THREE big issues are facing the Isle of Man during the coming year, and local companies and individuals are being urged to make their voices heard before decisions are taken.

That is the view of the president of the Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce, Nick Verardi, who addressed the organisation’s Christmas lunch on Thursday at the Palace Hotel in Douglas.

Speaking to a large audience of over 240, including the most successful businessmen and women of the Island’s leading companies, together with a number of senior politicians, Mr Verardi said he applauded government for some of the decisions it had taken during the past year, but said many important issues remained.

“However, we believe there are three main issues, amongst others, which must be addressed during 2011.” He highlighted the Zero 10 corporate tax , the final salary pension scheme and the ongoing restructure of government as the topics which gave most concern to the Chamber of Commerce and which would shape the future of the Isle of Man.

Mr Verardi also said that the Chamber of Commerce was keen to have a strong presence in assessing the views of all the candidates standing in next year’s General Election for the House of Keys.

“There are many really important issues facing the Isle of Man in the future and we in the Chamber of Commerce will expect every candidate to express their views publicly - and we intend to ask questions and receive answers.”

He also said that the Chamber wished to continue to work with its members all over the Island to ensure that the Chamber members’ opinions were known around the Island on a wide variety of topics.

“It’s another important year ahead and it’s vital that the Chamber’s views are heard,” he added.