A CHRISTMAS message for isleofman.com readers from Social Care Minister Chris Robertshaw MHK:
"Somehow as we approach this Christmas things feel different to many others of recent decades.
"The world around us appears more turbulent and uncertain whilst the challenges multiply and budgets become ever more stretched.
"The question grows how will all this affect me and my family and how well can the Island weather the storm?
"As part of a new government my only recently formed department - with responsibilities ranging from housing, children and family issues, the elderly and mental health to the disabled and the benefits system - finds itself at the heart of many key issues at a crucial time.
"In these circumstances I know glib reassurances will carry no weight but what I can say is that my department is facing up to its responsibilities with a keen sense of wishing to achieve a true recognition of fairness in the application of its policies, a determination to protect the most vulnerable and a strengthened desire to help those who truly are trying to help themselves.
"These principles will be at the core of our thinking in the New Year.
"Regardless of your circumstances all at Social Care wish you happiness this Christmas and the very best of outcomes for the year ahead."
