☕ Commissioner welcomes DOI's Ramsey flood defenc... | Moghrey Mie · 24 Feb
Moghrey Mie 🇮🇲
Tuesday, 24 February 2026
☕ ~8 min read · 15 stories from 71 sources
Moghrey mie! It's a mild Tuesday in Douglas — overcast, 9°C (feels like 5°C), 16mph SW. High of 10°C. ☀ 07:17 — 🌙 17:44. Keys might be sitting today — democracy in action.
⚡ Today in 30 Seconds
• Commissioner welcomes DOI's Ramsey flood defence U-turn — A significant development has emerged in the long-running discussion over flood defences in Ramsey, with the Department...
• Peel Castle Conservation Milestone Achieved as Scaffolding Comes Down — A significant milestone has been reached in the ongoing conservation efforts at Peel Castle, as the scaffolding that...
• Douglas Council says housing deficiency fund increase a 'step in the right direction' — A significant boost to the island's housing deficiency fund has been hailed as a positive move by Douglas Council's...
• Bus passengers in Ramsey share their views on strike action — As the island navigates its third day of disrupted bus services, commuters in Ramsey are sharing their thoughts on the...
• Isle of Man travellers urged to check documents ahead of UK ETA launch — As the Isle of Man prepares for a significant shift in UK entry requirements, residents and visitors alike are being...
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Manx Fairy Tales Classic collection of Manx folklore — bugganes, fenodyree, and the Moddey Dhoo. Amazon Associate link
📰 Top Stories (15)
🔴 Commissioner welcomes DOI's Ramsey flood defence U-turn
A significant development has emerged in the long-running discussion over flood defences in Ramsey, with the Department of Infrastructure opting to reverse its decision on a proposed quayside flood wall. This move comes after concerns were raised regarding the design of the wall, with many arguing that it would be at odds with the character of the area. Commissioner Juan McGuinness has expressed his approval of the Department's change of heart, acknowledging the importance of finding a solution that balances the need for flood protection with the need to preserve the town's unique charm.
📰 Manx Radio · 3FM · 3FM
Peel Castle Conservation Milestone Achieved as Scaffolding Comes Down
A significant milestone has been reached in the ongoing conservation efforts at Peel Castle, as the scaffolding that has shrouded a section of the historic site for some time has finally been dismantled. The removal of the scaffolding reveals the meticulously restored Causeway Wall, a crucial part of the nearly 1km long curtain wall that encircles the castle. This achievement marks a major step forward in the preservation of one of the Isle of Man's most treasured and iconic landmarks, protecting it from the ravages of time and the harsh coastal environment.
📰 Manx Radio · MNH
Douglas Council says housing deficiency fund increase a 'step in the right direction'
A significant boost to the island's housing deficiency fund has been hailed as a positive move by Douglas Council's leader, Devon Watson. The proposed annual injection of £8.5 million over the next five years is seen as a crucial step towards addressing the island's social housing needs. However, Councillor Watson is urging the government to go further, arguing that investment in social housing should be on a par with that seen in luxury apartment developments.
📰 Manx Radio · Manx.news
Bus passengers in Ramsey share their views on strike action
As the island navigates its third day of disrupted bus services, commuters in Ramsey are sharing their thoughts on the ongoing industrial action. The reduced timetable, which will continue for another seven days, has been prompted by a long-standing disagreement between the parties involved over wages and contract terms. Amidst the uncertainty, passengers at Ramsey Bus Station are exhibiting a range of reactions, from understanding to frustration, as they adapt to the temporary changes.
📰 Manx Radio · 3FM
Isle of Man travellers urged to check documents ahead of UK ETA launch
As the Isle of Man prepares for a significant shift in UK entry requirements, residents and visitors alike are being advised to review their travel documents to avoid any potential disruptions. With a key change set to take effect on February 25, it's essential for those travelling to and from the island to confirm that their paperwork is in order, ensuring a smooth journey amidst the upcoming adjustments.
📰 Manx Radio · IOM Today
Isle of Man bus strike LIVE: Updates on service disruption during 10-day walkout
The island's transport network remains under strain as the work stoppage by Bus Vannin drivers enters its third day. Ongoing disputes over wages and working conditions have prompted the 10-day walkout, leaving commuters to seek alternative arrangements.
Road between Port Erin and Port St Mary shut by sinkhole
Island commuters are facing a temporary disruption to their usual routes, as a significant sinkhole has prompted the closure of a key road. The affected stretch, which runs along Station Road from its intersection with Beach Road to the Castletown Road Roundabout, will remain shut to all traffic until Thursday afternoon. This closure, enforced by the Department of Infrastructure, will be in place from today until 4pm on February 26, and will also prohibit pedestrians and emergency services from passing through, with the exception of authorized emergency access.
No school bus service as first week of driver strike begins
As the island wakes up to a new week, commuters and students are facing a challenging start to the day. The ongoing driver strike has prompted Bus Vannin to introduce a reduced Manx Electric Railway service, aiming to provide some relief for those struggling to get to school and work. However, the organisation has warned that other routes will be severely impacted, with a limited contingency timetable in place to help manage the disruption.
Ramsey MHK's concern over withdrawal of sea defence plans
A recent decision by the Department of Infrastructure to scrap plans for a sea defence wall in Ramsey has sparked concern from local MHK Lawrie Hooper. The proposed wall, which would have stood four feet tall along West Quay, was intended to protect the area from flooding. However, it appears that a significant amount of negative feedback, including comments on social media, may have contributed to the minister's decision to withdraw the plan.
MHK to question social media age limit
A pressing concern about the impact of social media on young minds is set to be raised in the House of Keys. Local MHK Jason Moorhouse will be posing a question to the chief minister regarding the potential introduction of age restrictions on social media access. This inquiry comes on the heels of a pledge by UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to take swift action to safeguard young people from the potentially addictive nature of social media platforms.
Sinkhole closes road in the south
A significant disruption to traffic is in place in the south of the island, where a sinkhole has forced the closure of a key road. The affected stretch, which runs from Four Roads to Beach Road, is expected to remain shut until at least Thursday. As a result, drivers traveling between Port Erin and Port St Mary will need to take a detour via Castletown Road, Gansey, and Beach Road.
No school buses operating as pupils return from half-term break
As the half-term break comes to a close, students and commuters are bracing for a challenging return to their daily routines. The ongoing bus strike, now in its third day, has prompted Bus Vannin to suspend school services for the duration of the 10-day industrial action. In response to the disruption, the bus operator has implemented a contingency timetable, prioritizing key routes that link major towns and the hospital.
Lack of costing for Cair Vie windfarm project 'disappointing'
As the Island navigates its energy transition, a notable absence of financial detail has come to light. The Treasury Minister, Chris Thomas, has expressed disappointment that the cost of the proposed Cair Vie onshore windfarm remains unclear. This lack of transparency was highlighted when Thomas was questioned about the omission of energy transition costs from the current year's Budget.
Union leader accuses DoI of 'disingenuous' claims over bus driver pay offers
A long-standing dispute between bus drivers and the Department of Infrastructure has taken a new turn, with a union leader questioning the sincerity of the department's claims regarding pay offers. Debbie Halsall, Regional Officer for Unite the Union, has expressed concerns that the department's assertions of making five pay offers may not be entirely genuine. According to Halsall, the initial offer had not been properly vetted or discussed with the Treasury, while the most recent proposal included a minimal increase of 20p on a previous offer.
PSC chair says government pay rise is deserved but must be balanced
As the island's authorities navigate the complexities of public sector pay, a key figure has weighed in on the debate. Rob Callister, chair of the Public Services Commission, acknowledges that government employees are due for a salary boost, but emphasizes the need for fiscal prudence. This comes on the heels of a 2% pay increase for staff included in the current year's Budget, whereas PSC workers saw a slightly more generous 3% hike for the 2025-26 financial year.
🛒 Manx Pick of the Day
Manx Fairy Tales Classic collection of Manx folklore — bugganes, fenodyree, and the Moddey Dhoo. As an Amazon Associate, Moghrey Mie earns from qualifying purchases.
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Keys is sitting today. Watch live at tynwald.org.im. We'll cover the highlights tomorrow.
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⛴️ Steam Packet: ⚠️ Service disruptions reported — Check timetables
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✈️ Ronaldsway: Normal operations
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💱 £1 = €1.1444 · $1.3499 · 1.0454 CHF
🌊 Sea temp: 7.8°C · 🌓 First Quarter · 🌥 UV 1 — Low.
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📜 This Day in Manx History
1854 — Work began on the Great Laxey Wheel (Lady Isabella) — it would become the world's largest working waterwheel.
🗣️ Fockle yn Laa
Ushtey (USH-teh) — Water
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Quiz answer: Snaefell (2,036 feet / 621 metres)
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