Independent review in to COVID-19

In November 2021, Tynwald voted to commission an independent review into the Isle of Man Government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic from the first outbreak in China in December 2019 until September 2021. 

The terms of reference for the review were agreed in April 2022, and an appointment panel was tasked by Chief Minister, Hon Alfred Cannan MHK to find a suitably qualified and experienced Chair to lead a comprehensive review of the Manx Government’s pandemic response.

The selection panel was chaired by Hon Jane Poole-Wilson MHK, Minister for Justice and Home Affairs and deputy Chief Minister, supported by Claire Christian MHK and Tim Glover MHK.

The panel recommended Kate Brunner KC for appointment after a rigorous selection process produced a strong field of candidates. Ms Brunner is experienced in criminal law, healthcare law and public law, has a number of judicial roles, and is Chair of the Prescription Medicines Code of Practice Authority.   

The announcement of Ms Brunner’s appointment in August 2022 marked the effective start of the review. Her final report, with recommendations for the future, is due to be delivered by the end of December 2022.