphasised, ‘One Government’ as an approach requires everyone across the public service to have certain considerations at the forefront of public service delivery. A greatly important and topical matter, I will personally be leading a panel Q&A on our plans for Government reform, highlighting how we intend to make the culture one of ‘People First’ to assist in delivering meaningful change within this administration.
‘I greatly encourage the Manx public to come along to this first of its kind event to take the opportunity to engage with both myself and other Ministers, Tynwald Members, Government Departments and Guest Speakers to share your thoughts and opinions as to how we can all help create a secure, vibrant and sustainable future for our Island.’
Further details about the conference, including a full agenda, will be provided in due course.