COVID-19: Ministers push back at calls for public inquiry

The Council of Ministers has opted to have a 'review' of the Island's handling of the pandemic, rather than an inquiry.

Chief Minister Alfred Cannan said a full public inquiry into the Isle of Man government's handling of Covid-19 would be expensive and take too long.

He estimated it could take up to three years to conduct and cost the taxpayer several million pounds.

Mr Cannan added that an independent review would be "equally as effective".

It's thought that would involve inviting public opinion to determine what lessons have been learnt.

Mr Cannan said the new government welcomes scrutiny and recognises that those directly affected by the actions of government should be given the opportunity to share their experience. 

The Manx government's full statement on the matter can be viewed here.