Proposal for Island-Wide Leisure Rate to Fund Swimming Pools

Manx politicians are expected to consider a proposal to implement an all-island leisure rate, with the collected funds specifically earmarked for the support of regional swimming pools. Lawrie Hooper MHK stated that this motion would establish “fairness,” given that residents in the east are not charged a local rate for the National Sports Centre (NSC). Highlighting the financial challenges faced by the southern pool, Hooper argued for “parity of funding” for national assets, such as the NSC, to prevent some individuals from paying “twice.” The parliamentary motion, scheduled for debate in January, also directs the Treasury to submit a report to Tynwald by March 2025, detailing a timetable for the rate’s introduction. Hooper explained that the current funding arrangement means people in all areas of the island, except the east, contribute to a local swimming pool rate. Because the NSC in Douglas is “funded entirely out of taxation,” residents in other regions are effectively paying for it through taxes, in addition to funding their local pools via the rates system. He commented, “To my mind it seems fair that everybody pays towards their local pool, and the easiest way of doing that is through an all-island leisure rate.” Hooper also suggested that other public services, including libraries and rubbish tips, could similarly be “funded nationally” rather than “relying on the mish-mash arrangements you have from a postcode system.” However, he emphasized that local authorities should retain responsibility for operating pool facilities. Hooper further noted that the motion calls for a timetable for the rate’s introduction to be provided before the end of the administration, citing a lack of discussion on rate reform under the current government. The BBC has contacted the Department of Education, Sport and Culture for a comment.