Why You Should go to The Gov Conference

Conferences. They’re generally good for one thing: a day off work where you can lie back, tune in, grab a free pen and have a few free cups of coffee. 

But, not on this occasion, as you will actually be able to try and influence the gov’s policies  and voice your concerns over the future direction of the island.

The 2022 Isle of Man Government Conference, the first of its kind, is coming up from Tuesday 20 September- 21 September. And like a check-up with your dentist, it’s actually probably a good idea to go- especially if you’re actually waiting to get on a dentist waiting list and want to tell someone who is responsible for that kind of thing that it needs to change, opposed to whining and hoping someone else will do something. If you need more of a push to go than your mate Gef simply telling you like we’re your Mum telling you to eat your greens (you should do that, too), we’ve compiled a few reasons why you should show your face.

1. Have your say on the future of the economy

‘The economy’ and ‘is doing great!’ are not words you’ll hear in the British press a lot at the moment. In fact, the current economic situation is enough to put anyone on edge. On Island, we’re seeing the knock-on effect of the situation in the UK. While the Manx love to be cynical about how independent the Island’s economy is from the UK, we’ve actually got a lot of power to implement new and innovative ways to drive our economy forward- and create better lives for us all in the process. A key focus for the conference is enabling feedback and discussion around the Economic Strategy so from cannabis to a space school, you can have your say about the ideas that will shape the Island’s future. 

2. The cost of living

Look, I know talking about money is painful at the moment- so we’re going to get through this quickly. The truth is that we’re at the point where people aren’t saving for rainy days or holidays, but the prospect of getting through winter. It’s a terrifying time that’s impacting us all in different ways. By putting forward your experiences- and your ideas- you can help create dynamic solutions that can ease the situation for everyone. 

3. Actually have a chat with the Ministers 

PSA: bitching on Manx Forums does not make you an active participant of democracy. The Isle of Man Government Conference is your opportunity to say it to their faces, not behind their backs. Think of this as an immense privilege: all you have to do is pop down to the Villa (very convenient if you’ve got a cheeky little Douglas city centre job) and you can have a chat with the fellas (this is a gender-neutral term here, before any MHK has a pop at me again) in charge. Can you imagine doing that in the UK? Having a lunch hour chat with Liz Truss? She’d probably seem as confused as would be at the whole situation, bless her. 

4. Housing

Housing is a hot issue at the moment. Some of us think joining the housing ladder is a fantasy, for others simply renting somewhere that isn’t their childhood bedroom feels like a big ask. You can learn more and- again, key phrase here- hold the government to account. Who knew a date at the Villa might actually help you move out from your Mum’s?

5. Stop the world from burning 

Global warming. It’s such a big issue it feels almost overwhelming to even consider how we as individuals can make a difference. The truth is that even if you commit yourself to only creating jumpers out of your own sheep’s wool and riding a bike up Athol Street until you’ve built the calves of a God, acts of individualism are never going to cut it. The Isle of Man, while only a small nation, could be the, to put it in very Gen-Z terms, influencers on the global stage on how to do things right. If you’re wanting to save the world, tell the MHKs exactly how it’s done, and exactly how we should be pushing forward.

6. Discuss the big issues and share your ideas

The Island is far from a perfect place. This isn’t some anti-patriotic sentiment, because the truth is we can have a better place to live. The Isle of Man has so many incredible features: from its natural beauty to its creative communities. If you believe the Island has the potential (and it does) to be a truly exceptional place to live, you can share your ideas. We voted the MHKs in. It’s their time to listen. 

The Isle of Man Government Conference will take place on Tuesday 20th September to Wednesday 21st September, with panels and networking events taking place from 8am to 6pm. You can find the full schedule here and register for free tickets here.