As tensions rose across the Isle of Man’s healthcare system, Julie Edge MHK stood firmly in the House of Keys and demanded clarity from the Health Minister on one crucial issue: What is the government’s plan to protect patients in the event of a doctors’ strike?
In a direct and impactful Oral Question, Edge urged the Minister to make a full statement on the contingency measures in place should hospital doctors escalate industrial action. Her intervention came as growing concerns mounted over working conditions, pay disputes, and staff morale within Manx Care—concerns that now risked impacting essential patient services.
“With patient safety at stake,” Edge said, “the public deserves reassurance that essential health services will remain operational, especially in emergencies.”
Edge’s questioning highlighted not only her proactive leadership but her unwavering commitment to the people of the Isle of Man, especially those reliant on timely and safe care. It followed her long-running campaign to hold Manx Care and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) accountable for both frontline delivery and strategic resilience.
A Record of Holding Health Authorities Accountable
This intervention was not an isolated moment. Julie Edge has consistently used her voice in Tynwald to:
- Call out delays and failings in patient transfer services
- Demand answers on rising management costs within Manx Care
- Expose systemic communication breakdowns between government and healthcare staff
- Fight for transparency in whistleblower cases involving senior clinicians
Her message is clear: Julie puts patients and public trust first.
Standing Up When It Counts
Edge’s insistence on a detailed contingency plan reflects a growing recognition of the fragility in the island’s health system. With Manx Care already under scrutiny for ballooning costs and strained delivery, Edge’s call struck a chord with constituents and professionals alike.
Whether it’s education, health, or governance, Julie Edge continues to lead with conviction, integrity, and a no-nonsense commitment to public service. She asks the hard questions when others stay silent—and always with the people’s welfare as her priority.
Date: 4 February 2025
Location: House of Keys, Isle of Man
Reference:
Hansard (Tynwald) – Oral Question from Julie Edge MHK to Minister for Health and Social Care – 4 February 2025
Link: Tynwald Hansard – Questions for Oral Answer, Q1 (Julie Edge)
