THE Manx government should not hold back on taking serious cost-cutting measures to get the Isle of Man’s economy back on track.
This was one of the key messages from Chamber of Commerce president Nick Verardi, speaking in Douglas yesterday.
“This is not a time for selfish politics,” he said. “It is a time for the nation to recognise the enormity of the tasks and pull together under the leadership of our politicians.”
Mr Verardi’s straight-talking speech, delivered to fellow Chamber members at lunch at the Hilton Hotel following the annual general meeting, focused on the measures that the Isle of Man will have to deal with over the next few years in the wake of the ?140 million financial hole created by the UK’s changes in the VAT sharing arrangement.
“Cuts have to be made, but politicians must communicate with the Manx public and help them understand why certain cuts are preferred over others.
“The majority of the Manx public are cognisant that this is not going to be easy or ideal, but nevertheless they expect their politicians to make these difficult decisions.”
He also emphasised that the Island’s business people were closely watching the Manx government’s actions in dealing with the financial crisis, pointing out that the Chamber of Commerce has “for some time lobbied hard” for greater effectiveness and efficiency within the halls of government.
“What Chamber would be encouraged to see is a well thought out, co-ordinated and sustained plan of action, agreed and accepted by all the government departments which must be led by the Ministers who have to accept ultimate responsibility for the delivery of those objectives.”
He added, “Speaking of our dialogue with government, we welcome the excellent access to not only government departments, but also Members of Tynwald and, in particular, the Council of Ministers. This two-way communication process is essential if we are to fully represent the interests of the Chamber’s membership.
“The work permit changes late last year are just one example of the private and public sectors working together.
“Chamber recognises that there are times when we should vocally support the work of our government. However, on other occasions we need to do quite the opposite, albeit with one consistent outcome in mind; the successful promotion of the interests of our membership and Isle of Man plc at large.”
