Are Manx politicians worth the money they cost?

A gathering outside Legislative Offices this afternoon (Tuesday) will set off a TUC campaign asking that question.

Figures released by the IOM TUC claim the average member of Tynwald costs nearly ?78,000 a year.

In what they are calling their Axe Factor campaign, they have calculated the overall expenses, including basic pay, allowances, pension and travel costs.

They say some politicans will cost more, others less and insist they're not focussing on individuals.

The aim of the campaign, which will be launched this afternoon, is to put the question 'Are Manx politicians value for money?'