Isle of Man Government News

Financial Sanctions: Libya

Wed, 19 Sep 2018 16:17:42 GMT

This news release is issued in respect of the asset freezing measures relating to Libya.

Annex II to Regulation (EU) No 2016/44 has been amended with effect from 19 September 2018, following the publication of Council Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2018/1245 (“the Amending Regulation”).

The Amending Regulation reflects the decision made on 11 September 2018 by the United Nations Security Council Committee to add one individual to the list of persons and entities subject to restrictive measures.

Addition

JADHRAN Ibrahim Saeed Salim

DOB: --/--/1982.

Nationality: Libya

Position: Leader of armed militias

Other Information: UN Ref LYi.027. Name of mother Salma Abdula Younis. UN Listing.

Listed on: 19/09/2018 Last Updated: 19/09/2018 Group ID: 13711

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 person. 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 Libya 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.

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Island Presentation Evening

Wed, 19 Sep 2018 14:52:15 GMT

More than 150 young people were invited to receive Bronze and Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Award certificates last night (18 September) – marking another successful year for the award on the Island.

The annual awards evening at the Gaiety Theatre was sponsored by Ardwhallan Outdoor Education Centre. Paul Riding, North of England Regional Officer, presented the certificates.

To gain a Bronze award, young people aged 14 and over complete at least three months on each of three sections – volunteering, physical and skills – opting for six months on one of them.

They also plan, train for and complete a two-day expedition.

The Silver award, open to those aged 15 and over, involves a minimum of six months volunteering and six months on either physical or skills sections, with three months on the other. They also tackle a three-day expedition.

The Department of Education, Sport and Culture’s Youth Service is an operating authority for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and has 13 groups – known as Award Units - that are registered to run the awards.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is offered at all five secondary schools as well as a number of voluntary youth organisations. Some participants choose to work towards their awards independent of an Award Unit but are welcomed to join a unit to complete sections such as volunteering and expedition.

Last night’s presentation also saw a number of long-time volunteers receive special certificates to mark their achievement.

Alison Barnes, Awards Coordinator with the Department of Education, Sport and Culture, said:

‘This is one of my favourite events of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award year. It represents the end of the journey through a particular award and a celebration of the personal achievements of each individual who comes forward to receive their award.’

Young people who go on to attain the Gold award are presented with this at a special event held later in the year.

National Income Report indicates 7.4% growth in GDP

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 11:57:42 GMT

The Isle of Man Government has today (Monday 17 September) published its National Income Report.

The report shows that GDP has increased by 7.4 per cent in real terms during 2016/17 financial year. This is after a small reduction of 0.9 per cent during 2015/16.

Out of the 24 sectors covered in the report, 16 showed areas of growth with the information and technology sector being a significant driver.

Other areas that demonstrated significant growth were e-gaming, and finance and businesses services.

In addition, the report shows that total personal income increased by 4.4 per cent in real terms.

The report follows the business confidence survey, published last month, that highlighted all sectors of the Isle of Man economy were confident about their growth prospects.

Chief Minister, Howard Quayle MHK, said: 'This report shows that there has been a real increase in personal income for our population. This demonstrates the confidence and commitment that business have in the Isle of Man.

'The report shows growth across our economy including construction and manufacturing and this along with the results of the business confidence survey shows that our economy is getting stronger and more diverse. However, we are not complacent and know that we have a lot of work to do over the next few years to ensure that this growth is sustainable.'

Minister for Enterprise, Laurence Skelly MHK, commented: ‘It is really encouraging to see corporate profits growing across all many of our sectors, as well as a real increase in personal income for our local population. The Department for Enterprise is committed to the continued diversification of industry in the Isle of Man and the latest statistics demonstrate further diversification.

'If we look at our new agency split, the figures show our Finance sectors remained strong and in addition we saw further growth across each of our Digital, Business and Visit sectors, illustrating a more balanced economy and a positive outlook for our key sectors.’

The link to the report can be found here: /categories/tax-vat-and-your-money/national-income/#menu

Apply now to get involved in health and social care review workshops

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 11:53:02 GMT

Workshops aiming to inform the independent review into the Island’s health and social care system will begin next week.

Residents of all ages and backgrounds are being encouraged to sign up to attend one of the sessions to and help shape the future of health and social care in the Isle of Man.

The team supporting the review is eager to gather the views of a wide range of people, and talk to them again as the review progresses.

The workshops will be held at the Keyll Darree Training Centre at Noble’s Hospital on:

• Friday 21 September, 9.30am to 11.30am

• Friday 21 September, 12.30pm to 2.30pm

• Thursday 11 October, 7pm to 9pm

The workshops will build on the initial online public consultation, which took place between 26 June and 7 August, to ensure that the public’s views are fully understood and considered throughout the course of the review.

Sir Jonathan Michael is leading the 12-month Independent Review and the team is supporting his work to address the current and long-term healthcare challenges facing the Isle of Man.

Sir Jonathan said:

‘The workshops will play a vital part in creating a comprehensive picture of healthcare provision in the Island and I look forward to many people from all walks of life making important contributions.

‘The sessions are designed to provide a platform where residents can tell us what is and isn’t working for the Island, and to help inform how the Island’s current and long-term health and social care needs can be met.’

An interim report will be submitted to Tynwald in January 2019, with the final report presented for discussion at the May 2019 sitting.

For further information, or if you would like to be involved in the review but cannot attend on these dates, email DHSCReview@gov.im, call 650759 or visit gov.im/healthcare-review

Manx queenies voted Isle of Man's new national dish

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 12:29:34 GMT

Manx queenies have been crowned as the Isle of Man’s new national dish following a public vote.

The poll was run over a four month period by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture, and saw over 2,500 votes cast. Over 500 people voted for the Queen scallop, which has become synonymous with Manx cuisine.

In second place was chips, cheese and gravy with nearly 400 votes.

Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, Geoffrey Boot MHK, welcomed the result:

'This was a hard-fought race that led to some lively public debate. It’s great to see so many people so passionate about Manx food. The vote has helped to raise the profile of the variety of Manx produce available as well as cementing the quality of our products in the public consciousness. Our Queen scallops are world-renowned for their quality and taste. They are worth millions of pounds to the Island’s economy and support hundreds of jobs. Our efforts to conserve stocks, whilst not always popular, mean this is a sustainable export that we can use to fly the Manx flag around the world'.

The Minister added:

'Food and drink is a real growth area for the Island’s economy and the industry is supported by my Department as part of efforts to grow the Isle of Man’s food and drink sector by £50 million by 2025'.

The result of the public vote was unveiled by local chef Tony Quirk as part of the 2018 Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival. Tony made a dish of Manx queenies, bacon and garlic. Festival-goers were able to take away a copy of the recipe which is also available online at www.gov.im/food.

The Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival was sponsored by PokerStars, Dave’s Delicious Dogs, Event Management Solutions, Magnet, Shoprite, Thai Thai Restaurant, and The Buchan School with 3 FM as media partner.

Record attendance at Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 14:42:46 GMT

Over 10,000 people attended the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture’s 2018 Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival – a new record – beating last year’s attendance of 8,500. The event is increasingly attracting visitors to the Island.

The event, sponsored by PokerStars and held in the Villa Marina gardens on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 September, serves to showcase the finest Manx produce.

Last year just over 8,500 people flocked to the festival contributing £230,000 to the local economy.

Geoffrey Boot MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said:

'This year’s event had even more great new local food products to enjoy, including five first-time exhibitors, plenty of opportunities to sample a massive range of local food and drink, plus lots of entertainment for all the family. The festival’s popularity reflects the growth in Isle of Man food and drink, which is being driven by my Department’s Food Matters strategy, and the growing interest and desire among people to support local food and drink producers and businesses. Although organised by DEFA, the event only happens as a result of tremendous teamwork and efforts right across the food and drink sector. Everyone from the volunteer committee to our all-important sponsors, producers, retailers, caterers, and other volunteers come together to make the event the highlight of the calendar it is.'

There was a high standard among the 60 exhibitors, making the job of choosing the best stand difficult for the Minister and BBC One’s Countryfile presenter Adam Henson, the guest of honour at the festival.

They awarded the accolade to Close Leece Farm.

Visitors are invited to give their feedback on the festival via www.gov.im/food.

Feedback so far has highlighted that the festival is a great day out and praised the wide variety of local produce on sale, the opportunity to meet producers, and the relaxed atmosphere.

For year-round updates about the festival follow Food Matters on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook or visit http://iomfoodanddrink.com.

The 2018 Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival was also sponsored by Dave’s Delicious Dogs, Event Management Solutions, Magnet, Shoprite, Thai Thai Restaurant, and The Buchan School with 3 FM as media partner.

Manx produce tantalises taste buds as chefs battle it out

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 16:11:02 GMT

Local chefs took the finest Manx ingredients and turned them into tasty dishes before a knowledgeable audience yesterday (Sunday).

Zaneta Krol from Haworths and Darren Woods from 14North competed in the Chef of the Year final at the Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival.

Geoffrey Boot MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture; chef Colin Clague, who was guest at the festival; and Paul Caisley, from the competition’s sponsor Robinson’s, judged the final.

They awarded Darren Woods the title and he wins a number of placements in top London restaurants, co-ordinated by chef Colin Clague.

This will help Darren to expand his knowledge and experience in professional Michelin starred restaurants.

Zaneta’s dish ‘Manx as the Hills’ and Darren’s dish stuffed courgette flowers with white crab, yoghurt, sunflower seed granola, and ricotta, were cooked in a kitchen specially created for the event by Magnet.

Colin Clague said both chefs displayed great skill and confidence and it had been difficult to choose a winner.

The competition demonstrated how Manx produce could be put to imaginative use to create such varied dishes, he added.

Meanwhile, Louise Thomas was awarded the Student Chef of the Year at the festival and took home a trophy and £250 in prizemoney.

Louise’s dish was locally caught Callig, Manx Queenies, chorizo, fine beans and a white wine butter sauce. Contender Charles Hudson’s dish was Manx duck breast, potato galettes, herb salsa, squash, and wilted greens.

Both Louise and Charles learned their trade at University College Isle of Man (UCM) – which offers BTEC, GCSE and NVQ qualifications in hospitality, catering and food and drink – and qualified for the final through heats held at UCM.

Louise works at Peel Promenade Kiosk while Charles works at Comis at Mount Murray.

All four chefs had a time limit and the pressure of a large audience and fielded questions put to them by comperes Tony Quirk, a leading local chef, and Chris Franklin, chef lecturer at UCM.

Dishes were judged on use of local ingredients, taste, and presentation.

Minister Boot said:

'The chefs demonstrated the versatility of Manx produce, creating four completely different dishes that went down a treat and were hard to separate for judging purposes. The standard of competition was incredibly high, reflecting the quality of training at UCM and of our fine local restaurants.'

Paul Caisley said:

'As Robinson’s celebrates 130 years of selling high quality Manx produce to local chefs, we were delighted to again support these competitions and to see the varied dishes that resulted.'

The finalists’ recipes can be found on www.gov.im/food.

The Minister said:

'The continued growth of the food and drink sector, being driven via our Food Matters strategy, is heartening to see. The festival is the showpiece event of the year, bringing together all those with a love of Manx produce in one fantastic setting to eat, drink, pick up recipes, enjoy demonstrations and entertainment, and take home products to try. I’d like to thank the continued support from Robinson’s and everyone else who made the festival such a success.'

Taster sessions aim to encourage secondary school starters to take up sport

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 17:05:39 GMT

Students starting secondary school in the north and south of the Island have been encouraged to take up sport following a day of taster sessions.

The sessions, offering a 45 minute taster of six sports, were held at Castle Rushen High School and Ramsey Grammar School. They were specifically targeted at year 7 pupils (ages 11 and 12) who started secondary school earlier this month.

It’s hoped the taster sessions will encourage more young people to take up sport in the community – leading to lifelong hobbies and friendships.

The ‘Southern Six’ event, staged for a third year, saw Castle Rushen students try their hand at hockey, rugby, netball, badminton, golf, and boxing.

At Ramsey, a new ‘Northern Six’ event featured table tennis, rugby, netball, badminton, golf, and table tennis.

Gianni Epifani, Senior Sports Development Officer with Manx Sport and Recreation, said:

'At both schools, year 7 pupils tried sports they might not have taken part in before, in rotation, under the instruction of volunteer coaches from community clubs.

'The clubs that took part are all keen to attract new members and it’s hoped pupils will sign up as a result of the day.

'Students went home with booklets detailing information on training times and contacts for the clubs involved.

'Taking part in community sport has great social, as well as physical and mental health, benefits and encouraging people to take up sport as a pastime is part of our 10-year strategy to get more people, more active, more often.

'Many of those who join community clubs when young find they have a fulfilling hobby for life, forge friendships and go on to coach and encourage others.'

For information on joining sports clubs, contact Gianni on +44 1624 688556 or email gianni.epifani@gov.im.

Publication List 14.09.18

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 15:05:19 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 5 October 2018.

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 to enable assessment of parties for interested person status (as defined in the 2013 Order) 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.

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

PUBLIC MEETINGS OF THE PLANNING COMMITTEE

The next public meeting of the Planning Committee is to be held at 10.00am Monday 1 October 2018, 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 /categories/planning-and-building-control/planning-building-control-decisions-and-performance/committee-agendas-and-minutes/

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 /media/873234/pc-public-speaking-leaflet-april-2018.pdf

Orders and Regulations

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

Town and Country Planning (Permitted Development) (Telecommunications) Order 2013

The Town and Country Planning (Certificates of Lawful Use or Development) Regulations 2005

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 invited to join the Independent Monitoring Board

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 15:03:13 GMT

Applications are being invited from community-spirited individuals who may wish to join the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB).

The Isle of Man Government is committed to ensuring that where people are detained under law, they are treated fairly, decently and justly.

The IMB performs a vital function through independently monitoring the performance of the Isle of Man’s custodial establishments and providing an overview of the operation of the prison, police holding cells and court custody facilities.

This voluntary role will include interactions with both detainees and staff, and requires a commitment of 15 to 20 hours a month.

The successful applicant will be good with people and be free from prejudice, and able to approach situations with an open mind.

No formal qualifications are required but all candidates must be familiar with Microsoft Office, Outlook, Word and Excel, and have their own transport and a mobile phone.

An application pack and more information can be found on the Department of Home Affairs section of the Isle of Man Government website at gov.im/dha

To gather further information from an IMB member email IMB@gov.im

Alternatively, contact Scott Wilson in the Department of Home Affairs by calling +44 1624 694306 or email scott.wilson@gov.im

Financial Sanctions: Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea)

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 16:04:42 GMT

This news release is issued in respect of the restrictive measures directed against the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

Council Regulation (EU) 2017/1509 has been amended following the publication in the Official Journal of the European Union of Council Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2018/1231(“the Amending Regulation”).

The Amending Regulation amended Annex XIII to Council Regulation (EU) 2017/1509 with effect from 14 September 2018. This reflects the decision made on 8 August 2018 by the United Nations Security Council Committee to amend the identifying information of one exiting entry.

Amendment

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

Entity

Organisation Name: PRO-GAIN GROUP CORPORATION

[Address: Le Sanalele Complex, Ground Floor, Vaea Street, Saleufi, Apia, Samoa]

Other Information: UN Ref KPe.071. Company owned or controlled by Tsang Yung Yuan and involved in illicit transfers of DPRK coal. Annex XIII.

Listed on: 09/04/2018 Last Updated: [09/04/2018] 14/09/2018 Group ID: 13642.

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 entity. 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 entity they are not required to report these details again.

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 the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and links to the Consolidated List of individuals and entities subject to these and other financial sanctions may be found on the Customs and Excise pages of the Isle of Man Government website.

Preparatory work to begin ahead of Douglas Promenade project

Thu, 13 Sep 2018 09:44:19 GMT

The Department of Infrastructure is pleased to announce that the Douglas Promenade Refurbishment project will start shortly, with preparatory and enabling works beginning next week.

Starting on Monday 17 September, work will take place in several locations, the most prominent being major carriageway resurfacing on King Edward Road and the removal of the raised garden area on Harris Promenade

It will also include the removal of kerbing, benches and other highway furniture.

The Department is in the process of finalising the construction programme and traffic management strategy for the scheme.

During the construction period, which is expected to take up to two years, the Department will provide regular updates and feedback on progress. A dedicated Project Liaison Officer has recently been appointed to ensure promenade users, residents and business owners are kept up to date.

Infrastructure Minister Ray Harmer MHK said:

‘The preparatory works will mark the beginning of a period of transformation and we are delighted to make a start on this landmark project, fittingly during the 'Year of our Island'.

‘This is an exciting time and will see a substantial investment into a major route into Douglas. Ultimately this will create something that residents will benefit from for years to come and will represent a lasting legacy for future generations.’

The preparatory works are not expected to lead to significant travel disruption, with every effort being made to limit any inconvenience to promenade users.

Focus sharpens on new era of eye care in Island

Thu, 13 Sep 2018 16:46:19 GMT

A new approach to providing eye care services to the Island in the future is being saluted during Vision Awareness Week 2018, which is currently underway.

The Department of Health and Social Care has worked closely with local charities and optometrists to develop a comprehensive strategy to improve all aspects of the Island’s vision services.

The collaboration of public, private and third sectors was launched in 2016 by the then Health Minister Howard Quayle. The partners have carried out a top-to-bottom review of services offered at Noble’s Hospital, the Island’s links with specialist hospitals in the UK and the scope for high street optometrists to expand their range of services.

A draft strategy set the direction for eye health services now and into the future, and a number of its key aims are being progressed:

the eye clinic has been reconfigured with the introduction of clinical nurse specialists and healthcare technicians in ophthalmology
developments in the macular service mean more patients can have their treatment on-Island compared to this time last year, with moves for the service to be solely delivered on-Island by November
optometrists to make direct referrals to Noble’s ophthalmology service from 1 October
waiting lists reduced from two years to 13 months due to changes in list management

Also on the agenda are plans for a new Minor Eye Conditions Scheme (MECS) which will allow high street optometrists to provide services currently provided by GP surgeries and pharmacies.

Health and Social care Minister David Ashford said:

‘These moves are in response to the growing needs of our population. Noble’s Ophthalmic Service currently offers more than 12,000 appointments a year and we expect to see demand rise steadily as in common with the UK, we have an ageing population, and sight problems increase with age. Providing care in the community for those who no longer need consultant-led care in hospital makes sense. Utilising the skill set of trained optometrists and upskilling our own staff is progressive and will help make the very best use of resources.’

He added:

‘We’ve built on a long tradition of working closely with charities, including Manx Blind Welfare Society and the Royal National Institute for the Blind. We’ve also formed strong links with the private sector, as high street optometrists have a major role to play in future services. They’ve been important and valued partners in developing our strategy.’

Manx Blind Welfare Society is running a number of events throughout the week (9-16 September) to raise awareness of its work and the challenges faced by people with sight problems. More than 100 people took part in last Sunday’s Coast to Coast walk, while on Bright for Sight day this Friday (14 Sept) the public are invited to wear something colourful for the day and donate to the charity.

CEO Ian Cooil said:

‘We gave input to the draft strategy over a lengthy period and we’re happy that our views have been heard. The final draft was discussed at an open meeting of the Society, where all stakeholders as well as patients were able to feedback their views to senior DHSC staff.’

He added:

‘The process is an outstanding example of the benefits of bringing professionals from the various sectors to strengthen and improve aspects of health care for the Manx nation. Vision Awareness Week 2018 is the perfect platform to mark that achievement.’

Third GP education session of 2018

Wed, 12 Sep 2018 11:46:38 GMT

The latest education session for Island GPs takes place on Tuesday 18 September 2018.

Routine GP appointments will not be available that afternoon, although surgeries will remain open as normal for patients to visit the practice nurse, collect test results, make future appointments and order repeat prescriptions.

Urgent appointments will be available with an on-call doctor and patients who need to be seen urgently should ring their GP practice.

The quarterly education sessions were established in 2012 to give GPs the opportunity to meet and discuss developments in medical care and best practice, and to examine ways to enhance care for patients in the Isle of Man.

Smile of Mann offers path to healthy teeth for life

Wed, 12 Sep 2018 17:08:42 GMT

Nurseries in the Isle of Man are teaching young children the right way to clean their teeth and gain tooth brushing skills to last a lifetime, through Public Health’s new Smile of Mann project.

Twenty-three nurseries will include tooth brushing as part of their daily activities from Monday 17 September. Youngsters will be encouraged to take part in supervised sessions where trained staff will show them how to brush their teeth effectively with fluoride toothpaste on a dry toothbrush, and explain the importance of regular brushing. Each child‘s tooth brush with its own colour and symbol is kept in a hygienic case and will be replaced each term.

The Smile of Mann initiative follows a successful pilot project at six nurseries between September and December 2017 to test the feasibility of running a supervised brushing programme in a nursery setting. Feedback from staff and parents showed that children enjoyed the activity and were receptive to simple messages about the benefits of daily tooth brushing.

The project delivers on a Public Health strategy to improve oral health among the Island’s under-fives. Latest figures from Public Health England (PHE) show that 27.8% of five year olds in the Isle of Man have experienced decay – a significant proportion, despite being preventable. A study by PHE concluded that brushing each day at school or nursery over a two year period is effective for preventing tooth decay and helps establish life-long behaviour to improve oral health.

Director of Public Health Dr Henrietta Ewart said:

‘As a population, we need to improve the dental health of our young people. Teaching pre-school children to brush their teeth is a simple and effective start, as habits formed at that age often stay with people for life. By introducing daily sessions in nurseries, children see tooth brushing as a fun activity and a normal part of their routine.’

She added:

‘It’s too early to say if our pilot scheme has improved the oral health of those who took part, but we saw a general improvement in children’s willingness to brush their teeth and their tooth brushing ability. Our staff and parents also learned from the programme.’

Parents made many positive comments about the pilot scheme in a follow-up questionnaire:

‘My daughter came home showing me what to do.'

‘I’ve seen a marked difference in my son’s ability to properly brush his teeth.'

‘My son has enjoyed brushing his teeth with his friends and he can now tell us how to brush his teeth.'

‘Scheme is excellent – I love the fact that my son now cleans his teeth during the day too.'

‘I think it’s a great idea as it gets them into a routine, and it is no longer a chore at home.'

Kirsten Hall, manager at Parklands Nursery which has joined the Smile of Mann scheme, speaks about the programme in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vIudlE86020

European Union (South Sudan Sanctions) (Amendment) Order 2018 and South Sudan (Amendment) Regulations 2018

Thu, 13 Sep 2018 14:25:19 GMT

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

The European Union (South Sudan Sanctions) (Amendment) Order 2018 and South Sudan Sanctions (Amendment) Regulations 2018 came into operation on 11 September 2018.

The Order applies the provisions of Council Regulation (EU) 2018/116, as amended, as part of Island law. This EU regulation amends Council (EU) 2015/735 concerning restrictive measures in respect of the situation in South Sudan which was applied to the Island with certain modifications by SD 2015/0199.

Council Regulation (EU) 2018/116, gives effect to the measures imposed by UN Security Resolution 2428 (2018). The UN Security Council decided that until 31 May 2019, all Member States will prevent the supply, sale or transfer to South Sudan from or through their territories of arms and related material, and withhold training, technical and financial assistance related to military activities or materials. In addition, it lays out several exemptions to the country’s arms embargo including for material and activities related to humanitarian activities and measures to be taken in relation to the inspection of shipments and cargo bound for South Sudan.

The South Sudan Sanctions (Amendment) Regulations 2018 make corresponding changes to the South Sudan Sanctions Regulations 2015 which established offences and penalties for breaches of Council Regulation (EU) No 2015/735.

Further details of the sanctions regime for South Sudan can be found in Sanctions Notice 14

Financial Sanctions: Iraq

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 08:32:42 GMT

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

Annex III to Council Regulation (EC) 1210/2003 has been amended with effect from 8 September 2018 2018, following the publication of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2018/1218. The Amending Regulation reflects the decisions made on 28 August 2018 by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Committee to remove one entity from the UN Iraq list

The following entry has been removed from the UK’s Consolidated List and is no longer subject to an asset freeze.

DELISTING

Entity

TAJI INDUSTRIAL COMPLEX

Address: PO Box 526, Baghdad/Alwyiyah/Kadhmiyah/Taji, Baghdad, Iraq.

Other Information: Funds or financial assets or economic resources received on or after 23 May 2003 are not to be regarded as frozen nor required to be transferred to the successor arrangements to the DFI

Listed on: 05/05/2004 Last Updated: [21/02/2013] 10/09/2018 Group ID: 8240.

Further details of the sanctions regime related to Iraq and links to the 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.

Port St Mary joins southern region's shared housing list

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 10:39:42 GMT

Applicants for public sector housing now have more choice on where they can find a home following a resolution by Port St Mary Commissioners to join the southern region waiting list.

Joining the shared list, which is supported by all other Local Authorities in the south of the Island, means that applicants no longer need to apply to Port St Mary Commissioners if they wish to live in the village.

The shared list now offers applicants the opportunity to choose from properties across the south in Arbory, Castletown, Malew, Port Erin, Rushen, Santon and Port St Mary.

Chair of Port St Mary Commissioners, Dr Michelle Heywood said:

‘The board has decided to join the shared housing waiting list for the southern region as one of the main functions of the Local Authority is to provide social housing to those most in need.

‘The shared list provides the greatest opportunity to get people in need into reasonably priced, well-maintained accommodation as quickly as possible. It also offers people on the waiting list more areas of choice, and broadens the horizons for those already on the waiting list for Port St Mary.’

Existing applicants will be contacted and informed that Port St Mary have joined the list. New applicants should apply directly to the southern region housing waiting list by picking up an application form from their nearest local authority offices or from the Housing section of the Department of Infrastructure at Markwell House in Douglas. Forms are also available online at gov.im

Julie Edge MHK, Member with responsibility for Public Estates and Housing, said:

‘This is excellent news for both applicants on Port St Mary’s list who might wish to live further afield, and those in the southern region who may now be offered a property in the village.

‘The fact that so many applicants are choosing 'anywhere in the southern region' as their first choice demonstrates that the shared list principle is working, and I welcome Port St Mary joining the initiative.’

Shared list pilot schemes in the east and north were made permanent earlier this year, following the successful example set by the south where a shared list was established in April 2017.

In addition to using shared lists, Local Authorities make allocations using a standardised process. This has resulted in vacant properties being filled faster and greater consistency with regard to allocations and lettings.

For further information, contact Port St Mary Village Commissioners at Town Hall, Promenade, Port St Mary, IM9 5DA, call 832101 or email housing@portstmary.gov.im.

Consultation seeks views on Dormant Assets Bill

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 11:50:07 GMT

Feedback is being sought on proposals designed to benefit the community by allowing money in dormant bank accounts held in the Island to be distributed to local good causes.

A consultation exercise has been launched by the Treasury and asks for people’s views on the Dormant Assets Bill 2018.

The core objective of the Bill is to allow money held in dormant bank accounts to be transferred to a central fund and to allow a proportion of the amounts transferred to be distributed for charitable purposes in the Island.

In general, a bank account will be regarded as being dormant if a bank has lost contact with the account owner for at least 15 years

The interests of account owners will be protected as anyone whose dormant bank account transfers into the central fund will have the right to reclaim their money indefinitely.

A proportion of the amounts transferred into the central fund will be retained to meet any future repayment claims and the remainder will be released to a third party for distribution.

Treasury Member Bill Shimmins MHK said:

‘The proposed Bill is designed to benefit the Manx community by realising the potential of money lying in dormant accounts and I encourage people to offer their views via the online consultation hub.

‘It’s important to point out that this is the start of a process and will not result in an immediate windfall for charities in the Island as any distributions are likely to take a number of years to identify and process.’

He added:

‘The central fund will be distinct from general revenue. Although Treasury will facilitate the operation of the dormant assets regime, Government does not stand to benefit financially.’

Dormant assets regimes are common around the world, including the UK and Ireland. Jersey enacted legislation last year and Guernsey is in the process of considering its policy in this area.

The Treasury has worked closely with the other Crown Dependencies in creating the Bill to ensure consistency with regard to the impact the legislation may have on licensed banks.

The consultation and associated documents, which may be downloaded, can be found by visiting the Isle of Man Government’s online consultation hub.

For those unable to access the consultation hub, a paper version of the consultation can be requested by emailing treasuryconsultations@gov.im or by calling 685605.

The process will run for 6 weeks and conclude on 19 October 2018.

Anyone who thinks they may have a ‘lost’ or dormant account should contact their bank.

Mountain Road closure to allow essential maintenance

Mon, 10 Sep 2018 16:40:27 GMT

The Mountain Road will close for five days next week to allow essential maintenance work to take place on two collapsed culverts.

The Department for Enterprise will also be using the opportunity to remove Mountain Course furniture following the Festival of Motorcycling last month.

The closure will run from 9.30am on Monday 17 September until 4pm on Friday 21 September and will affect the route between Lheaney Road in Ramsey and Creg-ny-Baa Back Road in Onchan.

Parking will be suspended through Laxey 8am to 9am and 4pm to 6pm each day during the closure to help the flow of commuter traffic.

Access to properties will be maintained.