Isle of Man Government News

Book your connectVILLAGES trip with new MANNgo app

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 10:12:10 GMT

Booking a journey on a connectVILLAGES bus service is now easier following the launch of the MANNgo mobile app.

From today, passengers can download the app which will enable them to book a trip and also track their bus’s movements, both for pick-ups and any changes to arrival times.

In addition to the app, bookings can still be made by calling +44 1624 697440 between 8.30am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday.

The introduction of the MANNgo app will provide an additional booking method and help modernise the service.

Director of Transport Services Ian Longworth said:

‘This app will only enhance the experience for all those who use and value the connectVILLAGES service, and I am grateful to the team and the developer for bringing it forward.’

He added:

‘Once MANNgo is fully embedded with connectVILLAGES, work will continue with the developer in order to improve journey-planning and tracking across our main bus network.’

A promotion is being launched to encourage customers to try the app, with a free trip for those who use MANNgo to book a journey for the first time until the end of November.

Information leaflets on the service and new app are being posted to residents and businesses in the eligible area for connectVILLAGES over the next week. Further information can be also found on the Bus Vannin website

In addition, drop-in sessions are planned to enable the connectVILLAGES team to help people get set up on the app, and for users to provide feedback:

Location	Date and Time
Ramsey Town Hall	Friday 29 October Midday - 2pm	Saturday 30 October 10am - Midday

Anyone who is unable to attend either of the drop-in sessions but requires assistance, can speak to the bus supervisors at Ramsey bus depot or the call centre team on +44 1624 697440, who will be happy to assist.

Users can download the app in the Apple or Google Play stores from today.

Appointments to Government departments, boards and public bodies

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 13:51:54 GMT

A number of Members of Tynwald have been appointed to serve as members of government departments, statutory boards, and other public bodies. A small number of further appointments are still under consideration.

Chief Minister Alfred Cannan MHK said:

“As we continue our work to develop a new Island Plan, the Council of Ministers has been building a team drawn from Members of Tynwald who can help Government to deliver a more secure, vibrant and sustainable future for our community.

“I am grateful for the positive response from Members of Tynwald willing to contribute to ensuring government delivers high quality essential services that meet the needs of our people.”

Appointments to Government departments are as follows:

Department for Enterprise

Rob Callister MHK
Ann Corlett MHK
Peter Greenhill MLC
Tim Johnston MHK

Department of Education, Sport and Culture

Claire Christian MHK
Marlene Maska MLC

Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture

Claire Christian MHK
Dr Michelle Haywood MHK

Department of Health and Social Care

Ann Corlett MHK
Joney Faragher MHK
Dr Michelle Haywood MHK

Department of Home Affairs

John Wannenburgh MHK

Department of Infrastructure

Tim Glover MHK
Kerry Sharpe MLC

The Treasury

Bill Henderson MLC
Sarah Maltby MHK
Andrew Smith MHK

Appointments to statutory boards are as follows:

Communications and Utilities Regulatory Authority*

Non-voting Tynwald member: Ann Corlett MHK

Isle of Man Office of Fair Trading*

Chair: John Wannenburgh MHK
Vice Chair: to be confirmed

Isle of Man Post Office*

Chair: Chris Thomas MHK
Vice Chair: to be confirmed

Manx Utilities Authority*

Chair: Rob Callister MHK
Vice Chair: Peter Greenhill MLC

Public Sector Pensions Authority

Vice Chair: Kate Lord-Brennan MHK (ex-officio as Chair of the Public Services Commission)
Employer representative: Rob Mercer MLC

Appointments to other public bodies are as follows:

Armed Forces Champion

Juan Watterson SHK

Culture Vannin*

Chair: Chris Thomas MHK
Vice Chair: Marlene Maska MLC

Isle of Man Government Preservation of War Memorials Committee

Chair: Daphne Caine MHK
Vice Chair: Juan Watterson SHK

Minister with responsibility to oversee appointments of lay members (non-Tynwald members) to statutory boards and other bodies

Kate Lord-Brennan MHK (as Minister for the Cabinet Office)

Planning Committee

Chair: Claire Christian MHK

Public Services Commission

Chair: Kate Lord-Brennan MHK (as Minister for the Cabinet Office)

War Pensions Committee*

Political member: David Ashford MHK (as Minister for the Treasury)

The remit of the roles of the equality and the children’s champions will be reviewed.

* These appointments require the approval of Tynwald.

Tobacco Duty Rate increases

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 15:18:04 GMT

This news release is issued to draw attention to an increase in duty rates for tobacco products from 6pm on 27 October 2021. These changes will be implemented by the Tobacco Products Duty Act 1986 (Amendment) Order 2021 [SD 2021/0437].

The rates of most tobacco products will increase by Retail Price Index (RPI) (UK) plus 2%, with the rate for hand-rolling tobacco increasing by RPI (UK) plus 4%.

The Minimum Excise Tax has been uprated by an additional 1%, to 3% above RPI (UK) inflation.

These changes add:

a minimum of 63p to the price of a pack of 20 cigarettes depending on the value of the cigarettes
89p to a 30g pack of hand-rolling tobacco and
also increase the cost of cigars, pipe and chewing tobacco and tobacco for heating

For further information, please contact Isle of Man Customs and Excise on +44 1624 648190.

Update - Public Sector Pensions Cost Sharing for active members of the Isle of Man Government Unified Scheme 2011 and Teachers Superannuation Order 2011

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 16:13:50 GMT

Public Sector Pensions (Cost Sharing) Scheme 2020

As part of the ongoing programme to ensure that the island’s unfunded public sector pension schemes remain sustainable into the future, the PSPA established a cost sharing mechanism as the means by which future sustainability will be achieved when it introduced the Public Sector Pensions (Cost Sharing) Scheme 2020.

To do this, the PSPA will measure cost changes over a period of time relating to “member costs” (salary changes, longevity, benefit options and demographic changes) and thereafter, sharing any cost changes above a 0.5% of a pensionable pay “buffer” - 75% with scheme members and 25% with Employers/Government. Cost changes include both cost increases and cost decreases.

The first cost sharing valuation of the Schemes will take place on 31 March 2022 with results due mid to late 2023 with any resultant change to member future pension accrual rates or contribution rates likely to be made in 2024.

The Cost Sharing process has started with the PSPA setting the “Cost Sharing Baseline” position from which future cost sharing changes will be assessed. The Cost Sharing “Baseline Position” has been set using the scheme member data as at 31 March 2016 and a set of financial and demographic assumptions applied to an actuarial methodology as set out in the Public Sector Pensions (Cost Sharing) Scheme 2020.

To find out more about Cost Sharing, including the information used to calculate the Cost Sharing Baseline Results and how Cost Sharing may impact on your future pension benefits and what you pay as a contribution, then please refer to the PSPA’s Cost Sharing page on its website at www.pspa.im

Issued by the PSPA

October 2021

Bonfire builders asked to consider what they burn

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 14:49:03 GMT

Bonfire builders are urged not to burn hazardous materials which can cause toxic smoke and pose a serious health risk to people, pets and wildlife.

Although household bonfires are not illegal, it is an offence to burn domestic or commercial waste which should be disposed of safely at a local amenity site.

With bonfire night fast approaching, people are advised to use dry untreated wood and avoid materials such as plastics, rubber, tyres or anything containing foam or paint.

Under the Public Health Act 1990 bonfire smoke which affects the comfort of neighbours can also be considered a statutory nuisance.

Both the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) and the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service (IoMFRS) are advising people to attend organised bonfire events.

Clare Barber MHK, Minister for DEFA, said:

'Anyone planning a bonfire should always consider what they burn for their own safety and that of their neighbours, pets and wildlife.'

Kevin Groom, the Island’s Chief Fire Officer, added:

'Fire is unpredictable and a small fire can spread quickly under the right conditions endangering both life and property. We strongly advise against having your own bonfire, but to consider attending an organised event where you can relax and enjoy the evening.'

Anyone building a bonfire at home should inform the Emergency Services Joint Control Room about their plans by calling 697327.

Financial Sanctions: Libya

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 14:42:49 GMT

This news release is issued to publicise the addition of 1 entry under the Libya Sanctions Regime.

On 26 October 2021 the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office updated the UK Sanctions List. This list provides details of those designated under sanctions legislation.

The following entry has been added and is now subject to an asset freeze.

IBRAHIM, Osama Al Kuni

Title: Manager of Al Nasr Detention Center in Zawiyah DOB: 04/04/1976. POB: Tripoli, Libya a.k.a: (1) AL KUNI, Osama (2) AL-MILAD, Osama (3) MILAD, Osama (4) ZAWIYA, Osama (5) ZAWIYAH, Osama Nationality: Libya Address: Zawiyah, Libya.

Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref):LIB0075 (UN Ref): LYi.029. (Further Identifying Information): As de facto manager of the Al Nasr detention center the person concerned has directly, and/or through subordinates engaged in or provided support to acts that violate applicable international human rights law, or acts that constitute human rights abuses in Libya. The Person concerned has acted for or on behalf of or at the direction of two listed individuals intrinsically linked to the human trafficking activities of the Zawiyah network, namely Mohamed Kashlaf (LYi.025) and Abdulrahman al Milad (LYi.026). Listed pursuant to paragraphs 15 and 17 of resolution 1970 (Travel Ban, Asset Freeze) INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice.

Listed on: 26/10/2021 Last Updated: 26/10/2021 Group ID: 14142.

Financial institutions and other persons are required to check whether you maintain any accounts or otherwise hold funds or economic resources for, or provide financial services to, the designated individual. If so, you must freeze such accounts or other funds and, unless licensed by the Treasury, not deal with those funds or economic resources, and suspend the provision of any financial services. You must also report your findings to the FIU. Where a relevant institution has already reported details of accounts, other funds or economic resources held frozen for the designated person, you are not required to report these details again.

Failure to comply with financial and trade sanctions legislation or to attempting to circumvent its provisions is a criminal offence.

Further details of the sanctions regime related to Libya and links to other financial sanctions regimes may be found on the Customs and Excise pages of the Isle of Man Government website.

Rest Notice Companies Act 1931

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 10:09:04 GMT

List of companies for which a notice has been issued Under Section 273b(1) Of The Companies Act 1931

Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival boosts local economy

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 06:00:40 GMT

This year’s Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival was worth an estimated £365,000 to the Manx economy, according to a research report.

The Marketing Partnership gathered information from 224 visitors and 28 exhibitors at September’s event which showcased the delicious creations of 70 local producers.

The figure was based on 8,827 adults attending the Villa Marina Gardens over two days, each spending on average £41.36, and buying food and drink from four producers.

Including children, 10,000 people attended this year’s event, compared to 16,000 in 2020, when the Island emerged from its first lockdown.

Around 80% thought it had been a good opportunity to sample local produce and discover what is available on their doorstep, and 82% of exhibitors said they would return next year.

Clare Barber MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said:

'The festival continues to play a significant role in growing the food and drink sector, a key goal of our Food Matters strategy. The report gives a clear indication that people are increasingly keen to know where their food comes from and buy and support local.'

Producers were encouraged to display the Isle of Man provenance label which indicates food that is grown, reared, caught and processed in the Isle of Man, or contains mostly Manx ingredients. The report showed around 70% of those surveyed were aware of the label and felt it was important.

Feedback continues to highlight that the festival is a great day out with a relaxed atmosphere, and the main area for improvement regarded queuing times which the team will look to address in 2022.

This year’s action-packed programme included a variety of cooking demonstrations, talks, food eating competitions and live music.

Labour market report for September 2021

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 12:40:40 GMT

The latest labour market report, compiled and published by the Economic Affairs team at the Cabinet Office, shows the number of people registered unemployed was 365 in September 2021, a reduction of 30 compared with the previous month.

The number of registered unemployed decreased by 520 compared with September 2020, and the unemployment rate for September 2021 stood at 0.9%, the same as August 2021.

Read a summary and download the full report.

Planning Applications - Publication List

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 08:00:06 GMT

In accordance with the Orders and Regulations listed below, the most recent planning applications received and validated for publication are now available for viewing online including a link on which the site extents can be viewed via an online map.

A PDF version is available if you wish to print off the list.

You may also, if a planning application has not yet been determined, use this service to submit an objection or comment in support of the application.

Comments or objections relative to this list must be submitted by 12 November 2021.

A laminated Site Notice has been sent to each applicant for displaying at the site.

Any persons wishing to make written representation or submission must direct them to:

Secretary to the Planning Committee

Planning and Building Control Directorate

Department of Environment Food and Agriculture

Murray House

Mount Havelock

Douglas

IM1 2SF

Telephone:+44 1624 685950

Please be aware that all written representations OR SUBMISSIONS will be available for PUBLIC scrutiny and will form part of any proceedings arising in connection with the application.

Whilst criteria for the submission of comment may differ under each instrument of legislation, to give weight to any representation or submission, and enable assessment of parties for interested person status (as defined in the gov.im/interestedperson), persons are encouraged to clearly indicate the relationship between their land or buildings and the land that is the subject of the application. Sufficient interest in the subject matter of the application must be demonstrated if the person making representation should wish to be considered to take part in any subsequent proceedings.

Guidance on how to comment on planning applications is available at www.gov.im/planningcomment

Please also be aware that any anonymous representations or submissions will not be considered as part of any planning determination.

Orders and Regulations

Town and Country Planning (Development Procedure) Order 2019
Town and Country Planning (Development Procedure) (No2) Order 2013
Town and Country Planning (Registered Buildings) Regulations 2013
Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) Regulations 2013
Amended by
The Town and Country Planning (Miscellaneous Amendment) Regulations 2019

Subscribe to our email alert

If you would like to subscribe to our mailing list to receive a weekly email advising when planning lists are published, please forward your email details to planning@gov.im

Applications for Dissolution – 2006 Act Companies

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 10:21:57 GMT

The Companies Act 2006

List of Companies that have applied for a Declaration of Dissolution

Pursuant to Section 190(3)

The Department for Enterprise hereby gives Notice that the Companies referred to in the attached Notice have applied for a Declaration of Dissolution under the provisions of Section 190 of the Companies Act 2006. Unless written objection is made to The Department for Enterprise within one month of the date of publication of this notice, The Department for Enterprise may dissolve the Companies.

Applications for Dissolution - 1931 Act Companies

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 10:29:46 GMT

The Companies Acts 1931 to 2004

List of Companies that have applied for a Declaration of Dissolution

Pursuant to Section 273a(3)(A) of The Companies Act 1931

The Department for Enterprise hereby gives Notice that the attached companies have applied for a Declaration of Dissolution under the provisions of Section 273a(3)(A) Of The Companies Act 1931. Unless written objection is made to The Department for Enterprise within one month of the date of publication of this notice, The Department for Enterprise may dissolve the Companies.

COP26: Island represented at crucial climate summit

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 13:16:55 GMT

An Isle of Man delegation will join world leaders in attending the United Nation’s landmark climate conference COP26 in Scotland next month, including newly appointed Chair of the Climate Change Transformation Board, Daphne Caine MHK.

The Glasgow summit will provide a platform for the biggest climate crisis talks in years, and organisers hope it will lead countries to accelerate plans to reduce net zero emission targets, slow global warming and keep temperature rise below 1.5C.

The Isle of Man has been chosen to showcase its compelling story around the blue carbon stores in our shores which will show how we quantify, categorise, utilise and enhance the existing blue carbon resources.

The footage will showcase the beauty of the marine environment, help viewers understand the need to protect our oceans alongside our scientists’ work in helping protect it for future generations. It will feature as part of Nature Day on Saturday 6 November.

Daphne Caine MHK, said:

'I’m delighted to be attending such an important event. This is a great opportunity to see what other jurisdictions are doing, learn from each other, and help us move quickly to take the action needed to mitigate climate change.'

It comes just months after a major scientific report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) said human activity is ‘changing the climate in unprecedented and sometimes irreversible ways’.

The landmark study warned of increasingly extreme heatwaves, droughts and flooding, and a key temperature limit being broken in just over a decade - but scientists say a catastrophe can be avoided if the world acts fast.

The Isle of Man Government has committed to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050 - a goal also pledged by the UK, the US and many other developed nations.

Net zero is the point at which a country is removing as many climate-changing gases from the atmosphere as it is putting in. To reach this target Governments will need to invest in renewable energy, increase natural carbon habitats, improve home energy efficiencies and speed up the switch to electric vehicles.

As part of the Island’s 2050 commitment a Climate Change Bill, which is currently pending royal assent, was delivered, which requires a continuous five-year rolling action plan.

Chief Minister, Alfred Cannan MHK, said:

'It is fitting that the Island has been invited to attend COP26, as we have a strong commitment to climate change action. It will be a key feature in our new Island Plan, which will outline the roadmap for Government for this administration.'

Meanwhile, on-Island, Net Zero Isle of Man will be running a programme of activities during COP26 to highlight the significance of the conference, and local climate change action.

Members of the public are invited to take part in this series of insightful community activities, where they can discover how the climate crisis has impacted the Island and its biodiversity, hear inspiring stories of individuals who have made positive steps to tackle climate change, and learn what they can do to help save our planet.

This programme of events includes a five-part webinar series with key speakers on the frontline of climate action, including NASA astronaut Nicole Stott and Special Advisor to the Climate Change Transformation Board, Professor James Curran. Other activities include courses, workshops, tree planting and school assemblies.

Changes to who can use “Red” Diesel from 1 April 2022

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 16:24:48 GMT

From 1 April 2022, there will be changes to who can use rebated “red” diesel, and the reasons you can use it. A number of sectors, including the construction sector, will not be able to use red diesel in their vehicles, appliances or machinery from that date. These changes will come into effect in line with the changes proposed in the United Kingdom.

Who will be affected?

Businesses and individuals currently allowed to supply or use rebated “red” diesel and rebated biofuels.

Why are these changes happening?

Under the terms of the Customs and Excise Agreement the Isle of Man Government is required to keep the duty rates and reliefs available on hydrocarbon oils the same as those imposed in the United Kingdom.

In 2020, the United Kingdom government announced that it would remove the entitlement to use red diesel and rebated biodiesel from most sectors from April 2022, to help meet its climate change and air quality targets. The changes mean that most current users of red diesel will need to use unrebated “white” diesel, like motorists, which more fairly reflects the harmful impact of the emissions they produce. Removing most red diesel entitlements will also help to ensure that the tax system incentivises users of polluting fuels like diesel to improve the energy efficiency of their vehicles and machinery, invest in cleaner alternatives, or just use less fuel.

What is red diesel?

Otherwise known as rebated diesel, gas oil, off-road diesel or “tractor diesel”, red diesel is a fuel intended for use other than road fuel, and is therefore taxed at a lower rate, hence why it is cheaper. Due to its lower duty rate, there are strict legal requirements about when and how it can be used, which is why it is dyed red to help identify illegal use.

What is changing?

From 1 April 2022 onwards, you will only be able to use red diesel for the following purposes:

for vehicles and machinery used in agriculture, horticulture, fish farming and forestry. This includes allowing vehicles used for agriculture to be used for cutting verges and hedges, snow clearance and gritting roads;
for heating and electricity generation in non-commercial premises - this includes the heating of homes and buildings such as places of worship, hospitals and town halls; off-grid power generation; “non-commercial premises” can include premises being used to provide a public service that is not for a fee;
for maintaining community amateur sports clubs as well as golf courses (including activities such as ground maintenance, and the heating and lighting of clubhouses, changing rooms etc.);
as fuel for all marine craft refuelling and operating in the Island and the UK (including fishing and water freight industries), except for propelling private pleasure craft in Northern Ireland.

The measures will also:

extend fuel duty to biodiesel, bioblends and fuel substitutes used in heating, where previously it had not been subject to duty;
in relation to biodiesel etc., apply the lower duty rate to non-commercial heating and the full rate of duty to commercial heating.

Sectors and applications that don’t fall into the above categories will no longer be able to use red diesel from 1 April 2022. This will include sectors, for example, such as construction, mining and quarrying, ports, manufacturing, haulage (for transport refrigeration units on lorries), road maintenance, airport operations, plant hire, logistics and waste management.

What do I need to do if I will not be eligible to use red diesel from 1 April 2022?

If you will no longer be allowed to use red diesel from 1 April 2022, you are advised to run down your existing stocks before that date. You may need to review your weekly or monthly usage to determine how much red diesel you are likely to use by 31 March 2022, and plan how to manage any surplus stock. If you order supplies of red diesel between now and 1 April 2022 you should only order the amount you expect to use by that date.

Customs & Excise acknowledges that due to the requirement to maintain minimum fuel stock levels for safety reasons and operational requirements, fully duty-paid fuel may be put into and mixed with existing stocks of red diesel in storage tanks. As such, there may be a red indicator in the tank beyond 1 April 2022.

Customs & Excise may carry out checks on storage tanks, and on vehicles, machines and appliances using diesel to confirm the correct fuel is being used. If, after 1 April 2022, we find traces of fuel markers in the fuel supply of a vehicle or machine that is not allowed to use it, you may be asked to provide evidence to demonstrate that any rebated fuel was put in before the rules changed and is still being used up. You should be able to demonstrate that you have been refilling with the correct fuel since the rules changed by retaining invoices or receipts showing purchase of fully duty-paid diesel/biofuels.

Further information will be provided prior to 1 April 2022, but in the meantime if you have any queries please contact Customs and Excise on 648190.

Public encouraged to play their part in preventing spread of COVID-19

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 08:54:13 GMT

The public are being encouraged to continue playing their part in helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19 with a focus on hands, face, space and fresh air and taking part in the ongoing vaccination programme.

The Council of Ministers is continuing to closely monitor the number of COVID-19 cases on the Island and has met twice this week to discuss the situation.

A new sub-committee of the Council of Ministers – the National COVID Response Group – has been formed to monitor the ongoing situation and will meet regularly, together with key advisers, to discuss the best way forward.

The evolving situation will be closely monitored and the Chief Minister will consider whether to hold a COVID-19 briefing next week.

The latest data from the Public Health Surveillance Report shows that cases on the Island are increasing and, similarly to the UK, are largely focused on younger age groups. Whilst children and young people generally experience either no or only mild symptoms, the potential risk of onwards transmission to more vulnerable groups remains a concern.

Director of Public Health, Dr Henrietta Ewart, said:

'I understand that the public may be concerned with the increase in cases over the last week. As we move into the winter months we will see an increase in COVID cases as well as other respiratory illnesses such as flu and the common cold.

'Please use a face covering when in crowded and enclosed spaces – particularly with people you do not usually mix with; wash your hands thoroughly and regularly; keep your distance when in crowded places; and allow fresh air into indoor spaces. These basics steps, with which we have all become so familiar over the last year and half, continue to offer some of the best protection, helping to limit the spread of the virus and keep our Island community safe.'

Dr Ewart added:

'Our best defence against COVID-19 remains our vaccination programme. We must not become complacent: the roll out of boosters to those most vulnerable to the virus and expanding vaccines to those aged 12 to 17 year olds are vital steps in maintaining our Island's resilience against the virus. Likewise, those who are eligible for the flu vaccine – which includes all school aged children – should take part when offered.'

'I would also encourage the public to continue to carry out regular testing, twice a week, using lateral flow devices. These are available online or at local pharmacies free of charge. They are quick and easy to use and will help to detect cases as soon as possible, helping to reduce the spread of COVID-19.'

Young people aged 12 – 17 encouraged to receive COVID-19 vaccine

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 16:42:45 GMT

Young people aged 12 – 17 are being encouraged to register for the COVID-19 vaccine to help reduce the transmission of the virus within this age group.

Recent data from the Public Health Surveillance Report has shown that the greatest increase in weekly confirmed cases has been in the 10 – 14 age group, with the second highest increase among 15 – 19-year-olds.

Director of Public Health, Dr Henrietta Ewart commented:

‘Whilst COVID-19 is typically mild in most young people, there is the risk of some getting seriously ill or needing hospitalisation and one dose of the vaccine will protect against this.

‘This year, secondary school children can also receive the flu vaccine which will provide that further protection from serious flu infections. Both vaccines should reduce infections in this age group and avoid the need to miss school.’

Nearly 2,000 children and young people aged 12-17 have so far received the COVID-19 vaccine.

Dr Ewart added:

‘The last 18 months or so has been stressful for our young people and it is important that we limit disruption to their lives as much as possible. Vaccinating our young people will help reduce the risk of the virus spreading within schools, and allow them to continue their learning, which is good for their physical and mental health.’

Parents or guardians of children aged 12-15 are asked to register on behalf of their child online, while students aged 16 and over can register themselves.

The school flu programme has successfully vaccinated the majority of students over the last few weeks, however due to the volume of absences, the team will complete the rollout after half term holiday.

Planning will continue for the rollout of the COVID vaccine within schools for the future, and in the meantime clinics will be held over half term holidays for this age group to receive the vaccine. More details will be announced in the coming days.

Alongside vaccinations, young people are also encouraged to participate in regular testing using lateral flow devices to help detect cases early, reduce spread, and keep students in education.

Support package to shield low paid and financially vulnerable from gas price rise

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 16:13:16 GMT

Treasury Minister David Ashford MHK this morning announced a financial support package for the low paid and vulnerable in response to an imminent rise in home-heating costs.

The announcement was made prior to Tynwald agreeing to follow the recommendation of the gas regulator, the Communications and Utilities Regulatory Authority, and approving an increase in the maximum tariffs in the Gas (Tariff Fixing) Regulations 2021 by 2.1p per unit.

The change will represent a 27.5% increase to mains gas and LPG heating tariffs, with average consumers expected to pay an additional £31.50 a month.

The overall cost of the support package could be worth up to £1 million, paid over two instalments to coincide with Manx Gas’s billing schedule in January and March.

The Treasury Minister told Members:

‘I’d like to take this opportunity to confirm to this honourable court Treasury’s intention to provide additional financial support to help those on the lowest incomes to meet the likely increase in their gas bills over the winter period.

‘This additional support would be provided through the Social Security Winter Bonus scheme, which provides for lump-sum payments to be made to certain recipients of income-related benefits in January each year.

‘For income support recipients who would ordinarily qualify for the £350 Winter Bonus, the amount would be increased by £100 – to £450.

‘But Treasury does recognise that not everyone in receipt of income support currently qualifies for the winter fuel payments. So for certain other Income Support recipients and Employed Person’s Allowance recipients who aren’t currently eligible for the Winter Bonus, they would get a £100 winter bonus payment if, among other things, they are responsible for the payment of housing costs.

‘The use of benefits as a measure can sometimes be a blunt tool, and can lead to cliff edges where people are just outside of the qualifying income threshold but still struggling.

‘I am therefore also committing to introducing a Variable Rate Winter Bonus, targeted at people who have incomes just above income support levels, which would be worth between £25 and £75 depending on individual circumstances and income.’

The support will be available to all those in receipt of the relevant benefits, not just gas customers, with the aim of providing protection against any potential rise in costs of other fuel sources over the winter.

The cost of the initial package, with payment in January, is estimated to be £500,000.

Depending on how home-heating costs are affected over the coming months, consideration will be given to providing an additional Winter Bonus in March. This would require approval from Tynwald in February and may lead to further expenditure of approximately £500,000.

UK National Cyber Security Centre to attend CyberIsle 2021

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 09:11:44 GMT

A team from the UK’s national cyber security agency will be taking part in CyberIsle 2021, as the flagship conference is once again staged in Douglas this week.

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) offers practical guidance and support to industry, business, public sector organisations and the general public across the UK, acting to improve online safety for all and to reduce the harm caused by cyber security incidents.

The NCSC’s presence at CyberIsle 2021 is a major boost for the Manx event, where a wealth of expertise and advice will be on offer to help local firms, institutions and the community better understand how to protect their business, assets and reputation from online threats.

Organisers are preparing to welcome delegates, speakers, exhibitors and sponsors to the Villa Marina on Tuesday 19 October for a day of networking, talks and demonstrations which will see current best practice in cyber defence and awareness explained and shared.

More than 400 people have registered for the free event which is open to all - anyone wishing to attend can still register online.

CyberIsle is organised by the Isle of Man Office of Cyber Security and Information Assurance (OCSIA) which is tasked with developing the Island’s resilience to cyber-crime, educating and sharing know-how with the public, private and third sectors, and the wider population.

Reports of online crime affecting Isle of Man residents and businesses are increasing year on year. At CyberIsle 2021, the National Cyber Security Centre team will be focusing on providing online security advice for small businesses, charities, and clubs.

OCSIA is grateful to the sponsors and presenters who are contributing to CyberIsle, including Riela Cyber as platinum sponsor and Manx Telecom as gold sponsor.

They are joined by Island firms and organisations e-Sign, Computer Network Defence, Sunterra Global, Continent 8, Netcetera, Evalian, Red5, PWC, PDMS, KPMG and Deloitte - all of whom are committed to making CyberIsle 2021 a stand-out event.

Support has also been provided by the Isle of Man Government with the Department of Enterprise, the Digital Agency and the Constabulary being represented at the Conference.

Notice of Intention to Remove a Company - 2006 Act Companies

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 10:08:09 GMT

The Companies Acts 2006

Notice of Intention to remove a company from The Register

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to Section 183, 190 or 192 of the Companies Act 2006, that, at the expiration of 12 weeks from the date hereof, the names of the Companies referred to in this Notice will, unless cause be shown to the contrary, be struck off the Register and such Companies dissolved.

Declaration of Dissolution - 2006 Act Companies

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 10:15:17 GMT

The Companies Act 2006

Declaration of Dissolution

Pursuant to Section 190(9) of The Companies Act 2006

In accordance with the above Section, the Department for Enterprise hereby declares that the Companies referred to in this Notice are dissolved.