Nearly 20 years ago we used to be able to listen to the Manx Radio coverage on the phone. I used to have friends round, and we would take turns listening and relaying it to the rest! Anyone else remember that?
It was expensive, but I even accessed it in 1989 (?) to get reports from a call box in Brittany.
So... the idea that it always has been, and always should be free isn't accurate. I don't mind paying for that sort of service. It costs to provide it, so someone has to pay... why would it be the Manx taxpayer? (oops... I'm one now... self-interest here???)Surely Manx Radio is only funded to provide radio coverage, and to the Island at that?