Isle of Man Government News

The Way Forward for Sustainable Public Housing

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:25:56 GMT

A meeting took place on Tuesday this week to launch the five key pieces of work which will inform new Housing policy development.

Housing Need- to identify future needs
Older Persons Housing- looking at provision of suitable accommodation for an aging population
Procurement- looking to reduce costs associated with construction and repairs and maintenance
Affordable Housing Options - helping first time buyers and those outside the public sector to access decent accommodation
Option Appraisal for a unified Housing body - developing a cost effective and consistent quality service across the Island to meet increasing need

With attendance from all but two of the 17 Housing Authorities, this was the first in a series of meetings and associated project work to be held over the next few months.

It gives Housing Authority officers the opportunity to be involved in the detailed work required to deliver a modern, good value Public Housing service for the tax payer and communities of the Isle of Man.

The Minister for Social Care Hon Chris Robertshaw MHK said:

“I cannot stress enough, how important it is that all public sector housing providers work together to develop a robust housing service. And by robust, I mean one which delivers good value, equitable access and excellent services to meet our Island’s changing housing needs.

This is not about bringing all Public Sector Housing into Government. This is about the housing professionals and specialists across the Authorities, including the Housing Division within my Department, working together at a strategic level, putting aside local differences, to share their ideas, information and potential proposals to determine the best possible way of delivering a financially sustainable Island wide Housing Service.

It is pleasing to see that the Authorities will have the opportunity to use their local knowledge, expertise and experience to shape major policy changes for the Housing Sector, and I am confident this will mean the policies which do come forward will deliver a better outcome for all involved.”

Markwell House
Market Street
Douglas
Isle of Man
IM1 2RZ

Telephone:+44 1624 686202

Email:Send Email

Island leads on Award popularity

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:29:05 GMT

Figures for April 2011 to March 2012 for the North West, just published by the Award in its annual review, show that 2.47 per cent of the 14 to 25 year olds living locally were taking part – higher than anywhere else in the region.

The Department of Education and Children is licensed to offer the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award on the Isle of Man.

Young people complete activities under the headings of volunteering, skills, physical, expedition and residential, explained Alison Gawne, of the DEC's Youth Service, who co-ordinates it.

At any one time, there are more than 800 young people in the Island working towards bronze, silver and gold Awards through all six secondary schools, six voluntary youth organisations, two youth centres and one outdoor activity provider.

Participants take part in regular activities and commit themselves to a minimum timescale of between three and 18 months depending on which Award they are taking part in – and learn a lot about themselves along the way.

The North West statistics also show that the Island is fifth of 23 centres when it comes to young people completing the Award. On the Isle of Man nearly 60 per cent of those who start DofE finish their Award, which is 20 per cent higher than the national average. This may be down to the Island being a close community where Unit Leaders meet regularly with participants and the Award Coordinator can easily communicate with all those involved.

In the year in question, nearly 200 young people gained an Award, which is the highest number to date.

Announcing the launch of the Award in 1956, Buckingham Palace said it wanted to encourage the young citizens of tomorrow by helping them to ‘achieve a balanced development of their character’. The Duke of Edinburgh remains a patron of the Award, introduced in the Island three years after its inception.

To find out more about the Award in the Isle of Man, contact Ms Gawne on 01624 686051 or click here.

Photo: From left, Victoria Garner, Catreena Moore, Clare Harris and Annie Lennon, who are undertaking (or, in Clare’s case, have completed) their bronze Award

Department of Education, Sport and Culture

Corporate Services Division

Thie Slieau Whallian

St John's

Isle of Man

IM4 3AS

Telephone:+44 1624 685808

Email:Send Email

Social Care Minister stands by engagement of ATOS Healthcare

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:25:56 GMT

Generally speaking, the new 'Personal Capability Assessment' or 'PCA' applies to people who have been claiming incapacity benefits for at least 28 weeks. However, it applies to certain people from the outset of their claim, for example the unemployed.

Some concern has been expressed in a number of forums about the Department’s engagement of Atos Healthcare to conduct face to face assessments, as part of the PCA process. Responding to those concerns, Minister for Social Care, Hon Chris Robertshaw MHK said:

'I have been extremely impressed by the professionalism of the Atos Healthcare doctors who are conducting the face to face assessments for my Department. These doctors are eminently qualified to perform the work they have been engaged to do. Both have a diploma in Disability Assessment Medicine and are Mental Function Champions within Atos Healthcare. They have been specially trained to conduct work capability assessments and are approved for that purpose by the Department for Work and Pensions Chief Medical Adviser.

Minister Robertshaw went on to say:

'We are now three-quarters of the way through the 6-month pilot exercise. Of those invited to undertake an assessment 31% signed-off incapacity benefit prior to any assessment being undertaken. The outcomes following face to face assessments to date are proportionately very similar to those in the UK, with 54% of those assessed being found capable of doing some form of work and 46% being found incapable of work. 50 claimants have received a formal decision that they have been found capable of work and not one of them has appealed against that decision. I think that is clear evidence that claimants are generally satisfied with the PCA process.

He added:

'There is a body of evidence that people are better off in work than out of work, not only financially but in terms of their health and well-being, their self-esteem and the future prospects for themselves and their family. People who are long-term unemployed or have never worked are up to three times more likely to be in poor health than those in work. Leaving a person on long-term incapacity benefits without examining whether they might be capable of doing some form of work would be wholly irresponsible of this Government. It would have adverse consequences both for the person claiming benefit and their families, as well as for the economy of the Isle of Man.'

A presentation about the PCA process will be given to Members of Tynwald on 5th December.

Markwell House

Market Street

Douglas

Isle of Man

IM1 2RZ

Telephone:+44 1624 686202

Email:Send Email

Isle of Man thanked for supporting relief efforts in Syria

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:29:05 GMT

The Overseas Aid Committee of the Council of Ministers recently donated £10,000 to the British Red Cross to assist the charity’s disaster management operations in the country. Violence has spread across Syria over the past year, with hundreds of people being killed or injured and tens of thousands more displaced from their homes.

Volunteers acting on behalf of the Red Cross Syria Crisis appeal are working alongside other aid agencies, such as Syrian Arab Red Crescent, to offer life-saving support in the worst affected areas. They continue to distribute emergency health care, food and relief items to people in need and provide crucial first aid and ambulance services to the wounded and sick. The Isle of Man’s contribution to the international relief effort has been praised by the organisations working at the front line.

Domitille Quillien, Senior Trust and Statutory Fundraiser at the British Red Cross, said:

‘I wish to thank the Isle of Man Overseas Aid Committee for its generous donation of £10,000 towards the Red Cross Syria Crisis appeal. Your valuable support has allowed us to continue delivering essential aid and relief even under precarious conditions. We have dramatically scaled up our response to meet the increasing humanitarian needs, providing medical care and supplies, water, food, blankets, sleeping mats, candles, baby milk and hygiene items, and evacuating wounded people to hospitals. It is only with the support of donors like you that we are able to respond to this humanitarian crisis – we cannot thank you enough.’

Latest statistics indicate that 1.5 million people are now affected by the unrest in Syria, with an increasing number of people being forced towards rural areas where availability of food is a major concern and communications are limited or not functioning.

Phil Gawne MHK, Chairman of the Overseas Aid Committee, said:

‘The British Red Cross and other charities are doing a fantastic job in Syria, often in extremely hazardous circumstances. I am pleased that the Isle of Man’s modest contribution, combined with the efforts of the international community, is helping to make a genuine difference to the victims of the unrest and violence in the country.’

Cabinet Office

Third Floor
Government Office
Bucks Road
Douglas
IM1 3PN

Telephone:+44 1624 685711

Email:Send Email

Isle of Man to offer accredited qualification in e-Gaming

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:39 GMT

The Department of Economic Development, in conjunction with the Isle of Man College of Further and Higher Education, has announced that an accredited qualification in e-Gaming will be launched in January 2013. It is to be delivered through a work based higher education framework (WBIS) validated through the University of Chester.

The qualification has come about as a result of close collaboration between the public and private sectors. Representatives of the e-Gaming sector were consulted during the development phase which was subsequently accredited by the University of Chester.

It is believed that the Isle of Man’s course is the world’s first accredited qualification in e-Gaming and it will be delivered as a postgraduate level qualification, available from January 2013. It is planned that it will be offered at undergraduate level in due course.

Alex Downie OBE, MLC, Political Member for e-Gaming, Isle of Man Government Department of Economic Development commented:

'The development of this qualification is supportive of the e-Gaming strategy by helping to ensure that companies operating in the sector have access to a good pool of appropriately skilled labour. The Department is determined to build on the Island’s reputation as a centre of excellence for e-Gaming and we aim to achieve this by being at the forefront of developing new initiatives and innovation.'

'e-Gaming continues to make a significant contribution to our economy. The 2012 Manx e-Gaming Association (MEGA) survey estimated that there are 688 people employed in the sector and that the industry contributes some £164m a year to the Manx Exchequer.'

Tim Craine, Head of e-Gaming and Technology, said:

'The industry has made it clear that there is a need for formal qualifications in e-Gaming and the courses can only help drive further success in the sector. '

'The sector is still growing rapidly with the number of licence holders currently standing at 46. This growth is testimony not only to the drive of the Government in helping new businesses to thrive but also to the robust regulatory framework we have in place.'

Joanne Richardson, Assistant Principal, Quality and Communication, Isle of Man College of Further and Higher Education, said:

'The College of Further and Higher Education is committed to developing bespoke provision that supports employers and their businesses. The flexible framework of the University of Chester WBIS provision allows such developments as well as ensuring that the qualifications retain the high quality standards that are expected at Postgraduate Study.'

'We are looking forward to supporting the e-Gaming curriculum and believe that this is an exciting time in Education on the Island.'

Gail Corrin, WBIS Programme Leader, Isle of Man College of Further and Higher Education, said:

'Responsible professional people can and should learn from their work. Learning through real world experience integrated with relevant additional study is a powerful way to learn and is exactly how the Work Based & Integrative Studies (WBIS) higher education programme works. The skills and knowledge required to be effective in e-Gaming are wide ranging, and they develop as the sector develops. An e-Gaming qualification needs to be able to adapt at the same pace and the work base focus of WBIS allows for this.'

'The Isle of Man College of Further & Higher Education is keen to provide educational opportunities that are of value to all sectors of the economy and e-Gaming is an increasingly important sector on the Island. Qualifications serve to both promote and protect e-Gaming and the Island’s reputation. A particularly exciting aspect of offering this e-Gaming qualification will be role that local experts play in contributing to course content and lectures.'

Terrorism and terrorist financing

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:29:05 GMT

This news release is to notify that the Treasury hereby renews the final designation in respect of the person named below with effect from 26 November 2012. The named person therefore remains a 'designated person' for the purpose of the Terrorist Asset-Freezing Etc Act 2010 (as it has effect in the Island) and that thus the prohibitions in sections 11 to 15 of that Act continue to apply.

Individual

Date of renewal of final designation- 26 November 2012

ABDULLAH, Bilal, Talal, Abdul, Samad

a.k.a.: ABDULLA, Bilal

DOB:

24/08/1979
27/08/1979

Nationality: British Passport Details: 702172116 (British). Issued 19 Aug 1998

Address:

Paisley, United Kingdom (previous address), PA2.
Houston, United Kingdom (previous address), PA6.
Greenock, United Kingdom (previous address), PA16.
Cambridge, United Kingdom (previous address), CB4.
Cambridge, United Kingdom (previous address), CB2.
Cambridge, United Kingdom (previous address), CB1.

Other Information: UK listing only. Male. Sentenced to 2 terms of life imprisonment in December 2008. In custody in the UK (as at Nov 2012).

Group ID: 9149

Relevant institutions and other persons should check whether they maintain any accounts or otherwise hold any funds or economic resources for, or provide financial services to, the person named in the Annex and, if so, they must freeze any accounts or other funds, refrain from dealing with any funds or economic resources or making them available to that person and suspend the provision of any financial services to him.

Any reports concerning accounts, funds, economic resources or financial services held by or for, provided to, or involving the person named above should be submitted to the Sanctions Officer at:

Customs and Excise Division

P.O. Box 6

Custom House

North Quay

Douglas

Isle of Man

IM99 1AG

Telephone:+44 1624 648100

Email:Send Email

First in series of Tri-Island Health Conferences held in Jersey

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:29:06 GMT

The Minister for Health, Hon David Anderson MHK, and Chief Executive of the Department of Health, David Killip, have returned from a trip to Jersey, where the first in a series of Tri-Island Conferences on healthcare was held.

The conference saw the Ministers and Chief Officers responsible for healthcare in the Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey meet to discuss areas of common interest to the 3 Crown Dependencies.

Minister for Health, Hon David Anderson MHK said:

'The inaugural conference was extremely valuable. As relatively small jurisdictions, there are many areas of common interest between the Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey. As you’d expect, all 3 Islands are facing similar challenges – increasing demand for healthcare and constrained financial resources. Areas of particular interest for joint-working and co-operation are legislation, public health, regulation and benchmarking. As small communities with independent legislatures, the policymaking process can at times be complex, time consuming, and costly. Given our common interests, challenges and goals, there is certainly scope to work together in these areas – such as advancing legislation for recouping costs from Road Traffic Accidents, dealing with capacity in mental health services, and updating medicines law, which all 3 Islands are currently working on independently. Increased co-operation and joint working will mean that resources can be shared, better consistency achieved, and both time and money saved.'

As small Island communities all 3 jurisdictions face many unique challenges, such as having the ‘critical mass’ of cases to warrant certain specialists being based at each Island’s main hospital at a time when medicine is seeing increasing specialisation and a move away from generalisation. In the sphere of Public Health, tackling substance misuse is a challenge faced on all 3 Islands, and a close working relationship already exists between the Crown Dependencies. The conference also saw discussion on performance management and the prospect for each Island to benchmark itself against the other Crown Dependencies whilst also examining means to share resources in terms of regulation and independent review.

Chief Executive of the Department of Health, David Killip, said:

'It’s very easy for the Isle of Man to find itself making comparisons between services available locally and those in the UK. Whilst this is quite right and proper in many instances, our colleagues in Jersey and Guernsey – as the only other Crown Dependencies – represent a more realistic base for comparison. All 3 jurisdictions are geographically separated from the UK, based on small Islands, with modest populations, and enjoy separate and distinct legal and parliamentary systems and governments. Whilst there are of course differences and each Island is unique, there is clearly great scope in addressing common challenges together. Of particular interest is the possibility of benchmarking services against one another, and working on joint regulation and inspection to enable more objective and independent reviews that have a better understanding of the issues facing small jurisdictions.'

It is envisioned that the Tri-Island Conference will become a regular forum to ensure momentum. The next meeting has been tentatively agreed for February 2013.

The attendees were:

Isle of Man:

Minister for Health - Hon David Anderson MHK
Chief Executive for the Department of Health - David Killip.

Jersey:

Minister for Health and Social Services - Deputy Anne Pryke
Chief Executive for Health and Social Services - Julie Garbutt.

Guernsey:

Minister for Health and Social Services - Deputy Hunter Adam
Chief Officer for Health and Social Services - Mark Cooke.

Trend of reduced air passenger numbers continues

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:33 GMT

The October figures for the Isle of Man Airport again showed a decrease in passenger numbers, albeit a reduced deficit compared with the previous four months. Around 61,800 passengers passed through the terminal in October, 1,300 fewer than in October 2011, a decrease of 2%. The latest monthly figures underlined a worrying trend where, decreases have been seen for each of the last seven months, with over 13,300 fewer passengers using the Airport compared with April to October 2011.

The October figures were particularly disappointing as the London market overall responded positively with some 3,750 more passengers flying between the Island and the Capital, an increase of 22% stimulated by the inauguration of the easyJet service to Gatwick, continued improved performance of the BA London City route and the new daily Manx2.com service to London (Oxford). This was overshadowed by a substantial fall in air travellers between the Island and North West England, almost 2,600 fewer than in October 2011, and the absence of the Southampton route which generated 1,360 passengers in October last year. Most other routes also experienced shortfalls with Belfast, Edinburgh, Jersey, Leeds, Liverpool and Newcastle all experiencing double digit percentage decreases.

As Ann Reynolds, Airport Director explained, the weather was again responsible for the cancellation of a number of flights due to fog in the UK, but does not detract from the continued poor response of the Island’s air travel market, fuelled by the ‘double dip’ recession affecting UK domestic air travel.

'We may have lost around 500 to 800 passengers as a result of flight cancellations during the month, but in all honestly, we were expecting a small increase of some 1.5%,'

she said.

'Whereas a 2% decrease is not dramatic, it is the continued trend of falling short of traffic expectation that is of concern. In October, even taking into account the reduction in numbers due to the weather, we were about 2.6% short of expectation. This really reflects the massive impact that the UK economy is having upon domestic air services in general and the UK/IOM market in particular.'

'Our concern is the quite sudden dip in the North West air travel market,'

Ann continued.

'The last three months has seen a decrease in NW air passenger numbers after two and a half years of consistent growth. Moreover, the last two months have produced a fall in passengers for all three of the North West routes – Liverpool, Manchester and Blackpool. As this market is our strongest, it is an important indicator – and driver – of overall airport performance'.

It is also interesting to note that the total number of airport passengers each month during 2012 has increasingly shown a decline since April this year, the month that the Airport Passenger Duty (APD) at UK airports increased by 8%. The Isle of Man decided not to increase APD in line with the UK. Manx2.com has indicated that the additional burden of the UK APD tax on their flights has been a key fact in the decision to suspend their Oxford and Leeds services from January.

In contrast, some routes have shown improvement, with passenger numbers on the Aer Lingus Dublin service increasing by 4.2%, Loganair’s Glasgow by 5.6%, the BA London City by almost 13% and the combination of Flybe and easyJet on Gatwick generating a massive 32% increase with 3,500 additional passengers. In addition, the new Oxford and summer Norwich services together added 600 additional passengers to the total.

Departmental Member for Ports, David Callister MLC is also concerned about the current decline in passengers.

'Whilst the continuing tough domestic and European air transport market conditions prevail, and the impact of UK APD increases continue to affect our traffic, it will be challenging to achieve sustainable passenger growth,'

he said.

'We are very disappointed with the news of the suspension of the Manx2.com Leeds and Oxford routes from January and, we will work with Manx2 to see if it is possible to restore the routes in summer 2012. However, the combination of the flagging UK economy and the APD burden makes this a very tough time for carriers to retain services.'

Treasury Minister welcomes Pinewood Shepperton plc interim results

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:29:06 GMT

Figures released by the company for the first 6 months of the financial year, April to September, show an increase in revenue, operating profit and basic earnings per share. Pinewood Shepperton, home to productions including the new James Bond film Skyfall, also reports strong demand for its studio facilities into 2013 and beyond.

Ivan Dunleavy, Chief Executive, said:

'Current trading is positive with a high level of contracted revenues for the remainder of the current financial year. The number of film productions contracted so far for next year is encouraging and the Board looks forward to the future with confidence.'

Pinewood’s interim results were announced as filming continues in the Isle of Man on Dom Hemingway, a black comedy starring Jude Law and Richard E Grant. This is the landmark 100th film production for the Island in an industry that has delivered significant benefits for the Manx economy in recent years, including the generation of more than £100million of local expenditure.

Minister Teare said:

'Pinewood Shepperton's interim results reflect a buoyant company with a long order book and plans for further expansion and growth. We hope to reap the rewards of teaming up with one of the world’s leading media brands, both as a shareholder in the company and through investments made via our Media Development Fund. It is time to draw a line under the recent debate about the Pinewood deal and focus our energy on achieving the maximum benefits from this partnership. Joining forces with an expanding global brand is a positive move towards the further diversification of the Isle of Man economy. Being innovative, enterprising and exploiting niche sectors is crucial to the Island’s future wellbeing, and the film and wider creative industries will continue to play a key role in our strategy for future growth.'

Treasury signed an agreement in October to transfer management of the Isle of Man’s £25million film and television investment fund to Pinewood Film Advisors Ltd for an initial 5-year period, and to purchase nearly 5 million ordinary shares in Pinewood Shepperton plc. That represents spending of £12,230,000 from the Isle of Man Government’s investment reserves to take a shareholding of 9.89%.

The Isle of Man has so far collaborated with Pinewood on 2 high profile films, Belle and Dom Hemingway, and there are a number of other exciting projects in the pipeline.

Minister Teare said:

'We are already starting to see the benefits of this partnership which I believe will further enhance the Island’s reputation in the film industry. I also draw great encouragement from that fact that Pinewood is building a new £6.9m, 45,000 sq ft studio facility in order to meet continued demand. This demonstrates a company and an industry that are investing in the future with confidence.'

Pinewood Shepperton plc financial highlights for the 6 months ended 30 September 2012

Revenue £27.1m (6 months ended 31 December 2011: £24.6m)
Operating profit before exceptional items £6.1m (6 months ended 31 December 2011: £3.7m)
Profit before tax £3.0m after exceptional items (6 months ended 31 December 2011: £5.4m loss)
Basic earnings per share 4.2p (6 months ended 31 December 2011: 11.4p loss)
Interim dividend of 0.5p per share declared (6 months ended 31 December 2011: nil)

Trend of reduced air passenger numbers continues

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:29:06 GMT

Around 61,800 passengers passed through the terminal in October, 1,300 fewer than in October 2011, a decrease of 2%. The latest monthly figures underlined a worrying trend where decreases have been seen for each of the last 7 months, with over 13,300 fewer passengers using the Airport compared with April to October 2011.

The October figures were particularly disappointing as the London market overall responded positively with some 3,750 more passengers flying between the Island and the capital, an increase of 22% stimulated by the inauguration of the easyJet service to Gatwick, continued improved performance of the BA London City route and the new daily Manx2.com service to London (Oxford). This was overshadowed by a substantial fall in air travellers between the Island and North West England, almost 2,600 fewer than in October 2011, and the absence of the Southampton route which generated 1,360 passengers in October last year. Most other routes also experienced shortfalls with Belfast, Edinburgh, Jersey, Leeds, Liverpool and Newcastle all experiencing double digit percentage decreases.

'We may have lost around 500 to 800 passengers as a result of flight cancellations during the month, but in all honestly, we were expecting a small increase of some 1.5%,' she said. 'Whereas a 2% decrease is not dramatic, it is the continued trend of falling short of traffic expectation that is of concern. In October, even taking into account the reduction in numbers due to the weather, we were about 2.6% short of expectation. This really reflects the massive impact that the UK economy is having upon domestic air services in general and the UK/IoM market in particular.

'Our concern is the quite sudden dip in the North West air travel market,' Ann continued.

'The last 3 months has seen a decrease in NW air passenger numbers after 2 and a half years of consistent growth. Moreover, the last 2 months have produced a fall in passengers for all 3 of the North West routes – Liverpool, Manchester and Blackpool. As this market is our strongest, it is an important indicator – and driver – of overall airport performance.'

Departmental Member for Ports, David Callister MLC is also concerned about the current decline in passengers.

'Whilst the continuing tough domestic and European air transport market conditions prevail, and the impact of UK APD increases continue to affect our traffic, it will be challenging to achieve sustainable passenger growth,' he said. 'We are very disappointed with the news of the suspension of the Manx2.com Leeds and Oxford routes from January and, we will work with Manx2 to see if it is possible to restore the routes in summer 2012. However, the combination of the flagging UK economy and the APD burden makes this a very tough time for carriers to retain services.'

Less than two weeks remain for public to give views on smokefree legislation

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:27:09 GMT

Those wishing to submit comment on the Department of Health’s smokefree legislation public consultation have less than two weeks to make their submissions. The consultation, which launched on 23 October and has seen over 250 responses to date, comes to a close on Friday, 7 December.

The consultation takes the form of a questionnaire and seeks the public’s feedback and views on a range of potential areas to strengthen smokefree legislation, such as banning smoking in cars carrying children aged under-16, banning tobacco vending machines, and controlling tobacco point of sale displays.

Dr Paul Emerson, Consultant in Public Health Medicine, said:

'The primary focus of any additional legislation will likely focus on strengthening protection for young people to help further limit their exposure to secondhand smoke and their exposure to tobacco point of sale displays. Despite our efforts, it is clearly still too easy for young people to obtain cigarettes and tobacco. The fact remains that smoking is seriously hazardous to health, but particularly so in young people, where immune systems are still developing and where they’re often not in a position or able to request that smoking doesn’t happen around them. There are a range of measures we wish to consider, and the public’s opinions will help guide us through the policymaking process. I’d encourage everyone – whether they’re in favour of further controls, or against them – to have their say.'

The questionnaire can be completed online. Copies of the consultation document are available online, and stock permitting, should also be available from local Commissioners’ offices, libraries, GP Surgeries, Dental Practices, Opticians, the Tynwald Library, Post Office counters, and the Welcome Centre. Those who would like a copy can contact the Department by e-mail on dh@gov.im or by calling +44 1624 685004.

Anyone who wants to find out more about the support available to quit smoking can contact the Island’s Quit4You Service on + 44 1624 642404, e-mail tobacco@gov.im, or visit www.quit4you.gov.im.

Julie Taylor scoops prestigious Private Medical Secretary of the Year Award

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:29:06 GMT

Accepting the award, Julie said:

'I’m thrilled to have even been considered, but to have won is amazing. I enjoy both my ‘day job’ at Noble’s and the additional private secretarial work I undertake for Mr Crerand. In both roles I simply focus on making sure that we provide the very best possible service for patients and that their needs are always put first. I have a keen interest in Mr Crerand’s field of work and find my role extremely rewarding.'

Being particularly interested in the speciality of Orthopaedics, Julie decided to study for a diploma in the subject through the University of Dundee. She felt that the knowledge gained through doing this Home Study Course would enable her to give more information to patients wanting to know about their surgery and therefore improve the function of the Practice.

Mr Sean Crerand said:

'Julie has been my private secretary for over 15 years and during that time has proven to be the most competent and committed secretary I could hope to have. She is dedicated to our patients. She is lucky to have an eidetic memory and can remember small details about patients who may not have been seen for some time – delighting them with her knowledge about them. She has continued her studies, not only obtaining the usual medical secretarial qualifications, but has also been awarded a Diploma in Orthopaedics so that she can understand the procedures and be better placed to give appropriate advice. Her dedication and skill truly deserve to be recognised and I’m delighted that her hard work and talent have been rewarded.'

As well as the title, Julie received a prize consisting of a crystal trophy, a bouquet of flowers, and a cheque for £500, which were presented to Julie by Kingsley Hollis from sponsors DGL Solutions and Hylda Whitehead representing the BSMSA. The BSMSA adjudicated the entries to the award, with Hylda adding that it was a very difficult decision to make as the nominations were of a very high standard, but the judges all veered towards the same result.

Kingsley Hollis from sponsor DGL Solutions said:

'Medical Secretaries are the gatekeepers to the world of private healthcare. They have the responsibility to manage; to administer; to make sure that all of the pieces of the healthcare puzzle are aligned and come together in the right place at the right time. Every good Medical Secretary has a wide range of administrative skills, but it is the combination of these skills with those less-definable human qualities that transform the 'good' Secretary into an 'outstanding' one. Secretaries must be able to communicate between departments, to empathise with patients, and most of all to read the minds of their Consultants!

'We at DGL Solutions know that a large amount of the reputation and respect that consultants enjoy is as a direct result of their secretary's hard work and dedication to running an efficient practice. Often, the most successful practices are those with the very best medical secretary support. DGL Solutions has spent the last 20 years creating products to make the administrative side of the medical secretaries job more efficient, giving them the time and space they need to develop those all-important 'people skills'. Medical secretaries are the unsung heroes of the healthcare industry, which is why it’s a pleasure and an honour for us to be able to sponsor the award and help the BSMSA promote the importance of medical secretaries and help them gain the true recognition they deserve.'

Chief Minister leads Isle of Man delegation at BIC Summit in Cardiff

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:29:06 GMT

Mr Bell and Tim Crookall MHK, Minister for the Department of Education and Children, took part in top-level discussions on a range of issues, including the state of the economy, efforts to address youth unemployment, and developments in Early Years Policy.

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.

As well as contributing to the Summit’s main agenda at Cardiff Castle, the Chief Minister took the opportunity to hold discussions with his political counterparts from Jersey and Guernsey on matters of mutual interest, with particular focus on international tax compliance.

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 Crookall took their place alongside senior politicians from other sovereign governments, devolved administrations and crown dependencies, joining delegations headed by First Minister Carwyn Jones (Wales), Taoiseach Enda Kenny (Ireland), Secretary of State for Wales David Jones (United Kingdom), Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure, Investment and Cities Nicola Sturgeon (Scotland), First Minister Peter Robinson and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness (Northern Ireland), Chief Minister Ian Gorst (Jersey) and Chief Minister Peter Harwood (Guernsey).

In addition to assessing the current economic situation, the Summit also discussed the vital role played by Early Years Policy in creating strong foundations for children and families to thrive.

Minister Crookall said:

‘The Council endorsed the principles that should underpin a BIC approach to Early Years, such as improved educational attainment, health and later life opportunities. The Isle of Man will continue to work closely with its neighbours on this issue and enjoy the significant benefits to be gained from sharing knowledge, best practice and research.’

See Related Links for The official communiqué from the 19th BIC Summit.

Free exhibition of 100 Manx-made movies

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:29:09 GMT

To coincide with the arrival of this latest production and to highlight a remarkable milestone in the Island's film career, Isle of Man Film have mounted a special exhibition of images from some of the productions - television, film and animation - that have been made on the Island since August 1995. The exhibition in the Strand Shopping Centre was opened by Department of Economic Development member with responsibility for film and media, Laurence Skelly MHK on Thursday afternoon.

Mr Skelly said:

'This excellent exhibition is a real credit to all the local people who have worked on so many of our past productions, either behind or in front of the camera. Back in 1995 when The Brylcreem Boys production rolled into town, who would have thought that 17 years later, film would have generated over 4,000 days of filming, 211,000 bed-nights, 1,400 local crew positions and hundreds of valuable trainee opportunities for our young people. All this in addition to the widely reported exchequer benefit and positive exposure that the industry has generated for the Isle of Man all over the world. It really has to be one of the Island's biggest success stories of recent times.'

The FREE exhibition runs from Thursday 22 November until the New Year and will be open throughout usual shopping hours. Isle of Man Film would like to thank the management of the Strand who have provided wonderful support and co-operation during the setting up and running of the exhibition.

Mr Skelly further stated:

'In addition to the photographic exhibition, Isle of Man Film will also be contributing to the Douglas Christmas lights extravaganza by projecting a '100 Manx-made Movies showreel' in Strand Street, running for 4 nights, beginning on Thursday 29 November, 4pm to 10pm nightly. We hope everyone will enjoy the classic clips and images that tell the remarkable story of the Isle of Man's 17 year journey in the world's film production industry.'

Eagle-eyed Tricia wins an iPad

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:29:09 GMT

She was presented with her prize by the political Member with responsibility for Forestry, Brenda Cannell MHK.

The competition was launched to encourage the use of crowdsourcing technology by the public to report trees potentially infected with Dutch elm disease. This has been a valuable contribution towards the Department's efforts to control the spread of the disease. Reports of sick-looking elm trees were made either direct to the Department or via the website.

Through the initiative 194 individual trees and 2 areas of woodland which were showing symptoms of disease were reported.

Chairman of the Forestry, Amenity and Lands Directorate, Mrs Brenda Cannell MHK, said:

'The competition has certainly helped us in identifying potentially diseased trees. Where the disease has been confirmed, our staff and contractors have acted swiftly to remove the trees and reduce the risk of spread.

'We have been very lucky with our efforts to control the disease on the Island to date and still have around 99% of the Island's estimated quarter of a million elm tree population.

'It is a very worrying time with the continued threat from Dutch elm disease and also Phytophthora ramorum, sometimes known as Sudden Oak Death, which has been identified on the Island. We now, of course, have new threats from Chalara Ash Dieback in the UK. We are being very vigilant and will be co-ordinating a campaign to raise awareness in the Spring, when the public can be very helpful in reporting problems to us when the trees are in leaf and signs of disease are more visible.'

Tricia was very pleased with her win:

'It was a lovely surprise as I never usually win anything. No-one can call me a technophobe now'.

SpaceIL and Odyssey Moon announce joint teaming agreement to pursue $30 million Google Lunar X prize

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:29:09 GMT

Isle of Man based company, Odyssey Moon Ltd has announced that it will be teaming up with Israeli based SpaceIL, to compete for the $30 million Google Lunar X prize. The alliance formed under team SpaceIL, according to many, is the most likely team to succeed in this dramatic race to the Moon.

The $30 million Google Lunar X PRIZE is an unprecedented competition to challenge and inspire engineers and entrepreneurs from around the world to develop low-cost methods of robotic space exploration. To win the competition, a privately-funded team must successfully place a robot on the Moon's surface that explores at least 500 metres and transmits high definition video and images back to Earth.

The joint teaming arrangement is based on an innovative commercial partnership model that infuses high impact scientific missions with a commercial enterprise funding element. This dynamic partnership brings together the best characteristics of non-profit activities with commercial and entrepreneurial skill sets.

Odyssey Moon Advisor, Michael Potter commented:

'This team has a tremendously high probability of achieving one of the greatest space challenges of our time, the landing of a private, non-governmental lander on the Moon. This will probably be one of the largest media events of 2015.'

SpaceIL Chairman, Yanki Margalit said:

'SpaceIL will keep working to complete our mission to land the first Israeli spaceship on the Moon and inspire the next generation. Now, with our colleagues from Odyssey Moon Space, we are closer to the Moon than ever.'

Alex Downie OBE, MLC, Member of the Department of Economic Development with responsibility for Space, who is also a trustee of the IISC said:

'This is indeed good news and the Department of Economic Development is delighted to be associated with Odyssey Moon as it continues to play a prominent role in space. The location of the Company on the Isle of Man is one of the reasons why the Island has been independently assessed as the nation fourth most likely to return to the Moon by Ascend Consultancy.

'I wish both Odyssey Moon and SpaceIL the very best of luck in the Google Lunar X prize competition.'

Tim Craine, Head of e-Gaming and Technology, Department of Economic Development, who is a trustee of the International Institute of Space Commerce (IISC), said:

'It is fantastic that Isle of Man based Odyssey Moon Ltd is partnering with SpaceIL in pursuit of the Google Lunar X prize and I wish the team every success in this important and exciting venture.'

Minister highlights importance of Youth Justice Team

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:29:08 GMT

The multi-agency team is led by the Isle of Man Constabulary and works to prevent offending by children and young people. It has enjoyed considerable success over recent years in helping to transform young lives and reduce the number of victims of crime.

The positive impact of the Youth Justice Team's work was recognised at the 2012 Awards for Excellence when it won the Public Sector Achievement of the Year category. Inspector Phil Drowley collected the award on behalf of the YJT which brings together professionals from the Departments of Home Affairs, Health, Social Care and Economic Development, along with third sector representation.

Minister Watterson said:

'I’d like to add my personal congratulations to the Youth Justice Team on this richly deserved accolade. A lot of the work takes place behind the scenes, so it is great to see their efforts gain public recognition as a result of the annual awards. There is no doubt that the YJT has helped to turn troubled youngsters into useful and productive adults, steering them away from a life of crime and all the negative consequences that go with it, not only for the individuals concerned, but also their families, the victims and Manx society in general. My Department is focused on creating safer communities and protecting the Island's much-cherished quality of life, and the YJT plays a key role in that work.'

The YJT aims to make a difference in young people's lives by working to a philosophy of prevention, restoration and integration. Crime is prevented or reduced by addressing the underlying reasons behind the offending behavior – whether they are personal, family, social, educational, training, employment or health issues – and by pursuing earlier and more effective interventions.

The YJT ensures that young offenders face meaningful consequences that hold them accountable for the harm caused to victims and the wider community. A restorative approach is followed, with punishments in line with the seriousness and persistency of the offending.

Work is also undertaken to integrate young people back into mainstream society in ways that enable them to achieve the Government's desired outcomes for children. The results have been impressive, with the vast majority of young people referred to the YJT staying out of trouble and many making the move into employment, education or work training placements.

Inspector Phil Drowley said:

'By working in this way we aim to reduce offending and the number of victims, while helping the young people concerned get their lives back on track. Critical to the success of the YJT is the joined up approach and the willingness of professionals from different areas of Government to come together for the greater good of the young people they work with. This is an example of good practice and inter-department co-operation that is paying dividends.'

The Youth Justice Team was 1 of 3 agencies under the umbrella of the Department of Home Affairs to be nominated in this year's Awards for Excellence, with the Isle of Man Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Service also shortlisted.

Minister Watterson said:

'The award nominations reinforce the Department's commitment to providing quality services within current budgetary constraints.'

Department of Home Affairs managing a period of significant change

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:29:08 GMT

Gary Roberts will officially take over as Chief Constable on 1 January 2013, succeeding Mike Langdon who is retiring in December after a distinguished career in the UK and Isle of Man police forces. The Department is also seeking to recruit an 'innovative and forward-looking' individual to head the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service. This will be a replacement for Brian Draper who is set to retire in February 2013 after 30 years with the local service, including the last 8 years as Chief Fire Officer.

Home Affairs Minister Juan Watterson MHK said:

'These are changing times with 2 experienced and highly respected senior officers leaving their positions over the next few months. The Chief Constable and Chief Fire Officer have been excellent servants to the people of the Isle of Man and I wish them well for the future. Gary Roberts will become the first Manx Chief Constable of the Isle of Man when he takes up the post in January and I am confident he is the right candidate to continue the positive work that has taken place over recent years. Similarly, we will look to appoint a suitably qualified officer with a proven track record of achievement to ensure the ongoing development of the Fire and Rescue Service.'

In addition to changes at the top of 2 of its frontline agencies, the Department of Home Affairs is also continuing to respond to the challenge of delivering a quality service against a backdrop of budgetary restraint. New ways of working are being explored to drive forward efficiencies while retaining a strong focus on protecting the Island's reputation as one of the safest places to live in the British Isles.

A recent example of this approach is the proposed reform of the Island's criminal justice system. A new national strategy presented for consultation by Minister Watterson in October identifies opportunities to modernise processes, streamline administration and reduce the number of low-level offences appearing before the courts. Responses to the public consultation are being collated and the issue will be considered at the December sitting of Tynwald.

Minister Watterson said:

'Home Affairs, in common with other Departments across Government, is playing its part in helping to rebalance public finances. Change brings with it great challenge, but also opportunities to refine our working practices and make further improvements wherever possible. We are currently managing a period of major transition and will continue to focus on maintaining high standards and providing excellent value for taxpayers' money.'

Minister welcomes fall in recorded crime

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:29:08 GMT

The latest crime performance statistics released by the Isle of Man Constabulary compare favourably to those in England and Wales and the Crown Dependencies of Jersey and Guernsey. Overall recorded crime is 12.4% lower than the same period last year, with 1,437 crimes recorded between April and October – 203 fewer than in 2011. This is despite unusual and significant incidents such as the recent spate of vandalism on vehicles in the south of the Island where 54 crimes were recorded in 1 night.

Against a backdrop of positive news across many categories, the Isle of Man Constabulary has achieved notable success in terms of addressing assaults (down by 12.8%) and criminal damage (down by 11%). There has also been an impressive 14.7% decrease in recorded crime in the busy central neighbourhood, which covers Douglas, Onchan and Braddan.

In addition, confidence in the Manx force remains high, with the results of an independently verified survey revealing a public satisfaction rating of 93% – a 3% rise on the corresponding period last year.

Minister Watterson said:

'The statistics demonstrate the Isle of Man Constabulary's ongoing investment in crime reduction, with resources focused on prolific offenders, vulnerable victims and hot spot locations. The Island’s crime rate is already at a 30-year low, so the effectiveness of the Chief Constable and his team in continuing to drive down the figures is to be commended. 200 fewer crimes means fewer victims which is very positive news. As well as helping residents to feel secure in their local communities, maintaining a low level of crime also supports our national priority of growing the economy. The Isle of Man is firmly established as one of the safest places to live in the British Isles and this reputation, together with an excellent quality of life, is a major factor in attracting new businesses and key workers to the Island.'

An overall detection rate of 35.7% represents a decrease of 5.9% compared with the end of October 2011. However, this figure is expected to increase throughout the recording period (to April 2013) as more crimes are cleared, and is still superior to the average of 27.8% registered by the 44 police forces across England and Wales.

Minister Watterson said:

'The level of recorded crime in the Island has reduced significantly during Mike Langdon's 5 years as Chief Constable. On his retirement in December, Mike will pass on a motivated, innovative and effective organisation to his successor Gary Roberts and I look forward to continued high levels of performance in the years ahead.'

Chief Minister welcomes progress in addressing levels of staff sickness absence

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:29:08 GMT

A range of initiatives undertaken by the Office of Human Resources is having a positive impact on absence figures, resulting in a saving of £638,000 for the first 6 months of the financial year. Figures for April to September 2012 show a significant reduction in the average number of days lost per employee compared with the corresponding period last year.

The Chief Minister said:

'These latest statistics are very encouraging and represent a major step in the right direction. The action being taken to address staff sickness absence is beginning to pay dividends and I hope the levels will continue to fall over the second half of the year. The vast majority of Government employees work very conscientiously to serve the people of the Isle of Man, and most cases of sickness absence are genuine. However, there was concern that the system was open to abuse by a minority and needed to be addressed.'

One of Mr Bell's first actions following his election as Chief Minister last year was to ask the Office of Human Resources to produce a plan on the issue and provide regular progress reports for the Council of Ministers.

The latest figures show an 18% reduction in the number of days lost per employee in the Civil Service - 3.43 days for April-September 2012, compared with 4.22 days for the corresponding 6 months last year. The number of days lost per employee across the public sector has decreased by 9.5%, from 3.68 in 2011 to 3.33 over the first half of this year.

The most common reasons for absences are 'musculoskeletal problems', 'stress, anxiety, depression' and 'operations, hospitalisation'. Long-term absence accounts for more than 60% of all sickness absence. A comprehensive framework of measures and support, including specialist training, self-care in the workplace courses and rehabilitation guidance, is being implemented in order to address these issues.

Employees experiencing musculoskeletal problems are encouraged to use the self-referral system promoted by the Department of Health's physiotherapy department, and training of managers is being extended to include sessions on resilience and the management of stress.

The Chief Minister said:

'We are in a challenging financial environment and Government must do everything within its power to generate new efficiencies. This includes reducing the cost of working days lost through staff sickness absence. While there is still room for improvement, the evidence reflects the positive progress that is being achieved.'