Isle of Man Government News

Ministers meet key members of Liberal Democrat Party

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:50 GMT

Economic Development Minister John Shimmin MHK and Social Care Minister Chris Robertshaw MHK met key members of the Liberal Democrat Party this week when they attended the Party’s Autumn Conference.

Their presence at the event in Brighton was part of the Isle of Man Government’s ongoing programme of engagement to promote awareness and understanding of the Island within the UK’s main political parties. The Ministers took the opportunity to highlight the Island’s reputation as a well regulated international business centre and its role in supporting economic recovery in the UK.

They also held a series of informal discussions with ministers, peers and senior policy advisors, and attended meetings on a range of issues including the economy, the need for improved skills training, social care reform, and the future of welfare. Among those hosting events and delivering speeches at the Brighton Conference were Danny Alexander MP, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Vince Cable MP, Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, Ed Davey MP, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, and the Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader Simon Hughes MP.

Ministers Shimmin and Robertshaw also attended the keynote address by Party Leader and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg MP who spoke to party members about their important contributions to the UK Coalition Government.

Minister Shimmin said:

‘The LibDem Party Conference provided an opportunity to strengthen relations with some of the UK’s leading politicians and raise awareness of the Isle of Man’s positive contribution to the British, and indeed, global economy. We listened to an important discussion on how to stimulate business investment and the importance of improved training for vital workers such as engineers, in which Vince Cable admitted there are no easy solutions to the growth challenge. Overall we received a very positive response and made a number of worthwhile political and business contacts.’

Minister Robertshaw added:

‘As my Department continues to assess the feedback to the national debate on social policy, it was particularly timely to gain an insight into LibDem proposals on social and welfare reform. The Isle of Man and UK are facing many common challenges, so it was extremely valuable to hear from those at the sharp end of policy development. On a broader level, it is important to represent the Island’s interests at the main party conferences to ensure our messages are being heard by the right people.’

Airport Fire Service raises 1000 for charity

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:34 GMT

The Airport Fire Crew Summer Open Day raised a £1000 for charity this year, which was split between the Fire Brigade Charity, and the Manx Diabetic Group 'Pumps for Kids' Campaign, which provides insulin pumps.

Whilst one crew of fire fighters maintained the full fire category to keep the Airport open, the remainder of the fire section came in on their day off to provide a fun day for children and parents, including a bouncy castle, rides on a fire engine, fairground style games and hot fire demonstrations.

This is the second year that the Airport Fire and Rescue Service have run an open day during the summer and it is hoped that this will become an annual event. The profits made from the event are halved between the Fire Brigade Charity and a local charity, this year being the Manx Diabetic Group 'Pumps for Kids' campaign.

Lindsay Armstrong, Rescue and Fire Services Manager said:

'Everyone seemed to enjoy the day, including the fire fighters, and it is very satisfying to be able to help two such worthwhile charities. Our thanks got to everyone who supported the event.'

Isle of Man signs Tax Co-operation Agreements with Singapore and Turkey

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:20:04 GMT

The Isle of Man today continued with its programme of developing closer economic and taxation co-operation with other countries by signing a Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) with the Republic of Singapore and a Tax Information Exchange Agreement (TIEA) with the Republic of Turkey.

Both signing ceremonies took place in London. Eddie Teare MHK, the Isle of Man’s Treasury Minister, and Mr T Jasudasen, the High Commissioner of Singapore, signed the DTA at the Singapore High Commission. Shortly afterwards, the TIEA signing ceremony took place at the Turkish Consulate between Eddie Teare MHK, and Mr Mehmet Kilci, President of Revenue Administration.

Department announces replacement Chief Executive

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:29:18 GMT

With a background in management consultancy, Chris Corlett was the Chief Executive for the former Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for seven years up until April 2010, when the DTI’s responsibilities were taken on through the creation of the Department of Economic Development formed following the restructure of Government Departments.

Minister for Economic Development, John Shimmin MHK, commented:

"I’ve enjoyed an excellent working relationship with Colin in the twelve months that I’ve been Minister and believe that he leaves the Department in a strong position with many achievements. Colin was instrumental in leading the change required to bring together a cohesive approach to economic development for the Isle of Man and I wish him well on his mission to Sark."

"The significance that this Department plays in helping to stimulate economic growth at a critical time on the Island meant that we needed a strong leader to take Colin’s place and I am delighted to be able to welcome Chris, who brings with him an excellent understanding of our economic sectors as well as key management skills."

Incoming Chief Executive, Chris Corlett, said:

"I’m delighted to be given this opportunity to take on the role of Chief Executive while Colin takes on the challenges in Sark. There are a number of key priorities that lie ahead in the coming months and I plan to build on the excellent work that Colin has achieved and drive the vital task of ensuring we do our utmost to support the growth of the Isle of Man economy and helping individuals and businesses achieve their full potential. I therefore look forward to working with the team within the Department and with industry to achieve these aims."

Isle of Man pension scheme wins prestigious UK award

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:50 GMT

The Isle of Man Government’s new Unified Pension Scheme has won a prestigious UK award in recognition of its innovation and excellence.

Industry publication Professional Pensions hosts an annual awards ceremony to celebrate the best pension funds and managers in the British Isles. At the 2012 event in London the Isle of Man Government Unified Scheme (GUS) secured the top accolade in the Public Sector Scheme of the Year category.

GUS, which came into effect in April this year, overcame fierce competition from a number of large UK public authorities, including West Yorkshire, Northern Ireland, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire. The judging panel of industry experts selected the Isle of Man scheme for its innovation, focus on member communications, partnership working, administrative efficiencies and excellence in governance. It was also noted that the Isle of Man had achieved major public sector pension changes which are still several years away from implementation in the UK.

Ian Murray, Chief Executive of the Public Sector Pensions Authority, said:

‘This has been a real team effort over the past four years, with many people and organisations contributing to the successful implementation of GUS, including several government departments and with support and input from trade unions. In terms of driving forward change, it has been one of the biggest projects undertaken in the Isle of Man’s history. A large part of the Island’s population is linked to the public service either by direct employment, marriage, retired ex-employees or other family relationships. Introducing changes that affected such a major element of the local community was always going to be a challenge. To achieve this degree of change against a backdrop of economic uncertainty and low or zero wage increases has been even more remarkable.’

Work on GUS started in 2008 at the request of Tynwald and centred on the harmonisation of 15 different pension schemes covering around 10,000 civil and public servants, manual workers, doctors, nurses, GPs, dentists, ancillary NHS staff and fire fighters. The aim was to address the crucial issue of sustainability and provide for the long-term security of pensions for employees, while making arrangements simpler, more affordable, and less vulnerable to UK changes over which the Island has no control.

Full and transparent consultation took place to solicit the views of employees, unions and other stakeholders in order to identify the most appropriate way forward. Extensive communications, a dedicated website, presentations, briefings and personal drop-in sessions helped to keep people informed at every stage of the process.

A dedicated statutory body comprising employer and employee representation and an independent Chair, the Public Sector Pensions Authority (PSPA), was also established to provide effective ongoing governance. The outcome has been a more streamlined, more sustainable scheme that is controlled by the Isle of Man’s own Government and by Tynwald.

Jerry Carter, Chairman of the Public Sector Pensions Authority, said:

‘Winning the Public Sector Pension Scheme of the Year award is a magnificent achievement and reflects the tremendous amount of work that has been put into the successful introduction of GUS. It is no mean feat to be ranked by expert judges ahead of some huge UK public sector schemes which have massive resources at their disposal. Bringing together 15 different schemes has been a unique and complex challenge. It effectively started from scratch, with a totally blank sheet of paper. Change of this magnitude inevitably generates strong opinions, and great care has been taken to listen to the views of all parties. The result of this collaborative effort is an award-winning unified scheme which better meets the needs of the people of the Isle of Man.’

Airport passenger reduction follows UK trend

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:27:22 GMT

The consensus view is that the summer lull in air travel in the British Isles, including to and from the Isle of Man, has been in some part due to the Olympics. As Britain – including the Island – basked in the golden glory of the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics, it seems that many decided to stay at home to enjoy the spectacle. Latest figures from the UK Civil Aviation Authority showed that almost 36 of the 58 reporting airports in the British Isle suffered decreases in August, including the IOM, and three quarters of these airports saw greater declines than Ronaldsway. Added to this, the poor summer weather has further dampened enthusiasm for leisure travel.

Ann Reynolds, the Airport’s Director, was nevertheless disappointed with the out turn.

'Whilst our performance is very much in line with others given this very unusual summer, having followed a general underlying trend of matching last year’s figures despite tough economic times, I had hoped that in July and August we would continue along these lines. Therefore the reductions of 3% concerned me, although I learnt of a similar pattern emerging with UK regional traffic as a whole” she said. “Looking at how UK and Channel Islands’ Airports have performed during July, primarily due to the ‘stay-home’ impact of the Olympics, I remain comfortable that we are still keeping pace with the overall trend of air traffic performance. However, Ann confirmed that the underlying trend shows little sign of a recovery in air passenger traffic to and from the Island. August saw small decreases in Isle of Man passengers across many routes, with the major impact from the withdrawal of the Southampton route, which had generated over 1,800 passengers in August 2011. The substantial cutback in the frequency of flights to Luton also impacted traffic on the service by 900 passengers. Leeds and Birmingham saw decreases of almost 10%, whilst Liverpool unusually experienced a reduction of almost 500 passengers – around 3%. Six further routes were each up to 160 passengers down.

These decreases, whilst fuelled by the decision by a large proportion of the leisure market to stay at home and be part of the Olympics, may have dented our ability to record a positive increase for 2012,' added Ann. 'Moreover, I am expecting a sizable drop in September as, in 2011 we enjoyed an unexpected boost in passenger traffic due to the Airport’s busy role at the end of the 2011 Commonwealth Youth Games due to the difficult sea conditions.'

There were some positive outcomes in August with both the Flybe Gatwick, and British Airways London City routes adding over 550 passengers, partially compensating for the Luton losses. The Manx2.com flights to Gloucester and Newcastle were up on last year with their Oxford service having the best month so far with 727 passengers using the daily service. The Flybe Bristol route also had a good month, increasing by 15% over 2011 and just under 500 additional passengers flew on between the Island and Manchester, exactly compensating for the Liverpool decrease.

Minister of Infrastructure, David Cretney MHK acknowledged the impact of the Olympics on the Island’s visitor traffic and business travel, but remained concerned about the flat underlying trend for the Island’s air passenger traffic.

'We were delighted to reinstate the London City route with BA in May and by August this service was operating at full frequency and this, together with the new Manx2.com Oxford and Loganair Norwich routes, has certainly helped to stabilise traffic levels,” he said. “Recognising that we will see a dip against 2011 in September, we will be watching carefully the underlying traffic trends going forward, with London 2012 and the holiday period over, to particularly monitor how the business market performs over the final months of the year.'

Major step forward in programme to provide suitable services for older people

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:25:57 GMT

Firstly, the Gansey unit of Southlands Resource Centre in Port Erin for older people (which was closed temporarily last month due to a shortage of specialist staff) will re-open in October. In addition, the Surby unit of Southlands will open in October, providing additional bed capacity in the South of the Island.

Secondly, the closure of the Glenside Resource Centre in Douglas for older people (which the Department announced in February would close) has progressed extremely well such that the Department is confident it will now close by Easter next year.

Finally, the new resource centre for older people in the North of the Island (called Reayrt Skyal) is now complete and will open in the next few months. This will enable residents from the North to be transferred into this excellent new specialist facility.

The Minister for Social Care Hon Chris Robertshaw MHK stated:

'I am extremely pleased and encouraged with the progress my Department is making in improving our services for older people on the Island. We have made great progress in recruiting specialist staff such that we are confident Gansey will re-open next month. We will also be opening the Surby unit in Southlands in October, which has been the desire of many in the South for some years. As a result, we will soon be providing a bigger and better service in the South than ever before.

I am also very pleased with the progress we have made with regard to closing Glenside. Closing such a large residential home is a complex task and requires great care. The support and co-operation of families, coupled with the commitment and dedication of the staff and social workers, has seen this process gain a solid momentum. I wish to sincerely thank the families and staff for ensuring it has been a relatively positive process as this in turn has resulted in minimising the disruption to the residents. I am now confident that all residents will have been found suitable alternative accommodation by next Easter. I am also very relieved that the large majority of staff have already been found suitable alternative employment.

Finally, I can confirm that Reayrt Skyal (which is the new older people’s resource centre in the North of the Island) will open soon. May I thank the residents and their families who were re-located from Ramsey to Douglas for their patience while we completed the construction of this new facility.

These are major achievements in what is my Department’s wider programme to deliver more diverse, modern and effective services for older people on the Island.'

Southlands

Staff grading issues have now been resolved, removing an obstacle to recruitment. Permanent and agency staff are being recruited and interviews for bank care staff continue. As a result, the Department is finalising its plans to re-open the Gansey unit in October.

Part of the remit of the programme was to increase capacity in areas where residential beds are in short supply. In response to this, and as part of the process, Surby Unit in Southlands Resource Centre will start to open beds in October this year. Initially 6 beds will open with the intention that the remaining 12 beds will be open by the end of the year.

Glenside

The decision to close Glenside came about for a number of reasons - the premises do not meet modern standards; it would cost many millions of pounds to replace; there is already a good range of residential care in the East of the Island; and finally the Department needs to provide a wider range of care services including home care services that enable more older people to remain in their own homes for longer, which is both the preference of the large majority of people as well as being less costly.

Since the decision was announced the Department has worked closely with residents and their families to ensure their care needs continue to be met appropriately and also with staff and unions to ensure staff have been provided with suitable alternative employment opportunities.

Of the 57 residents residing in Glenside in February, many preferred the option to move to Reayrt ny Baie Resource Centre in Douglas and in many cases the Department was able to make that possible. 12 residents moved to Reayrt ny Baie in August this year. Other residents took the opportunity to move to other accommodation that better suited their specific needs including being closer to relatives and friends. 22 residents now remain. 16 of these remaining residents will be transferring to Thie Meanagh with the move of Sweetbriar Unit there in the near future. Thie Meanagh is a purpose built facility that will provide excellent accommodation. The Department’s social workers will continue to help the remaining 6 residents find suitable accommodation for their needs over the coming months.

There are currently 6 Glenside staff who have not yet found new jobs and the Department is confident it is likely to find suitable opportunities for most if not all of them prior to Glenside’s closure.

Due to the speed and efficiency of the programme, the cooperation of residents, families and staff, as well the adherence to best practice, the Department expects that Glenside Resource Centre will be fully closed by Easter 2013.

Reayrt Skyal

Reayrt Skyal is the new older people’s resource centre in Ramsey. It will specialise in providing Elderly Mentally Infirm care. It will provide 12 continuing care beds and 4 short term care (respite) beds plus a day service that can accommodate up to 15 people. It replaces the facilities formerly based in Gardner House at Ramsey District Cottage Hospital. The Department hopes that Reayrt Skyal will open before the end of the year, subject to final confirmation with the families and the weather.

Blood Clinic staff raise money for bench in memory of 'bubbly' Katie

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:27:07 GMT

Staff from the Phlebotomy Department at Noble’s Hospital dedicated a bench on Friday 7th September, in the memory of their colleague Katie Edge, who worked at the hospital as a Phlebotomist. Colleagues were deeply saddened when in 2010, aged 27, Katie unexpectedly died from a brain haemorrhage. Thanks to the generosity of her colleagues at Noble’s Hospital through fund raising events, a bench has been placed in the Millennium Oakwood where, during the dedication, colleagues and friends shared their memories of Katie.

Lesley Jones, Phlebotomy Supervisor at the Blood Clinic, who was at the dedication and worked with Katie, said:

'Katie will always be remembered as a beautiful, bubbly ray of sunshine that brightened up the day, and her colleagues in Blood Clinic wanted to have a memory of Katie for all to share. The Millennium Oakwood is just across the road from Noble’s Hospital, and is a beautiful surrounding that will be there for generations to come. Colleagues very much like the thought that they’ll be able to visit the wood and sit on the bench during lunchtimes.'

As well as raising money for a bench, other fundraising took place in Katie’s name by colleagues, friends and family, with donations to the Manx Stroke Foundation totalling over £13,000. The monies funded three specialist chairs for the Community Occupational Therapy Service which were presented earlier this year. The chairs can be loaned to patients via the Department of Health’s Independent Living Centre, so that those whose stroke means that they cannot sit safely in a standard chair, aren’t confined to bed.

Tax Agreements with the Republic of Slovenia come into force

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:20:04 GMT

Two tax agreements between the Isle of Man and the Republic of Slovenia entered into force on 31 August 2012.

The two agreements are:

a Tax Information Exchange Agreement (TIEA); and
an agreement for the Avoidance of Double Taxation with respect to Individuals.

The agreements were signed in Douglas on 27 June 2011 by His Excellency Iztok Jarc, the Slovenian Ambassador, and by the then Manx Treasury Minister, Anne Craine MHK.

The Isle of Man ratified the agreements at the December 2011 sitting of Tynwald and the Slovenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has now confirmed that the Republic of Slovenia has also completed its ratification procedures.

Financial Sanctions: Al-Qaida

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:28:23 GMT

The European Commission has amended Annex I to Council Regulation (EC) No. 881/2002 ("the 2002 Regulation") with effect from 13 September 2012. Annex I of the 2002 Regulation lists the persons, groups and entities covered by the freezing of funds and economic resources under that Regulation. The amendment reflects the decision made on 12 August 2012 by the United Nations Sanctions Committee established pursuant to resolution 1267 (1999) to remove one individual from the UN Al-Qaida list.

The individual removed from Annex I is therefore no longer subject to the asset freeze imposed by the 2002 Regulation.

Deletion

Individual

MOHAMMED, FAZUL, ABDULLAH

DOB:

(1) 25/02/1974

(2) 25/12/1974

(3) 25/08/1972

(4) --/--/1976

(5) --/02/1971

POB: Moroni, Comoros Islands

a.k.a:

(1) ABD ALLAH, Fadl, Allah

(2) ABD ALLAH, Haroon, Fadl

(3) ABDALLA, Fazul

(4) ABDALLAH, Faziul

(5) ADBALLAH, Fazul

(6) AL SUDANI, Abu Seif

(7) ALI, Fadel, Abdallah, Mohammed

(8) AL-QAMARI, Abu Al-Fazul

(9) AL-QAMRY, Harun

(10) FADHUL, Abdallah, Muhammad

(11) FADL, Abdulah, Mohamed

(12) FADL, Mohamed

(13) FAHDL, Farun

(14) FAHDL, Harun

(15) FAZHL, Abdullah

(16) FAZHL, Khan

(17) FAZIL, Haroun

(18) FAZUL, Abdalla

(19) FAZUL, Abdallah

(20) FAZUL, Abdallah, Mohammed

(21) FAZUL, Fedel, Abdullah, Mohammad

(22) FAZUL, Haroon

(23) FAZUL, Harun

(24) FUMU, Haji, Kassim

(25) HAROUN, Fadhil

(26) HAROUN, Fazhl

(27) HAROUN, Fazil

(28) MOHAMMED, Fazul

(29) MOHAMMED, Fazul, Abdalahi

(30) MOHAMMED, Fazul, Abdilahi

(31) MOHAMMED, Fouad

(32) MUHAMAD, Fadil, Abdallah

(33) MUHAMMAD, Fadil, Abdallah

Nationality: Comorian

Passport Details: Reported to possess multiple fraudulent Kenyan and Comorian passports

Address: (1) Southern Somalia (Reportedly as of Nov 2007) (2) Kenya

Other Information: UN Ref QI.M.33.01. Senior operative of Al-Qaida in charge of Al-Qaida in East Africa as of 2009. Believed to have been involved in the attacks on the US embassies in Nairobi and Dar es Salaam in Aug 1998, and further attacks in Kenya in 2002. Has reportedly undergone plastic surgery. Also referred to as Haroon, Haroun, Harun, Yacub, Abu Aisha and Abu Luqman Listed on: 12/10/2001 Last Updated: 17/06/2011.

Further details of the sanctions regime related to Al-Qaida and links to the Consolidated List of individuals and entities subject to other financial regimes may be found on the Customs and Excise pages of the Isle of Man Government website.

Financial Sanctions: Al-Qaida

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:28:22 GMT

The European Commission has amended Annex I to Council Regulation (EC) No. 881/2002 ("the 2002 Regulation") with effect from 9 September 2012. Annex I of the 2002 Regulation lists the persons, groups and entities covered by the freezing of funds and economic resources under that Regulation. The amendments reflect the decision made on 28 August 2012 by the United Nations Sanctions Committee established pursuant to resolution 1267 (1999) to remove two individuals from the UN Al-Qaida list.

The individuals removed from Annex I are therefore no longer subject to the asset freeze imposed by the 2002 Regulation.

DELETIONS

Individuals

AL-RIHANI, Lotfi, Ben Abdul Hamid, Ben Ali

DOB: 01/07/1977

POB: Tunis, Tunisia

a.k.a.: AL-RIHANI, Lofti, ben Abdul Hamid, ben Ali

Nationality: Tunisian

Passport Details: L886177 (Tunisian). Issued on 14 Dec 1998. Expired on 13 Dec 2003.

Other Information: UN Ref QI.A.145.03. Sentenced in absentia to 6 years of imprisonment for aiding and abetting terrorist acts by the Appeal Court in Milan, Italy on 7 Feb 2008. Mother's name is Habibah al-Sahrawi. Also referred to as Abderrahmane.

Group ID: 7873

EL BOUHALI, Ahmed

DOB: 31/05/1963

POB: Ould Yahia, Sidi Kacem, Morocco

a.k.a.: ABU KATADA

Nationality: Moroccan

National Identification no:

Italian Fiscal Code LBHHMD63E31Z330M
G 0151108 (Moroccan). Issued on 4 Mar 1982 in Larache, Morocco

Address: Number 43 Rue Essadr El Aadam, Larache, Morocco

Other Information: UN Ref QI.E.189.05. Father's name is Mohamed Mohamed. Mother's name is Sfia Sellam. Reportedly deceased in Afghanistan.

Group ID: 8682

Students 'step' out of comfort zone as summer projects win awards!

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:27:00 GMT

The Department of Health is delighted to announce that Kate Holland, a Step student working at Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital, has been awarded 'Best Presentation' at the annual Step Scheme Awards competition coordinated by the Department of Economic Development.

The Department was pleased to welcome four Step students on placements over the eight-week academic summer break. They were all engaged on specific projects demonstrating and expanding their research, analysis and reporting skills.

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

'It is always refreshing to work with these enterprising undergraduates through the Step Scheme. The worthwhile projects completed by these students will be very valuable in supporting the Department’s work, to improve access to all our services through the internet, provide better management of patient records and develop enhanced staff training. Very well done to all four students who took part and the staff for making these placements possible.'

The presentations, followed by an award ceremony, took place at the Nunnery campus of the Isle of Man College of Further and Higher Education on 24 August 2012.

When pitted against the 32 Step students who had undertaken placements across the public and private sectors, Kate wowed the two independent judges (Helen Cowley and Maree Bashforth) with her knowledge and understanding of the role the internet can play in the access and provision of healthcare services. Kate delivered a strong, clear five-minute presentation of her project evaluating and providing research based proposals for updating the current website, including a video of the services available at Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital, which she filmed and edited with her own equipment and software. The video is available here: www.gov.im/health/services/hospitals/ramsey

Improving access to health services is a key component of the Department’s Strategy for the Future of Health Services in the Isle of Man. The Department's website now provides the foundation for the e-business programme, which will deliver appropriate high quality public services in an online environment, wherever and whenever this best suits individual needs. Sophie Miller, who enjoyed her placement at Noble's Hospital, was assigned a similar project to evaluate the current website and provide research based proposals for updating. The web projects completed by Kate and Sophie, will enhance the current service provision, but most importantly, will provide a true public perception about how online services and support can be further developed.

Tom Bateson, working with The Learning Team at Keyll Darree, designed and developed a database for the 38 mandatory training courses delivered by the Learning Team. This will allow managers to monitor training needs and compliance with the key performance indicator in their area. Not only is the database to be piloted for three months in four different areas of the Department, but Tom also created a training video and manual. The way he presented his work on this project to the Step judges won him the runner-up award for 'Best Presentation'.

Natalie Coleman teamed up with the Salaried Primary Care Dental Service, to produce a working system for the maintenance of patients’ paper records including an archive database, which has been adopted and allows the staff quick and easy access to patient details as soon as they contact the service.

The Step scheme is an internationally recognised student placement programme, which has been co-ordinated on the Island since 1998. Step is a Department of Economic Development backed service designed to help other Government Departments and small private sector businesses to kick-start and manage new development projects, which are achievable within a realistic timescale and at an affordable price. Every year Step recruits the brightest, most enterprising undergraduates and matches them with the specific needs of the submitted business projects. Employing a student through the scheme can bring real results, positively influencing business objectives as they bring with them innovative ideas and skills. Learning and developing their abilities within a nurturing workplace gives the student valuable work experience.

Local authorities urged to follow Castletown's lead and streamline membership

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:28 GMT

Local Authorities around the Island are being urged to follow the lead of Castletown Commissioners and streamline their operations by reducing the number of elected members on their Boards.

It follows the historic decision by Castletown Commissioners at a recent meeting to reduce its membership from nine to seven.

Richard Ronan MHK, Department of Infrastructure Member with responsibility for Local Government, welcomed the move:-

'The Department would encourage other Local Authorities, especially larger authorities with higher elected member numbers to consider a similar course of action,’ said Mr Ronan. ‘In recent years the Department has been urging Local Authorities to look at the number of elected members, and look to reduce them where it can be demonstrated that benefits would arrive from streamlining representation. Of course, the number of residents per Local Authority district, along with other factors, will have to be factored into the equation.'

Following a motion brought by Commissioner Kevin Weir, Castletown Commissioners stated their intention to reduce the number of Members in time for the next election in 2016.

Mr Ronan said:-

‘The decision to reduce their numbers is a significant and indeed historic one. From personal experience I recognise both the work that the Commissioners do and the need for this streamlining. I would like to thank Mr Weir for bringing the motion, and the Members for voting for the change.’

Castletown Commissioners will now work with the Department to bring about the reduction. First, however, the proposal will be subject to a public inquiry to allow the public to have their say and, following the Chairman of that Inquiry’s report, Tynwald will vote on the proposals.

Donation ensures partners are comfortable at the Jane Crookall maternity ward

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:27:07 GMT

Following the generous donation of £1,000 from David Moss after he walked 32.5 miles in the Parish walk last year, the Jane Crookall Maternity Ward has purchased two new recliner chairs to be used by birthing partners, who are accompanying their partner or spouse during labour. David raised the money for the chairs through sponsorship during his Parish Walk challenge where he walked an impressive 32.5 miles in 8 hours and 24 minutes.

David attended the Jane Crookall Maternity Ward to present the chairs to midwifery staff.

Lead Midwife Jane Gray, explained why the funding for the new recliner chairs was so welcome:

'Mr Moss explained to us that a friend of his had attended the Maternity Ward to support his wife while she gave birth to their baby. This gentleman said that the existing chairs in the ward were uncomfortable, especially given that the labour process is generally a fairly lengthy one. It was felt that a recliner chair would be more comfortable, and this gave David the idea of raising the money during the Parish Walk to purchase two for us.'

Minister for Health, David Anderson MHK said:

'This is a prime example of how one individual can make a significant impact for so many people. These chairs will ensure that partners supporting expectant mothers can also be comfortable and concentrate on providing support at one of the key moments in their lives. It is people and donations such as David’s that enable us to provide the highest standard of care for our patients and their families and ensure that everyone is comfortable in the hospital.'

Bev Critchlow, Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Therapies, said:

'On behalf of the patients and staff on the Jane Crookall Maternity Ward, I would like to thank Mr Moss for raising the money to purchase these chairs for us. We take the comfort and safety of both our patients and their families very seriously and are always looking at ways that we can improve this. These chairs will ensure that the spouses or partners of women in labour will have somewhere comfortable to sit whilst they support them during the labour process. We are very grateful to everyone who undertakes fund-raising on behalf of Noble’s Hospital, and it is especially appreciated when so much thought and effort has been put in.'

Special presentation to Civil Defence volunteers

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:50 GMT

The vital role performed by the Isle of Man Civil Defence Corps was highlighted during an awards ceremony to honour long-serving local volunteers.

The organisation provides support in a variety of emergency situations, working alongside agencies such as the IoM Constabulary, Fire and Rescue Service, Ambulance and Coastguard to help maintain community safety in the Island. The IoM Civil Defence has this year responded to incidents of flooding, taken part in searches for missing persons, transported people in severe weather conditions and assisted the organisers of community events.

The awards event at the i-Museum saw a total of 28 Island volunteers receive the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal from Home Affairs Minister Juan Watterson MHK. The Medal, issued to mark the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty’s Accession, acknowledges the efforts of people working in frontline emergency services.

There was also a special presentation to two stalwarts of the organisation, Stewart Kermeen and Mike Dobson, who have both completed 27 years of service. They were awarded the clasp to the Civil Defence Long Service Medal in recognition of their outstanding commitment to the Island’s ‘fifth emergency service.’

UK Cabinet Office representative Martin Klaassen, Resilience Policy Adviser and Defence Medal Officer at the Civil Contingencies Secretariat, presented the clasps and paid tribute to the dedication of the volunteers. Fewer than 90 clasps have been awarded throughout the British Isles, with members of the Isle of Man Civil Defence Corps now holding four of these prestigious honours.

During the awards ceremony, Ian Young, the IoM Government’s Emergency Planning Co-ordinator, revealed that over the past 12 months 45 local Civil Defence volunteers had completed more than 3,300 man hours on call-outs and training. This included a particularly busy weekend over June 21-22, dealing with flooding incidents and then assisting the organisers of the Parish Walk. More recently, volunteers provided 190 man hours over a 24-hour period helping with the search for a vulnerable missing person.

Minister Watterson said:

‘The Isle of Man has a fine tradition of looking after people in their time of need and the Civil Defence Corps is an important part of the resilience that allows us to prepare for and respond to emergencies, whatever the scale. Civil Defence is a special organisation: like an insurance policy, you hope you’ll never need them, but if things go wrong you know they’ll be there to help. The commitment shown by Stewart Kermeen and Mike Dobson, and indeed all those involved with Civil Defence, is testament to the great community spirit of our Island.’

Mark Kelly, Chief Executive Officer at the Department of Home Affairs, presented Mr Klaassen with an Isle of Man Civil Defence shield and the awards ceremony was followed by a buffet at Douglas Bay Yacht Club hosted by the Civil Defence Association.

Department of Health's energy saving initiatives win award

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:27:53 GMT

The Department of Health has recently won an award for its efforts to stem the increase in energy consumption within the Department. The Department collected its gong at the Royal Manx Agricultural Show’s Energy Expo, where the Energy Awards 2012 winners were announced. The saving in energy consumption comes from a number of initiatives over recent years, both big and small, which are estimated to have delivered savings of around £220,000. One of the more innovative developments has seen the implementation of equipment to reuse steam from Noble’s Hospital laundry for heating.

Minister for Health, David Anderson MHK, was delighted that the Department’s efforts had been recognised:

“As all of us are very well aware, energy costs continue to rise whether it’s to heat and light our homes or run our vehicles. This cost increase naturally extends to businesses, government and other organisations. As one of the largest departments of government it’s vital that we not only ‘do our bit’; but that we are seen to lead the drive to be more efficient and economical when it comes to energy consumption - looking to minimise any increases in both costs and our carbon footprint. The efforts of everyone in the Department, but in particular our Estates Services Directorate, are to be commended - it’s our staff who have made the savings possible.”

In 2011/12 the Department of Health used 57,144,777 kilowatt hours on energy totalling £2,555,836 with 84% accounted for by Noble’s Hospital. For the same period, CO2 emissions by the Department stood at 12,587 tonnes.

Healthcare, especially in an acute hospital such as Noble’s, is a highly energy intensive process. With continuous developments in technology and medical practice, not to mention a growing population and increasing demand for healthcare, the demand for energy increases year on year. The Department of Health often has to look for inventive ideas and opportunities to save energy, as it operates some of the Island’s most vital and critical services, which by their nature are highly energy intensive, with no scope for reduction.

Noble’s Hospital’s steam recovery initiative was singled out as being highly innovative. The hospital undertakes laundry for the whole of the Island’s health service, and cleaning and sterilising laundry to the conditions required is a highly energy intensive process. Steam had been getting vented from the laundry but is now recycled, instead being used to pre-heat Noble’s Hospital’s steam boiler water feed.

Keir Morris, Hospital Engineer from the Estates Services Directorate, who accepted the award on behalf of the Department said:

“We’re thrilled to have won this award, but our work is far from a flash in the pan initiative; the Department has taken a co-ordinated and integrated approach in its efforts to reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions wherever it can over at least the past decade. This has been from simple common sense steps such as reminding staff to turn off lights, or fitting light sensors in certain areas to avoid lights be left on; to bigger and more innovative projects, such as the heat reclamation project by capturing steam from the laundry at Noble’s Hospital. This one example alone saves around £12,000 a year in energy costs and reduces our CO2 emissions by over 87 tonnes a year. Looking at how we can reduce energy and be more efficient is built into all of our projects and is an ongoing process that reaps rewards for both the public purse and the environment.”

The Energy Awards, now in their fourth year, recognise the achievements of local businesses and public sector organisations in reducing their energy consumption and improving the efficiency of their organisations. Currently there are over 60 trained Energy Champions within local business and 60 within Government Departments.

2012 STEP winners and finalists announced

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:39 GMT

The Department of Economic Development has announced the winners and finalists of the 2012 STEP Scheme, sponsored by Celton Manx Limited. The final took place at the Isle of Man College of Further and Higher Education Nunnery Campus, Douglas, and the prizes were presented by Department Members Alex Downie OBE MLC and Geoff Corkish MBE MHK.

Co-ordinated by local businessman, Ian Moncrief-Scott, this year has seen the largest single group of STEP students and organisation projects to date with 32 placements secured.

The winner of the ‘Most Enterprising Student’ award went to Kevin Burridge, who designed a rice steamer for Strix. The runner up in this category was Joanne Durber, who worked with Quinn Legal on a website design.

The ‘Best Presentation’ was by Kate Holland, who has been working with Ramsey Cottage Hospital on their website. The runner up in this category was Tom Bateson, whose placement was with the Department of Health Training Services Division.

Matthew Cooper was commended by the judges for his research project with the Communications Commission and Callum Taggart was also commended for his health and safety project with Swagelok.

Minister for Economic Development, John Shimmin MHK opened proceedings with a short speech commenting:

'2012 has seen our most successful year since the former Department of Trade and Industry first started to support the STEP scheme in 1999. Thirty-two high quality project entries were submitted by local businesses so we can greatly appreciate the achievement of such positive results by the students. Due to their dedication, the programme continues to grow from strength to strength.'

'I would also like to thank all the organisations and students who have participated and I look forward to more students and companies taking part in the STEP scheme in future.'

STEP Co-ordinator, Ian Moncrief Scott said:

'Helen Cowley and Maree Bashforth, both very experienced judges, have asked me to stress just how difficult it was this year to select the award winners due to some exceptional students and the challenges of projects involved.'

'Each year has seen a steady rise in the calibre of students taking part in the programme and, in particular, I have noticed increasingly high standards of reports and presentations. I would also like add my thanks to the host organisations for their valuable support and commitment to STEP.'

Nick Gibbs, of STEP host organisation Strix, said:

'We were once again pleased to support the STEP scheme this year. Kevin Burridge, the student allocated to work with us, completed a project to investigate the use of our recently developed steamer technology in to the rice steaming market, which is a new market for us. We are grateful for Kevin’s efforts and plan to continue his work with further taste testing by staff in our Asian offices, where the product might eventually be launched.'

Isle of Man driving license exchange agreement with Nova Scotia

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:27 GMT

As part of its efforts to promote further recognition of Isle of Man driving licences throughout the world, the Department of Infrastructure has signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Canadian Province of Nova Scotia.

This type of reciprocal agreement facilitates the exchange of driving licences for Isle of Man residents moving abroad and new residents coming into the Island.

Over the last three years, the Department of Infrastructure has been actively encouraging all Canadian Provinces and Territories to agree Memoranda of Agreements with regard to the exchange of driving licences. Nova Scotia is the 10th Province/Territory to sign an agreement.

The Department is also seeking to enhance the recognition of Isle of Man driving licences in Europe by building on the relationships developed during the EReg conference which was held on the Island in May.

Infrastructure Minister David Cretney MHK said:

‘I welcomed the opportunity to participate on behalf of the Isle of Man Government in signing of the Memorandum of Understanding with Nova Scotia. This is another small but important step forward in terms of our ongoing policy to pursue the mutual exchange of driving licences.’

He added:

‘We are also keen to see wider recognition of Isle of Man driving licences and vehicle registration documents throughout Europe, as many Island residents travel, live and work in Europe. We are hopeful that progress can be achieved as a result of the successful EReg conference held in Douglas when the Department welcomed delegates from 20 different European countries. This event helped to strengthen partnerships with our international neighbours and to reinforce the Island’s status as a co-operative and progressive nation.’

Isle of Man Government releases emergency funding for Sudan and Sierra Leone

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:50 GMT

The Isle of Man Government’s Overseas Aid Committee has agreed to provide £50,000 in response to emergencies in Sudan and Sierra Leone.

The Blue Nile State, on the border of Sudan and the recently independent South Sudan, is witnessing fighting between the Sudanese Government and rebel groups. As a consequence 70,000 people have been displaced from their homes and there has been a loss of agricultural land and a failed harvest.

The Overseas Aid Committee has agreed to give more than £25,000 to the charity Humanitarian Aid Relief Trust (HART UK) to provide emergency food aid to those most affected by the crisis, while also providing seeds to farmers to improve their livelihoods in the longer term.

In Sierra Leone a national state of emergency has been called by the President as a result of a cholera epidemic. So far more than 200 people have died and 12,000 have contracted the disease. The Committee has granted almost £25,000 to Oxfam to respond to the outbreak. Oxfam is focusing its response on the capital Freetown, which has been hardest hit.

The charity will provide access to clean water and sanitation facilities and undertake hygiene promotion in slums so that local people can take action to protect themselves against cholera. It will also ensure that a government hospital in Freetown is equipped with proper sanitation facilities.

The Chairman of the Overseas Aid Committee, Hon Phil Gawne MHK, stated:

‘Sudan and Sierra Leone are two of the poorest countries in the world, so the funding to support these emergencies is much needed. The work that HART and Oxfam do in these areas will help to save lives and I am glad that the Overseas Aid Committee can contribute to that.’

Machine Games Duty

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:26:31 GMT

The Treasury has published a consultation on the introduction of machine games duty on the takings of certain machines used for gambling.

It is planned to introduce the new duty with effect from 1 February 2013, when the takings of the machines concerned will cease to be liable to VAT. Machines used only for amusement are not affected, and their takings will continue to be liable to VAT.

The Customs and Excise Division has already had informal discussions with a number of suppliers and operators who would be liable to the duty.

The consultation runs until Friday 12 October 2012 and the consultation document, including a copy of the draft public notice and the draft legislation, may be found here.

Responses should be sent to: Ray Todd, Manager, LLCS, The Treasury, Customs and Excise Division, PO Box 6, Custom House, North Quay, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM99 1AG or email customs@gov.im

For more information contact the Customs and Excise Division.