The capital is the topic of the latest public meeting organised by Douglas MHK Chris Thomas.

His open debates were launched as an alternative to the government's Big Debate series of public meetings last year.

Speakers on the topic of 'Douglas, the powerhouse of our Island. Do national policies help or hinder?' will include the town's East Douglas MHKs Brenda Cannell and Chris Robertshaw, and Isle of Man Newspapers' editor Richard Butt.

Chris Thomas said: 'I would have been surprised if Mr Robertshaw had not accepted the invitation I made in Keys just before Christmas as the debate is in the constituency he represents and the Central Douglas Master Plan is something he is pushing. Perhaps I will get an invitation back?

'I offered during the same Keys exchange to share a platform with Mr Teare and Mr Robertshaw to discuss government’s new fiscal strategy, and Ci65 consultant proposals for the NI system. Might the official Big Debate be opened up so that all MHKs and others outside government can contribute on equal terms?'

The meeting is at the South Douglas Old Friends' Association in Finch Road on Wednesday January 14, starting at 7pm.


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