Southern Pool decision shows Island Plan 'not worth the paper its written on', says MHK

Region's representatives blast recommendation for closure

The news that the Southern Swimming Pool may be set to shut at the end of March has been met with widespread anger from the region's MHKs.

A letter leaked to Manx Radio yesterday (Thursday 11 January) showed the Department of Education, Sport and Culture is recommending the move on financial grounds.

Member for Rushen, Michelle Haywood says the department has 'misunderstood the brief' with regards to being told to find cost improvements.

She told Manx Radio finding cost improvements is 'not about cutting vital services', which she believes the move amounts to.

Dr Haywood said she is 'flabbergasted, astonished and furious' that the department has made the decision, and will fight the recommendation alongside her southern colleagues.

Meanwhile, Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Tim Glover says government's Island Plan is now 'not worth the paper it's written on' following the news, arguing the proposed closure undermines the current administration's stated goals for the Island.

He described the document as 'a load of spaghetti words' that 'mean absolutely nothing', as he argued promises made in the document to promote health and wellbeing would be impacted if the service was indeed shut

It's thought the education minister will present the recommendation at next month's Tynwald before members vote on it.

Amy Griffiths has been finding out more:

Manx Radio has contacted the Department of Education, Sport and Culture but is yet to receive a response.

A petition to save the pool has also been launched.