The Health Minister has refused to confirm the long term use of a southern care facility.

Plans to use Ardbraccan House in Surby to house young people in care was objected to by locals, concerned about the suitability of the location.

Speaking in Tynwald, Eddie Teare said the original plans had been changed, and now three young people with learning disabilities would be housed there.

However, he said he couldn't give an unequivocal assurance this would always be the case.

Mr Teare (pictured) said he believed the area was a suitable place for integrating people with learning difficulties into the community: