A new sea services framework should put passengers needs first.

That's the view of the chair of the Regulations of the Steam Packet Company Select Committee, which recently published its report following a year-long investigation into how the ferry operator is run.

In this episode of the Manx Newscast, Chair of the Committee Jason Moorhouse speaks to Manx Radio's Sian Cowper:

Are you taking part in Veganuary this year?

It's a challenge that encourages people to eat healthier in the first month of the new year.

Manx resident Michelle Garrett Chambers is a first-time author releasing her vegan book KISS Plant Based Eating.

The chair of Ramsey Commissioners claims there's still 'no answer' to the Northern Civic Amenity Site situation but he believes the solution lies in rate reform.

Rob Cowell says other northern authorities won't 'subsidise' Bride Commissioners.

He adds it's been a 'tough' year for the local authority following failed boundary extension plans and the death of two board members.

Despite the challenges Mr Cowell is encouraging people to stand for a seat in the 2025 local authority elections.

Local Democracy Reporter Emma Draper has been speaking to him:

Siobhán Fletcher looks back at the stories that hit the headlines over the last 12 months.

Douglas Council says a housing association is a 'short-term fix' to the Island's housing problem and won't improve the situation.

The local authority is the largest social housing provider on the Isle of Man.

She's committed to continuing to lobby to change how housing is budgeted for by government.

Councillor Wells added increasing the rates at the beginning of the year, by 12 percent allowed the local authority to maintain its essential services.

Local Democracy Reporter Emma Draper has been speaking to her:

Doctors on the Isle of Man could go on strike early next year as members of the British Medical Association have voted in favour of taking industrial action.

It's in response to an ongoing dispute over pay with Manx Care.

Both parties say they're open to talks, so what happens next?

Manx Radio has been speaking to BMA representatives Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Sean Crerand and Chair of the Isle of Man Medical Society Dr Prakash Thiagarajan.

Garff Commissioners say despite 'unexpected' challenges - including a landslide and floods - it's been a 'good' year for the local authority.

An increase in rates meant a number of projects were completed including showers on the promenade and a new skate park.

The lack of sewage treatment works is still said to be a 'problem' for the parish but a compromise has now been reached with a proposed location for a new facility in Axnfell Plantation.

Local Democracy Reporter Emma Draper has been speaking to Commissioner Melanie Christian:

Marown Commissioners is warning its residents their rates are likely to go up again next year.

The local authority has been reflecting on 2024 saying it’s been about working with parishioners to encourage them to take pride in the area they live.

Projects in the upcoming year include a new street light scheme to improve visibility on the main road and help residents keep safe.

In February this year Marown increased its rates by 7.8 percent to ensure a 'balanced t'.

Local Democracy Reporter Emma Draper has been speaking to Commissioner Alison Lynch: