Isle of Man welfare system reform set for debate

Government proposals to reform the Isle of Man's welfare system are set to be discussed at a meeting in Douglas.

The debate is to be held on Tuesday and will highlight plans for a major overhaul of the benefits system.

The move comes after the social care minister called for a "national debate" in the wake of a series of cuts unveiled in February's Manx budget.

Mr Robertshaw said: "I believe tackling our social policy is one of the major challenges our community faces."

He added: "It will require an open and honest debate, fresh thinking and a new approach but it will be crucial that all parts of our community get involved. "

In the budget, Treasury Minister Eddie Teare announced cuts of £35m by reducing government spending in six of the nine main departments, although social care was one of three departments to see an increase in spending, alongside education and health.

In his budget speech, Mr Teare called for a curb to benefits which, in some cases, he said, paid more than the minimum wage.

The public meeting will take place at the Manx Museum and will start at 19:30 BST.