Isle of Man Government News

New bus timetable comes into operation on 2 March 2020

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 16:38:26 GMT

A new bus timetable will come into operation on Monday 2 March containing a number of improvements in response to passenger-demand and to enable a more efficient use of resources.

Jason Moorhouse MHK, Member with responsibility for Transport Services, said:

’The revised timetable is informed by demand and feedback from passengers, while fulfilling our role in providing services to rural communities and enabling social inclusion. Our aim is to focus our resources on the areas where passenger numbers show that buses are most needed.

‘Delivering a more efficient service and protecting public funds are, of course, key objectives, but we are always aware that our passengers have a choice. With our modern fleet of buses, our wide range of ticketing options and convenient services we are making it easier than ever for Island residents to make the move to travelling by bus and to help us address our climate challenge’

‘A number of services have been changed to better match passenger need and demand. These changes are detailed in a summary sheet that can be found on our website alongside the new timetables. Regular passengers will see the notices on their bus but we would encourage all passengers to check the new timetables as there are some adjustments to the timing of services on a number of routes and we would not want passengers to miss a bus that is now leaving 5 minutes earlier than before. There are more significant changes in some areas, including Douglas, Laxey and the Northern parishes. Due to low demand the Promenade Shuttle will no longer run, with Friday 28 being the last day of operation. The Prom will still be served by 4 buses an hour for much of the day.

Mr Moorhouse added:

‘Changes being introduced next week will improve services in many areas and will hopefully lead to a further increase in passenger numbers. bus vannin had a fantastic 2019 with a 3% increase year-on-year. This is a terrific performance when you compare the story to the UK, where the Local Government Association continues to report a drop in passenger numbers - while bus-use is down 6.9% in five years in the UK, the Isle of Man has seen a rise of 10.7% during the same period.’

New timetables will be available to view on www.bus.im with printed booklets available from the Welcome Centre at the Sea Terminal in Douglas, Ramsey Bus Station, Port Erin Bus Station, Isle of Man Airport and other outlets or by calling +44 1624 662525.

Bookings for connectVILLAGES can be made online at www.bus.im/connect or by calling +44 1624 697440. Standard fares apply for the service, which runs Monday-Saturday, 9am to 7pm.

For further information, contact bus vannin on +44 1624 662525 or email publictransport@gov.im

Timetable alterations in more detail

Douglas - South - Douglas: Routes 1/2/2a/10/11/12 12a

These services will operate at least every 15 minutes during the day and every 20 minutes in the evening and on Sundays.
Times have been adjusted slightly on the very early morning and late evening departures from the south.
The 17:20 departure from Lord Street will no longer operate via Prospect Hill and Circular Road but will follow the normal route of a 1A service.
The infrequent route 10 service which previously served the Hospital, the Business Park and Douglas will no longer operate as a route 10 but will operate as a 1H service (please see also route 4C changes below).
Route 11 and 12 services will now operate during the day in addition to operating in the evenings and on Sundays.

Hospital – Ballabrooie - Tromode Park Estate – Willaston – Douglas: Routes 26/27

Route 26 and 27 services serving Ballabrooie and Tromode Park Estate will no longer run. A new route 14B will cover Westmoreland Road Health Centre; routes 11 and 12 will cover Willaston. (please see also route 4C changes below)

Douglas – Onchan – Laxey – Ramsey: Routes 3/3a

The first departure from Douglas to Ramsey will be 5 minutes earlier
Route 3 departures are now timed at 10 and 40 minutes past the hour from both Douglas and Ramsey, meaning they will be operating 5 minutes earlier throughout the day.
Subject to regulatory approval, after the TT services finish in June, additional X3 services will provide commuters with the options of an 08:15 departure from Ramsey and an additional Douglas departure at 16:36.

Douglas – Business Park – Foxdale – Airport – Castletown: Route 4c

Route 4C will be renumbered to route 14B and will now include Westmoreland Road Health Centre, Alexander Drive and Ballaughton Manor Hill to serve areas that have until now been served by routes 10, 26 and 27.

Douglas- Crosby – Peel – Kirk Michael – Ramsey: Routes 5/6

Routes 5 & 6 will operate as before although the first morning departure from Ramsey will leave 2 minutes earlier than it does now.

Douglas – Onchan– Groudle – Old Laxey: Route 13

These services continue as before although the first morning departure from Douglas will leave 5 minutes earlier than it does now.

Laxey Valley: Route 15

The seasonal services on route 15 will no longer operate.

Ramsey- Jurby- Andreas – Bride – Ramsey: Routes 17/18/19/19c/20

With the exception of Sundays and public holidays, services on routes 17,18,19 & 20 will only operate on school days. connectVILLAGES services will continue to serve customers from Monday to Saturday on a demand responsive basis. The third timetabled flexi return service connecting Jurby and Ramsey has been moved into the afternoon, departing Ramsey at 14:00 as the 12:00 departure was not being used. In school holidays, a 16:00 service from Ramsey to Jurby return will also operate, departing the Bretney at 16:25 and the Threshold at 16:30.
There will be improvements to the connectVillages service, with services being extended to give people living in Sulby a link to Jurby via St Judes and operating hours being extended in school holidays.

Douglas – Anagh Coar – Farmhill– Anagh Coar – Douglas: Route 21

Services on route 21 now all departs at 05 or 35 minutes past hour.

Willaston: Routes 26 & 27

Route 26 and 27 services serving Willaston will no longer run. Willaston is now served Mondays to Saturdays daytime by routes 11 and 12 instead of routes 26 and 27, as well as by the existing services on routes 22 and 25.

Port Erin- Port St Mary- Bradda & South: Route 28

The 09:16 service to Bradda Head has been withdrawn.

Promenade Shuttle

The promenade shuttle bus will cease operation from the 28th February; our normal scheduled buses serve the promenade up to every 15 minutes.

Publication List 21.02.2020

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 09:00:01 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 13 March 2020.

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

Copies of the applications are also available for viewing at the Office of Planning and Building Control or via the appropriate Local Authority.

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.

The Department of Environment Food and Agriculture, with the Cabinet Office, has launched a consultation to seek views on proposed changes to secondary legislation to enable certain types of development to take place without the need for a specific planning application (sometimes called ‘Permitted Development’). The details of this can be found at the Consultation Hub . The closing date for comments is the 30 March 2020.

PUBLIC MEETINGS OF THE PLANNING COMMITTEE

The next public meeting of the Planning Committee is to be held at 10.00am 2 March 2020, at the Ground Floor Meeting Room, Murray House, Mount Havelock, Douglas, Isle of Man.

Copies of the agenda for the meeting are available at least three working days prior to the meeting at the Department, or from the Department’s website.

Copies are also circulated to the Local Authorities.

Members of the public and applicants are welcome to attend the meeting.

PUBLIC SPEAKING at Planning Committee

Please be aware that there is opportunity for persons to speak at the meeting provided they meet the requirements and have registered to do so beforehand.

The process and procedure for doing is available by contacting the Department on 01624 685950 or may be downloaded from the Departments website.

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

Health service to fund glucose monitors for people with Type 1 diabetes

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 09:16:39 GMT

The Island’s health service is to provide a glucose monitoring system for adults and children with Type 1 diabetes for the first time.

The Freestyle Libre Flash Glucose Monitoring System will be made available to patients within a specified criteria in line with the NHS England agreement as follows:

Freestyle Libre will be available for adults with Type 1 diabetes
Freestyle Libre and Dexcom G6 will be available for children with Type 1 diabetes

The systems offer an accurate, safe and convenient way for people with diabetes to monitor their glucose levels, reducing the number of finger prick tests required throughout the day and night. A key benefit for parents of children with Type 1 diabetes using the Dexcom G6 is the ability to check their child’s readings, as the technology allows for data from the devices to be sent to their mobile phones, including alerts when a child’s blood sugar falls to a potentially dangerous level.

The sensors are placed under the skin and are simple to use and discreet. They give a digital update on an individual’s glucose level via a simple swipe, supporting better control of their condition. The Dexcom G6 provides continuous glucose information without the need to swipe.

The sensor systems will be available on the NHS from the start of the next financial year in April 2020 via a staged implementation programme.

Minister for Health and Social Care David Ashford said:

‘I’m delighted we are in a position to offer diabetes monitors on prescription for all Type 1 patients who are eligible – it marks a major step forward in our service and brings us in line with the system in England.'

He added:

‘As well as being a highly effective way to track blood glucose levels, the sensors will mean more independence and a better quality of life for diabetes sufferers. They will bring welcome reassurance for parents, who will be able to check what’s going on remotely – and we know from children who’ve used the monitors that they enjoy greater freedom and confidence in managing their condition than when they had to prick their own finger.’

Lead Diabetes Specialist Jan Clark and Paediatric Diabetes Specialist Grant McCallum have welcomed the development, commenting:

‘The Diabetes team is delighted that the benefits of utilising technology to assist Type 1 diabetes sufferers manage their condition, have been recognised. We will monitor eligibility as patients are seen at the clinic and those with greatest need will be prioritised. We will give training in how to use the devices.’

‘Local charitable organisation Diabetes Isle of Man has offered to provide further information around this technology and to answer queries emailed to: natasha@manxdiabeticgroup.com’

Diabetes Isle of Man and parent-led campaign Monitors4Kids have highlighted the benefits of the monitors through a public awareness and fund-raising campaign. Monitors4Kids have funded devices for youngsters with Type 1 diabetes since December 2018, thanks to generous donations from local people and businesses, and continues to do so. The sensors have also been available for individuals to purchase from the manufacturer.

Staff at the Diabetes Centre at Noble’s Hospital have supported patients in using the systems and will manage their introduction when they become available through the health service in April.

Applications for Dissolution – 2006 Act Companies

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 12:26:15 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, 21 Feb 2020 12:30:12 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.

Chief Minister pays tribute to proud Manxman

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 13:45:00 GMT

It is with great sadness that the Isle of Man Government announces the death of Hon. Bill Malarkey MHK after a long illness. Mr Malarkey, who was Minister for Home Affairs, passed away last night in hospice with his family at his bedside. He was 68.

Mr Malarkey continued to serve as Minister after being diagnosed with a serious illness, fulfilling his duties at Home Affairs and as MHK for Douglas South until the end. He is one of a very few members of the Manx Parliament to have died in office.

Chief Minister Hon. Howard Quayle MHK has paid tribute to Mr Malarkey’s contribution to Island life. He said:

'I am very saddened at the news of Bill’s passing as he was a close friend and colleague. On behalf of Government I send deepest condolences to his wife Pamela, family and many friends. Bill’s loss is untimely as he still had much to give, but we can take some comfort that his suffering is over. His forbearance in the darkest of times was admirable.’

The Chief Minister continued:

‘Bill was a proud Manxman who was devoted to his family and dedicated to public life. He served his country and his community well over many years. Bill championed local causes as a councillor in Douglas and as an MHK, and was always there to help constituents. He was respected in the House of Keys and Tynwald where he spoke with sincerity and passion – his hallmark was ‘telling things as they are’ and we admired him for it. His friends in Tynwald will be the poorer without him, he will be much missed.’

As Minister, Bill Malarkey oversaw the development of three significant pieces of legislation. These include the Domestic Abuse Bill which seeks to make domestic abuse a crime in its own right for the first time in the Isle of Man, a measure the Minister passionately supported. He oversaw the introduction of the Sexual Offences and Obscene Publications Bill which aims to modernise existing law, and was responsible too for finalising the development of the Justice Reform Bill which aims to bring lasting, positive change to the Island’s criminal justice system.

The Minister was a keen advocate for the rehabilitation of offenders and championed the opening of the new bail hostel in Tromode which provides modern accommodation for offenders supported by trained probation officers.

He was an active Chair of the Substance Misuse Steering Group, guiding the body through a landmark consultation on the use and production of cannabis as well as being influential in the development of licensing legislation and policy.

Mr Malarkey’s family has asked that they be allowed privacy at this sad time. Arrangements for the funeral will be notified in due course.

Teachers’ Pay Question and Answers

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 16:34:31 GMT

Why are teachers taking action?

Teachers on the Island are taking action due to a dispute between three teaching Unions and the Department of Education, Sport and Culture over pay.

The planned ‘action short of strike’ will see teachers who are members of these Unions work-to-rule, meaning they will not work outside of their contracted hours.

Why doesn’t the Government pay teachers more?

The Isle of Man Government wants to pay teachers more and has made a number of offers to find a resolution.

Teachers on the Island have been paid the same as colleagues in England since 1992 (27 years) with their annual award determined in England.

Will my school be affected?

Each school will be affected in different ways, so our advice is to contact your school’s headteacher.

The level of disruption at each school will depend on which Union your headteacher belongs to and how many teachers in your school are signed up to the three Unions involved in action.

The Department does not have this information as there is no requirement for its employees to inform them of joining a Union. However headteachers can ask if teachers are taking action in their schools.

If you have children at different schools, it is possible that they will be affected in different ways.

What difference will it make?

During the action Union members will only work their contracted hours, which depending on numbers, could impact on activities including lunchtime duties, sports fixtures, swimming lessons, parents’ evenings and study clubs.

All timetabled lessons will continue as normal.

How long will this action last?

No-one wants action to affect children’s education but it is not clear how long the dispute will last.

The Department is hopeful all Unions will agree to meet for meaningful talks in the near future. We are ready to engage and we have been waiting since mid-December for the three unions in dispute to provide us with a date to meet.

The Department made multiple offers in December, all of which were rejected. A separate offer was made to a fourth union in January, whose members also rejected it. It would have seen all teachers receive an extra £1,100 a year on top of their annual pay increase of 2.5%.

Are all schools affected?

No, this isn’t the case. Action at each school will be different as the number of teachers belonging to the Unions in dispute will vary.

Will school meals be served?

Children will still be able to receive a hot school meal and all kitchens will be fully staffed.

In primary schools, if there are any changes to your child’s meals requirements during the action please inform the Department’s primary meals service rather than your school. You can call 686761 or email primaryschoolmeals@gov.im

We do not expect disruption to secondary school meals.

Contrary to some reports on social media the Department does not expect schools will close at lunch time.

Sports, swimming and after school clubs

The action taken will affect different schools in different ways. Our advice is to speak to your headteacher to find out what, if any, changes will be made at your school. It is possible that some of these activities will not be available.

Why am I being asked to speak to the headteacher?

Under current legislation the headteacher is responsible for the day to day operation and management of their school and must take reasonable steps to ensure that staff and pupils are kept safe.

It is the head’s duty to either inform parents or direct them to somebody who has been delegated this authority by the head within the school when actions taken could put a child at risk.

A typical example of this would be refusal to utilise parent pay and liaise with catering staff whereby a child is then given a meal that endangers their life.

The headteacher is also the data controller for their school and as such the Department has no means to contact individual parents as this information rests with the school and the headteacher therefore has a responsibility to ensure timely communications are made to parents and guardians about any action that may affect their child. Such responsibilities could also be delegated to another senior leader in school if the headteacher was unable to fulfil this obligation.

Why did the Department send a letter about potential pay deductions?

There are legal processes that the Department must follow during an industrial action dispute.

The Department has no intention of withholding teacher’s pay in the current phase, but retains the right to do so in the future.

We hope this helps you to understand the current situation but if you need any further information or questions you can call a member of our team on 685820 or email admin.DESC@gov.im

Financial Sanctions: ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaida

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 09:50:26 GMT

This news release is issued in respect of the restrictive measures directed against the ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaida organisations.

Annex I to Regulation (EC) No 881/2002 has been amended with effect from 19 February 2020 following the publication of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2020/218 (“the Amending Regulation”). The Amending Regulation reflects the decisions made on 20 June 2017 by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Committee established pursuant to Resolutions 1267 (1999), 1989 (2011) and 2253 (2015) to amend the identifying information of two individuals to the UN ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaida Organisations list.

Amendments

Additional information is shown in italics. Deleted information is in square brackets.

Individuals

HAQ, Abdul

DOB: 10/10/1971.

POB: [Chele County, Khuttan Area], Hetian Area, Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region, China

a.k.a: (1) 'ABD AL-HAQ (2) [ABUDUHAKE] HAKE, Abudu (3) AXIMU, Memetiming (4) HEQ, Abdul (5) IMAN, Maimaiti (6) JUNDULLAH, [Abdulheq] Abdul Heq (7) KHALIQ, Muhammad, Ahmed (8) MAIMAITI, Maimaitiming (9) MAIMAITI, Maiumaitimin (10) MEMETI, Memetiming (11) QEKEMAN, Memetiming (12) SAIMAITI, Abdul (13) MUHELISI (14) QERMAN (15) SAIFUDING

Nationality: Chinese

National Identification no: 653225197110100533 (Chinese)

Address: [Pakistan (as at Apr 2009)]. Afghanistan (as at July 2016)

Other Information: UN Ref: QDi.268 [QI.H.268.09]. [Also referred to as Muhelisi, Qerman and Saifuding]. Overall leader and commander of the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (QDe.088). Involved in fundraising and recruitment for this organisation. Previously located in Pakistan as at April 2009. [Reportedly deceased in Pakistan in Feb 2010].

Listed on: 17/04/2009 Last Updated: [19/01/2012] 19/02/2020 Group ID: 10834.

[AL-JAZIRI, Abu Bakr] BOULGHITI, Boubekeur

DOB: 13/02/1970

POB: Rouiba, Algiers, Algeria

a.k.a: (1) AL-JAZARI, Yasir (2) BOULGHIT, Boubakeur (3) AL-JAZIRI, Abu Bakr (4) AL DJAZAIRI, Abou Bakr (5) EL DJAZAIRI, Abou Yasser (6) AL-JAZIRI, Abou Yasser

Nationality: (1) Algerian (2) Palestinian

Other Information: UN Ref: QDi.058 [QI.A.58.02]. Finance chief of the Afghan Support Committee (ASC) (QDe.069). Al-Qaida (QDe.004) facilitator and communication expert. Believed to be in Algeria as at Apr 2010. Son of Mohamed and Fatma Aribi.

Listed on: 11/01/2002 Last Updated: [17/06/2011] 19/02/2020 Group ID: 6998.

Financial institutions and other persons are requested to check whether they maintain any accounts or otherwise hold funds or economic resources for, or provide financial services to, the designated individuals. If so, they must freeze such accounts or other funds and, unless licensed by the Treasury, refrain from dealing with said funds or economic resources, and suspend the provision of any financial services. They must also report their findings to the FIU. Where a relevant institution has already reported details of accounts, other funds or economic resources held frozen for the designated individuals they are not required to report these details again.

Further details of the sanctions regime related to ISIL and Al-Qaida and links to the UK’s Consolidated List of Individuals and entities subject to other financial sanctions regimes may be found on the Customs and Excise pages of the Isle of Man Government website.

Financial Sanctions: Zimbabwe

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 09:43:59 GMT

This news release is issued to publicise changes to EU sanctions measures in relation to Zimbabwe.

Annexes II and IV to Council Regulation (EC) 314/2004 has been amended with effect from 19 February 2020, following the publication of Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/213.

Delisting

Individual

MUGABE, Robert Gabriel

DOB: 21/02/1924.

Passport Details: AD001095

Other Information: Former President.

Listed on: 21/02/2002 Last Updated: [16/02/2018] 19/02/2020 Group ID: 7321

The asset freeze in relation to Robert Gabriel Mugabe has been removed from the consolidated list.

Suspension

Individual

MUGABE, Grace

DOB: 23/07/1965.

Passport Details: AD001159

National Identification no: 63-646650Q70

Other Information: Associated with the ZANU-PF faction of the government.

Listed on: 25/07/2002 Last Updated: [23/02/2012] 19/02/2020 Group ID: 7320.

The asset freeze in relation to Grace Mugabe has been suspended and therefore is not currently in force. Her designation has been suspended until 20 February 2021.

Further details of the sanctions regime related to Zimbabwe and links to the Consolidated List of individuals and entities subject to these and other financial sanctions regimes may be found on the Customs and Excise pages of the Isle of Man Government website.

Committee seeks new members with expertise in firearms

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 12:40:48 GMT

A new intake of lay members will be needed when the Firearms Licensing Consultative Committee reconvenes in the spring this year, and applications are invited from those who want to get involved.

The committee, which reports directly to the Department of Home Affairs, is seeking input from across the Island’s firearms community. The body acts as a forum for open discussion of issues relating to firearms and regulated weapons, between those who use them and the regulating authorities.

Government has had a long relationship with the Island’s firearms community through the committee, which has met in various forms for more than 15 years. Its overall remit is to review the operation of current firearms legislation and proposed updates to it, including new primary legislation which will focus on public safety. Members also help to resolve day-to-day licensing issues, including those raised by the police or notified to the committee.

Deputy Chief Executive of the Department of Home Affairs Julian Lalor-Smith said:

‘I am very pleased this consultative body is reconvening and I am delighted to act as its Chair. It is a partnership defined by consultation and collaboration, and is all about effective dialogue between the police and the shooting community. Alongside its key remit to review legislation, the committee is an ideal channel to provide the shooting community with the latest information and advice, and to champion the safe use and storage of all firearms and regulated weapons.’

Mr Lalor-Smith added:

‘We are offering an opportunity for individuals with an interest and experience in this area to have genuine input to the committee’s work, reflecting the views of the firearms community in discussions and when decisions are made.’

Applications are welcomed from individuals with the experience, commitment and time to contribute to the committee’s work, including representatives of membership organisations such as rifle clubs. No formal qualifications are required and applicants are appointed by a panel on the basis they are volunteering their services. Meetings are held quarterly with some additional commitment likely to be required over the course of a year, when detailed issues are considered.

Find out more information about the Firearms Licensing Consultative Committee.

Financial Sanctions: ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaida (1)

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 15:45:55 GMT

This news release is issued to publicise a correction to the identifying information issued earlier today in relation to Abdul HAQ, who remains subject to an asset freeze.

CORRECTION

Individual

HAQ, Abdul

DOB: 10/10/1971.

POB: Hetian Area, Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region, China

a.k.a: (1) 'ABDAL-HAQ (2) [ABUDU, Hake] HAKE, Abudu (3) AXIMU, Memetiming (4) HEQ, Abdul (5) IMAN, Maimaiti (6) JUNDULLAH, Abdul, Heq (7) KHALIQ, Muhammad, Ahmed (8) MAIMAITI, Maimaitiming (9) MAIMAITI, Maiumaitimin (10) MEMETI, Memetiming (11) MUHELISI (12) QEKEMAN, Memetiming (13) QERMAN (14) SAIFUDING (15) SAIMAITI, Abdul

Nationality: Chinese

National Identification no: 653225197110100533 (Chinese)

Address: Afghanistan (as at July 2016).

Other Information: UN Ref QDi.268. Overall leader and commander of the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (QDe.008). Involved in fundraising and recruitment for this organisation. Previously located in Pakistan as at April 2009.

Listed on: 17/04/2009 Last Updated: [19/02/2020] 20/02/2020 Group ID: 10834.

Tynwald approves Steam Packet appointment

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 14:12:23 GMT

Treasury Minister Alfred Cannan MHK has today (Tuesday 18 February) welcomed Tynwald’s approval of Lars Ugland as non-executive director of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company.

Mr Ugland will take the role of chair, replacing Robert Quayle who retires from the post on 31 March 2020 after serving 11 years as chair and 20 years as director.

Mr Cannan said:

‘I am delighted to make this appointment, and look forward to Mr Ugland contributing to the success of the Steam Packet under government ownership.

‘The role is crucial in establishing the strategic direction of the Island’s sea services, and the incoming chair brings a wealth of experience gathered during a career in international shipping spanning more than 50 years.’

Mr Ugland’s career began in 1968 as an ordinary seaman on-board a bulk carrier and developed through roles with a range of shipping companies and consultancy firms. A member of the Isle of Man Shipping Association since 2007, he served as the Honorary Norwegian consul to the Isle of Man 2011-2019.

Mr Cannan added:

‘The next few years promise to be a significant era in the long and proud history of the Steam Packet, and it’s right to pay tribute to the role played by the outgoing chairman during his time with the company – I’d like to thank Robert for his diligence and service, and wish him a very happy retirement.’

The Treasury undertook the recruitment process as sole shareholder following the Isle of Man Government’s purchase of the company in May 2018, which was aimed at providing long-term stability to the Island’s lifeline ferry operations.

The company continues to operate as a commercial enterprise at arm’s length from Government.

New Medical Director brings wealth of experience to role

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 14:31:01 GMT

The Isle of Man’s new Medical Director Dr Rosalind Ransonhas been welcomed in her new role by the health and social care leadership team.

Dr Ranson has extensive experience as a senior medical leader in the NHS in England and was recently awarded Fellow of the Faculty of Medical Leadership and Management. A clinician for more than 25 years and an experienced medical director, Dr Ranson has held national positions at the General Medical Council, as a member of the Commission on Human Medicines and most recently as professional advisor to the Care Quality Commission (CQC), the independent regulator of all health and social care services in England.

Dr Ranson was appointed following a recruitment process in autumn 2019 chaired by Sir Jonathan Michael and joins the executive leadership team in DHSC. As the most senior doctor in the Isle of Man, her new role has a wide remit for all services across the health and social care system.

DHSC interim CEO Kathryn Magson said:

‘On behalf of the department I would like to thank Dr Tim Kerruish for his work as interim medical director at Noble’s Hospital, and to welcome Dr Ranson. She brings an impressive breadth of experience to the role having worked in primary, community and acute care and in key roles at a national level including in the area of regulation. This offers a strong combination of practical and strategic experience and a level of insight which will be invaluable as we develop integrated health and care services. I’m confident Dr Ranson’s expertise will bring great benefit to the Isle of Man.’

She added:

‘Dr Ranson will be responsible for ensuring the quality of medical care provided to the public. She will also work alongside colleagues to implement the recommendations of Sir Jonathan Michael’s Independent Review of the Island’s health and social care system. The Medical Director is a key position in the executive team of the DHSC, influencing strategy, policy and legislation while ensuring that the needs of patients, service users and those advocating on their behalf, are understood and held paramount.'

Dr Ranson said:

‘I am delighted to be here on the Isle of Man and am very much looking forward to working with everyone at this time of considerable change. I am committed to listening to all stakeholders ensuring that we work together, to improve and transform services to meet the needs of the people who live here. This is a beautiful island and I am grateful for the warm welcome that I have received already.’

Budget provides focus on a sustainable future

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 15:16:20 GMT

Treasury Minister Alfred Cannan MHK today unveiled a Budget of Focus to enable the Isle of Man Government to meet its fiscal plan, grow the economy, deliver essential capital projects, support hard-working families and improve the lives of vulnerable members of the community.

Delivering his fourth budget in Tynwald against a backdrop of increased tax receipts and a buoyant workplace, the Minister announced a package of measures aimed at supporting low to middle-income earners, developing vital infrastructure and boosting business and jobs.

The highlights include a fourth consecutive rise in personal tax allowance and targeted increases in benefits and allowances for parents, carers, pensioners and people with disabilities.

Mr Cannan said:

‘The five-year plan is succeeding in placing the Island in a strong position and it’s the right time to highlight how carefully selecting our objectives – and delivering on them – will continue to ensure the Island remains a special place to live and work.’

The Minister revealed the Isle of Man Government’s accounts, supported by a drawdown from the Public Service Employees Pension Reserve, are forecasting a surplus of £11.1m in the current year - representing an increase of £9m on the budgeted amount - and that a prudent approach to the five-year plan will generate contributions to reserves by 2021-22.

Tax receipts are forecast to be higher than expected and low unemployment has led to savings being made on welfare payments. A total of 427 new taxpayers have been added to the workforce during the past year, while 147 employers have registered with the Income Tax Division.

Looking ahead to the new financial year, the Minister highlighted a number of initiatives to support low to middle-income workers and improve residents’ personal circumstances:

A fourth consecutive increase to the Personal Tax Allowance to £14,250, leading to around 465 people being lifted out of the income tax net
A rise in the National Insurance Earning Threshold to £138 will benefit 41,000 people. This has been offset by a 5% (£39) rise in the Upper Earnings Limit that will see up to 3,500 paying more National Insurance contributions.
A 2% targeted rise will improve the circumstances of 7,000 families who receive child benefit and 4,000 people in receipt of disability living allowance and attendance allowance
Around 400 people who live in nursing homes will see the rate of their nursing care contribution increase by 3.6%, and 1,000 pensioners and 300 people with disabilities who get income support will benefit from a 5.2% increase in their pensioner and disability premiums
A 3.9% rise in the Basic/Manx State Pension, increasing weekly amounts by up to £7 for a single pensioner and up to £15 for a pensioner couple.

Funds totalling £10 million will be focussed on the Island’s response to the climate change emergency and will empower Departments to bring forward initiatives that support the actions and objectives of the independent climate change report compiled by Professor James Curran.

Investment in our health and social care services will total £14m. This will include £5 million dedicated to healthcare transformation and £2.8 million to fulfil the standard 2% pay increase. Capital schemes will receive an investment of £4 million while £2.2m will support the development of new and expanding services as well as strengthening the vital connection provided by the air ambulance.

More than £500,000 will be invested in the Island’s young people through apprenticeships, providing skills relevant to the Manx economy, and further investment in digital infrastructure will see £1.5m committed to the rollout of fibre broadband Island-wide.

Mr Cannan announced that the National Insurance Holiday Scheme, a successful relocation incentive launched last year to support employers with their recruitment programmes and to increase the Island’s population, would continue for another 12 months.

Emphasising the focus being placed on maintaining the Island’s reputation for enterprise and opportunity, £5m will be set aside for schemes to support new businesses.

Mr Cannan said:

‘We are building on the foundations set during earlier Budgets and focussing on sustainability as the key theme while addressing challenges presented by local and international economic conditions.

‘The past three years have seen high employment and a buoyant jobs market due to this Government’s measures which have stimulated the economy and enabled more people to find work.

‘Our ongoing fiscal plan continues to focus on exercising sound financial control and delivering value for money public services, while rebalancing the public finances and achieving a further reduction in Government’s reliance on funding from reserves.’

Capital programme to provide platform for growth

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 11:30:15 GMT

A capital programme set at £159 million will focus spending on a range of schemes aimed at delivering a lasting legacy for the people of the Isle of Man.

More than £540 million is scheduled to be invested over the next five years, demonstrating confidence in the Manx economy and providing a platform for growth.

The Island’s response to climate change is among the most prominent areas of funding, along with improvements to transport infrastructure and maintaining vital services.

In addition to the £5 million revenue-funded Environmental Protection Fund, the £5 million capital-funded Climate Change Mitigation Initiatives Fund will empower Departments to initiate innovative measures that support the actions and objectives of the independent Climate Change report compiled by Professor James Curran.

A further £6.4 million will be channelled into the rolling 25-year programme of climate change adaption designed to deal with the effects of rising sea levels.

Bill Shimmins MHK, Treasury Member with responsibility for Capital Projects, said:

‘The capital programme this year is one which looks beyond the immediate future and provides a platform for change which will benefit generations for years to come. It reflects the times we are living in and its emerging challenges, our community’s priorities and playing our part in a global emergency.

‘In addition to addressing our responsibilities around climate change, funding is being focussed on schemes which will modernise the way we live, work and travel, emphasising the Island’s reputation as a confident, forward-thinking society which empowers its residents and cares for the vulnerable.’

The project to build the Isle of Man Ferry Terminal in Liverpool has now reached the construction phase and the facility is due to be completed and welcoming its first passengers by summer 2021.

Isle of Man Airport will see major investment in the refurbishment of ground services and installing a replacement runway landing system.

A total of £46m has been allocated to highway schemes over the next five years, including residential roads which are set to benefit from targeted investment designed to address minor issues and prevent long-term damage.

Investment in Active Travel will see £2m committed to working with schools and workplaces, and developing routes in Douglas, Onchan and Braddan. Improvements will also continue on the Heritage Trail, including the section between St John’s and Kirk Michael.

The emergency services will see equipment replaced to keep pace with modern policing techniques, and funding for new ambulances, fire appliances and police vehicles to help keep our Island safe. Provision has also been made to enable investment in the communication system used across government - including police, fire, ambulance and Coastguard - and is crucial to the Island’s ability to respond to a major incident.

The provision of respite services will be modernised after £1.75m is invested in redeveloping Radcliffe Villas for those with learning disabilities.

Regional health facilities will be improved with £472,000 invested at Peel Medical Centre for additional space to cater for increased patient numbers and to allow it to be used as a GP training centre.

Reflecting the Island’s UNESCO Biosphere status, a new nature reserve will be created on a former landfill site at the Point of Ayre at a cost of £80,000 in a joint project with Manx Birdlife. The Island’s national glens and footpaths will also receive further investment in paths, play areas and car parks.

Spending equates to £13,220 per person

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 11:30:12 GMT

Total Government gross spending projected for 2020-21 equates to around £13,220 per head for every man, woman and child of the Island’s population*.

This per person figure includes:

£3,936 for Social Security payments such as the State Pension, Income Support and Child Benefit
£3,321 for Health and Social Care Services, of which £1,346 relates to Nobles Hospital, £821 for Primary Care, £520 for Social Care Services, £199 for providing free or subsidised prescriptions or drugs and £243 for treating Manx patients in the United Kingdom
- £1,439 for Education, including £133 for University Fees
- £1,297 for former Government employee pensions, of which around £367 comes from current employee contributions
- £462 for the Police, Fire, Prison and other parts of the Department of Home Affairs
- £250 for supporting the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture, including the Office of Fair Trading & Road Transport Licencing Committee
- £223 Net Expenditure (after income) for Public Transport and Heritage Railways
- £142 for Waste Management, in addition a further £73 raised via local authorities or business waste charges
- £64 for Sports and Arts, including subsidising regional swimming pools

*Assumes population of 84,353 per Economic Affairs, Cabinet Office (September 2019)

FERSA calculations finalised with HM Treasury

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 10:40:59 GMT

Calculations regarding the Final Expenditure Revenue Sharing Arrangement (FERSA) with the United Kingdom Government have been finalised, Treasury Minister Alfred Cannan MHK informed Tynwald this morning while announcing the Budget for the forthcoming year.

FERSA was agreed in 2016 with the aim of ensuring a stable and secure basis for the long-term future of the Customs and Excise Agreement between the UK and the Isle of Man.

Mr Cannan said:

‘I am able to confirm to you today that we have finalised the required FERSA calculations and agreed them with Her Majesty’s Government in Whitehall.

'These agreed determinations mean that we can now be confident that the methodology applied in 2016 to calculate the Island’s estimated share of VAT and Shared Duties was broadly accurate.

‘As a result of this agreement, I am today able to release the money from our cash reserves that we have prudently held back over the last three budgets to deal with any negative outcomes from this valuation.

‘In short, the determination of our final share together with our prudent approach means that I am allocating £44m into our general reserves from where this money can be used to target our priority areas, including funding for Health and Social Care and the Climate Change Action Plan.’

He added:

‘I would like to thank HM Treasury for their detailed and professional approach together with Officers both in Treasury and the Cabinet Office who have worked in such an efficient manner to reach this conclusion.’

FERSA is based on final expenditure by households and businesses and is designed to provide the Isle of Man Treasury with the revenue due to it from the consumption of goods and services in the Island, whether purchased on or off the Island, including those bought over the internet and by mail order.

The Economic Affairs team in the Cabinet Office conducted a Household Income and Expenditure Survey and a Business VAT survey during the 2018-19 financial year which provided data from 1,000 families and more than 400 businesses.

In addition to finalising the calculations with HM Treasury, a new indexation rate has been established and is valid for the next five years, up to 2025.

Budget 2020 at a glance

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 11:30:15 GMT

An increase to the personal income tax allowance of £250 to £14,250 will lift 465 people out of the tax net and reduce income tax by up to £50 for individuals and £100 for jointly assessed couples.

A 10% (£13) a week rise in the Earnings Threshold for Primary and Secondary Class 1 National Insurance contributions will benefit 41,000 people. A 5% (£39) rise in the Upper Earnings Limit will see up to 3,500 paying more National Insurance contributions.

Key rises in the following benefits:

Pensioners

Basic state pension (3.9%)

Additional pension – ‘SERPS’ (1.7%)

Manx State Pension up to the full rate (3.9%)

Income Support Pensioner Premium (5.2%) to ensure pensioners on low incomes receive the full benefit of the increase in the basic state pension

Manx State Pension Transitional Amount (1.7%)

Family/Other

Child Benefit (2.0%) building on last year’s increase of 5%

Employed Person’s Allowance – basic allowances (1.6%, but 5.7% for disabled workers)

Disability

Attendance Allowance (2.0%)

Income Support Disability and Disabled Child Premiums (5.2%)

Nursing Care Contribution (3.6%)

Disability Living Allowance (2.0%)

The allowance for the first or only child in a family in receipt of income support, employed person’s allowance and income based job seeker’s allowance is to be increased by £7.45 per week in addition to the 2% increase in Child Benefit.

An additional £2.2 million for Health and Social Care services, £5 million for Infrastructure, £2.3 million for Department for Enterprise and £700,000 for Education, Sport & Culture relating primarily to Apprenticeships.

A five-year capital investment programme of £541 million, including Douglas Promenade Walkway, the construction of the Isle of Man Ferry Terminal in Liverpool, major ground-works at the airport and sports pitch works to enable the development of Castle Rushen High School.

Funds of £10 million set aside to fund initiatives designed to mitigate the impact of climate change on our Island while the longer-term funding strategy is developed.

An increase of £1.2 million for the Housing Deficiency Budget and an additional £500,000 for the dredging of Peel Marina.

Continuation of the National Insurance Holiday Scheme for employees who move to the Island for work and Manx students who return to the Island for employment after completing their UK university courses.

£326,000 for the Office of Cyber Security & Information Assurance to focus on developing our defences against new and emerging technology and cyber threats.

£590,000 to fund a new and improved Air Ambulance service and £565,000 to fund an increase in the Endoscopy service available to patients on the Island.

More than £1 million of capital funding towards new communications equipment for the emergency services.

Healthcare Transformation Fund to be topped up by £5m to support Sir Jonathan Michael’s Health Care recommendations

Financial Sanctions: Syria

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 10:40:43 GMT

This news release is issued in respect of the restrictive measures directed against certain persons and entities in view of the situation in Syria.

Annex II to Council Regulation (EC) No 36/2012 has been amended with effect from 17 February 2020, following the publication of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2020/211.

Ten entries have been added to the UK’s Consolidated List and are now subject to an asset freeze.

Details of the additions can be found in the attached Annex.

Financial institutions and other persons are requested to check whether they maintain any accounts or otherwise hold funds or economic resources for, or provide financial services to, the designated individuals and entities. If so, they must freeze such accounts or other funds and, unless licensed by the Treasury, refrain from dealing with said funds or economic resources, and suspend the provision of any financial services. They must also report their findings to the FIU.

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

Further details of the sanctions regime related to Syria and links to the UK’s Consolidated List of Individuals and entities subject to other financial sanctions regimes may be found on the Customs and Excise pages of the Isle of Man Government website

European Union Sanctions – Somalia

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 11:56:23 GMT

This news release is issued in respect of the restrictive measures directed against Somalia.

On 15 November 2019, the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution (UNSCR) 2498 (2019). That Resolution reaffirms a general and complete arms embargo on Somalia and amends the exemptions, advance approvals and notifications concerning the delivery of arms and related materials to Somalia. That Resolution also reaffirms the prohibition on the import of charcoal from Somalia and introduces restrictions on improvised explosive device components.

On 6 February 2020 the Council of the European Union adopted Regulation 2020/169 which amends Regulation (EC) No 147/2003 in accordance with UNSCR 2498 (2019).

The European Union (Somalia Sanctions) (Arms Embargo, Etc) (Amendment) Order 2020 applies the provisions of the EU Regulation, as modified by the Schedule to the Order, as part of the law of the Island.

The Somalia Sanctions (Arms Embargo, Etc) (Amendment) Regulations 2020 amends the Somalia Sanctions (Arms Embargo, Etc) Regulations 2012 (“the principal Regulations”) to take account of the amendment of Council Regulation (EU) No 147/2003 by Council Regulation (EU) No 2020/169. The principal Regulations established offences and penalties for breaches of Council Regulation (EU) No 147/2003, as applied to the Island, and they provided for the licensing by the Treasury of activities which would otherwise be prohibited. The Schedule to the principal Regulations is also substituted to update the list of persons to whom the Treasury may disclose information in relation to the EU Regulation, and makes minor amendments to correct errors.

Further details of the sanctions regime related to Somalia may be found on the Customs and Excise pages of the Isle of Man Government website.