The Ard-Shirveishagh (Chief Minister) Hon Chris Thomas MHK has created a new position of Minister for Housing and Communities, appointing Hon Rob Callister MHK to the role.
The Ard-Shirveishagh said:
‘When I stood to be Ard-Shirveishagh, I set out in my manifesto a clear commitment to fix housing. That is why I have appointed a minister with responsibility for this policy area.’
The new Minister will, amongst other things, lead development of a prioritised action plan for meeting housing need, including the existing approved Tynwald commitment to build, provide or facilitate up to 1,000 affordable homes over ten years from April 2025. Evidence of housing need should inform funding, site availability and construction capacity.
The Ard-Shirveishagh added:
‘There is action we can take, but there is a significant amount of work ahead, and I am grateful to Mr Callister for taking on this critical area of responsibility. In the coming days, we will meet to agree clear objectives and priorities for the work ahead.’
Mr Callister said:
‘Housing is one of the biggest challenges facing the Isle of Man, and I am delighted to take on the role of Minister for Housing and Communities. Having a safe, secure and affordable home matters to every individual and family, but housing is also fundamental to the Island’s future prosperity.
‘I am pleased to join the Council of Ministers and look forward to working with colleagues, local authorities and the wider community to turn ambition into action, increase the delivery of the homes our Island needs and make a real difference to people’s lives over the next five years.’
