Leap Day 2016 is the date for the February public meeting of Positive Action Group (PAG) at the Manx Legion Club, Douglas.

By then the Isle of Man Budget 2016 will have been well truly publicised and Treasury Minister Eddie Teare will have addressed business breakfasts to explain his pronouncements.

This PAG meeting will perhaps be the only opportunity for the public to hear the detail of the Budget and more importantly be given the opportunity to ask questions about it.

Minister Teare himself is quoted as saying "we could be accused of being in our ivory towers", so PAG is pleased that its invitation to speak and be questioned about the Budget has been accepted by Treasury.

The Minister described the Budget as "fair and responsible, that helps the least well off in our Island while providing a solid platform for the future" Is that so?

A PAG spokes person said: "The 2016 Budget lays the basis for a new government, in September, to address the considerable challenges that lie ahead in the next 5 years - funding the Health Service, expanding the economy, tackling the burden of Public Sector Pensions and dwindling Reserves. It is important for people to be aware of the steps that are being proposed now to face an uncertain future. As usual after the presentation there will be an opportunity for the audience to question the guests and also to contribute to the discussion."

"The Budget and Beyond" A presentation by a Senior Treasury spokesperson

7.30 p.m. Monday 29th February 2016, Manx Legion Club. Market Hill, Douglas.

The meeting is free and open to all.