Isle of Man Cabinet Office News

Consultation on assisted dying – clarification statement from Cabinet Office

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 13:09:31 GMT

The current consultation on assisted dying on consult.gov.im relates to a Private Members’ Bill put forward by Dr Alex Allinson MHK. Leave to introduce the Bill was given by the House of Keys on the 14 June 2022.

A Private Members’ Bill does not form part of the Government’s legislative programme. Such proposed legislation is a matter for the promoter of the Bill and the branches of Tynwald as a parliamentary matter. It is therefore not developed or endorsed by the Isle of Man Government and is a matter for members of Tynwald, both at a policy and legislative level.

As a Private Members’ Bill, the consultation is not subject to the approach for Government Departments laid out in Isle of Man Government Public Engagement and Consultation Principles.

As a Private Members’ Bill, the content of the consultation is a matter for the member in charge, in this case Dr Allinson MHK. As such the Cabinet Office is unable to assist with any queries and these should be directed to:

Office of the Clerk of Tynwald
Telephone: +44 1624 685500
Email: privatemembersbill@tynwald.org.im

Tynwald Standing Orders as to the passage of legislation through the branches, including Private Members’ Bills is available on the Tynwald website.

Labour market report: December 2022

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 15:57:04 GMT

The latest labour market report, compiled and published by the Statistics Isle of Man team at the Cabinet Office, shows the number of people registered unemployed was 292 for December 2022.

The figure increased by 15 persons from the previous month (November 2022), and has increased by 1 person compared to the same month last year (December 2021).

The unemployment rate for December 2022 is 0.7%, which is an increase of 0.1% on the previous month.

Read a summary and download the full labour market report at the unemployment page.

Government apologises for historical mistakes that contributed to abuse

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 15:34:38 GMT

The Council of Ministers has apologised for historical mistakes that contributed to children being abused at the Knottfield children’s home in the 1970s and 80s.

The apology is made in the Government’s response to a report on the abuse by Tynwald’s Social Affairs Policy Review Committee (SAPRC).

Setting out the Council of Ministers’ response to the report, the Chief Minister Alfred Cannan MHK said:

'The Council of Ministers read this report with sincere sorrow and regret and is deeply sorry for the mistakes that were made which contributed to the suffering and the lifelong impact of these traumatic experiences.

'Whilst we cannot undo the past, we are committed to doing everything we can to provide support to those affected by this terrible betrayal of trust.'

The Chief Minister goes on to pay tribute to the bravery of victims in coming forward and giving evidence:

'We cannot underestimate the suffering that has been inflicted on the survivors and their families, and greatly appreciate their bravery in giving evidence. The report was distressing to read and must have been extremely traumatising to relive.

We also pay tribute to those victims who are no longer with us and whose trauma and bravery will not be forgotten.'

The report and its findings were originally published in October 2018 but were withdrawn while a criminal investigation and legal proceedings took place.

Joseph Marshall was jailed for six years in April 2022 following conviction for sexually abusing two boys at the children’s home.

Following the conclusion of legal proceedings, the Isle of Man Government’s response to the 2018 report is now able to be published.

The 2018 report found that vulnerable children suffered horrific abuse of many forms whilst they were residents of Knottfield. In addition it found that they were failed by authorities.

The SAPRC made 11 recommendations to Government to improve the protection of children in care and the support available for survivors of abuse. All 11 of the recommendations are supported by the Government, with the Council of Ministers providing a commentary outlining action already taken and future plans.

The SAPRC’s report and the Council of Ministers’ response will go before Tynwald at its February sitting with Members asked to vote to approve the report’s 11 recommendations.

Update on the independent COVID review

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 13:45:01 GMT

Work is continuing on the independent review into how the Isle of Man Government handled the COVID pandemic.

A new dedicated website for the independent review has launched at www.covidreview.im.

The independent review team is analysing the large body of documentation which is already in the public domain. An examination of additional documentation from Government departments and statutory boards has commenced, as well as meetings with civil and public servants.

The Isle of Man Government is continuing to assist the review’s independent chair Kate Brunner KC and her team.

All parts of the public service have been identifying, collating and categorising all information relating to the pandemic to prepare for its transfer to the review team in January 2023. This will give the review team a more complete picture of the Government’s response as well as support its interviews with current officers and ministers.

The Council of Ministers has issued a direction to Government departments and statutory boards which provides a legal basis on which these bodies can provide information to the review team. This direction will be laid before Tynwald in February 2023.

The review will also be seeking information from the public, non-government bodies, and previous officers and ministers.

It is expected that public engagement will start by June 2023. The Chair of the review aims to produce the final report by the end of 2023.

As Chair, Kate Brunner KC retains the discretion to recommend that a statutory inquiry rather than a review is required in relation to any part of the investigation.

New online space launches for residents

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 10:45:02 GMT

The Get Online Centre, a dedicated space for developing digital skills and awareness, opened on 9 January 2023.

The new Centre is part of Isle of Man Government initiative to reduce digital exclusion, and is based in the Welcome Centre at the Sea Terminal.

The aim is to improve access and confidence in digital services by providing free access to computers and training to develop digital skills, learning to use devices and be safe online.

Training and support will be provided by friendly in-house trainers, in a separate training room, helping learners understand the benefits of being online and showing them how to complete a range of simple activities that can make a huge difference.

The centre will offer both one-to-one and group sessions on topics like internet security, improving Microsoft Office skills, shopping online, getting started with email and using Skype.

Organisations are also invited to book the training room for digital inclusion related activities such as training or awareness raising events, to help promote digital inclusion on the Island.

Cabinet Office Political Member with responsibility for Digital Inclusion, Mrs Diane Kelsey MLC, said:

‘The new Get Online Centre is a key part of our work to tackle digital exclusion. There are many benefits to services being provided online, and there has been a global shift towards this over the last few years, but not everyone is comfortable or confident in accessing services that way.

‘We understand that not everyone wants to 'get online’, but it is vital that Island residents are not disadvantaged in accessing services or deals, or in using the Internet for socialising or entertainment. The coronavirus pandemic highlighted the importance of being online to reduce isolation and keep in touch with friends or family through chat, email and video.

She continued:

‘Everyone has different needs when it comes to digital skills and we want to be flexible in our approach. We’ll continue to review the provision, including looking at remote training or other locations in the future. The friendly team would encourage people to get in touch on 685224, to discuss their requirements.’

From the 9 January the centre opened for walk-ins, for residents to use devices or discuss their personal needs. Specific training sessions will also be available to book from this date – through the website, by emailing goc@gov.im or calling 685224. The website will be updated throughout January with details of courses, three months in advance.

Government employees can also book hot desks or the training room for meetings. Find out more on the Get Online webpage.

National Holocaust Memorial Day 2023

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 09:29:12 GMT

The Isle of Man will commemorate the millions of victims of the Holocaust and genocides around the world with a service on National Holocaust Memorial Day 2023.

The annual event, taking place at St Mary of the Isle Church in Douglas on Sunday 29 January 2023, will see His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor Lieutenant General Sir John Lorimer amongst othersenior members of the government and Tynwald, school children, community groups and members of the public enjoy a varied service comprising readings, remembrance, prayers, music and song.

The service is organised each year by members of the Island’s Jewish community and is held alongside similar Holocaust Day commemorations throughout the British Isles, reflecting this year on the theme Ordinary People.

Chief Minister Alfred Cannan MHK, who will be giving a reading, said:

‘This day is an important occasion for the Isle of Man to come together in solidarity against prejudice and hatred. It is also an opportunity for people of all ages and faith to learn lessons from the Holocaust and genocides that have taken place.’

Everyone is welcome to attend on Sunday with attendees asked to be in their seats by 2:45pm. Refreshments will also be available afterwards.

FabYouary exhibition to focus on wellbeing

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 16:33:03 GMT

An all-day public exhibition celebrating ‘FabYouary – it’s all about you’ will focus on personal, financial, mental and physical wellbeing.

Attendees will be able to get support and advice from over 50 experts in public, private and third sectors including nutrition, mental health, financial support, career advice and more.

Hosted by the Healthy and Well Team, supported by the Workplace Wellbeing Group and sponsored by Robinsons, the event will take place on Wednesday 1 February at the NSC from 9am to 7pm.

Admission to the FabYouary exhibition is free with tickets available through Eventbrite.

Workplace Wellbeing Lead for Public Health Lauren Gray commented:

‘Individual wellbeing is extremely important; we need to remember that having a focus on our own wellbeing must be a priority. The key theme of this event will be to promote the importance of looking after yourself whether it be personal, physical, mental or financial. We are really fortunate to have a wide variety of services and support on the Island. This event will showcase just some of what is available.’

The exhibition will also offer separate sessions on menopause, mindfulness, nutrition and more, see the Eventbrite booking page for further details.

Inflation report: December 2022

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 13:14:39 GMT

The latest inflation report, compiled and published by the Statistics Isle of Man team at the Cabinet Office, shows inflation stood at 7.4% for December 2022.

A summary and the full report are available online at the inflation page.

Inflation figures are among the range of information available to view on the Isle of Man Government’s Economic Dashboard at gov.im/economic-dashboard.

His Majesty The King’s New Year Honours List 2023

Sat, 31 Dec 2022 22:30:01 GMT

Government House is pleased to announce that His Majesty The King has recognised four people in the Isle of Man in the 2023 New Year Honours List.

Mrs Susan Moore MBE

Mrs Sue Moore has just retired from an exceptional career in education, during which she has been Head Teacher of Queen Elizabeth II High School, in Peel, Isle of Man for 24 years. She has navigated the school through both good and challenging times, with a clear vision of putting the students first, and by creating a structured career path for both teachers and support staff.

Her motivation to guide the school and keep young people engaged was most evident during the challenges of the global pandemic. She has championed the value and causes of the arts and creative endeavours and her passion for the environment has had a marked and positive impact on the School. Her tenure ended with a string of ‘Best GCSE results on Island’, a testimony to how she organised and led her staff, as well as how she inspired her pupils and encouraged them to achieve their academic potential.

She leaves the entire Manx education service in a much better place. The King has made Mrs Moore an MBE in the New Year Honours List 2023 for exceptional Services to and Leadership in Education on the Isle of Man.

Mrs Adrienne Burnett MBE

Mrs Adrienne Burnett has recently retired as Head Teacher of Ballakermeen High School, after a lifelong career in education. Mrs Burnett’s innovative ‘School Improvement Plan’ led to the development of the school’s prestigious Sixth Form Centre. For the past five years, the school’s Sixth Form has achieved the leading grades across the Island and seven Oxbridge acceptances over a two year period, a record for any Manx school.

Mrs Burnett led the design and build of the ‘Studio Theatre’, which has helped develop an outstanding Performing Arts department and with her work through the Arts Council, she has supported many superb actors and singers over the past twenty years.

Mrs Burnett remains a passionate member of the teaching profession. She cares deeply about her students, teaching staff and support staff. She has put the Isle of Man and her school above her own family life and has worked exceptionally hard in support of her colleagues and the children of the Island. Her leadership, commitment and dedication have been exceptional. The King has made Mrs Adrienne Burnett an MBE in the New Year Honours List for 2023 for outstanding Services to Education, Arts and Culture.

Mr Andrew Scarffe BEM

The King has awarded the British Empire Medal to Andrew Scarffe in the New Year Honours List 2023 for outstanding service to the Preservation of Laxey and Lonan Heritage and the Isle of Man’s Railways. As Technical Support Officer for the Department of Infrastructure, Mr Scarffe’s enthusiasm, commitment and dedication have enabled his team to restore a number of historic electric trams and trailers from the Island’s renowned heritage tram fleet.

Mr Scarffe is a successful historical author who has written a number of works to commemorate and celebrate various aspects of the Island’s history. He instigated and co-ordinated celebratory events as a member of the Laxey and Lonan Heritage Trust, and conducted a successful fundraising campaign for the restoration of the Great Laxey Mine Railway, and he remains an active volunteer and Treasurer for the Mine Railway.

Mr Scarffe also leads guided walks throughout Laxey and Lonan for the Trust, other interest groups and the Department of Infrastructure. He regularly gives informative and authoritative talks to the many clubs, visitors and special interest groups that visit the Island. No one has put as much personal effort into preserving the rich heritage of the Isle of Man’s electric railways as Mr Scarffe and he is considered the premier authority on the history and heritage of Laxey village and its surrounding district.

Miss Carey Chung MVO

Miss Chung has given 18 years of exceptional and loyal service to the Crown and the last five Lieutenant Governors of the Isle of Man, His Majesty’s personal representative on the Island. In her role as the Manager of Government House, Miss Chung has been responsible for overseeing the House staff and running all events that take place in the House and gardens, including multiple annual receptions and investitures.

This year, more than 3,500 guests have been hosted at Government House, including representatives from more than 70 countries. Miss Chung has been involved in over 12 Royal visits to the Isle of Man during the last 18 years, most recently that of HRH The Princess Royal in 2021.

She is very well known in the local community and highly respected by many people across the Island. She works tirelessly and selflessly, devoting much of her free time and holidays to ensuring that the needs of the Lieutenant Governor and his family are met and that the condition and standards of Government House are maintained. She is exceptionally dedicated and loyal, totally trustworthy and reliable. In short, Miss Chung is an extraordinary public servant, who, for over 18 years, has faithfully served the Crown and the last five Lieutenant Governors of the Isle of Man. For her exceptional service, the King has appointed Miss Chung a Member of the Royal Victorian Order.

Governor’s Commendation

Sat, 31 Dec 2022 22:30:35 GMT

Government House is pleased to announce that His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor has awarded a Governor’s Commendation to Mr Tony Howell for his long and dedicated service to popular music on the Isle of Man.

Tony, who is widely known on the island as ‘Flash’, has been a key figure on the Island’s music scene for over sixty years, and has played in numerous groups including The Cheetahs, Black Mass, Whiskey Mac and the Hunters.

A self-taught guitarist, Tony started playing in the Globe Public House in Strand Street, Douglas in 1963. Over the years, he has been in support acts at the Villa Marina and the Palace Lido, supporting musicians such as Manfred Man, Rolling Stones and Duane Eddy, whilst working full-time in Howell and Robinson, the family firm of sign-writers.

Tony ‘Flash’ Howell is well known locally, and continues to play with The Hunters at The Royal British Legion, The Sidings in Castletown and at local events such as Castletown Carnival. He has unstintingly brought a lot of enjoyment to a great number of people, and his recognition is richly deserved.

His Excellency will present the award to Mr Howell in the New Year.

Public asked for their views on new vaping legislation

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 13:47:11 GMT

The public are invited to submit their views on a draft bill that will regulate the sale or supply of vaping devices and products.

The consultation is now open and asks for feedback on the proposed ‘Vapour Products Bill’, which has four main aims:

To prohibit the sale or supply of vaping products and vaping devices to persons under 18 years of age
To place controls on how vaping products and devices may be displayed at the point of sale
To provide for regulatory standards for vaping products
To allow for the enforcement of this new legislation by officers from the Office of Fair Trading, with support from the Isle of Man Constabulary and Isle of Man Customs and Excise

UK evidence shows that vaping in young people is growing, with 15.8% of 11–17-year-olds having tried vaping in 2022, a significant increase compared to 3.8% in 2013. While there is no specific data for the Isle of Man, the assumption is that vaping in young people in the Island is also on the rise.

There has been an increase reported locally of issues in schools and instances of petty theft from shops, which suggest a rise in the use of vaping products among young people in the Island. There are also public health concerns as to the potential long-term health risks of vaping for our young people.

This new legislation has been proposed to reduce underage use of vaping devices and products to protect the health and wellbeing of young people, while mitigating against related issues, such as retail theft of such products. It will also bring Isle of Man consumer safety standards in line with those of the UK, to the benefit of adults who use vaping products.

Minister for the Cabinet Office, Kate Lord-Brennan MHK said:

‘Given the evidence and the growing concern over vaping among young people, it is important to act quickly to get these controls in place. We are pleased to have the full support of retailers and colleagues in the IOM Constabulary, Department of Education, Sport and Culture, Office of Fair Trading and the Department of Health and Social Care.

She added:

‘The consultation aims to gather views from the public on the regulatory controls proposed by the Bill. I urge everyone to express their opinions as these will be taken into consideration when making possible amendments to the Bill, ahead of its implementation. We will aim to gather these views by the end of January 2023, when we will consider any amendments before introducing the Bill into the House of Keys by the planned date of Easter 2023.’

The consultation is now live on the Consultation hub. Paper copies are also available by calling +44 1624 642639. Please leave your name and address at the end of the voicemail and the team will post it out to you.

It will be open for four weeks from Friday 23 December 2022 until Sunday 29 January 2023.

Community to benefit from free telephone lines

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 12:46:32 GMT

More than 25 public sector telephone numbers relating to health, housing and finance are now free to call.

The change is the latest initiative funded by the Isle of Man Government in response to the rising cost of living, and is available to Island residents using local telecoms providers.

The list of phone numbers that will be free to call include all GP’s across the Island, the Social Security hotline, the Winter Help Advice Line, and more.

People wishing to contact one of the included services can do so using the usual number with no added charge.

A full list of the numbers that are now free to call can be viewed online.

Cabinet Office Minister, Kate Lord-Brennan MHK said:

‘This announcement of essential numbers being made free to call is another part of Government’s support package to help ease the impact of rising costs of living. Those who rely on calling for advice or support, particularly those who are vulnerable, on lower incomes or are elderly, can now do so without the added worry of being charged.

‘It is important to note that none of the numbers have been changed, you can still call the usual number for the service.’

Government has announced this as further support to help residents with the rising costs of living, particularly for those who are more vulnerable, on lower incomes or are elderly and rely on phones to communicate. This initiative also implements a recommendation made by the Tynwald Select Committee on Poverty in July 2021.

Joint statement: Crown Dependencies on access to registers of beneficial ownership of companies

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 12:43:37 GMT

In 2019, the Crown Dependencies (Guernsey, the Isle of Man and Jersey) (‘we’) made a public commitment concerning Registers of beneficial ownership of companies (the “public commitment”).

We have a longstanding, and independently assessed, track record of meeting international standards. We are proud of our global leadership in tax cooperation, combatting money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism and in providing appropriate and effective transparency.

The recent judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union impacts considerations in the Crown Dependencies around implementing the public commitment in line with consideration of factors around data protection and human rights.

We have all committed to provide access to obliged entities for the purpose of conducting customer due diligence by the end of 2022 and have therefore consulted on the position and produced policy positions.

However, in light of this CJEU judgment, implementation of this legislation will be delayed for a short period to enable consideration of its impact and obtain specialist legal advice; this is expected to be completed in early 2023. Subject to that advice, our intention is to adopt legislation in our respective jurisdictions as soon as possible after this time.

In respect of extending access beyond obliged entities, we intend to obtain expert legal advice on all relevant issues and, in due course, intend to review the public commitment in line with that advice and any recent development of international best practice.”

Labour market report: November 2022

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 14:57:23 GMT

The latest labour market report, compiled and published by the Statistics Isle of Man team at the Cabinet Office, shows the number of people registered unemployed was 277 for November 2022.

The figure decreased by 13 persons from the previous month (October 2022), and has decreased by 16 persons compared to the same month last year (November 2021).

The unemployment rate for November 2022 is 0.6%, remaining the same as the previous month.

Read a summary and download the full report

Labour markets figures are among the range of information available to view on the Isle of Man Government’s Economic Dashboard at gov.im/economic-dashboard

Inflation Report: November 2022

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 13:37:07 GMT

The latest inflation report, compiled and published by the Statistics Isle of Man team at the Cabinet Office, shows inflation stood at 7.9% for November 2022.

A summary and the full report are available online.

Inflation figures are among the range of information available to view on the Isle of Man Government’s Economic Dashboard at gov.im/economic-dashboard

Island Plan updated to incorporate Government’s economic strategy

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 15:33:40 GMT

The Government has today published an updated ‘Island Plan’, incorporating the delivery of the economic strategy which was approved by Tynwald in November.

The plan sets out the Government’s ongoing programme of work to deliver a secure, vibrant and sustainable future for the Isle of Man and its people.

Accompanying the revised plan is a new dedicated website, launched today, to provide more detail on the Island Plan and its delivery. It will enable people to:

Find out full details about the Island Plan and Government’s key priorities
Track delivery of progress against milestone targets and completion dates
Access annual plans and reports for Government agencies
Review the Government’s legislative programme
Read the latest news stories on Government’s work to deliver the plan.

The Chief Minister said:

“I want everyone in our community to have access to clear information on the efforts this Government is making to build a better future for our Island and its people. Part of this work must be a focus on improving public engagement and understanding, which includes making information accessible and progress transparent.

“This approach requires a platform where we can share our plans and progress with the public to demonstrate how Government is delivering for the Island. I look forward to the updated Island Plan being debated at the next sitting of Tynwald in January.”

The new website is available at islandplan.im and will be updated regularly.

Changes to the most senior Civil Service role following review announced by Chief Minister

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 12:29:22 GMT

Move will see recruitment for a Chief Executive Officer (Isle of Man Government).

The most senior role in the Civil Service is to change following a review into the role and responsibilities of the Chief Secretary which was announced by Chief Minister Alfred Cannan MHK in the May sitting of Tynwald.

The change will see recruitment for a Chief Executive Officer (Isle of Man Government) and an end to the role of Chief Secretary, a role that was created in 1987 and which has been the subject of numerous reviews.

The Chief Minister said:

"Establishing a clear and modern remit and capacity for the most senior role in the civil service is vital for the performance of government and delivery for the public. There is a need to ensure a strong accountability and performance framework, positive leadership and management in the public service and capacity for strategic advice to the Council of Ministers, as well as advice to the Lieutenant Governor.

"Changing the emphasis of the role will strengthen the understanding and accountability of the post holder as to their duties and will see the Island move to a structure comparable to other jurisdictions. There is a clear need to ensure appropriate management, leadership and accountability between the senior role in Government and chief officers of departments, as well as to continue the important work to address culture issues in the public service."

With the intention for a Chief Executive Officer (Isle of Man Government) to have capacity to pro-actively lead and support chief officers in government departments, the changes will see recruitment for a Chief Operating Officer for the Cabinet Office. They will support the delivery of government programmes and cross-departmental initiatives and head up central operational functions such as the Office of Human Resources, Government Technology Services and central transformation and policy functions.

Additionally, the Council of Ministers has agreed to establish a new Operational Performance Board to provide oversight of Government operational performance and to allow for both support and enhanced governance to be provided to the Chief Executive Officer (Isle of Man Government). The Chief Minister will chair the Board.

Chair of the Public Services Commission Kate Lord-Brennan MHK said:

"It is incredibly important that key senior roles in the Civil Service are developed to ensure a fit for purpose organisation for the future which can deliver excellent core public services and be a place where people want to work and develop in public service, where officers feel supported to deliver the priorities of government for the Island. There will be open and competitive recruitment for posts.

"I would like to take the opportunity to thank in particular all who have stepped up into interim positions during this period of change over the past few months, ahead of substantive recruitment taking place in 2023 and also thank everyone across the Public Service for their work and contributions this year."

The change from Chief Secretary to Chief Executive Officer (Isle of Man Government) will require an amendment to regulations to be put to the January 2023 Tynwald. If Tynwald agree to the amendment, recruitment will commence immediately.

Downloads

The review of the role and remit of Chief Secretary

The response to the review by the Council of Ministers

Community encouraged to keep well and warm

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 10:40:18 GMT

With cold weather currently affecting the Island, the public are being encouraged to keep well and warm.

Cold temperatures can affect the body’s ability to fight off illnesses, with older people and those with existing conditions particularly at risk.

People are encouraged to keep warm when at home and should not be afraid to put their heating on, with the added reminder to look out for vulnerable neighbours and family members who may be worried about energy costs.

Earlier this year, the Government directed Manx Utilities to freeze electricity prices until 31 March 2023, which means that the Isle of Man has one of the lowest domestic electricity prices in the British Isles this winter at 22 pence per unit.

Interim Director of Public Health, Professor Hugo Van Woerden, said:

‘Cold weather can have serious consequences for health, particularly for those who are elderly or have an existing health condition. It is important to keep warm and well over the cold periods and I would urge everyone to turn on the heating. If you’re worried about costs, try to heat the most used rooms, such as living room and bedroom, and close doors and windows to keep the heat in.’

Advice and support on staying warm and well over winter.

Warm spaces are also available across the Island to provide a welcoming, warm and safe place for people to come together and socialise, while helping to reduce energy costs at home.

Parents and carers asked to watch for signs of scarlet fever

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 16:03:04 GMT

Parents and carers are being asked to watch for signs of scarlet fever in children following a small cluster of cases on the Island.

Nine children with a fever have been sent home by a local nursery since Wednesday 30 November, with a small number of these children later diagnosed with scarlet fever.

Scarlet fever is a highly contagious bacterial infection that mostly affects young children. It is usually mild and easily treated with antibiotics. The most common symptoms are:

sore throat and swollen neck glands
headache
fever
nausea and vomiting
a rash of small red bumps may also appear 12 to 48 hours later on the chest and abdomen, which then spreads.

Parents who are concerned that their child or they themselves might have scarlet fever should contact their GP for advice and stay at home. Please note that all GP Practices will be closed on the afternoon of Thursday 8 December for essential training. Anyone who needs to urgently see a GP during this time should contact Manx Emergency Doctors Service (MEDS) on +44 1624 650355.

Anyone with a deteriorating condition who has developed more than one the following symptoms and is concerned should seek medical help through their GP, MEDS, the Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) at Ramsey Cottage Hospital or the Emergency Department at Noble’s Hospital:

high fever
severe muscle aches
pain in one area of the body
unexplained vomiting or diarrhoea.

Action taken

Parents whose children are affected have been contacted and given advice on treatment and how to prevent the infection from spreading.

The nursery has carried out additional cleaning and has increased handwashing. Parents of children at the nursery have been provided with advice and told to keep their child at home if they develop a fever, which will help to prevent cases spreading.

The Island’s healthcare professionals have been alerted and provided with information and advice on scarlet fever and asked to remain vigilant. Advice has also been issued to schools and nurseries.

Public Health is working in close collaboration with the nursery, Manx Care and the Department of Education, Sport and Culture to monitor the situation and will take further action, if required.

Interim Director of Public Health, Professor Hugo Van Woerden, said:

‘Scarlet fever is caused by the bacteria group A streptococcus or ‘Strep A’. The germ is present in the nose or throat of many people in a harmless form, but occasionally changes into a form that can cause disease.

‘Although scarlet fever spreads easily among children, it is important to note that it is usually mild, can be treated easily with antibiotics and very rarely results in serious illness.

‘If you live in the same household as someone with scarlet fever, you should contact your GP as soon as you develop symptoms so you can start the antibiotic treatment as quickly as possible. You can help stop the spread of infection through frequent handwashing and by not sharing utensils, clothing, bedding and towels.’

Further information on scarlet fever can be found on the NHS website.

Contact details for community and emergency care.

Appointment of High Bailiff

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 17:08:22 GMT

James Brooks has been appointed as the new High Bailiff in the Isle of Man. The appointment follows the planned retirement of Her Worship Jayne Hughes who will have held the position for almost four years.

Mr Brooks has been appointed by His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor and will act as senior judge of the Courts of Summary Jurisdiction and the Isle of Man’s senior Coroner of Inquests.

Mr Brooks, a graduate of Queen Mary and Westfield College, University of London, was Head of Courts and Tribunals Service in the Falkland Islands from 2016 to 2019 and then Legal Officer within the Isle of Man courts from 2019, until his appointment as Deputy High Bailiff in 2021.

Mr Brooks brings a wealth of experience to the role and has an excellent working knowledge of the courts of the Isle of Man.

He commented:

“I was delighted to receive the news of my appointment and I look forward to continuing to undertake the interesting and very varied work that is dealt with by the summary courts.”

The official swearing in of Mr Brooks will take place following the formal retirement of Her Worship Jayne Hughes in April 2023.

Recruitment for the position of Deputy High Bailiff will commence shortly.