Isle of Man Travel, Traffic and Motoring News

Cashless parking system to launch at Isle of Man Airport on Tuesday 24 May

Fri, 20 May 2022 09:26:56 GMT

A new cashless parking system at Isle of Man Airport will launch on Tuesday 24 May.

As previously announced, the quickest and easiest way to pay will be through a mobile phone or device using the RingGo app, which can be downloaded free from the Apple Store or Google Play Store.

Anyone who doesn’t have a smartphone can call +44 1624 825717 and use a pre-registered payment card.

Payment can also be made online using a pre-registered card at ringgo.co.uk.

In each instance above, drivers planning to use the car park from Tuesday 24 May are encouraged to register in advance. Users should download the app and provide the necessary details, including payment information, or visit ringgo.co.uk and complete the process online.

Anyone displaying a parking disc can use the car parks for free for one hour, so it will still be possible to organise payment while moving through the airport.

A further option is available by visiting the information desk inside the Isle of Man Airport building, providing your vehicle registration and using a payment card. It will not be possible to pay at the desk using cash.

Tim Glover MHK, Member of the Department of Infrastructure with responsibility for Ports, said:

‘While we fully anticipate the smartphone app solution to be the most popular way for people to pay for parking at the airport from Tuesday, other options are available.

‘Paying over the phone and online are both straightforward, but require registration - so please try and do that beforehand to avoid any fuss at the start of your trip.

‘Registering and using any of these options will enable users to extend their stay should it be necessary due to unforeseen circumstances.

‘But if none of them suit you, it will be possible for card payments to be taken at the airport’s information desk.’

Tuesday’s launch marks a one-week delay from the original start date while officers considered feedback on the plan to ensure concerns were being fully addressed.

Anyone whose vehicle is parked in the car parks prior to Tuesday 24 May will have four weeks to make alternative arrangements.

How does the RingGo system work?

Once the registration process has been completed, customers using the app who have found a parking space should note the five-digit location number shown on signs and pay in advance for the required time – short stay car park 35800, long-stay car park 35801. Customers wishing to pay using the phone or online options should follow the instructions provided.

If your return flight is delayed or you just need extra time, it’s a simple process to extend the payment period using your chosen payment method.

Download the RingGo app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store below:

Launch of cashless parking system at Isle of Man Airport postponed

Tue, 17 May 2022 08:37:16 GMT

The implementation of the new parking system at Isle of Man Airport has been delayed while officers consider feedback and ensure concerns are being fully addressed.

Parking will continue to be free while arrangements to introduce the changes are finalised, and a further announcement will be made on Thursday 19 May regarding when the new cashless payment system will come into force.

Tim Glover MHK, Member of the Department of Infrastructure with responsibility for Ports, said:

‘While the new system was to be introduced tomorrow (Tuesday 17 May), a decision has been reached to delay the launch for a short period. The Department is grateful to those who have shared constructive feedback – officers will now be using that to ensure a smooth transition.’

Once the system is in place, the quickest and easiest way to pay will be through a mobile phone or device using the RingGo app, which can be downloaded free from the Apple or Google Play stores.

RingGo is a well-established car parking system in use at hundreds of sites throughout the British Isles. Find out more at myringgo.co.uk/howitworks

Once the app has been successfully downloaded and the registration process completed, customers who have found a parking space should enter the four or five-digit location number shown on signs and pay in advance for the required time. If your return flight is delayed or you just need extra time, it’s a simple process to extend the payment period through the app.

Anyone who doesn’t have a smartphone has a range of other options:

pay by calling a number and providing a card payment over the phone
send a text message
pay online
ask for assistance at the information desk inside the Isle of Man Airport building

One hour’s free disc parking will be extended and available throughout the car parks.

Parking rates will remain unchanged.

Cashless parking facility to launch at Isle of Man Airport

Mon, 09 May 2022 15:11:44 GMT

Drivers wishing to use the car park at Isle of Man Airport will be required to use a cashless payment system from Tuesday 17 May.

The quickest and easiest way to pay will be through a mobile phone or device using the RingGo app, which can be downloaded free from the Apple or Google Play stores.

Anyone who doesn’t have a smartphone can pay by calling a number and providing a card payment over the phone, sending a text message, paying online or by asking for assistance at the information desk inside the Isle of Man Airport building.

Tim Glover MHK, Member of the Department of Infrastructure with responsibility for Ports, said:

‘In launching this new way of paying for parking at Isle of Man Airport, our main priority has been to provide residents and visitors with the best possible experience, offering safe, simple options as they travel.

‘We anticipate RingGo will be a popular service, as most people carry and use a mobile phone nowadays, but other options are available for customers who are less comfortable with this type of method.’

To save time on arriving at the airport, drivers planning to use the RingGo app for the first time are encouraged to register in advance. Simply download the app and provide the necessary details, including payment information, or visit RingGo.co.uk and complete the process online.

Anyone displaying a parking disc can use the car parks for free for one hour, so it will still be possible to organise payment while moving through the airport.

With the app successfully downloaded and registration process completed, customers who have found a parking space should enter the four or five-digit location number shown on signs and pay in advance for the required time. If your return flight is delayed or you just need extra time, it’s a simple process to extend the payment period through the app.

Parking rates remain unchanged.

“Miss Me?” TT Road safety campaign launched

Mon, 09 May 2022 12:28:48 GMT

A campaign to highlight road safety to visitors and residents during TT fortnight has been launched by the Isle of Man Constabulary.

This year’s hard-hitting campaign, “Miss Me?” prompts road users to consider the realities of dangerous driving or riding – reminding road users that although they may have missed the TT festival, their families will miss them more if they are involved in a collision.

It is also a reminder that life continues around the races, urging road users to take care on all roads including the course as there could be the usual farm, construction or commuter traffic around the bend ahead.

The 2022 TT road safety campaign was launched today (Monday 9 May) by the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, Jane Poole-Wilson MHK and Superintendent for Operational Policing, Steve Maddocks, at Victory Café.

Superintendent Steve Maddocks said:

’The TT has returned to our Island after 3 years and we want to ensure that everyone who visits and lives on our Island is safe. We’d ask people to please familiarise yourselves with the roads and their layouts, adhere to the signs and ride safely and within your limits. Enjoy everything the TT experience has to offer, but please be able to go back and tell your family and friends your stories.’

Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, Jane Poole-Wilson MHK said:

‘It is great to have the return of the TT and the atmosphere that comes with it, but safety of our residents and visitors is our top priority. We hope the new ‘Miss me?’ campaign will urge people to think twice about how they use our roads, reminding them that life continues on our Island around the races.’

In partnership with other Police Forces, the campaign will also be promoted across the North West of England.

Information highlighting the campaign’s core messages include multi-lingual materials to support the safety of visitors during their stay.

Inspector for Roads Policing Unit, Neil Craig added:

‘We want everyone to enjoy the TT for all the right reasons, and so we are urging motorists to help us keep the roads safe for everyone.

‘Where possible, I’d also like to urge drivers to plan ahead during the festival period due to the increased number of people who will be using our roads, and the inevitable congestion that is likely to occur at peak times as a result of this. Please allow yourself sufficient time to safely get to where you need to be.’

Throughout the fortnight, the road safety team will be visiting the Grandstand, Ramsey Sprint, Peel Day, Braddan Church and Castletown, as well as having a presence on the ferries.

The Mountain Road’s one-way system will be in place from 04.30pm on Friday 27 May until 09:30am Monday 13 June.

In addition to the temporary 50mph speed limit introduced to the coast road from last year, this year there will be new temporary speed limits in force around some of the Island’s other main roads during TT.

The Isle of Man Constabulary will update their social media channels with the latest road information throughout TT. Facebook users should follow the Isle of Man Constabulary Media Page, and Twitters followers can get updates from @TweetbeatIOM

The first qualifying session of the 2022 Isle of Man TT is scheduled to take place from 12pm on Sunday 29 May.

New bus timetable comes into operation May 9

Thu, 26 May 2022 15:16:59 GMT

A new bus timetable will come into operation on Monday 9 May 2022 containing changes designed to make the service more streamlined, and includes additional services during the summer.

Following the success of the route last year, a summer evening service will again operate between Peel and Port Erin on the first Friday and Saturday of each month between July and October.

An enhanced summer schedule will also see the return of an extra late night owl (01:15am) every Friday and Saturday, and Route 28 (the Sound via Cregneash) as well as services that cover Niarbyl, Sloc and Ballamodha in operation from 14 May to 25 September. The Route 3 Sunday service, which serves Douglas to Ramsey via Laxey, will run every 30 minutes throughout summer.

As a result of Castle Street in Castletown being temporarily one-way and the longer south-bound circuit, the route between Douglas and Port Erin will alter slightly, with buses leaving Douglas as usual but arriving in Port Erin slightly later.

The TT timetable has also been published with extra services being offered making it easier for visitors and residents to watch the races and explore the Island over the two-week period.

New timetables are now available to view on www.bus.im with printed booklets available from the Welcome Centre at the Sea Terminal in Douglas, Ramsey or Port Erin bus station or by calling +44 1624 662525.

Customers also have the opportunity to use the helpful journey planner which can be found at online as well track buses in real time using findmybus.im.

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

Timetable alterations in detail

Pulrose Bridge

All services 21, 21A, 21B & 21H will resume via Pulrose Bridge to Pulrose and the 21P will no longer operate
All South route buses will continue to serve QuarterBridge until Monday 23 May 2022, on which they will revert back to the original route serving Pulrose Bridge and the NSC

Douglas – South

Services 12 & 12A will be renumbered to Services 11 & 11A
Service 2C will be renumbered to Service 2
Times have been adjusted slightly for daytime journeys for buses arriving into Port Erin as a result of the modified Castletown route and the one-way road
Late Night Owl available every Friday and Saturday throughout the summer holiday season

Douglas to Peel and Ramsey

Times have been altered slightly to change the provision in the morning and late afternoon/evening to The Hope and Thie Slieau Whallian

Summer Schedule

A new summer evening service (N8) between Peel and Port Erin will operate will operate the first Friday and Saturday of each month between July and October
Later Night Owl Services (01:15) will run on Fridays and Saturday throughout the summer holiday season
Various routes covering the Sound via Cregneash, the Sloc, Niarbyl and Ballamodha will come into operation from 14 May to 25 September
An enhanced Sunday services on the Route 3, which serves Douglas to Ramsey via Laxey every 30 minutes

TT Coverage

Timetable of the operation during TT (green pages in the timetable) including TT specials which serve the course before and after races, extra late night owl services and increased frequency or diverts necessary

Tarmac laying at Noble’s Hospital site

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 14:44:24 GMT

Manx Care would like to inform the public that tarmac laying will be taking place in the grounds of Noble’s Hospital on Monday 25 and Tuesday 26 April 2022 between the hours of 8am and 4:30pm.

This work is to repair two sections of the road in between the main hospital car park and the Ballafletcher car park.

Temporary traffic lights will be in place throughout these times, and bus routes will not be affected.

The public are thanked in advance for their understanding.

Leave the car at home for Active Travel Week 2022

Sat, 26 Mar 2022 10:00:03 GMT

28 March – 3 April is Workplace Active Travel Week 2022, we’re asking people to find healthier and greener ways to commute, run errands or enjoy our Island spaces.

Each day will have a different theme:

Monday 28 March: Active travel to work – any way you can
Tuesday 29 March: Walk or wheel to work
Wednesday 30 March: Flexible working day
Thursday 31 March: Carbon neutral and car free
Friday 1 April: Cycle to work
Sat 2 April/Sun 3 April: Active travel with the family

Active travel is an ideal way to improve wellbeing by including physical movement in your daily routine, which in turn helps to support mental wellbeing, and reduce our carbon footprint.

It’s not just about the journey to work, we’re asking people to think about the smaller trips that they make. Is there a shorter journey that can be made actively instead of taking the car like nipping to the nearest shop, visiting a nearby friend or grabbing a coffee on the move?

There are many aspects of modern life that can be seen as a barrier to active travel; busy schedules, access to bus routes or equipment and the weather. For active travel week we’re asking people to try something different like walking, wheeling, running, cycling, scooting or skating to see how easy it could be to build good habits by dedicating some time to the way we travel.

Throughout the week there will be events taking place to help encourage and support people to make changes towards active travel. There will be a special ‘Talk to Work’ session walking from Quaterbridge to central Douglas on 29 March, cycling confidence sessions on Wednesday 30 March, and a group cycle ride from St Johns to Douglas on Friday 1 April with the Road Safety Team.

Businesses are also asked to consider their working practices during active travel week, could flexible hours, hub working or working from home be used to help accommodate employees using active travel.

Over the weekend, families are encouraged to get active together. Our Island has some great outdoor spaces which can be used - why not travel actively for a treasure hunt, to visit a beach/glen, or to treat yourself at a local café?

More information about the events is available on the Active Travel – workplace Facebook page, including links to book spaces on the cycling sessions.

Come rain or shine, we’re asking people to leave their cars at home next week and use active travel.

New London flights announced

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 16:42:47 GMT

Loganair is introducing new routes to London City and London Heathrow this spring.

The increased connectivity will ensure essential business links with London are maintained as well as giving improved access to international travel through the Heathrow link.

Dr Alex Allinson, Minister for Enterprise, commented:

‘I am delighted to be able to announce the introduction of additional capacity to London commencing mid-April, with a further increase to the schedule from the beginning of May. This will see the return of double daily services to London City, permitting day return business travel in both directions, together with a daily service to London Heathrow, enabling much needed international connectivity.

‘We have been working closely with Treasury and the Department of Infrastructure on plans to improve connectivity to the Isle of Man, including a full air services review. The announcement today is the first part of this work and gives us a much welcomed return to central London connectivity for our business travellers and visitors alike.’

Rebecca George, Chief Executive Officer Chamber of Commerce, said:

‘We are very pleased to see the return of the central London flights. The Island’s business community relies on the accessibility of day return business travel to carry out essential work in the UK as well as bring over key contacts to the Isle of Man. This announcement will put the Island back on the map for our London connections and enable stronger business links for the future.’

New services will commence from the Isle of Man to London City from 19 April, initially offering a daily flight (except Saturdays) before gearing up to two flights each weekday from Tuesday 3 May. From that date, the new schedule of morning and evening flights will offer a day-return capability in each direction, plus a flight in each direction on Sunday evenings.

Services linking the Isle of Man with London Heathrow will commence from Tuesday 3 May, with a daily service designed to offer connections with Loganair’s major partner airlines including British Airways to a wide range of destinations worldwide, including key points in Europe, North America and South Africa.

Both the London City and Heathrow routes will be flown under Loganair’s codeshare agreement with British Airways, and tickets for the new flights will go on sale next week.

Potential for damage and travel disruption from Storm Franklin

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 10:42:28 GMT

An amber weather warning has been issued for Storm Franklin which will see the Island face high winds and severe gales overnight Sunday into Monday which could peak with gusts of 65 - 70mph.

Franklin will be the third storm to hit the Isle of Man over the past week and the public are being asked to again take care and to prepare for damage and travel disruption due to the high wind speeds.

With the brunt of the storm hitting overnight, the disruption to travel is likely to be reduced, but strong winds are expected to remain during the Monday morning commute. Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians are asked to take care when travelling, with falling or already fallen debris on roads and pavements.

The wind speeds mean that high sided vehicles should avoid the Mountain Road overnight until at least 9am on Monday (21 February). This is likely to impact the Bus Vannin X3 service between Ramsey and Douglas which may be re-routed to the coast road on Monday morning. A final decision will be taken by 7am on Monday morning as more becomes known about the likely impact of the storm. The public should follow Isle of Man Transport on social media and check bus.im for service updates.

There is a risk of some coastal overtopping at the northern end of Peel beach and Fenella beach in Peel as well as around the Cosy Nook area in Port Erin, particularly around high tide at 1:58am.

The public should secure their properties before dark, including loose garden items that may be likely to move or lift during gusts of wind.

Teams from the Isle of Man Constabulary and the Department of Infrastructure will work to keep routes functioning and the public safe, with Civil Defence on standby to assist.

Regular updates will be available on social media channels.

Safest place to be during Storm Eunice is indoors

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 08:55:31 GMT

Storm Eunice will reach the Isle of Man tomorrow (Friday 18 February) and the public are advised that the safest place to be is indoors between 10am and 3pm.

An amber weather warning has been issued due to the potential impact on travel and the risk of injury and damage to property.

Severe gales and storm force winds are expected with speeds reaching between 50mph and 75mph. Up to 10cms of snow is expected on higher ground, with drifting possible.

The Mountain Road will close at 10pm this evening (Thursday 17 February) as a precaution. The road is likely to remain closed until after the worst of the storm has passed on Friday afternoon, although the situation will be reviewed regularly.

Large waves are expected on the West of the Island, especially at around high tide at approximately 12:26pm. Peel Promenade will close at 10am on Friday (18 February) and is likely to remain closed into the afternoon. The public are requested to remove all vehicles from the seafront ahead of the road closure. Sand bags for property owners on Peel seafront are available on the pavement side of the promenade in three locations between Empire Garage and Davison’s Ice Cream Parlour.

Schools will open as normal on Friday. The worst of the storm is expected to hit after the start of the school day and is likely to have passed in time for school pick-up.

Bus Vannin services will operate as normal, apart from school swimming bus services, which have been cancelled, and bus services will not serve Peel Promenade during the road closure. Service X3 between Douglas and Ramsey will be re-routed to the coast road. The public should follow Isle of Man Transport on social media and check bus.im for service updates.

There is likely to be disruption to travel, with debris on roads and snow on higher ground. Drivers are asked to take care and to only travel between 10am and 3pm if necessary. Teams from the Isle of Man Constabulary and the Department of Infrastructure will work throughout the day to keep routes functioning and the public safe, with Civil Defence on standby to assist.

Regular updates will be available on social media channels.

Island’s border restrictions to ease from 11 February

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 10:58:13 GMT

A further easing of the Island’s border restrictions will come into effect at 00:01am on Friday 11 February.

The changes align the Island’s border rules with the revised rules for those travelling into England announced last month by the UK Government, making travel to the Isle of Man as simple as possible.

Chief Minister Alfred Cannan MHK, said:

‘Aligning our border restrictions with England is the right step and ensures our measures remain proportionate to the current threat. This is another step in the right direction ahead of our plans to remove all restrictions, currently scheduled for 31 March. We’re able to take this step forward thanks to the high uptake of COVID-19 vaccinations in our community.’

The changes mean:

No testing or isolation for anyone travelling to the Island who is fully vaccinated
No testing or isolation for any unvaccinated Manx Resident who has only been within the Common Travel Area within the preceding 10 days
No isolation for any unvaccinated non-resident who has only been within the CTA within the preceding 10 days but will be required to have a PCR test within 48 hours of arrival
No isolation for unvaccinated residents and non-residents who have been outside of the CTA within the preceding 10 days, but will be required to have a PCR test within 48 hours of arrival
Anyone aged 17 and under arriving in the Isle of Man will be excluded from all travel related testing and isolation requirements, regardless of their vaccination status.

The Chief Minister further added:

‘The removal of isolation for all travellers means travel will be easier for people to go abroad and return home. Additionally, allowing all children and young people under the age of 18 to enter the Island without any restrictions will make travel much simpler for families, especially ahead of the half-term holidays.’

‘By keeping the PCR testing for unvaccinated travellers we can still monitor for any potential variants that may cause concern as we move further towards the end of March.’

All travellers are reminded that a landing card must be completed before arriving on the Island as well as a Manx Entry Permit and a vaccination exemption where appropriate.

Mountain Road closures to enable improvements ahead of TT 2022

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 12:56:04 GMT

Improvement works on the Mountain Road will begin next month and run for six weeks in preparation for the 2022 Isle of Man TT.

Major works will be taking place at Stella Maris, below Ramsey Hairpin, to fully reconstruct the highway and footpath. The only practicable way to facilitate these significant works is to close the road entirely at this point for the six week duration of the works, as the width of the road means traffic control measures are unsuitable.

Other works have been scheduled to take place at the same time, to reduce overall disruption, including line painting, surface repairs, verge maintenance and the installation of TT signage over the length of the Mountain Road.

Much of the work was due to be undertaken during 2021, but was postponed following consultation with businesses, stakeholders and feedback from the public.

The six-week schedule will require the following road closures:

Monday 28 February, to no later than Friday 15 April: full closure between Ramsey and the Bungalow.
Monday 4 April, to no later than Friday 15 April: daytime closures to facilitate commuter traffic, closures will be from 9.15am to 4pm Monday to Friday, between the Bungalow and Creg-ny-Baa.

The project cannot be started any later in the year as the road surface and lining must have sufficient time to weather before TT 2022.The six-week window takes into account the risk of poor weather and fewer hours of daylight, and will avoid the need for any additional closures for planned works over the summer period.

Infrastructure Minister Tim Crookall MHK said:

‘These works are necessary to ensure the highway continues to be fit for purpose. The work is also necessary to ensure that this year’s TT races can go ahead. The feedback from the public has been invaluable in identifying a schedule that reduces disruption for residents and businesses by completing a range of different jobs at the same time.’

Access will be retained at all times to Snaefell and the Victory Café via Tholt-y-Will Road (for the duration of the works) and via Hillberry (except during the April closures).

Access to the Creg-Ny-Baa Hotel from Douglas via Hillberry and the Creg Ny Baa Back Road will be unaffected. It will also be accessible from the Tholt Y Will/Bungalow route (except during the April Closures).

Change to COVID-19 testing for international arrivals

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 11:23:04 GMT

From 00:01 on Tuesday 11 January 2022 any arriving international travellers, who are fully vaccinated and eligible for entry to the Isle of Man, will no longer have to have a PCR test after arrival.

Instead, international travellers will be required to take a lateral flow test within 12 hours of arrival and avoid public indoor spaces until the test is taken and the result submitted online.

This change reflects the simplified rules for international arrivals into England, announced this week by the UK Government, which will end the requirement for pre-departure tests and self-isolation for fully vaccinated travellers.

International arrivals to the Island must complete a landing form and sign a declaration that they will take a lateral flow test within 12 hours of arrival, and avoid public indoor settings until a negative result is received and submitted online.

This will mean that the entry requirements for fully vaccinated international travellers and travellers within the Common Travel Area (CTA) will be the same, making border arrangements simpler whilst continuing to screen arrivals for COVID-19.

Full details of the Island’s travel pathways can be found on the COVID-19 website, including information on arrival requirements and eligibility.

All travellers are encouraged to test themselves daily for COVID-19 for the seven days after arrival using free lateral flow tests. Lateral flow tests can be ordered online, or collected from most pharmacies.

Any travellers who return a positive LFT after arrival are required to submit the results online and must immediately isolate for 10 days. They will receive an email from 111 confirming the result and isolation period. The isolation period can be shortened if two negative LFT results are submitted, at least 24 hours apart.

The pathway for unvaccinated travellers who have been outside the CTA remains unchanged.

Anyone who has already booked and paid for a returning traveller PCR test on or after 11 January will be contacted directly.

With the majority of tests on the Island now being done by LFT with online self-reporting, the COVID-19 dashboard is also being simplified. This week it will return to a one-page snapshot of the Island’s current COVID-19 situation, showing new daily cases, total active cases and hospital admissions.

All of the analysis contained in the dashboard relating to ages and trends will be retained in the weekly Public Health Surveillance Report.

Get your COVID Pass in time for travel in the New Year

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 09:29:54 GMT

Island residents planning overseas travel in the New Year are reminded to register for their NHS COVID Pass in good time – and ensure they can fulfil all necessary requirements for their trip.

The pass allows Isle of Man residents to show their vaccination status where evidence is required for travel and at venues and events, in a format which is internationally recognised.

There are three ways to access the NHS COVID Pass:

via the NHS App on a smartphone or tablet
online via the downloadable version available through the NHS website
by requesting a paper copy vaccination certificate

There are two versions of the COVID Pass in both digital and letter format – one for travel abroad and one for UK domestic events and venues. Further information and Frequently Asked Questions about the NHS Covid Pass for Isle of Man residents are available at the Isle of Man's COVID-19 website.

The NHS COVID Pass provides evidence that an individual has received a full course of a vaccine approved by the MHRA in the UK. The service can be used three weeks after a first vaccine dose and the record can be updated seven days after the second dose.

Those travelling abroad should confirm that their destination country requires proof of vaccination status - and whether one or two doses of the relevant vaccine is required.

To obtain a digital version of the pass people need to create an NHS login. The login generates a username and password which connects an individual securely to their vaccination record. NHS login registrations may take longer than usual when there are high numbers of requests, and the public are advised to register at least two weeks before they want to use the pass.

Alternatively, letters are being sent on request via a self-service web page or for those without digital access by phoning the NHS COVID Pass Service on 0808 162 4119. Letters will be sent automatically to the address the person has registered with their GP and should arrive in the post within seven working days of the date they were requested. Letters do not have an expiry date.

DomesticCovid Pass letters can be used to demonstrate a person’s COVID-19 status where this is a condition of entry into settings or events, while for international travel, a separate Travel COVID Pass letter is required. People requesting paper letters will be sent those they are eligible for, which in most cases will be both the travel and domestic versions.

Letters will be sent automatically to the address the person has registered with their GP and should arrive in the post within seven working days of the date they were requested. People should not request a letter if travelling in more than four weeks’ time.

All international travellers should confirm the entry requirements of the intended destination country using the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office travel advice website - see the UK's Foreign Travel Advice page - as requirements for testing and vaccination can vary from country to country.

Financial Sanctions: Myanmar

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 12:40:45 GMT

This news release is issued to publicise the addition of 4 new entries to the Myanmar sanctions regime.

The Myanmar Sanctions Regulations 2021 [SI 2021/496] (“the Myanmar Regulations”) have effect in the Isle of Man by the Myanmar (Sanctions) (Isle of Man) Order 2021 [SI 2021/529] (“the 2021 Order”).

The Myanmar Regulations establish a sanctions regime for the purpose of promoting the peace, stability and security of Myanmar, respect for democracy, the rule of law and to discourage repression of the civil population as well as respect for human rights in Myanmar.

On 10 December 2021, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office updated the UK Sanctions List. This list provides details of those designated under regulations made under the Sanctions Act.

The following entries have been added and are now subject to an asset freeze.

Directorate For Defence Industries (Group ID: 14165)
Directorate For Defence Procurement (Group ID: 14166)
Myanmar War Veterans Organisation (Group ID: 14163)
Quarter Master General Office (Group ID: 14164)

Full details can be found in the attached Annex to this news release.

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 entities. If so, they must freeze such accounts or other funds and, unless licensed by the Treasury, refrain from dealing with said funds or economic resources, and suspend the provision of any financial services. They must also report their findings to the FIU.

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

Further details of the sanctions regime related to Myanmar 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.

Make the right choice to get home this festive season

Thu, 25 Nov 2021 16:47:40 GMT

Making sure you get home safely over Christmas and New Year is the focus of the seasonal safety campaign this winter.

Whether it’s dinner with friends, a night out revelling or quiet drinks in, the Isle of Man Constabulary and bus vannin have joined forces to promote this year’s festive message and encourage everyone to plan ahead.

A new online map has also launched, helping passengers see their bus location in real time – reducing the chance of missing a bus home, or spending too long waiting this winter.

This year’s campaign focuses on making the right choice to get home safely. It aims to encourage people to plan how they will get home – and think about whether they will walk, take a bus, book a taxi or catch a lift with a designated driver.

As part of the campaign, bus vannin are raising awareness of their Night Owl services which will be running during the festive period to help party-goers get home.

These late buses will run every Friday and Saturday night from 3 December to 18 December, and on New Year’s Eve/New Year’s Morning, at 00:15 and 01:15.

To help make the journey home run smoothly, passengers can now visit www.findmybus.im and track their buses. The new page has been designed to be clear and easy to use, so customers can quickly find their bus on the map in real time.

Minister for Infrastructure, Tim Crookall MHK, said:

‘This tracker will be great tool for our bus vannin passengers during the festive season. It takes away the unknown and you can now see exactly where your particular bus is, reducing waiting time at bus stops.’

‘It will also be useful all year round - helping parents see where their children are when using the school services and help tourists who may not know exactly where they are by having the option to track themselves whilst on the bus using the bus WIFI, so they can make sure they get off the bus where they need to.’

Posters and pocket-size festive timetables will be distributed to pubs around the island and at other events, including during late night shopping. The campaign will also be working alongside the taxi companies to ensure everyone makes it home safely.

Police patrol units will be out and about on the Island’s roads throughout the festive period while the Road Safety Team will promote the campaign online and in person to shoppers.

Chief Constable Gary Roberts said:

‘This year’s campaign aims to encourage the public to start thinking now about their plans this festive season, and to make safe choices for drinking responsibly and getting home safely. Each year we see the consequences of people taking risks through excessive alcohol consumption – from drink driving to disorderly behaviour. We know that it is the minority that make these bad decisions, so we’re asking everyone this festive season to plan ahead and make the right choice to get home.’

For more information on late buses, visit www.bus.im or call +44 1624 662525 between 8am and 6pm Monday to Saturday.

Landing card reminder ahead of festive travel

Thu, 25 Nov 2021 12:44:51 GMT

Visitors travelling to the Isle of Man over the festive period are reminded that they must complete a landing form before they arrive.

Regardless of entry status, anyone jetting off for some winter sun, Christmas shopping or visiting relatives must submit the online form before re-entry.

The Isle of Man still has some COVID-19 travel restrictions in place. Visitors who are fully vaccinated must apply for a vaccination exemption to enter, Visitors who are not fully vaccinated must meet a certain criteria and are required to apply for a permit to enter.

Returning residents do not need to apply to re-enter, but must also complete a landing card within the 48 hours before they touch down.

This collects important details and is used to assist with the continued monitoring of incoming travellers, including those who are subject to isolation orders, and will help inform the Island’s COVID-19 response.

Completing it generates a unique QR code which, along with photographic ID, will be checked on arrival confirming the person is legally allowed to enter the Island.

Any travellers who do not have this code will be refused entry until they can produce a valid QR code by either submitting the relevant entry documents, completing the declaration online or completing a paper copy of the landing form.

Landing forms and applications for travel can all be found on the COVID-19 website where further information and advice is also available.

Travellers that are unable to demonstrate they meet entry requirements could be denied entry to the Isle of Man. Please ensure you complete landing cards before arrival to help reduce delays in onward travel.

App launched to help road users Report a Problem

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 06:00:39 GMT

Reporting a problem on the Island’s roads is now easier to do following the launch of a dedicated app.

The Report a Problem service allows members of the public to report infrastructure and highways-related defects such as potholes, missing signage and faded road markings 24 hours a day, from any location on the Island.

Until recently it has only been available via a specific website address – reportaproblem.im – but is now also available as a downloadable app for use on mobile phones and tablets, via NotifyIM.

Infrastructure Minister Tim Crookall MHK said:

‘Report a Problem provides vital information on a range of matters and enables Highways Services staff to prioritise work and channel the use of resources accordingly throughout the year.

’I’m looking forward to the app enabling more people to report issues around the Island as it allows you to identify the location on a map and take a picture of the problem.’

He added:

‘This is the latest development in delivering digital solutions for the benefit of taxpayers, and follows the relaunch of an improved Roadwatch service last year. Recent projects have also included the launch of interactive maps to find salt bins near you and to identify adopted roads – find them under Infrastructure at gov.im/maps.’

Download the app by searching for NotifyIM in your device’s app directory or follow the links below:

Once downloaded, users must then enter the code IOM to report issues.

UK/EU agreement provides simpler international travel for Island residents

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 10:29:12 GMT

Isle of Man residents are to benefit from a new agreement between the United Kingdom and the European Union linking up their vaccination certification systems. The move means the NHS COVID Pass can now be digitally verified in the EU and a number of other countries, allowing swift and more seamless travel for fully vaccinated individuals.

Residents have been able to download their vaccination certificate online through secure NHS Login, or obtain a paper copy, since the NHS Covid pass was extended to the Isle of Man in August this year.

Most EU countries have accepted the UK’s vaccine certificates, but few have been able to scan them. The new agreement will allow the UK and all EU members states to digitally verify their respective citizens’ vaccination status through a simple scan of the bar code.

The mutually beneficial arrangement uses the EU Digital COVID Certificate (DCC) gateway, and a similar verification agreement provides secure access to non-EU countries linked to the EU DCC gateway including Norway, Switzerland, Israel and Iceland.

The switchover has been completed today, Monday 1 November 2021. Isle of Man residents with a current digital NHS COVID Pass should ensure that they download a fresh PDF of their COVID Pass to generate an up to date QR code. Previous QR codes will not work once the change has been made.

People with a paper copy NHS COVID Pass do not need to apply for a new certificate.

NHS COVID Pass users should refresh digital travel passes they have downloaded to their Apple Wallet to ensure they are compatible when visiting the EU member states and other countries linked to the EU DCC gateway.

In addition to travel, the integration of QR codes will allow citizens streamlined access to venues which require proof of vaccination such as museums, restaurants and public buildings.

Matthew Gould, CEO of NHSx, which is leading the NHS COVID Pass Programme, said:

‘The UK was one of the first countries to launch a digital pass solution, and the NHS COVID Pass is already recognised by over 80 countries and territories across the world. Today’s news will add yet more countries to that list, simplifying international travel for COVID Pass users and enabling digital verification across Europe and beyond.’

Book your connectVILLAGES trip with new MANNgo app

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 10:12:10 GMT

Booking a journey on a connectVILLAGES bus service is now easier following the launch of the MANNgo mobile app.

From today, passengers can download the app which will enable them to book a trip and also track their bus’s movements, both for pick-ups and any changes to arrival times.

In addition to the app, bookings can still be made by calling +44 1624 697440 between 8.30am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday.

The introduction of the MANNgo app will provide an additional booking method and help modernise the service.

Director of Transport Services Ian Longworth said:

‘This app will only enhance the experience for all those who use and value the connectVILLAGES service, and I am grateful to the team and the developer for bringing it forward.’

He added:

‘Once MANNgo is fully embedded with connectVILLAGES, work will continue with the developer in order to improve journey-planning and tracking across our main bus network.’

A promotion is being launched to encourage customers to try the app, with a free trip for those who use MANNgo to book a journey for the first time until the end of November.

Information leaflets on the service and new app are being posted to residents and businesses in the eligible area for connectVILLAGES over the next week. Further information can be also found on the Bus Vannin website

In addition, drop-in sessions are planned to enable the connectVILLAGES team to help people get set up on the app, and for users to provide feedback:

Location	Date and Time
Ramsey Town Hall	Friday 29 October Midday - 2pm	Saturday 30 October 10am - Midday

Anyone who is unable to attend either of the drop-in sessions but requires assistance, can speak to the bus supervisors at Ramsey bus depot or the call centre team on +44 1624 697440, who will be happy to assist.

Users can download the app in the Apple or Google Play stores from today.