Isle of Man Government News

Chief Minister reflects on positive meeting in Peel

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:48 GMT

Chief Minister Allan Bell MHK has welcomed the open exchange of views which took place during Tuesday evening’s community meeting.

More than 150 people attended Peel Centenary Centre to discuss a wide range of issues with members of the Council of Ministers. The event was the second in a series of regional meetings organised as part of the Chief Minister’s commitment to making Government more transparent and accessible to the public.

The Erin Arts Centre will host the next community meeting on Tuesday, October 23, while a further gathering will take place at a venue in the north of the Island early next year.

Mr Bell chaired proceedings in Peel and said he was encouraged by the positive response from local residents.

‘My Ministerial colleagues and I welcome these opportunities to engage directly with the public. The meetings allow for a two-way dialogue; we can explain the Council of Ministers’ position on current issues and also listen to people’s ideas, opinions and concerns.'

Following the Chief Minister’s introduction, Treasury Minister Eddie Teare MHK provided an overview of the Budget and an update on the financial rebalancing programme, before summarising the key recommendations contained in the independent Scope of Government Report. The meeting was then opened up to questions from the audience.

There were lively discussions on a number of topics including the Pinewood Shepperton film proposal, the need for collective responsibility within Government, efforts to diversify the economy, youth unemployment, public sector pension liability, Freedom of Information legislation, workers’ terms and conditions, education and training opportunities, and social care provision. The debate around Government’s partnership with Pinewood sparked particularly robust debate, with the Chief Minister stressing that the Isle of Man needed to take calculated risks in order to grow the economy.

Mr Bell said:

‘The employment problems experienced in the Isle of Man during the 1980s are what led me into politics in the first place. I do not want the Island to slip back to that situation again. We must continue to diversify our economy and create new jobs, and I believe the film proposal will deliver many benefits for the Island. Our move into e-gaming was considered a risk, but that sector is now one of the cornerstones of our economy and one of our biggest employers. I am pleased that the community meetings have been generally well received by the public. They are a genuine attempt to be open and honest, and I think people appreciate what we are trying to achieve. The event in Peel was well attended and I look forward to another good turnout when we visit Port Erin in October.’

Isle of Man hydrogen fuel trial

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:38 GMT

The Department of Economic Development is pleased to announce that Clean tech firm ITM Power carried out a trial using vehicles powered with hydrogen fuel in the Isle of Man during the week of 25 June. The trial was organised by the Department of Infrastructure and allowed the Isle of Man Government to evaluate the performance and economics of powering vehicles with clean hydrogen fuel that is made on site, on the Isle of Man.

The trial on the Island is part of ITM Power’s nationwide Hydrogen On Site Trials (HOST) programme, which was launched in 2011 and funded by the Technology Strategy Board. HOST was supported by 22 partners, and this trial brings the programme to a close. The trial was managed and operated by ITM Power personnel.

The ITM Power transportable high pressure refuelling unit (HFuel) makes hydrogen on site using only water and electricity. The HFuel removes the need for a fuel delivery as the hydrogen is made at the point of use and can refuel vehicles in less than five minutes.

Graham Cooley, CEO of ITM Power, said

'Islands are perfect for demonstrating our HFuel technology, as we can show how hydrogen, a clean fuel, can be made on site using locally generated renewable energy to help reduce the dependency on imported fuel, reduce exposure to fuel price volatility, and importantly increase fuel security. We are delighted to be working with the Department of Infrastructure on the Isle of Man, and are grateful for this exciting opportunity and marvellous location from which to bring ourHOST programme to a completion. Demonstration of HFuel will now progress with our “HFuel Here” initiative for exhibitions and events.'

David Cretney MHK, Minister for the Department of Infrastructure, added:

‘The Isle of Man is continually looking for new ways in which we can further reduce our carbon emissions and theHOST programme gives us the chance to see first-hand how hydrogen will work for the Island. Hopefully we will gain a good insight into the benefits of this technology to enable us to reduce fuel costs. We look forward to working with ITM and discussing the results and opportunities arising from the trial in due course.’

Laurence Skelly MHK, Department of Economic Development with responsibility for Energy Policy commented:

'This is a great opportunity to promote the clean tech sector. The Isle of Man has the opportunity to produce significant quantities of renewable energy which exceed our own requirements and this excess energy is required to be either transported or stored. The Island has already been trialling storage using electric vehicle technology in TT Zero and now we have another option to use hydrogen fuel to assist us in our endeavour to cut costs and become more sustainable in the future.’

Isle of Man registers 500th aircraft

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:36 GMT

The Isle of Man Aircraft Registry has announced the achievement of a significant milestone with the registration late yesterday of its 500th aircraft since its inception on 1 May 2007.

The 500th aircraft registered was a Bombardier Global 5000, registration M-SEAS, which was delivered new from the factory in Montreal Canada.

Minister for Economic Development, John Shimmin MHK, commented:

'I would like to congratulate Hartley Elder and all the team at the Registry on this achievement. The tremendous success of the register is testament to their hard work, high levels of customer service and to the strong relationships they have built with the aviation services industry in the Isle of Man, who in turn have performed a magnificent job in developing this sector.'

'The business-friendly approach offered by the Registry and industry typifies the advantages of the Isle of Man as an International Business Centre and has helped establish the Island as a one stop shop for aviation services.'

Director of Civil Aviation, Hartley Elder, commented:

'The Global 5000 is a wonderful example of the modern ultra long range corporate and VIP business jet, it can typically seat 18 passengers and fly between any two points on the earth with a maximum of one stop for fuel; an invaluable tool for anyone conducting business on an international scale.'

'The Aircraft Register specialises in the registration of Private and Corporate owned business jets; for many of the owners of these jets, this would be their first experience of doing business with the Isle of Man, we hope the ‘first impression’ we create will encourage them to consider doing more business with the islands private sector.'

Political Member with responsibility for the Aircraft Registry, Alex Downie OBE MLC added:

'I never thought the Aircraft Registry would develop as fast as it has so I would like to pass on my warmest congratulations to all the Aircraft Registry staff on reaching this magnificent milestone. Here’s to the next 500!'

Isle of Man College - Brand new way of studying for a degree!

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:28 GMT

A two year Foundation Degree in Health and Society starts this September. This course will get you an FDSc in Health and Society, and also set you up to for one year top-up to the BSc in Public Health. Both the FDSc and BSc are University of Chester degrees delivered wholly on-Island by a highly experienced and professional team.

This course could open up new doors for career opportunities for you in health promotion, lab technology, environmental/food safety, research and so many other routes. It will develop your academic expertise in real-world subjects, and enhance your employability and your confidence.

For more information, contact;

Matthew Mosley

Programme Leader

Telephone:+44 1624 648200

Email:Send Email

Victoria House 'Party' to raise funds for physiotherapy

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:27:05 GMT

The Department of Health has received a generous donation from Victoria House Nursery where staff and children raised £300 for children’s physiotherapy equipment by holding in-house party days, and encouraging the children to deposit their loose change into a money tube on the premises.

The decision to make a donation to Noble’s Hospital’s Physiotherapy Department was made after one of the Nursery’s children was cared for by utilising a specialist piece of equipment called a Hip Spica, which had to be sourced on loan. This equipment immobilises the hips and thighs and is used to facilitate the healing of injured hip joints or femurs (thigh bones). The money will go towards the purchase of a Hip Spica for the Physiotherapy Department, to benefit other young patients who might require similar treatment in the future.

Carolyn Nicholson, Principal and Owner of Victoria House Nursery said:

'I am very pleased to be able to present this donation to the Paediatric Physiotherapy Service at Noble’s Hospital and would like to take the opportunity to thank the Physiotherapy team for all their hard work and care given to one of our children during the recent months. The children had so much fun raising money through the party days and also putting their pennies into the money tube.'

Michelle Breed, Acting Therapies Services Manager said:

'We are so grateful to Victoria House Nursery for raising this money on our behalf. Owning this equipment, rather than having to source it on loan, will make it much easier to provide this type of treatment to our paediatric patients, improving their comfort and also saving the Department valuable time and money.'

Afghanistan and Syrian Sanctions

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:27:57 GMT

The Treasury further advises that Council Implementing Regulation (EU) No. 2012/544/CFSP has added to the list of persons and entities included in Annex II of Council Regulation (EU) No. 36/2012 and therefore subject to financial sanctions, in view of the situation in Syria.

Details of the additions and amendments involved are contained on the attached Annex.

The amended Consolidated Lists of those affected by restrictions under these Regulations may be found on the HM Treasury website. Those on these Lists are also subject to sanctions in the Isle of Man.

Further details of financial sanctions in respect of Afghanistan and Syria may be found on the Customs and Excise website.

For more information contact the Sanctions Officer.

Social Care reaffirms its commitment to the Island's secure unit for children

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:25:58 GMT

The Department of Social Care has been contacted by several media organisations on the Island which have stated they have been contacted by the trade union Unite to voice concerns about changes in the Island’s secure unit for children in Douglas. The secure unit is operated by St Christophers, a private charitable organisation with over 140 years of experience of providing care for vulnerable children and young people. The Department understands the concerns relate to changes in the use of the secure unit, although the Department has not been contacted directly by Unite or any other party on this matter.

The Minister for Social Care Hon Chris Robertshaw MHK said:

'I am pleased to confirm that the secure unit for children remains a key part of our range of care services for vulnerable young people. My Department has been working hard to ensure we deliver effective services to vulnerable people and also maximise value for the taxpayer. As part of this work, we have been working with St Christophers to review all options to do so – we are leaving no stone unturned. Indeed, our analysis to date has included reviewing whether the unit should be closed and facilities in the UK utilised as there have been times in recent years when the unit had one resident or even none at all. We have concluded that the Island needs to retain the secure unit so that we can meet the needs of the small number of vulnerable young who periodically need to be held in secure accommodation for both their own safety and that of others. We have also concluded that there are changes to how we utilise the building that we can make which will both more effectively meet the specific needs of the different young people concerned, particularly those with more complex difficulties. As a result, we have made important improvements, for example 17-year-olds are now accommodated in the secure unit and no longer held with adults in the IOM Prison; this was an important change to meet the Island’s international human rights obligations. At the same time, we have already reduced the annual cost from £1.4m to £1m and are in the process of implementing further improvements which will reduce it further to £0.7m. Further improvements are being developed. I believe practical improvements of this kind are exactly what the public expects Government to be doing. I and my Department are working on many others across the full range of services we provide. I recognise that some of the changes are unsettling for the staff of my Department and the care providers we work with – even when we are only reviewing possible changes. I am committed to working with my staff as part of this process. I understand St Christophers have been engaging with their staff in regard to the specific changes planned in the secure unit. If St Christophers staff or their representatives have specific concerns, I recommend that the best way forward for them is to engage with the management of St Christophers.'

The secure unit currently has 4 bedrooms. Under the revised proposals, the Department will purchase 2 bedrooms which will be available 365 days a year and the remaining 2 for 90 days per year. This exceeds current and historical needs hence is sufficient. In addition, the Department will ‘spot purchase’ additional bed nights if needs require us to do so. In this manner the Department is securing best value for money while retaining operational flexibility, so there is no degradation of service. Indeed, the changes will enable the Department and St Christophers to more closely meet the needs of the young people concerned, particularly those with more complex difficulties.

In addition, the facility will also be a base for new initiatives such as community intervention and educational support with a view to reducing the need for young people to be locked up in the first place. These initiatives will provide wider integrated services to a greater number of young people and further enhance the Departments drive for safe, effective and efficient children’s services.

Isle of Man hosts business delegation from China

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:36 GMT

The Isle of Man has played host to a delegation of leading business people from the London operations of some of China's leading companies.

Representatives from banking, shipping, telecoms, petrochemicals and food were led by Zhou Xiaoming, Minister Counsellor, Economic & Commercial Office, Embassy of the People's Republic of China in London and Mr Yang Schicheng, Chairman, China Enterprises Association in Britain.

The objective of the visit from the Chinese delegation was to better understand the opportunities available for Chinese businesses in the Isle of Man, for example as an ideal gateway to Europe for the increasing numbers of Chinese companies looking to trade and invest there. The visit also provided a chance for Isle of Man companies to discuss investment into China.

The delegation also met with the Lieutenant Governor, the Chief Minister and the Minister for Economic Development as well as meeting, at their request, with leading Isle of Man businesses such as Swagelok, LT Ugland Shipping, ILS and Manx Telecom. The delegation also attended a lunch with members of the Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce.

The Chinese delegation learnt about the advantages of doing business in the Isle of Man establishing banking and manufacturing operations in the Isle of Man, registering ships, buying property and other assets in the UK and using the Isle of Man as a trading hub for Chinese companies exporting to the EU.

Minister for Economic Development, John Shimmin MHK, commented:

'This visit by the Chinese delegation is further evidence of the success of the Department’s country strategy to develop business links with China. There has been a genuine partnership between Government and the private sector via the China Forum and credit is due to all those involved in helping to make this visit such a success.'

Michael Charlton, Director of International Business Development, Department of Economic Development commented:

'This was the first visit of its kind to the Isle of Man and it is highly encouraging that the Chinese delegation had expressed a desire to visit here over other jurisdictions. We have been very proactive over the last year in building relationships with key Chinese Government Ministries, trade bodies and business leaders with three visits from Isle of Man delegations having visited China already and another planned for the Autumn.'

Mr Zhou Xiaoming, Minister Counsellor, Economic & Commercial Office, Embassy of the People's Republic of China in London commented:

'This is my first visit to the Isle of Man and I have been impressed by the diversity of the Island's economy, the range of opportunities available to Chinese business and the warmth of the welcome from our Manx hosts. We see this visit as the beginning of a lasting relationship and very much look forward to working together with the Isle of Man Government and the Island's businesses we have met to mutual advantage.'

Lars Ugland, Owner of LT Ugland Bulk (IOM) Ltd said:

'I was very impressed by the quality of the delegation. I believe this visit by the Chinese offers the Island great possibilities and I am sure we will see some positive results from this visit.'

Chris Eaton, Chief Executive, ILS Group Ltd said:

'I found everyone I spoke to interested in the opportunities that the Isle of Man had to offer. I was particularly struck at the balance of the delegation – there were Chinese Government representatives, leading figures from major Chinese State-owned businesses and others who act as advisers to Chinese businesses looking to establish an international presence for the first time.'

Syria Sanctions

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:28:19 GMT

The Treasury advises that on the 21 June 2012 the European Union (Syria Sanctions) (Application) (Amendment) (No. 2) Order 2012 applied Council Regulation (EU) No. 509/2012 in the Island.

The effect of the application of the Council Regulation is to extend sanctions measures in respect of Syria to include a prohibition or prior authorisation requirement on the sale, supply, transfer or export of goods and technology which might be used for internal repression, and a ban on exports of luxury goods. Technical and financial assistance linked to military equipment or goods or technology that may be used for internal repression is also subject to measures contained in the Council Regulation.

Sanctions Notice 38 will be updated and will be available on the Customs and Excise website.

For more information contact the Sanctions Officer

Iran Sanctions - Export Control (Iran Sanctions) Order 2012

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:28:19 GMT

The Treasury advises that the above Order is applied in Island law and takes effect from 1 July 2012.

The Order is concerned with EU sanctions imposed against Iran, and includes offences and penalties for contravening those sanctions contained in Council Regulation (EU) No. 267/2012.

The prohibitions involved include one on involvement in the trade in certain goods, and related technical, financial and brokering services. The goods include military equipment, equipment that can be used for internal repression, telecommunications monitoring equipment, equipment and technology for the oil and gas sector, banknotes and coinage, gold, precious metals and diamonds.

The Order is also concerned with the ban on the trade in Iranian oil from 1 July, as well as a ban on involvement in certain infrastructure projects.

For more information contact the Sanctions Officer.

Public views sought on bribery legislation

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:48 GMT

Public views are being sought on plans to strengthen the Isle of Man’s legislation to combat bribery.

The proposed introduction of the Bribery Bill 2012 will bring the Isle of Man further into line with evolving international standards and ensure there are no obstacles in the way of Manx businesses trading with other jurisdictions, particularly the UK. People are being invited to submit their views about the draft Bill, which is intended to replace the Corruption Act 2008, during a public consultation starting today (Monday, June 25).

The Bribery Bill 2012 is being progressed by the Department of Home Affairs which is seeking the views of Members of Tynwald, local authorities, businesses and the public over a six-week period concluding on August 7.

Minister Juan Watterson MHK said:

‘Government is committed to promoting the Isle of Man as an open, transparent and well-regulated jurisdiction and to enhancing its standing in the global community. Measures against bribery are a significant factor in a country’s international reputation, so it is important to ensure the Island’s legislation meets current standards. The Isle of Man has a strong track record of complying with best practice, and the proposed legislation will ensure we are keeping pace with changes in international standards. It will also assist the local economy by ensuring that businesses in the Island are operating under similar law to their trading partners and therefore should not run into any difficulties around compliance.’

The main difference between the proposed Bill and the Island’s existing legislation is the introduction of a new offence. This will make a commercial enterprise liable to be prosecuted for failing to prevent bribery if a person associated with it commits a bribery offence anywhere in the world for the benefit of that organisation.

Views about the draft Bill, which is based on the UK Bribery Act 2010, can be submitted to the Legislation Manager, Department of Home Affairs, 88 Woodbourne Road, Douglas, IM2 3AP, or by emailing dhaconsulation@gov.im

Further details about the consultation can be accessed via the Government website here

Chief Minister looking forward to lively public debate

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:48 GMT

Chief Minister Allan Bell MHK says he is looking forward to a lively public debate during tomorrow evening’s (Tuesday, June 26) community meeting at Peel Centenary Centre.

The event, which starts at 7.30pm, will provide an opportunity for local residents to engage with Government Ministers on matters of national importance. One of the areas for discussion will be the independent review of the Scope of Government which looks at how public services are delivered and whether some could be placed outside mainstream government. There will also be an open question and answer session where members of the public can ask Ministers about key issues and challenges facing the Isle of Man.

The Chief Minister, who will chair the meeting, said:

‘I hope members of the public will take this opportunity to express their views on a range of subjects. In particular, I am looking to gather feedback about the report into the Scope of Government in the Isle of Man. The June sitting of Tynwald provided Members with an opportunity to voice their initial opinions on the acceptability or otherwise of the proposals from the independent review team. I am now looking forward to hearing the views of the audience in Peel as part of a wide-ranging public debate.’

The community meeting at Peel Centenary Centre is free and open to all members of the public. There is a limit on the number of people the venue can accommodate and seats will be allocated on a first-come first-served basis. No bookings will be taken.

The Scope of Government Reports can be viewed on the Government website here

OECD report places Isle of Man at forefront of international standards of best practice

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:47 GMT

The Isle of Man’s position at the forefront of international standards of best practice has been reaffirmed by a new report from the global body reviewing tax transparency.

The OECD Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes presented its 2012 Progress Report to a meeting of the G20 counties in Los Cabos, Mexico. The Isle of Man is highlighted as one of only 12 reviewed countries found to have all elements of effective tax information exchange in place. This places the Isle of Man alongside Australia, China, France, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Malta, Norway, Qatar, and the Seychelles.

The report is based on the peer review programme which conducted a rigorous assessment of the Isle of Man’s legal and regulatory framework and practical implementation of standards of exchange of information for tax purposes.

Chief Minister Allan Bell MHK welcomed the OECD report saying:

‘The Isle of Man has a long track record of complying with international standards and I’m pleased that our efforts to develop an effective regulatory framework for information exchange have been recognised. The Isle of Man has led the way in terms of putting in place tax co-operation agreements with its partners around the world, signing 5 Double Taxation Agreements and 25 Tax Information Exchange Agreements to date. Government remains committed to promoting the Island as an open, transparent and well-regulated jurisdiction and to enhancing its standing in the global community.’

May Airport passenger figures match 2011 levels

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:35 GMT

Passenger traffic passing through the Isle of Man Airport during May virtually matched 2011 levels with 58,915 passengers using the airport, just 35 fewer than in May 2011. Whilst this is the second consecutive month that there has been a small decline, this did not come as a surprise given that for almost the whole month, the popular London City route was not operated, nor was the Southampton service. It was only from 28 May that British Airways started their new service on the London City route with a single daily flight and this will be increased to the full three daily service from 25 June.

Last year nearly 4,000 passengers flew on the London City route and, when it became unavailable, many opted to transfer to Flybe’s Gatwick service last month. As a result the Gatwick passenger numbers were up by 33% with flights averaging 77% full for the month. The launch of the daily Oxford service on behalf of Manx2.com on 8 May also helped to relieve the shortage of capacity to the South East, and flights on this new route were an impressive two thirds full for the first three weeks of operation. The combined affect has meant that South East Traffic actually fell by only 54 passengers during the month.

Ann Reynolds, Airport Director, recognised that May was a month where substantial route changes were bound to affect passenger numbers.

'We are actually very comfortable to again be essentially matching the 2011 passenger traffic levels'

she admitted.

'The lack of the Southampton route, London City service cut, together with other South East service reductions, have effectively meant that well over 5,600 passengers have either been unable to fly or have had to find other air services to use. However, with 3,500 more flying from Gatwick, 580 taking advantage of the new Oxford route, and 200 hopping onto the new British Airways service to City Airport when it started at the end of the month, this shortfall has been reduced considerably.'

Despite the introduction of the Oxford route, both Gloucester and Bristol numbers increased, but the loss of the Southampton route hit South and Southwest totals hard with numbers down 1,250, many again electing to transfer to the Gatwick or Oxford routes. The first flight from Anglesey for the summer was virtually full and the new Norwich service also started on 26 May.

Again the Northwest dominated the increase in traffic with over 1,850 more passengers using the Manchester and Liverpool routes. Liverpool saw a 12.7% increase with easyJet up by a third and Flybe also seeing an increase. Charter numbers were significantly down, this being due to many of the first departures to the Mediterranean departing in the first week of June rather than the end of May, so June charter figures should reflect this positively. Indeed, overall, IOM scheduled traffic saw a slight increase of 159 passengers over May 2011.

Departmental Member for Ports, David Callister MLC, is optimistic about the performance of the Airport passenger traffic as the year progresses.

'Whilst I recognize that the new services – including the British Airways London City route – will take a little time to grow to their full potential and the next few months will reflect that, the signs are that people are still anxious to make the air trip and this is encouraging,'

he said.

'I am therefore optimistic that we will see a gradual improvement in passenger numbers during 2012, particularly towards the end of the year.'

Partnership consultation on draft Carers' Charter

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:25:58 GMT

The Department of Social Care in partnership with Crossroads Care, the Council of Voluntary Organisations, the Department of Health, the Department of Education and Children and Manx Cancer Help are launching a public consultation on a draft Carers’ Charter.

The Charter is intended to create a framework for developing appropriate support for carers on a partnership basis across the public, private and third sectors. It also includes clear actions which, working together, the partnership will implement in order to improve outcomes for carers.

The partnership is seeking views from carers and the wider public on the actions and in particular:

Are the principles of the Charter right?
Are the key actions we are recommending within each principle the right ones?
Are there any further actions we should consider?

The Minister for Social Care Hon Chris Robertshaw MHK said:

'If we were truly honest with ourselves we would say that this Charter is long overdue – so it is really good to see it coming to fruition. This will help us all focus more on the vital role carers play in our society.'

Crossroads Chief Executive Jackie Betteridge said:

'We are delighted that we have a charter that not only recognises carers but will also improve outcomes for carers. As it is likely that three in every five people on the Island will become a carer at some point in their life, it is important that as many people as possible take part in the consultation. This Charter could have a profound effect on all our lives at some point in the future. Support for those of us looking after our husbands, wives, parents, children or friends can improve carer health and welfare, reduce the stresses on families and improve community well-being. Working together for the benefit of those most vulnerable in the community is a priority for the third sector as is the importance of engaging with the private and public sector. The Charter is a welcome step in the right direction and an important milestone in our drive to recognise and support carers.'

The partnership wants to hear views from both carers themselves and the general public. In order to take into account summer holidays the consultation will run until Friday 21 September 2012.

Electronic copies of the consultation and further information about the proposals are available on http://old.gov.im/socialcare/services/adults/carers.xml or www.crossroadsiom.org. Paper copies of the consultation document can be collected from:

Crossroads Care Isle of Man Carers’ Centre, 35/36 Derby Square, Douglas, IM1 3LW or
The Department of Social Care, Markwell House, Market Street, Douglas, IM1 2RZ or
The Tynwald Library, Legislative Buildings, Finch Road, Douglas, IM1 3PW
or by ringing Crossroads Care on +44 1624 673103 or the Department of Social Care on 686208.

Stakeholder meetings will also be held to give people the chance to contribute views directly.

Dates will be advertised on the above websites shortly. Comments should be submitted to either of the following:

Carers’ Charter Consultation Department of Social Care 3rd Floor Markwell House, Market Street, Douglas IMI 2RZ, Telephone: +44 1624 686208 Email: carerscharterconsultation.dsc@gov.im

Crossroads Care Isle of Man Carers’ Centre 35/36 Derby Square Douglas IM1 3LW, Telephone: +44 1624 673103 Email: mail@crossroadsiom.org

Chief Minister leads Isle of Man delegation at BIC Summit

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:47 GMT

Chief Minister Allan Bell MHK has today (Friday, June 22) led a senior delegation from the Isle of Man Government attending the 18th British-Irish Council Summit in Scotland.

Mr Bell and Phil Gawne MHK, Minister for the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture, took part in top-level discussions on a range of issues, including the state of the economy, efforts to stimulate youth employment, and developments in marine energy technologies.

The BIC, established under the terms of the Good Friday peace agreement, is the only international forum comprising the governments of the UK, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey. It plays an important role in developing positive links between member countries and provides a platform for consultation and co-operation on matters of mutual interest.

The Isle of Man Ministers were accompanied by Will Greenhow, Chief Secretary, Della Fletcher, Director of External Relations, and Dr Ken Milne, the Isle of Man’s Senior Manager for Energy Policy.

As well as contributing to the Summit’s main agenda at Stirling Castle, the Chief Minister took the opportunity to hold one-to-one discussions with Irish Taoiseach Enda Kenny, and Scotland’s First Minister Alex Salmond. Mr Bell also held talks with Michael Moore MP, the UK’s Secretary of State for Scotland, Ed Davey MP, UK Secretary of State for Energy, and his political counterparts from Jersey and Guernsey.

Mr Bell said:

‘The British-Irish Council has always been a valuable forum for the Isle of Man, allowing us to take our place alongside the governments of our neighbouring islands and discuss common challenges at the highest level. It affords us the respect and recognition we need to further enhance the Island’s international identity, and provides an opportunity to reaffirm our economic value to our closest trading partners. The additional value of attending events such as the BIC Summit lies in the side meetings where we can strengthen personal relationships with the leaders of other countries and highlight the Isle of Man’s position on specific issues.’

The Chief Minister and Minister Gawne took their place alongside senior politicians from other sovereign governments, devolved administrations and crown dependencies, joining delegations headed by First Minister Alex Salmond (Scotland), Secretary of State for Scotland Michael Moore MP (UK), Taoiseach Enda Kenny (Ireland), First Minister Peter Robinson and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness (Northern Ireland), First Minister Carwyn Jones (Wales), Chief Minister Ian Gorst (Jersey) and Chief Minister Peter Harwood (Guernsey).

In addition to assessing the current economic situation and how governments are working to rebalance their finances, the Summit also discussed strategies to combat youth unemployment, and activities to support the development and deployment of marine energy technologies.

Minister Gawne said:

‘Maximising the potential of wind, wave and tidal power remains an important element of the Isle of Man Government’s renewable energy strategy. Our central location in the Irish Sea opens up exciting possibilities and we are committed to working alongside other BIC countries towards the cost-effective development of natural energy resources.’

The official communiqué from the 18th BIC Summit can be found here

'Legal High' Methoxetamine to be banned in the Isle of Man from 1 July 2012

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:27:04 GMT

Tynwald has voted in favour of making Methoxetamine (known as mexxy) a controlled substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1976. The move, which came during its June sitting, will see the substance effectively classified as a Class C drug, with the ban coming into force on Sunday, 1 July 2012.

Minister for Health, David Anderson MHK said:

'As last year’s tragic death from the separate ‘legal high’ MDAI demonstrated, these substances need to be taken extremely seriously. I hope this move will send a strong signal that taking these substances is very dangerous indeed. This legislation is in place to protect the public and I hope that by making this move and raising awareness, we can prevent the very sad circumstances where serious harm can arise as a result of using ‘legal highs’ for recreational drug use.'

The move follows similar measures in the UK, which saw the drug become a controlled substance as of 5th April 2012, however the ban in the UK was not automatically applied in the Isle of Man. The ban is temporary, having been supported by the Isle of Man Advisory Council for the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD), which is now awaiting the outcome of an investigation into Methoxetamine by the UK’s ACMD, ordered earlier this year by the UK’s Home Office. The Chair of the Island’s ACMD attends the UK ACMD meetings, which means that the Department of Health is kept fully updated on the progress of this work.

Those who want more information or advice about legal highs and other drugs can contact:

DASH Isle of Man - Drug Advice Service and Helpline

Telephone:+44 1624 615622

Website:http://www.drugs.org.im

Email:Send Email

or they can visit the Crash Test Tim website at www.crashtest.im; both services are confidential.

Sanctions - Iran

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:28:19 GMT

This is to advise persons and businesses that on 19 June 2012 the European Union (Iran Sanctions) (Human Rights) Order 2012 came into operation. This Order applies the following EU instruments in the Island -

Council Regulation (EU) No. 359/2011;
Council Implementing Regulation (EU) No. 1002/2011; and
Council Regulation (EU) No. 264/2012.

These instruments involve sanctions measures to reflect concerns about human rights abuses in Iran, and include additional persons and entities subject to sanctions measures including an asset freeze.

Persons and businesses in the Island are also advised that following the coming into operation of the above Order, Island sanctions law concerning Iran now correspondes to that in force in the UK, that the lists of persons and entities affected by those sanctions correspond to the lists found on the HM Treasury website, and that any future changes to those lists will apply automatically in the Island.

An updated version of Sanctions Notice 24 (Iran) will be made available on the Customs and Excise website.

Also available on the website are amended versions of Forms CEM 62 MAN and CEM 63 MAN used for notifying transfers of funds to or from Iran or an Iranian person or for seeking prior authorisation for such a transfer. Please note that the definition of an "Iranian person" for these purposes has changed, and it is now -

the State of Iran or any public authority thereof;
any natural person in, or resident in, Iran;
any legal person, entity or body having its registered office in Iran; and
any legal person, entity or body, inside or outside Iran, owned or controlled directly or indirectly by one or more of the above mentioned persons or bodies.

For further information contact the Sanctions Officer.

Sanctions - Republic of Guinea-Bissau

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:28:19 GMT

On 19 June 2012 the European Union (Guinea-Bissau Sanctions) Order 2012 came into operation and applied Council Regulation (EU) No. 377/2012 in the Island. As a result, from that date the restrictions imposed by the Regulation have effect in the Isle of Man.

The applied Regulation targeted persons engaging in, or providing support for, acts that threaten the peace, security or stability of Guinea-Bissau and persons associated with them, following a military coup in that country.

The Regulation included an asset freeze against listed persons and entities, details of whom can be found on the HM Treasury website.

The Order included an amendment to Article 11 of the Regulation with the effect that changes made to the lists of those affected by the sanctions measures by the EU should have immediate effect in the Island without the need for any further application order. Therefore any accounts, funds or economic resources held in the Island by, for or on behalf of any listed person or entity should be frozen and details provided to the Sanctions Officer.

A new Sanctions Notice 40 (Guinea-Bissau) will be available on the Customs and Excise website.

For more information contact the Sanctions Officer.

Sanctions - Syria

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:28:19 GMT

This is to advise persons and businesses in the Island that on 19 June 2012 the European Union (Syria Sanctions) (Application) (Amendment) Order 2012 had the effect of applying in Island law Council Regulation (EU) No. 168/2012, which applied earlier Regulation (EU) No. 36/2012 and which modified the sanctions measures imposed in respect of Syria.

The new Regulation -

introduced prohibitions on the sale etc to, or purchase etc, from the Government of Syria, its Central Bank, persons and entities in Syria (or anyone acting for, or on behalf of, any of these), of gold, precious metals and diamonds;
a prohibition on involvement in providing technical assistance, brokering services, financing or financial assistance in connection with the above; and
a limited exemption for certain transfers to or through the Central Bank of Syria of funds or economic resources.

An updated version of Sanctions Notice 38 (Syria) is available on the Customs and Excise website.

Persons and businesses in the Island are also reminded that changes to the lists of those persons and entities affected by the asset freeze in Annex II to Council Regulation (EU) No. 36/2012 also apply in the Island from the date the change occurs. The current consolidated list of those affected may be found on the HM Treasury website.

You are also advised that on 17 June 2012 Council Regulation (EC) No. 509/2012 came into effect. This Regulation supplemented existing export licensing controls (see Notice 279 MAN for more information on such controls) with a prohibition on -

the sale, supply, transfer or export, directly or indirectly, to Syria of certain dual-use items already listed (and therefore subject to control in the EU and the Isle of Man) in Council Regulation (EC) No. 428/2009 on export control of dual-use items, along with an additional list of chemicals; and
the sale, supply, transfer or export, directly or indirectly, of listed luxury goods.

The Regulation also imposed licensing (prior authorisation) requirements for the sale, supply, transfer or export, directly or indirectly, of further dual-use items that may be used for internal repression.

Export and trade control licensing in the Isle of Man (detailed in Notice 279 MAN) would take into account these new prohibitions and restrictions.

A copy of Notice 279 MAN can be found on the Customs and Excise website.

For more information contact the Sanctions Officer.