Manx Newscast

Following the warning from police earlier this month that some young people on the Isle of Man were 'misusing AI', parents of the Delay Smartphone IOM group give their reaction.

Listen to Lewis Foster's interview with John Bolton, Jessica Cross and Meghan Kennish.

Derek Peters of Mannin Cancers speaks to Beth Espey about a new support centre on the site of Noble's Hospital.

The Isle of Man Government has launched the National AI Office, backed by £1 million in public funding, to coordinate how artificial intelligence is developed and used across the Island.

The office is intended to act as a central point for AI policy, advice and practical support.

The government says it will focus on boosting economic competitiveness, improving public service efficiency and raising AI literacy, without expanding the civil service.

Enterprise Minister Tim Johnston and Digital Isle of Man Chief Executive Lyle Wraxall sat down with Manx Radio's Christian Jones.

There's a warning that genuine harm is being caused to some young people on the Island due to the misuse of AI.

Recently, Manx police reported a 'sharp increase' in students, in and out of school, creating images through Artificial Intelligence with the aim of bullying and ridiculing their peers.

The images, in some cases, has been dubbed 'rude and offensive' and others described as prohibited or indecent - which police say could amount to a criminal offence.

PC Louise Kennaugh is working with schools to try and get the message across that it's not acceptable, and there could be consequences.

The Treasury Minister says it would be 'unreasonable' to say there are 'no bad apples' in government.

It follows an increase in financial irregularities reported to the Audit Advisory Division by Government Departments, Boards, offices and arm’s length bodies since April 2021.

Amongst them, there were three reports of corruption/ bribery during the 2024-25 financial year.

In this edition of Newscast, Lewis Foster sits down with Minister Alex Allinson to find out why these reports are increasing - and what's being done about it.

Douglas City Library says free coffee mornings are 'hugely important' for residents on the Island.

The library has started it's 'Winter Warmer' scheme to encourage people to be social and to combat loneliness during what can be a difficult time of the year.

It's running every Friday from 9am to 12 noon, and those visiting will receive a free hot drink and biscuit - as well as access to the library's books, games and IT suite.

Jan McCartney, the city librarian, says she'd love to see more people visiting the library and using its free services.

Local Democracy Reporter Emma Draper has been speaking to her.

A global challenge which connects women who ride or love motorbikes is coming to the Isle of Man this month.

The Women Riders World Relay has already united more than 20,000 riders from 102 countries worldwide.

It started back in 2019 and was founded by Hayley Bell.

The Isle of Man ambassador is Lisa Brain, and she's been talking to Beth Espey.

The Island's only independent school has announced it will begin offering A-Levels from September.

King William's College will offer the courses in a 'blended' approach, alongside the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

In a partnership with King's InterHigh online school, all the lessons will be taught virtually from a newly created hub on the campus.

Principal Damian Henderson has telling Amy Griffiths more:

Prospect says broad statements about government efficiencies and public sector headcount are fuelling uncertainty across the workforce.

Around a year and a half ago, the chief minister announced a series of measures aimed at reducing staff numbers and controlling headcount across the civil service.

However, over the past two quarters, full-time equivalent numbers have actually risen, despite more than 130 roles being placed under review.

Manx Radio's Christian Jones has been speaking to Prospect's Local Negotiations Officer Mick Hewer, and the National Secretary Jez Stuart.

Among the topics expected to become key election issues this year, immigration has been highlighted.

On the Island there are hopes to see the population grow to 100,000 by 2037, while parties supporting tougher immigration measures have made ground in neighbouring jurisdictions.

Sylvie Géal-Wilkes works at Café Lingo in Douglas - a group which supports people who've made the move to the Isle of Man from all over the world.

In this edition of Newscast, Sylvie speaks to Lewis Foster about the work the organisation does, where the service users come from, and her thoughts on attitudes towards immigration.