On Monday 3^rd April 2023 the Environment and Infrastructure Policy Review Committee, a Standing Committee of Tynwald, held its annual oral evidence session with the Department of Infrastructure.

The Committee, whose members are Rob Mercer MLC and Marlene Maska, discussed a range of topics from the Isle of Man Biosphere Reserve to transport and waste with Minister Chris Thomas MHK and the Department’s Chief Officer, Emily Curphey, who attended via video link.

Mr. Mercer, the Chair of the Committee reflected that:

The Committee are concerned that the continued use of Wright's Pit North is in breach of planning, this having expired in January 2020. The Minister confirmed to us that a retrospective planning application had been submitted and was awaiting decision. We do not wish to comment on any live planning application.

We note with concern that the Island’s environmental protection regulations are not in step with either EU or UK modern standards or codes of best practice.

This was Mrs Maska’s final meeting on the Committee prior to her retirement. The Chair wishes to place on record his thanks for her valuable and constructive contributions since her election onto the Committee in November 2021.

At the April 2023 sitting Tynwald will elect two Members in place of Mr Johnston MHK and Mrs Maska.

Audio of the hearing can be accessed via the Committee’s webpage.

- Ends –

For further information contact:

Clerk to the Committee

Telephone: 01624 685500

Email:    committees@tynwald.org.im

Website: www.tynwald.org.im

More information about the membership and work of the Committees can be found on the Tynwald website.