// BBC BUSINESS NEWS — FINANZA
New chief outlines main issues facing Isle of Man
Ard-shirveishagh Chris Thomas has outlined his priorities surrounding connectivity
The chief minister of the Isle of Man has said reliance on imports, risks of transport disruption, and pressure on household finances are among the main challenges facing the new government.
The warning came after recent storms disrupted sea and air connections, and questions over how prepared the island is for more prolonged supply problems.
Chris Thomas outlined plans to strengthen food security and connectivity, but said emergency preparedness was not among his top five priorities.
The chief minister, ard-shirveishagh in Manx, said: "It is a serious issue. We need to improve connectivity through the airport and through Douglas Harbour."
He said ensuring "the firms that bring our supplies to us... can get to the island will be a big focus for this government".
He acknowledged that more needed to be done around emergency planning and public information, adding the government had held workshops on the issue in 2025 and would look to improve communication with residents.
One area of focus was reducing the island's reliance on imported food through greater support for local agriculture, Thomas said.
He said one of his first meetings in the role was with the Manx National Farmers' Union, with discussions focusing on maximising local production and reducing supply risks.
He also highlighted the need to improve storage and warehouse capacity.