Infrastructure Minister Ray Harmer says he appreciates closing the Mountain Road can harm Ramsey's economy - but it's never done unnecessarily.
This week in the House of Keys he faced questions about the road closures and their effect on local businesses.
Ramsey MHK Lawrie Hooper pressed him on the topic saying the Mountain Road often closed at short notice.
Mr Harmer said not carrying out essential works could deal an even bigger blow to the town:
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