Isle of Man Government News

Planning Applications - Publication List

Fri, 23 Jun 2017 07:00:24 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 14 July 2017.

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.

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

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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

Change to opening hours of the Manx National Heritage Library and Archives Reading Room at the Manx Museum

Fri, 23 Jun 2017 09:53:18 GMT

From 1 August 2017 the Library and Archives Reading Room at the Manx Museum will be open between Wednesday and Saturday, 10 am to 5pm. The hours differ from those of the Manx Museum and so researchers and enquirers are advised and encouraged to plan their research visits accordingly.

This alteration in opening hours will enable the library team to work behind the scenes on cataloguing, collections care and delivering a programme of events. From Wednesday to Saturday the team will continue to provide expert support to researchers and visitors.

The collections managed by the Library and Archives include printed, manuscript, photographic, cartographic and multimedia resources. These have been amassed during the past century to help shed light on the history and culture of the Isle of Man. As well as holding ecclesiastical, business, and some governmental records the repository stores archives of archaeological excavations, societies, authors and some families. Among these are the exceptional papers of the Dukes of Atholl and Earls of Derby relating to their former rule of the Island and the papers of the Quayle family of Bridge House, Castletown.

Over recent years assorted digitised newspapers and photographs have been released to iMuseum (www.imuseum.im) thereby providing an alternative and out-of-hours route to accessing our Library and Archives’ collections. In addition, iMuseum hosts descriptions of Manx printed matter and selected manuscript deposits.

The user base in the Library and Archives is broad and includes enquiries from students and family historians, those conducting conveyancing searches and those with a particular focus, for example attempting to trace information about one-time internees held on the Isle of Man or trying to trace the hotel in which parents honeymooned.

The appetite of researchers is to know more about what is held in the Library and Archives. Manx National Heritage Archivist Wendy Thirkettle explains:

'Our library team welcomes thousands of visitors to our Reading Room each year. From 1 August this warm welcome will continue while freeing up the team to work behind the scenes and improve finding aids to the wonderful resources in our care'.

She continues:

‘There is a recognised demand for school groups and others to visit and learn more about the Library and Archives and to attend ‘How to’ sessions for family history and other types of research. We look forward to offering new activities whilst providing a sustainable regular service to existing researchers and new visitors. Manx National Heritage’s Library and Archives look forward to supporting future research about the Isle of Man’.

Garden Party at The Grove

Fri, 23 Jun 2017 09:57:12 GMT

Manx National Heritage will be hosting their Garden Party at the Grove on Sunday 2 July 2017 from 10am until 4pm.

Supported by Lloyds Bank, the Garden Party, taking place in the grounds of the Grove Museum, will host a variety of family friendly activities for all ages to enjoy.
Lucy Felton, Business Development Manager for Lloyds Bank said:

'We are proud and delighted to support the Garden Party at the Grove Museum this year. The event encourages the local community to have a fun day out as a family and also learn about the interesting heritage of the Grove Museum and the Gibb family who resided there.'

The event will also feature traditional music and dance, garden games, market stalls, local produce, children’s entertainment and performances from the Labyrinth History in Action Players.

Delicious cakes baked locally by Bea’s Kitchen will be served throughout the day in the Grove Conservatory.

Tickets now available online www.manxnationalheritage.im/shop, the Grove Museum and from the Manx Museum Gallery Shop.

Three outstanding artists uncovered at this year's prestigious Art Awards

Fri, 23 Jun 2017 10:06:59 GMT

Leanne Sansbury, Jordan Brew and Samantha Self each won awards and prizes at this year’s annual Norman Sayle Prize for Art competition on June 15. The event is run by the Archibald Knox Society and sponsored by Isle of Man Post Office.

Leanne Sansbury, secured the award 'First Year National Diploma – overall body of work’, Jordan Brew, was awarded the ‘Norman Sayle prize for innovative work' and Samantha Self won the 'Overall Knox/Sayle prize for Manx inspired artwork'. To add to this Will Morris was given a highly commended for his work. The students are all studying full time art, design and media further education courses at the University College Isle of Man.

Commenting on her award Leanne said:

'I am actually quite surprised at winning. I didn’t know I was going to win.'

Samantha said:

'I am completely overwhelmed. I really wasn’t expecting it at all.'

Jordan Brew also commented:

'I’m shocked really. I wasn’t expecting to win anything.'

The work of all three artists was moderated by a panel of artistic judges: Myra Gilbert, Carola Rush and Stacey Smith - Senior Graphic & Web Designer at Isle of Man Advertising who represented Isle of Man Post Office and is responsible for designing a number of the Post Office’s stamp collections.

Sarah Read, Isle of Man Post Office PR & Communications Manager, and Maxine Cannon, Isle of Man Stamps & Coins General Manager, presented the awards and prizes to the three outstanding students and congratulated Will Morris who was highly commended.

Commenting on the awards Maxine Cannon said:

'Isle of Man Post Office is delighted to continue to sponsor the awards and support the developing talent of the Isle of Man's young artists. This year’s three winners have demonstrated a continuation of the Island's great artistic tradition.'

Isle of Man Post Office Sponsorship Committee aims to support a variety of local initiatives throughout the year and is always keen to hear from individuals and organisations looking for support which it may be able to help with.

Action-packed summer at Holiday Venture Schemes

Fri, 23 Jun 2017 11:18:10 GMT

Young people will have an action-packed summer if they sign up to the Department of Education and Children Youth Service’s Holiday Venture Schemes.

Sessions run at Henry Bloom Noble Primary School and the Youth Arts Centre for the first four weeks of the school summer holidays (24 July to 18 August).

From Henry Bloom Noble, in Westmoreland Road, Douglas, children aged six/seven (completing Year 3) to 11 (completing Year 6) can enjoy visits to places such as beaches, forests, farms and rivers and take part in sports, arts and crafts and games.

Acting on feedback from working parents, days will start at 8.30am and end at 5.30pm.

The price per week is £90.

Application forms can be obtained via the facebook page Youth Holiday Venture Scheme or via www.gov.im/media/1354644/msr-summer-holiday-programme-2017.pdf Contact Val.Goldie@sch.im if you have queries.

At the Youth Arts Centre in Kensington Road, Douglas, there are themed weeks for children aged eight to 14. From Monday 24 to Friday 28 July, they will create a show in a week: The Amazing Adventures of SuperStan.

From Monday 31 July to Friday 4 August the theme is ‘Five Days of Dance’ and there will be the chance to learn ballet, tap, Irish, modern and contemporary dance.

At a writers’ workshop from Monday 7 to Friday 11 August, participants will create a screenplay for entry into the British Film Institute’s Young Screenwriters’ Competition.

From Monday 14 to Friday 18 August, it’s back to drama when young people will stage a performance of the comedy about the hapless Pirates of The Curry Bean.

Children can attend from 10am to 4pm at a cost of £100 per week or from 8.30am to 6pm at £125 per week.

To book on this scheme, ring +44 7624 437339.

Both venues will accommodate children for single or multiple weeks.

Giles Crellin, Youth Officer, said:

‘The Holiday Venture Scheme is run by trained youth workers and provides young people with fun and activity-packed weeks.

‘We hope our extended hours will help working parents.

‘We are also pleased to be using the excellent new facilities at Henry Bloom Noble Primary School.’

The Architecture of Weightlessness

Thu, 22 Jun 2017 08:57:22 GMT

The final lecture in this year’s History & Heritage Public Lecture Series at University College Isle of Man takes place on Wednesday 28th June, in an event jointly organised with Isle of Architecture.

Isle of Architecture is a year-long celebration of the Island’s built environment, supported by Culture Vannin, Manx National Heritage, and the Isle of Man Society of Architects. The past year has seen competitions, children’s workshops, music in unusual spaces, tours, and lectures, all aimed at encouraging people to think about the important role that the built environment plays in our everyday lives.

On Wednesday 28th June, doctoral student Andrew Walters will be speaking about the nature and meaning of ‘weightless’ architecture.

Weightless architecture refers to those buildings and structures which appear to defy gravity, such as Beetham Tower in Manchester, which opened in 2006. From the twenty-third floor, the building juts out and protrudes into nothingness, apparently unsupported and visibly insubstantial. It was this building that first prompted Andrew to ask: why would anyone want to build something like that?

The question proved surprisingly difficult to answer. Andrew explains:

“I began to look deeper into the Beetham Tower, and into other buildings like it, trying to find a good reason why architects across the world would be inclined towards the construction of buildings so visually, if not actually, fallible. But the question of weightlessness, or rather the appearance of weightlessness, seemed bizarrely absent from either the architectural literature or the media discussion around the buildings. Eventually, I began to theorise outside the realm of architecture, turning to philosophy and history in search of a new way of finding an answer.

“My research spanned nearly half a century of architectural development, taking into account geographical, social and political instabilities and rapid ideological changes. And after four years of study, I’m pleased to say that I have found an answer. It is an answer that encompasses not just the most ardent architect of weightlessness, Thom Mayne of Morphosis Architects, whose Diamond Ranch High School holds the key, but a whole swathe of architects and the promises that were made to them in their youth. It is an answer that addresses the future, the past, and visions of past futures.”

Andrew Walters’ lecture on ‘A History of Futures Past: Morphosis, Diamond Ranch and the Architecture of Weightlessness’ is part sci-fi, part philosophical intrigue, and part-architectural controversy. It takes place in Elmwood House (behind the St John Ambulance Centre, off Glencrutchery Road) at 6pm on Wednesday 28th June. All are welcome, and no booking is required.

Further details about the History & Heritage lecture series, together with videos of previous lectures, can be found online at Catriona Mackie Lectures.

Follow Isle of Architecture on social media and online.

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

Thu, 22 Jun 2017 09:01:53 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 Council Regulation (EC) No 881/2002 has been amended with effect from 21 June 2017, following the publication of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2017/1094.

The amendment reflects the decision made on 19 June 2017 by the United Nations Security Council to add an individual to the list to whom the freezing of funds and economic resources applies.

Addition

FARED Saal

DOB: 18/02/1989

POB: Bonn, Germany

a.k.a 1) ALMANI, Abu, Luqmaan Al (2) Lugmaan, Abu

Nationality: (1) Germany (b) Algeria

National Identification no: German Nat ID number 5802098444 issued in Bonn, Germany (on 15 Apr 2010, expired on 14 Apr 2016)

Other Information: UN Ref QDi.403. UN and EU listingGerman foreign terrorist fighter for Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant, listed as Al-Qaida in Iraq (QDe.115). Physical description eye colour borwn, hair colour black, height 178cm, weight 80kg. European arrest warrant issued by the investigating judge of the German Federal Supreme Court on 13 Aug 2014.

Listed on: 21/06/2017 Last Updated: 21/06/2017 Group ID: 13490.

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 individual 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 Sanctions Officer at the Customs and Excise Division of the Treasury.

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 ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaida 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.

Financial Sanctions: Central African Republic

Thu, 22 Jun 2017 09:05:51 GMT

This news release is issued in respect of the financial sanctions in view of the situation in the Central African Republic.

Annex I to Council Regulation (EU) No 224/2014 has been amended with effect from 21 June 2017, following the publication of Council Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2017/1090.

AMENDMENT

Additional information Is shown in italics

HISSENE Abdoulaye

DOB: --/--/1967.

POB: Ndele, Bamingui-Bangoran, Central African Republic

a.k.a: (1) ABDOULAYE, Hissein (2) ABDOULAYE, Issene (3) ABDOULAYE, Issene, Ramadan (4) ABDOULAYE, Issene Ramadane (5) HISSENE,Abdoulaye (6) ISSENE, Abdoulaye

Nationality: Central African Republic

Passport Details: CAR Diplomatic Passport No D00000897 issued 5 April 2013, valid until 4 April 2018

Address: (1) KM5, Bangui, Central African Republic. (2) Nana-Grebizi, Central African Republic.

Other Information: UN and EU listing - UN Ref CFi.012. Formerly the Minister for Youth and Sports as part of the Cabinet for the Central African Republic. Previously the head of the Convention of Patriots for Justice and Peace. He also established himself as a leader of armed militias in Bangui, in particular in the ‘PK5’ (3rd district) neighbourhood.

Listed on: 18/05/2017 Last Updated: 21/06/2017 Group ID: 13458.

Financial institutions and other persons are required to check whether they maintain any accounts or otherwise hold funds, financial assets, economic benefits and economic resources for the designated individual. If so, they must freeze such accounts or 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 Sanctions Officer at the Customs and Excise Division of the Treasury. Where a relevant institution has already reported details of accounts, other funds or economic resources held frozen for the designated individual 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 Central African Republic 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

Support for the further development of the Island’s BioMed sector

Thu, 22 Jun 2017 09:54:22 GMT

A public/ private advisory board has been established to support the further development of the Island’s thriving BioMed sector.

The Department of Economic Development (DED) and Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) are working together with the private sector to support the growth of the sector as part of a BioMed Strategy created last year.

The Manx Healthcare & Life Sciences Advisory Board will give direction to prioritise and further the implementation of the strategy, which is focused on sector growth by creating a unique proposition for the Isle of Man. Possible options being considered include developing deeper research partnerships, exploring changes to legislation and attracting private sector BioMed investment.

Laurence Skelly MHK, Minister for Economic Development, commented:

‘The creation of the Advisory Board is a great example of the Government and the private sector working together for the benefit of a small but vibrant sector of the economy.

‘In line with the Programme for Government, the Department of Economic Development has a strong commitment to supporting local businesses and helping to further diversify the economy and I’m confident the Advisory Board will play a key role in helping the Manx BioMed sector achieve its full potential.’

Kate Beecroft MHK, Minister for Health and Social Care, commented:

‘I am delighted that the Advisory Board has been established to develop opportunities in the healthcare and life sciences sector.

‘The close working relationship and spirit of collaboration that it will engender between the two Departments and the private sector provide the ideal template for supporting the sector’s development.’

The Advisory Board’s first meeting was held on the 16th June. The role of the Board is also to give advice to both the DED and DHSC regarding healthcare and life sciences and provide assistance to businesses in the sector.

The board’s membership comprises of representatives from both Departments and the following private sector members: Chairman Dave Taggart (Glycyx Therapeutics), Stuart Colligon (Panacea), Prof. David Onions (Charnwood Technology, Citalytics, Orsus Medical) and Prof. Ken Mills (Queen’s University Belfast).

Mr Taggart, Chairman of the Manx Healthcare & Life Sciences Advisory Board, commented:

‘The Manx BioMed sector is already home to a diverse set of companies and, with the right investment and support, could represent a much greater future opportunity.

‘It is our intention that the Advisory Board will help the sector to offer a truly unique proposition, leading to continued growth.’

The Manx BioMed sector currently comprises 11 companies involved in device manufacture, clinical trials, regulatory affairs, compliance and data capture. The sector employs more than 100 staff, a 13% annual growth in jobs since 2013.

Chief Minister sends best wishes to NatWest Island Games team

Thu, 22 Jun 2017 10:09:30 GMT

Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK has added his best wishes to the Isle of Man competitors travelling to Gotland tomorrow (Friday 23 June 2017) to take part in the 17th NatWest Island Games.

The Isle of Man is sending a strong squad to Sweden’s largest island to compete alongside 3,000 other athletes representing 23 islands from around the world.

The Manx contingent will be aiming for another impressive showing after finishing second in the medal table behind the hosts at the 2015 Games in Jersey, with a haul of 34 gold, 27 silver and 29 bronze medals.

The 2017 opening ceremony takes place on Saturday evening at Strandgärdet in Gotland’s capital Visby and launches a week of sporting action across 14 different disciplines.

The Chief Minister said:

‘The Isle of Man is the birthplace of the Island Games, having hosted the first competition during our Year of Sport in 1985, and it has been gratifying to watch the event grow. I am sure our athletes and officials will be fantastic ambassadors for the Isle of Man and will once again rise to the occasion in Gotland. As well as top class competition, the event brings together small island communities and provides an opportunity to forge lasting friendships.’

He added:

‘Sport plays a big part in Manx life and as a nation we work hard to create an environment that nurtures talent and encourages our young people to flourish. I would like to pass on my good wishes to our Island Games team and to pay tribute to the many coaches, officials, volunteers and parents who put in so much effort behind the scenes.’

Work continuing on Brexit legislation

Thu, 22 Jun 2017 17:23:49 GMT

Commenting on the priorities outlined in yesterday’s Queen’s Speech, Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK said:

‘For us there were no real surprises in the eight Bills which are being brought forward to deal with Brexit. The Isle of Man Government has been planning for the UK’s withdrawal from the EU, and assessing how this might impact on us, since well before last year’s referendum.

‘Although there is still much more detail to emerge, we are as well prepared as we can be at this stage. We have undertaken a huge exercise to set out all of the areas where EU law impacts on our own statute book. This has meant closely examining hundreds of Acts, Orders and Regulations, as well as thousands of EU instruments which currently have effect in the Island through Protocol 3.

‘We are also working closely with several UK Government Departments to set out how the Island will be affected by the withdrawal process and the new UK/EU relationship. This includes assessing the impact of the UK’s legislative proposals on us, and how we will respond to them in our own law.’

The Chief Minister explained:

‘I want to be as open as possible with politicians, businesses and the public about the legislative changes we will be proposing. Detail on these will be made known early in the next parliamentary year.

‘The Isle of Man will need to consider, as a priority, legislation in relation to the Repeal Bill, immigration, and customs. Changes are also likely to be required in respect of agriculture and fisheries. In addition, we will have the option to request the extension of the new UK International Sanctions Bill to the Isle of Man. In order to assess the relevance of the Bills on Trade and Nuclear Safeguards, the content and scope of these will need to be examined once they are published.’

The Chief Minister concluded:

‘Brexit is going to be a complicated process. As we have known from the outset, there will be significant challenges. But in ensuring that we are as prepared as well as we can, and by keeping engagement at political and official level open, we are working to achieve the best possible outcome for the Isle of Man.’

Minister praises athletes ahead of NatWest Island Games

Tue, 20 Jun 2017 09:32:24 GMT

The Minister for Education and Children is praising the dedication of athletes as they depart for the NatWest Island Games.

More than 230 competitors, coaches and officials will represent the Island in Gotland from 24 to 30 June.

Graham Cregeen MHK will be at the Games to cheer on the team and said: ‘It will be a proud moment for competitors to don Manx colours and represent the Island in all 14 sports.

‘Their selection follows many years of dedication in training, often making sacrifices to reach the standard they have.

‘The Games highlight the Isle of Man’s immense sporting talent and I hope all our athletes achieve their best and put us high in the medals table.

‘The strength of our team also reflects the hard work, week in, week out, of our officials and coaches.

‘The Isle of Man is the spiritual home of the Games, having hosted the inaugural event in 1985. Since then, the event has held a special place in the hearts of the Island’s sporting community.’

The Minister said the size and quality of the team travelling to Gotland reflects the Island’s investment in sport.

‘We have facilities that are the envy of other nations and programmes that support athletes and coaches at all levels, from those starting out to those achieving success on the world stage,’ he said.

‘Isle of Man Sport, an advisory body to Government that’s funded by lottery receipts, gives significant financial support to the Island Games Association of Mann,’ the Minister said.

‘The team for Gotland includes competitors who have received Sport Aid from Isle of Man Sport.

‘Members of the Sport Aid Academy, which nurtures young athletes, will be making their international competitive debut at the Games.

‘Isle of Man Sport has also delivered an extensive education programme on doping ahead of the Games.’

Added benefit to Curraghs Wildlife Park membership

Tue, 20 Jun 2017 09:38:20 GMT

Membership of the Curraghs Wildlife Park now carries an additional benefit.

Those who join the park will be able to visit either Edinburgh Zoo or the Highland Wildlife Park free of charge once a year.

The two zoos are run by the conservation charity the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) and, under a reciprocal arrangement, its members will also be admitted to the Island’s park free once a year.

All three parks are members of both the British and Irish (BIAZA) and European (EAZA) Associations of Zoos and Aquariums.

The Curraghs Wildlife Park, in Ballaugh, is home to 75 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, fish and invertebrates.

Membership includes free admission and 10% discount in the gift shop and on hot food and drinks in the café.

There are memberships tailored for individuals and small and larger families and additional children and grandparents can be added.

An individual can join for £37 a year and a family of two adults and two children for £98, for example.

David Cretney MLC, Member of the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture responsible for the park, said:

‘Membership already offers many benefits but is now more attractive than ever, as it includes a visit to one of the Scottish zoos.

‘Edinburgh Zoo is, of course, home to the UK’s only giant pandas and has just received an award for its contribution to green tourism.

‘The Highland Wildlife Park offers a drive-round experience and its inhabitants range from native species such Scottish wildcats to snow monkeys, Amur tigers and polar bears.’

Mr Cretney continued:

‘We look forward to welcoming members of the RZSS to the Curraghs Wildlife Park, where they can meet star attractions such as the silvery gibbons, lynx and Brazilian tapirs and can enjoy a ride on the miniature railway operated by the Manx Steam and Model Engineering Club.’

Curraghs Wildlife Park members must obtain a letter from the park to take advantage of free admission to one of the Scottish zoos.

The Curraghs Wildlife Park is open daily from 10am to 6pm (last admission 5pm) until the end of schools’ autumn half term. To book tickets/for information, visit www.curraghswildlifepark.com

Jeremy Paul depicts Manx BirdLife in latest stamp issue

Tue, 20 Jun 2017 16:20:03 GMT

The Isle of Man Post Office is pleased to present a set of six stamps featuring the artworks of renowned local wildlife artist, Jeremy Paul, in celebration of the conservation work of the Manx Birdlife Census. The stamps are due for issue on June 29th.

A Census of all seabirds nesting around the Isle of Man’s coastline was undertaken in 2017 by local charity, Manx BirdLife, who work to protect the Islands wild birds and the habitats on which they depend. The research, which is ongoing, was aimed at monitoring the Islands diverse coastal bird life.

Lancashire born, Jeremy Paul has lived on the Isle of Man for many years now. He originally trained as a marine biologist and is a completely self-taught artist, the essence of his work being the accurate portrayal of wildlife in its environment. Jeremy has won awards for his work including BBC Wildlife Artist of the Year – Category Winner 2010, 2011, 2012 and the British Wildlife Award at the National Exhibition of Wildlife Art 2015. He has also just been shortlisted for the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation’s (DSWF) Wildlife Artist of the Year award.

For this stamp issue Jeremy has painted six species of birds, each of which are of Conservation Concern within the British Isles.

Wading through the shallow sea water, two oystercatchers can be seen on the 47p stamp, with their boldly coloured black and white bodies, distinctive red bills and legs.

The 80p stamp shows both the male and the female eider duck floating in the calm sea. The male’s unmistakable black and white plumage is particularly striking, as well as the way Jeremy Paul has captured the rippled reflection of the eider in the undulating sea.

The little tern, a bird whose population has been boosted in the Isle of Man due to conservation efforts, can be found on the 98p stamp. The little tern is shown resting in the pebbles and shells of the coast.

The fulmar, which can be found on the steep cliff site of the Manx coast, can also be found on the £1.18 stamp. The fulmars are sat in a nest of local fauna and the burst of colour provided by the flowers and grass give an indication of the variety of settings provided by the Manx coastline.

The £1.30 stamp shows the black guillemots with their black and white feathers on a serene ocean. The Isle of Man hosts around 600 individuals, 1% of the breeding population of the British Isles.

Finally the £1.94 stamp shows a group of black and white Razorbills on a cliff face overlooking the sea. Like many seabirds the species is vulnerable, due to the pressures on food caused by a range of factors including climate change.

Commenting on the stamps, Jeremy Paul said:

'The Island is a great place to observe coastal and seabirds so I was delighted to be asked to produce this series. The main problem was to decide which birds to choose. I think the selection reflects some of the variety we see around the Island and it was a pleasure to work on the paintings. It is always a thrill to see the first set of stamps – I always think of them as tiny limited edition prints which travel the world!'

Isle of Man Stamps & Coins General Manager, Maxine Cannon, said:

'We are delighted to release this set of stamps to celebrate the important conservation work of Manx BirdLife on the Island. It’s also a pleasure to work once again with Jeremy on these beautiful designs which he uses his distinct artistic style to bring the birds to life.'

The Coastal Birds stamp issue can now be pre-ordered at http://www.iompost.com.

The Utterly Butterly Ukulele Project visits the Isle of Man for the first time

Tue, 20 Jun 2017 16:38:29 GMT

Ballasalla School has been lucky enough to be the first school on the Isle of Man to take part in a whole school workshop run by The Utterly Butterly Ukulele Project. (TUBUP) – a music and junk instrument making workshop.

The team, Steve 'Nutter' Nutter, Nick 'Prof' Penny and Dave 'Brother' Anderson brought everything with them that the pupils would need to make their own TUB-Ukulele. The TUBS are constructed from an Utterly Butterly tub, a piece of wood and fishing line for strings. To everyone’s amazement the TUB-Uke is fully functional, tunable and is played in the same way as a conventional ukulele.

The first part of the day consisted of making their ukuleles with lots of concentration showing clearly on the children’s faces. Older pupils and teachers assisted younger members of the school. In the afternoon, the TUBUP team taught the children how to play their new instruments with a whole school rehearsal prior to putting on a short performance for parents at the end of the school day.

The session was kindly sponsored by the Abbey Restaurant in Ballasalla.

Steve from the TUBUP team, says:

'It has been fantastic to be here on the Isle of Man, our first visit with this project. We would love to come back again if there are any other schools that would like to have a visit from the team just visit our website www.tubup.org. The children have all been great with everyone really engaged in the project'

Teacher Nic Moorcroft says:

'The workshop has been so much more than we thought it was going to be. The children have worked really well together with older children helping the younger ones to build their instrument.'

Alexandra Cowley, pupil aged 10, says:

'It was brilliant! I really enjoyed making my own instrument and learning to play it.'

Caiden Levick, pupil aged 10, says:

'The best bit was being able to make something like this from a margarine tub!'

Fire safety response following Grenfell Tower tragedy

Tue, 20 Jun 2017 17:12:57 GMT

The Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service is carrying out additional fire safety inspections following last week’s devastating incident at Grenfell Tower in London.

Fire safety officers are focusing on buildings of five storeys or more in which people live or sleep overnight. These include hotels, boarding houses, blocks of flats and large houses in multiple occupation.

The purpose of the inspections is to check compliance with the Fire Precautions Act 1975, in particular the Fire Precautions (Houses in Multiple Occupation and Flats) Regulations 2016 and the Hotels and Boarding Houses Order 1997.

The proactive response to the Grenfell Tower tragedy has been put in place by the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service to support its existing inspection programme. Fire safety officers are also continuing to work with their partners at the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture and in Building Control.

In addition, any individuals who may be concerned about the standard of fire safety within their premises are urged to contact the Fire and Rescue Service on 647303.

Home Affairs Minister Bill Malarkey MHK said:

‘The Fire and Rescue Service is an essential part of our efforts to ensure the Island remains a safe place to live and do business. The Manx public can have every confidence in the delivery of a first-rate service,'

He added:

‘The incident at Grenfell Tower is a reminder of the devastating impact a major fire can have. It has been felt by many people in the Isle of Man and our hearts go out to all those involved. The inspections announced by our Chief Fire Officer will provide an additional check that appropriate premises in the Island comply with current fire safety standards.’

Chief Fire Officer Kevin Groom commented:

‘My thoughts and prayers are with all the people affected by the Grenfell Tower tragedy. I have put in place an additional and proportionate inspection programme to provide reassurance to people who live in certain types of property in the Island.

‘I am receiving regular updates about Grenfell Tower from the National Fire Chiefs Council. The incident is subject to a joint investigation, a criminal investigation and a full public enquiry. Consequently, it would be inappropriate to comment or engage in any speculation that may prejudice the outcomes of this work.’

Isle of Man Post Office supports Cruise Isle of Man with 50,000th passenger celebrations

Mon, 19 Jun 2017 09:18:24 GMT

On the evening of June 12th Cruise Isle of Man celebrated welcoming its 50,000th passenger to the Isle of Man from the ship, Hebridean Sky. To mark the occasion Isle of Man Post Office designed and printed certificates which were then presented to each passenger of the ship. The certificates were personalised to each visitor with their name and captured images of the Island along with a unique postmark especially for this visit. Isle of Man Post Office was delighted to support this landmark for the Islands cruise business.

Pictured here is Lara Barnes (right) of Cruise Isle of Man and the 50,000 cruise visitor Nancy Denison (left). Nancy is shown flying the Manx flag and proudly displaying her certificate.

Olympian encourages young people to take up sport

Mon, 19 Jun 2017 09:58:25 GMT

An Olympian from the Isle of Man has spoken of the power of sport to change young lives.

Shooter Tim Kneale has accepted an invitation to be the ambassador for the Microgaming Community Games, being held at the National Sports Centre on Wednesday 21st June.

The event, in its second year, encourages 11 to 18-year-olds from the Department of Education’s five secondary schools to try out sports, with the hope they’ll stay involved and sign up for clubs.

The games are supported by Microgaming through its PlayItForward initiative.

Tim – who made the final of the double trap event at the Rio Olympics in 2016 – said:

‘The Community Games is a great initiative, offering young people the unique opportunity to experience sports in the way they were intended – to have fun.

‘There is often expectation to perform on a field of play and the enjoyment of taking part and working together can be lost.

‘The games allow young people to take part, achieve their best and experience team work without the pressure of results.

‘I hope they will encourage more young people to take part in sporting activity and also accomplishing personal goals, leading to more confident, assured individuals.’

Tim holds the world record in his sport and is a former Isle of Man Sportsman of the Year.

He said:

‘I was bullied at school due to being overweight, but the experience hasn't prevented me pushing on in life to achieve a successful career and become an Olympic finalist.

‘Hard work, dedication and self-belief can benefit you in life as well as sport and take you all around the world.’

The games feature hockey, bowls, squash, badminton, basketball, girls’ football, golf, judo, netball, rugby, tennis, skateboarding, swimming and glow sport.

Tim is competing abroad and can’t attend the games but will record a message of encouragement for participants.

Sports will hold follow-up sessions for those eager to stay involved and Tim will be invited to attend a session to see at first hand the games’ success.

Graham Cregeen MHK, Minister for Education and Children, who oversees sport, said:

‘It’s a huge boost to the games to have such an accomplished sportsman as Tim act as ambassador.

‘It’s hoped his involvement will demonstrate to participants that sport can not only benefit their health and gain them friends and a lifelong hobby but that it can lead to great success.

‘I hope everyone enjoys the games.’

Claire Coleman, Head of Microgaming PlayItForward, said:

‘It’s fantastic to see the Microgaming Community Games develop with the addition of a highly talented and inspirational ambassador. I have no doubt that the event on Wednesday will be a great success.’

Air ambulance is Island’s lifeline all year round

Mon, 19 Jun 2017 16:33:13 GMT

The Isle of Man air ambulance transfers people to the UK for a huge range of medical reasons all year round – but it is placed under intense pressure when the Island is at its busiest during TT fortnight.

Training sessions were held during April and May to prepare the team ahead of the festival.

And extra staff were placed on duty during the event to transfer those patients who had suffered major trauma – defined as multiple broken bones, serious spinal injuries, brain injuries or life-threatening damage to internal organs – as well as the air ambulance’s usual workload.

During this year’s event, 25 people were transferred off-island, of which 11 had sustained trauma. A number of patients who had completed treatment in the UK were transferred back to Noble’s Hospital for on-going care.

The helicopters that attend incidents to treat sick and injured people on the Island do not transport them to Liverpool across the Irish Sea. Civil Aviation Authority regulations mean that only helicopters which are specially-adapted can be used for medical flights over water.

Instead, all off-island transfers are completed by the Isle of Man air ambulance service, which uses a small plane based at Ronaldsway through current service provider Woodgate Aviation. Best described as a flying intensive care unit, it can accommodate two patients and two health care staff.

A re-organisation of services for major trauma patients took place across the UK between 2009 and 2012.

In the UK, an ambulance transporting a major trauma patient from the scene of their injury will drive past the local hospital to reach a major trauma centre. On the Island, however, all cases are assessed and stabilised at the emergency department at Noble’s Hospital before a decision is made over the need to transfer to the Island’s major trauma centre, which is in Aintree, Liverpool.

The majority of people who sustain an injury will receive all their treatment at Noble’s – but those who meet certain criteria are flown to Aintree.

More than 500 patients are transferred each year between the Island and the UK. As well as major trauma incidents, the service also looks after people requiring specialist care only available elsewhere – for example, someone who has had a heart attack and needs to be taken to Liverpool for an angiogram.

The nurses, paramedics and doctors who work for the air ambulance service are staff at Noble’s Hospital and a contracted road ambulance service in Liverpool is always waiting to complete the patient transfer on landing. The task of planning and organising transfers is done by the air ambulance co-ordinator, who is based at Noble’s and is on-call 24 hours a day.

The equipment carried on board offers some indication of the level of care available to anyone who may need to be taken across for treatment.

The aircraft carries a large tank of oxygen and has an AC power supply. Patients can be sedated on a portable ventilator and staff are able to monitor a person’s condition to the same high standard as that on an intensive care unit.

Should it be required, a defibrillator is available to restart a patient’s heart during transfer, while blood transfusions can be carried out and drugs used to control blood pressure and improve blood supply to the brain.

TT is undoubtedly its busiest period, but the Isle of Man air ambulance service works every day of the year to make sure sick or injured people receive the specialist care they need.

By Kate Teare, Consultant Anaesthetist and Medical lead for the air Ambulance Service.

Importance of enforcement emphasised as queen scallop catch limit set for 2017 season

Mon, 19 Jun 2017 16:35:29 GMT

The Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture has emphasised the importance of enforcement in safeguarding the Island’s fish stocks for the future.

Geoffrey Boot MHK was speaking as the permitted queen scallop catch for the season was set by his Department.

Fishing for queen scallops opens on 3rd July and there will be a maximum catch of 992 tonnes.

The catch has been determined by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture after receiving advice from the Scallop Management Board.

The advisory board studied evidence from Bangor University scientists who are contracted by DEFA to carry out stock assessments.

The permitted catch is lower than in 2016, when those licenced to fish for queenies in Manx waters were permitted to land 1,240 tonnes.

The Minister said:

‘Queenies are a globally renowned export, are worth millions of pounds to our economy and support hundreds of jobs.

‘Many factors influence the success of queenie stocks and my Department works hard with Bangor University scientists to understanding these.

‘Latest evidence shows that queenie stocks have continued to decline, despite our efforts to ensure sustainability by imposing restrictions on fishing and closing areas to fishing completely.

‘In setting licence conditions each year, we consider the long-term sustainability of the fishery.

‘This year we are again requiring daily returns from vessels so we can closely monitor catch levels and continue to prohibit fishing for queen scallops at the weekend

‘With the number of licences issued for this fishery now strictly limited, I expect greater ownership and compliance from those participating in the fishery. Therefore, to protect this vital industry, we will continue to rigorously enforce regulations and ensure anyone found breaching them is robustly dealt with.’