Minister Says No Way Railways Will Be Closed Down

Community, Culture and Leisure Minister David Cretney was today asked in Tynwald if he has any plans to close down the Island’s Steam and Electric Railways as part of cost cutting measures.

The question came from MHK Bill Henderson.

Minister Cretney assured Members that there is no question of closing the railway, calling it a major tourist attraction, and one that is loved across the World.

He said his Department are securing the future of the Railways through capital investment.

Last tourist season passenger figures rose by 10-15%

Responding to Mr Henderson’s claims that 25% of the workforce are to be cut, Minister Cretney said they are still in a period of preliminary consultation and the figure quoted is merely unhelpful speculation.