Chris Robertshaw

Talk given at PAG's 28th March 2011 public meeting "Identifying Election Issues".

I expect some of you will wish to put forward particular issues you feel strongly about so I thought a more general view gleaned from the fairly short time I have been a member of the Keys might provide another dimension to tonight’s meeting.

I have called it ‘a view from the inside’.

As a preface to what follows I would like to say that anyone might be forgiven for thinking that I am simply a closed minded critic with nothing good to say.

I hope nothing is further from the truth for the Isle of Man is a deeply blessed place in having its own parliament. That such a small community has the potential to so significantly decide its own fate is indeed remarkable – we have a great gift – a gift that should provide us all with an opportunity to make a difference.

Speech made during the debate on David Cannan's proposal to have a select committee examine the viability of the Manx government placing the Steam Packet into public ownership.

After a 90 minute debate Tynwald voted 24-4 against.