THERE are no major policy changes imminent for public sector rents, an MHK has said.
Political member for housing at the Department of Social Care, Bill Henderson MHK, said he has been contacted by several people concerned about the issue.
A statement has been issued by the department which said it is "aware that there is currently speculation about possible changes to public sector housing, driven in part by comments made in the UK by Prime Minister David Cameron (concerning the possible introduction of fixed term tenancies in order to ensure housing stock is provided based on current not historic need) and comments made locally by Councillor Colin Cain of Douglas Corporation (concerning the possible introduction of means-based rents)".
Douglas North MHK Mr Henderson said: "I have been contacted by several people in the last few days who are concerned that public sector housing rent policy or rent levels may change imminently.
"I want to take this opportunity to reassure the public that no major policy changes are about to happen, nor will they without full prior consultation.
"The department is leading investment in housing of over £130m over the next five years, which is one of the largest home building programmes in the Island’s history and this demonstrates the department’s commitment to public sector housing.
"Public sector housing plays an important role in the housing market to ensure there is a wide range of housing that meets the needs of the people of the Isle of Man.
"The department must listen carefully when local authorities are expressing concerns that rents are not high enough to sustain the authorities’ costs.
"Also, the department is very conscious that the net cost of public sector housing to the department – and thus the taxpayer – is rising by over £1m a year at a time when government is actively seeking to bridge the £142m gap between government income and expenditure.
"The department therefore intends to lead a public debate on how best the Island’s future housing needs can be met, the role public sector housing should play and how it can be funded in a sustainable manner that is fair to both tenants and taxpayers.
"The department supports the most vulnerable in our community and is acutely aware of their needs; the department will do nothing that would unfairly disadvantage tenants or other groups."
The department wrote to the 17 housing authorities in the Island in June seeking their views on these issues.
In an interview with Manx Radio Mr Cain made reference to a number of recommendations.
The department has pointed out it has not made any recommendations on this matter to date.
It added it understands the recommendations are those made by Douglas Corporation for its own political consideration and the department looks forward to hearing the Corporation’s views in due course.
Also see: Local authorities discuss council house rent hikes
