Isle of Man Government News

Financial Sanctions: ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaida

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:17 GMT

This news release is issued in respect of the restrictive measures directed against the ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaida organisations.

Annex I to Council Regulation (EC) No 881/2002 has been amended with effect from 30 October 2016, following the publication of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2016/1906.

The amendment reflects the decision made on 25 October 2016 by the United Nations Security Council to amend entries in its list of persons, groups and entities to whom the freezing of funds and economic resources should apply.

Amendment

Deleted information appears in square brackets [ ]. Additional information appears in italics.

Individuals

MOSTAFA Mohamed Amin

DOB: 11/10/1975.

POB: Kirkuk, Iraq

Nationality: Iraqi

Address: Via della Martinella 132, Parma, Italy (Domicile).

Other Information: UN Ref QI.M.147.03. Under administrative control measure in Italy scheduled to expire on 15 Jan 2012.

Listed on: 18/11/2003 Last Updated: 31/10/2016 [17/06/2011] Group ID: 7868.

KHATTAB Anas Hasan

Title: Amir.

DOB: 07/04/1986.

POB: Damascus, Syria

a.k.a: (1) AL-KHAYAT, Samir, Ahmed (2) HADUD, Abu-Ahmed (3) HAMZAH, Abu

Nationality: Syrian

National Identification no: [00351762055]

Other Information: Also referred to as 'Hani'. UN REF: QI.A.336.14. Administrative amir of Al-Nusrah Front for the People of the Levant.

Listed on: 09/10/2014 Last Updated: 31/10/2016 [17/10/2014] Group ID: 13133.

Financial institutions and other persons are requested to check whether they maintain any accounts or otherwise hold funds or economic resources for, or provide financial services to, the designated persons. If so, they must freeze such accounts or other funds and, unless licensed by the Treasury, refrain from dealing with said funds or economic resources, and suspend the provision of any financial services. They must also report their findings to the Sanctions Officer at the Customs and Excise Division of the Treasury. Where a relevant institution has already reported details of accounts, other funds or economic resources held frozen for the designated entities they are not required to report these details again.

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

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

Sale of Pinewood Group plc shares

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:19 GMT

The Isle of Man Government Treasury wishes to announce that the sale of the remaining holding in Pinewood Group plc has been completed and the final proceeds are now held in cash in the Reserve Fund.

Treasury purchased 4,891,582 shares, a 9.9% stake, in Pinewood Group plc in 2012 with an original purchase price of £12,290,099.77. Since 2012 Treasury has gradually reduced its holding to 2,052,255 shares and realised profits of over £3.75 million by 31^st March 2016.

In July 2016 Pinewood announced it had appointed Rothschild to assist with a strategic review of its capital base and structure.

Subsequently, a formal offer was received for the remaining holding from Picture Holdco Limited for £5.60 per share cash plus a final dividend of 3.2 pence. This offer was accepted by the major shareholders, the Pinewood Board and Treasury. The final dividend was paid on the 3^rd October and the takeover took effect on 4th October. Final payment of £11,492,628 was received on 19^th October. The final summary is as follows:

Sales Value £22,425,988

Original Cost £12,290,099

Profit £10,135,889

Important Safety Notice – Dealz (Poundland) Recalls ‘Witches Hat with Hair’ and ‘Clip in Hair Pieces’ because of Fire Risk

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:18 GMT

The Isle of Man Office of Fair Trading wishes to make the public aware of two important safety recalls.

Following the recent recall of Halloween wigs, Dealz, part of the Poundland group, is now recalling a 'Witches Hat with Hair' and 'Clip in Hair Pieces' as they do not meet the Toy Safety flammability standard and, therefore, pose a risk if exposed to a naked flame.

The hats have been on sale since August 2013 and the hair pieces since August 2016 at Dealz and Poundland stores, and Poundland Online.

What you should do:

Check to see if the barcode on your purchase matches any of those shown below.

If you have purchased one of these products, or have any concerns regarding any other Dealz or Poundland faux hair product you have purchased previously, please return it to your nearest store for a full refund.

If you think that you may have purchased one of these products for someone else, or think you know someone who has one, please tell them about this recall.

Should you have any queries or concerns regarding this information please call Poundland’s customer service team free on 0800 731 5622 between 9am and 5:30pm Monday to Friday.

Affected Products:

#4356 - WITCHES HAT WITH HAIR - Barcodes: 5025066043568, 5054110003241, 5054110003258, 5054110003265, 5054110003272

#148169 - 2PK CLIPON HAIRPIECE 3 ASST - Barcode: 5053834481694

Poundland has stated:-

“As a responsible retailer we take the testing and the standard of our products very seriously and remain committed to the highest levels of product quality and safety which is why we are taking this precautionary measure. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.”

No other Poundworld product is affected by the recalls.

Financial Sanctions: Syria

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:18 GMT

This news release is issued in respect of the restrictive measures directed against certain persons and entities in view of the situation in Syria.

Annex II to Council Regulation (EU) No 36/2012 has been amended with effect from 28 October 2016, following the publication of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2016/1893. Annex II to Regulation 36/2012 lists the persons, entities or bodies subject to the asset freeze.

Ten individuals have been added to Annex II and are therefore subject to the asset freeze imposed by Regulation 36/2012.

Details of the additions can be found here.

Financial institutions and other persons are requested to check whether they maintain any accounts or otherwise hold funds or economic resources for, or provide financial services to, the designated individuals. If so, they must freeze such accounts or other funds and, unless licensed by the Treasury, refrain from dealing with said funds or economic resources, and suspend the provision of any financial services. They must report their findings to the Sanctions Officer at the Customs and Excise Division of the Treasury.

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

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

Live fire training facility fully commissioned

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:17 GMT

The new live fire training facility has been fully commissioned and is already helping to enhance life-saving skills and resilience within the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service.

A controlled fire was set today (Friday 28 October 2016) to show how the specially-engineered compartments are used to create a realistic environment in terms of working in extreme heat, humidity, smoke and restricted visibility.

The demonstration highlighted the behaviour of a fire from the point of ignition to full development and how firefighters set about extinguishing the flames. Training exercises will also help firefighters to recognise the signs of potentially deadly backdraft and flashover conditions.

The facility, approved by Tynwald in November 2015, has multiple points of entry to simulate real-life emergencies in different types of buildings and vessels.

In addition to live fire scenarios, the units – manufactured through Special Container Solutions Ltd and Bootle Containers Ltd of Liverpool – will assist training in other key disciplines, including ladder and pump exercises, aerial ladder siting and line rescue techniques.

Following the completion of the construction and installation work in September, officers from the UK Fire Service College at Moreton-in-Marsh in Gloucestershire visited the Island to provide training in the safe use of the facility to eight local breathing apparatus instructors.

A breathing apparatus course has been held for retained firefighters who have joined the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service over the past 12 months. The potential future uses of the facility and its design principles have also generated early interest from both the public and private sectors, with a number of site visits taking place.

Juan Turner MLC, Home Affairs Member with responsibility for the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service, said:

‘The live fire training facility is an important investment to ensure our firefighter training remains in line with UK best practice and is of the highest possible standard.’

Minister Bill Malarkey MHK added:

‘As well as helping to protect the local community, this project continues the Department’s track record of delivering significant revenue savings through capital investment in our infrastructure.’

The facility, which is located at the rear of the Energy from Waste Plant on Richmond Hill, means that local firefighters can undertake essential training in the Isle of Man, reducing the need to travel to the UK. In addition to costing approximately £50,000 a year, off-Island training depletes the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service by the equivalent of two crewed appliances and takes retained firefighters away from their primary employment.

Kevin Groom, Chief Fire Officer, said:

‘While the live fire facility is still in its early weeks of operation, it is already proving to be a tremendous asset and I look forward to its future as a multi-use training complex.’

He added:

‘It is vital that our men and women are regularly tested in realistic fire conditions and that our training remains consistent with national recommendations. Developing our people on-Island also means they remain here and are available to respond in the event of a major incident.’

Final facility at flood-hit NSC reopens on Monday

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:17 GMT

The all-weather pitch at the National Sports Centre (NSC) will be back in use on Monday (31 October).

The artificial pitch was among indoor and outdoor facilities destroyed or damaged when the NSC flooded on 3 December 2015.

Torrential rain led to the Rivers Dhoo and Glass bursting their banks and water flooding into Manx Sport and Recreation’s (MSR) adjacent offices and into the Sports Institute, across the Bowl football pitch, outdoor running track and all-weather pitch and in through the doors of the main NSC building.

As with other facilities that have reopened, the opportunity has been taken to upgrade the pitch and its facilities in line with modern requirements and standards.

Replacement floodlights are brighter than previous lighting and two floodlit warm-up areas have been added.

In the coming weeks, two new team dugouts and new spectator seating/shelters accommodating 70 people will be installed.

The pitch is a more sport-standard blue instead of green.

The opening of the pitch marks the end of 10 months’ hard work to get the NSC fully operational again.

The athletics track reopened in February, the Bowl football pitch at Easter, the sports halls and changing rooms in July and squash courts and the bowls hall in September.

Graham Cregeen MHK, Minister for Education and Children, said:

‘I would like to thank NSC users for their patience while we worked with loss adjusters, insurance companies and contractors to get our facilities back into use following the unprecedented event of 3^rd December.

‘Aside from the addition of these extra facilities at the all-weather pitch and some additional improvements in the bowls hall, the recovery of the NSC is complete.

‘Our improved facilities will benefit everyone from our elite athletes to schools, teams and individual leisure users, as we continue to encourage the population to stay fit and active.’

Secretary of UNESCO Man and Biosphere programme visits Island for formal inauguration

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:20 GMT

The Secretary of UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere programme will formally inaugurate the Isle of Man into the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.

At an event at the Manx Museum on Tuesday 1 November, Mr Han Qunli will present Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK with a certificate marking the Island’s achievement.

The International Co-ordinating Council of the Programme on Man and the Biosphere announced the Island’s acceptance into the world network in March 2016.

The accolade – which was the result of two years’ work compiling a weighty submission – recognises that the Island is a ‘special place for people and nature’.

The Island is the only entire jurisdiction to hold Biosphere Reserve status.

The Chief Minister said:

‘This recognition from UNESCO will bring great economic, environmental and reputational benefits to the Island and is something we should all be immensely proud of.

‘We are honoured to welcome the Secretary of UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere programme to the Island from Paris for this auspicious occasion.’

Professor Peter Bridgewater, a previous Secretary of the Man and the Biosphere programme, who advised the Island on its submission, will also speak at the event, having travelled from Australia.

Professor Bridgewater said:

‘It’s a significant honour that the Secretary of the Man and the Biosphere programme has chosen to visit the Island personally to present the certificate recognising the Island’s accession to the World Network of the Biosphere Reserves.

‘By visiting the Island, he will be able to gain a first-hand impression of what a great place it is, and take those impressions back to UNESCO and the wider world.’

For more information about Biosphere Isle of Man, visit www.biosphere.im/index.php

Vessel skipper fined for unlawful fishing in Manx waters

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:20 GMT

The prosecution of a fishing boat skipper reiterates the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture’s (DEFA’s) commitment to the protection and sustainability of fisheries in Manx waters.

That is the message from Geoffrey Boot MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, after a court fined Christopher Thomson £12,000 plus £50 costs and ordered him to forfeit his catch of queen scallops, worth £4,596.

The UK-registered Tobrach N was identified as operating in Manx waters by satellite tracking of its transponder.

As the vessel was not licenced to fish in the area it was targeted for enforcement action. Officers on DEFA’s fisheries protection vessel Barrule boarded the vessel eight miles south east of the Chicken’s Rock lighthouse last Thursday and confirmed that the vessel was fishing for queen scallops.

The vessel, skippered by Mr Thomson, was escorted to Douglas, where it was detained.

Mr Thomson, of Woodlands Avenue, Kirkcudbright, appeared before the Deputy High Bailiff on Monday and admitted fishing without a licence.

Mr Thomson was new to the vessel, having only taken over command two days previously, the court heard.

He accepted that as skipper, it was his responsibility to ensure he adhered to the law, but said the vessel’s owners had informed him there was a valid licence.

A licence to fish in Manx waters was issued to the previous owners and expired on the sale of the vessel. The current owners had not applied for a licence, the court was told.

Minister Boot said:

‘Fishing is a multi-million pound industry for the Island and the long-term sustainability of stocks is vital to our economy, hence we licence activity.

‘We are proactive and will continue to apprehend and prosecute anyone we find flouting the law in Manx waters.’

For information on licence requirements, visit www.gov.im/categories/business-and-industries/commercial-fishing/

Department launches new initiatives to support Island businesses

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:19 GMT

The Department of Economic Development has announced new departmental team structures and initiatives to further improve their support for the Island’s businesses.

The announcements took place today at a business breakfast hosted by Simon Pickering, the new Head of On-Island Development and introduced by Laurence Skelly MHK, Minister for the Department of Economic Development. The event was attended by senior industry delegates from many of the Island’s Financial and Professional Services companies.

The announcements included a newly restructured Financial and Professional Services team and a new online Toolkit for businesses. The Toolkit provides guidance, resources and insight for SMEs and entrepreneurs on Island, along with easy to access promotional materials for businesses acting as ambassadors for the Isle of Man.

Minister Skelly commented:

‘It is a great pleasure to launch these new initiatives. The new structure of the Financial and Professional services team re-affirms our commitment to supporting this vital sector and delivery of the Vision 2020 strategy. The new structure provides clearer points of contact at the Department and a more visible support network within Government for both on and off-Island businesses.’

Simon Pickering commented:

‘The online Toolkit is the logical next step to supporting enterprise on the Island. What we have launched today is the platform upon which we will continue to build, providing useful content and guidance for Island businesses. The creation of the Toolkit is a direct result of feedback we have received from industry and small businesses who have found guidance and mentoring equally as useful as our financial support packages.’

Following the launch members of the business community are invited to feedback on what additional content they would find helpful to see included within future Toolkit updates by contacting info@whereyoucan.com.

Foxdale highway scheme under way

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:19 GMT

Work is under way to reconstruct the highway through Higher Foxdale.

The initial phase of the scheme involves the widening and re-profiling of Mines Road junction, including the construction of a new retaining wall.

A section of the main road is also being excavated to a depth of more than two metres in order to install a new large diameter storm water drain.

These photographs – taken today (Thursday 27 October) – show the work in progress and clearly demonstrate why a full road closure is required.

Access to properties and businesses is being maintained.

Additional information, including site maps, road closures and diversion routes, is available on the Current and Recent Projects section of the Department of Infrastructure website.

Minister highlights contribution of Civil Defence volunteers

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:20 GMT

At the end of another busy 12 months for the Isle of Man Civil Defence Corps, Home Affairs Minister Bill Malarkey MHK has highlighted the organisation’s vital role in keeping people safe.

Trained volunteers provided more than 5,300 hours of service during 2015-16 in response to emergency incidents and the support of many high-profile sporting and community events.

The organisation continues to provide additional resilience in a range of situations, working alongside frontline agencies including the Isle of Man Constabulary, Fire and Rescue Service, Ambulance and Coastguard.

The period in question featured the wettest winter in the Isle of Man since records began. Volunteers assisted the emergency response to the severe weather in December 2015, rescuing people from rising flood water and helping the Department of Infrastructure to distribute thousands of sandbags to protect homes and businesses.

During the past 12 months, the Civil Defence Corps has also taken part in searches for vulnerable missing persons, worked to preserve a unique item of nautical heritage and contributed to the safe and successful running of local events, as well as enhancing the knowledge and skills of its membership through regular training sessions.

Minister Malarkey said:

‘The Department of Home Affairs is committed to maintaining community safety and looking after vulnerable people in their hour of need. It should be a great source of public reassurance that the Island is served not only by first-class emergency services, but also by a team of capable and dedicated volunteers.’

He added:

‘The Civil Defence Corps is a shining example of the Isle of Man’s caring nature where people are prepared to sacrifice their own free time to give something back to the local community.’

In addition to providing first aid and logistics cover for the Parish Walk and End2End Walk, volunteers assisted Manx National Heritage’s efforts to protect the Peggy, the oldest surviving example of a British schooner. The Civil Defence Corps was also represented at a number of major public parades, including Tynwald Day and World War One centenary commemorations.

Ian Young, Emergency Planning Officer at the Department of Home Affairs, said:

‘Volunteers put in about 15% more hours over the last 12 months than in previous years, often working in extremely challenging conditions. The Isle of Man is extremely fortunate that in a major incident the Civil Defence Corps can provide up to 45 trained individuals within one hour to support the emergency services.’

Infrastructure Minister announces Department delegations

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:20 GMT

Infrastructure Minister Ray Harmer MHK has today (Wednesday 26 October 2016) announced the delegation of Department duties to his newly appointed political Members.

Tim Baker MHK will take on responsibility for Ports, supporting efforts to secure the Isle of Man’s lifeline sea and air links.

The Transport Services division, which encompasses Bus Vannin and the Island’s heritage railways, will be the responsibility of Jason Moorhouse MHK.

Julie Edge MHK will have delegated authority for Estates and for Housing, while former Transport Minister David Anderson MLC will take on responsibility for Highways.

Minister Harmer said:

‘The Department provides a range of important services that contribute towards the general wellbeing and economic strength of the Isle of Man. The team at Infrastructure represents a good mix of experience and fresh thinking and I am confident we can work together with the professional and dedicated group of officers at the Department for the benefit of the people of our Island.’

Public invited to take part in food provenance label focus groups

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:21 GMT

Members of the public are invited to take part in focus groups being held to consider a food provenance label for the Isle of Man.

The label will be used to indicate produce is grown, reared, caught and/or processed in the Isle of Man and/or contains mostly Manx ingredients.

Its creation forms part of the Food Matters strategy to grow the value of Isle of Man food and drink to the economy.

Andrew Lees, Food Business Development Manager for the Island, said:

‘Consumers are faced with an array of produce when shopping and it’s hoped that the label will be instantly recognisable and will give them confidence that what they are buying is truly Manx,’ said Mr Lees.

‘Six months’ research has done into draft designs for the label and we are now at a stage where we want to show them to producers and consumers to glean feedback.

‘We would like members of the public to participate in focus groups being held at NOA Bakehouse in Fort Street, Douglas, from 6pm on Monday 7^th and Tuesday 8^th November.

‘We are holding two sessions each evening and hope a wide cross-section of the community will take part.

‘The focus groups will consider the appearance and content of the label and help us refine it prior to us seeking wider opinion towards the end of the year and launching the label in 2017.’

Sessions will last around 45 minutes and refreshments will be provided. To register an interest in participating, email food@gov.im by Monday 31^st October with your name, daytime telephone number and preferred date.

A focus group for producers is also planned.

Best-selling author’s mind management techniques subject of sport lecture

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:21 GMT

The mind management techniques of best-selling author Professor Steve Peters will be the subject of the annual Isle of Man Sport Lecture.

Leonie Lightfoot will share the ideas of Professor Peters, author of The Chimp Paradox, with an audience at the Gaiety Theatre.

The Chimp Paradox encourages readers to recognise and manage thoughts and emotions so they don't inhibit achievement. It has sold 500,000 copies.

Professor Peters works with elite sports competitors, among them Liverpool Football Club, the Team Sky cycling team and five-times World Snooker Champion Ronnie O'Sullivan.

Leonie Lightfoot is a psychological skills mentor at Chimp Management Ltd, which was set up and is headed by Professor Peters.

She has a masters degree in sport and exercise psychology and is a British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences-accredited sport scientist.

Using the chimp model, she supports athletes, coaches and teams to manage their emotions, aiding their development.

Trevor Christian, Sports Coaching Co-ordinator for Isle of Man Sport, said: 'Giving too much weight to thoughts and emotions can inhibit achievement in all areas of life, including sport.

'The lecture will provide individuals, teams and coaches the chance to learn how this highly acclaimed technique can boost performances.'

This lecture is supported by the Isle of Man Commonwealth Games Association. Leonie Cooil, Chef de Mission for Team Isle of Man, said:

'Chimp management is an important tool to help athletes and coaches to reach their potential.

'This lecture will assist athletes preparing for Commonwealth Youth Games in the Bahamas next year and the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast in 2018, as well as those in other sports.'

The lecture takes place on Friday 25th November at 7pm. Tickets are available from www.villagaiety.com and are free.
The following morning, Leonie Lightfoot will deliver a follow-up workshop for coaches at the Sport Institute at the NSC.

It will delve deeper into the chimp model, helping coaches to understand the mind of an athlete and explore ways to work effectively with them.

Application forms for the workshops can be obtained by emailing trevor.christian@gov.im

Places cost £25.

Financial Sanctions: Iran (Nuclear Proliferation)

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:21 GMT

This news release is issued in respect of the restrictive measures directed by the Council of the European Union against Iran.

On 20 April 2016 Council Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2016/603 (“the Amending Regulation”) was published in the Official Journal of the European Union by the Council of the European Union.

The Amending Regulation amended the listings of Bank Saderat Iran and Bank Saderat PLC so that they would remain in force until 22 October 2016. As that date has now passed, Bank Saderat Iran and Bank Saderat PLC are no longer subject to the restrictive measures set out in the Regulation, including the asset freeze

Delisting

Entities

BANK SADERAT IRAN

Address: Bank Saderat Tower, 43 Somayeh Ave, Tehran, Iran.

Other Information: EU listing. Not UN. Designation applies to all branches and subsidiaries. Partly owned by the Iranian government.

Listed on: 27/07/2010 Last Updated: 24/10/2016 Group ID: 11185.

BANK SADERAT PLC

Address: 5 Lothbury, London, United Kingdom, EC2R 7HD.

Other Information: EU listing. Not UN. 100% owned subsidiary of Bank Saderat.

Listed on: 27/07/2010 Last Updated: 24/10/2016 Group ID: 11268.

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

Ramsey lighthouses to be refurbished

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:20 GMT

The Department of Infrastructure is carrying out a full refurbishment of the two navigation lighthouses located on Ramsey’s North and South piers.

The ‘pepperpot’ structures have been in place for more than 120 years and the work is designed to ensure they continue to assist mariners for many decades into the future.

The scheme is scheduled to get under way next week as part of the Department’s focus on strategic maintenance of the Island’s structural assets.

A recent inspection of the 4-metre high lighthouses, which were built in the late 1800s, revealed them to be in urgent need of complete renovation.

Concern has been expressed that if this work does not take place the lighthouses may suffer a similar fate to the one that used to operate on Port St Mary breakwater, which was washed away during a violent storm in January 2009.

The refurbishment of the two Ramsey lighthouses will be undertaken by local contractors and overseen by a specialist restoration company. The ‘pepperpots’ will be dismantled and work carried out to repair and refinish the cast iron panels, which have suffered extensive corrosion and fractures.

The project is programmed for completion by the end of spring 2017 and the total cost for rebuilding both structures is estimated at £100,000.

Tim Cowin, Head of Highway and Asset Management at the Department of Infrastructure, said:

‘Maintenance schemes such as this one in Ramsey help to ensure the long-term integrity of the Island’s structural assets. Investing time and money now means we can hopefully avoid the need for more costly interventions in the future.’

He added:

‘While scaffolding was in place earlier this year for the structural inspection the opportunity was taken to give the lighthouses a quick lick of paint, as we were unsure of the extent of the renovations required. Unfortunately it turns out they are in such poor condition they need to be taken down and rebuilt. The lighthouses are an important part of Ramsey’s marine infrastructure and this work will help to preserve them for generations to come.’

Temporary navigation lights will be in place on Ramsey’s North and South piers while the lighthouses are restored.

Review highlights “extremely good” medical education for junior doctors

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:20 GMT

The annual review of medical education and training for junior doctors in the Isle of Man has found the opportunities and the level of support provided to be “extremely good”, with the majority of doctors choosing the Island “based on recommendations made by previous trainees”.

The review visit, by a team from Health Education England, took place in June and was led by Professor Jacky Hayden, Dean of Postgraduate Medical Studies.

The report highlighted several areas of “noteworthy practice” at Noble’s Hospital, a method used by reviewers to draw attention to education and patient care delivered at the very highest standard that is worthy of sharing more widely. The reviewers were impressed by: the level of involvement junior doctors have in quality improvement projects; the opportunity for junior doctors to learn about transfer medicine through the Island’s air ambulance service; and the accessibility and quality of the patient simulation facilities.

Minister for Health and Social Care, Kate Beecroft MHK, said:

“The medical education team at Noble’s Hospital, the consultants and many other professionals, have worked tirelessly over recent years to up the Island’s game when it comes to our training programme for UK junior doctors, investing a considerable about of time and effort. Clearly, we are reaping the benefits.

“The Island’s reputation for good quality medical education grows in stature each year, highlighted by the fact that junior doctors applying for training posts in the Isle of Man generally do so because of recommendations from former trainees. The Island is ‘punching above its weight’ and new facilities such as the Medical Education and Clinical Skills Centre, the extension to Palatine Health Centre and new patient simulators have helped achieve this.

“Given the competition to attract good quality doctors, particularly to an island setting such as ours, we hope that by continuing to nurture our reputation we can ensure the Island is all the more appealing when seeking to recruit doctors from the UK to work in our health service.”

The majority of junior doctors were very positive about their training experience, describing Noble’s Hospital as a “very supportive, friendly environment with good levels of supervision”. It was noted that junior doctors highlighted that they as trainees, as well as patients, were treated with dignity and respect.

Dr Adrian Dashfield, Director of Medical Education at Noble’s Hospital, said:

“This is an excellent result and all thanks to the hard work of individuals across the Island’s health service – doctors, nurses, administrators – a real team effort. We are proud of our reputation as an excellent place to train both undergraduate and postgraduate trainees.”

Each year the Island has around 40 junior doctors in post at various stages of training, supporting colleagues in providing healthcare to patients and so playing a vital role in delivering services. Earlier in 2016 it was revealed that the Isle of Man is ranked amongst the top 25% of hospitals in Britain for junior doctors’ core medical training.

Doctors spend many years in training. After up to six years at medical school it takes a further five years for a junior doctor to become a GP and eight to 10 years to become a consultant. Following graduation from medical school junior doctors become increasingly involved in the treatment and care of patients for much of their practical ongoing learning.

Minister announces new political delegations

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:22 GMT

Minister for the Department of Economic Development, Laurence Skelly MHK, has announced new delegations for the Department following the 2016 General Election.

The Minister commented:

‘I am delighted to welcome our new Political Members to the Department. With a wealth of combined experience our new delegations will offer fresh perspectives on the economic challenges the Island faces and the Department’s ongoing work. I am confident each of our new Members can make a positive contribution and I look forward to working closely with them.’

The new Delegations are:

Ms Daphne Caine MHK	E-Business, Creative Industries and BioMedical Sector
Mr Rob Callister MHK	Tourism, Motorsport, Villa Marina & Gaiety Theatre, PLUS Retail, Hospitality and Construction SectorsAlso Department Representative on the Board of Manx National Heritage
Mr Tim Crookall MLC	Employment and Skills including Work Permits
Mr Lawrie Hooper MHK	Aerospace, Manufacturing, Business Development, CleanTech, Mines & Minerals and Properties
Mr Martyn Perkins MHK	Financial and Professional Services, Space Sector, High Net Worth Individuals, Aircraft Registry, Ship Registry and Central Registry

DEFA Minister welcomes new members

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:22 GMT

Geoffrey Boot MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, has welcomed his newly appointed political Members and announced the areas they will work in.

Tim Baker MHK will chair the Planning Committee and have responsibility for the Planning and Building Control Directorate of the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA). He will also support the Minister in delivering the work of the Agriculture and Fisheries Directorates.

Martyn Perkins MHK will have responsibility for the Environment, Safety and Health Directorate and will also support the Minister in delivering the Food Matters strategy, where he will provide a valuable link with the Department of Economic Development, to which he also belongs.

David Cretney MLC, who was a Member of DEFA prior to the House of Keys general election, will continue to have responsibility for Forestry, Amenity and Lands and will support the Minister in delivering aspects of amenity and recreation.

The Minister said:

‘DEFA has an important and diverse range of functions. These support the Island’s continued economic prosperity, promote its outstanding environment and strive to ensure the safety of its people.

‘The new Members bring with them a wealth of private sector experience and skills and Mr Cretney has three decades of political experience and a strong background with DEFA.

‘Together I believe we will be an effective, well-balanced team and I am confident that we will work together to play our part in delivering the Government Programme.’

Public appointments provide an opportunity to play a part in Island life

Tue, 22 May 2018 13:18:22 GMT

Members of the public who are interested in serving the local community are being encouraged to consider taking up a public appointment.

The Council of Ministers is seeking to appoint people to a number of Statutory Boards and Bodies in 2017. These posts provide an opportunity for public spirited individuals to play a role in the overall process of Government in areas such as consumer rights, financial regulation and vehicle licensing.

People from all backgrounds and walks of life are urged to apply in order to provide ideas and advice from different perspectives.

Applicants are currently being sought for the –

Isle of Man Office of Fair Trading
Public Sector Pensions Authority
Appointments Commission
Road Transport Licensing Committee
Public Services Commission

People who feel they have the necessary attributes and enthusiasm to take up one of these roles should visit www.gov.im/public-appointments for further information about the number of vacancies, terms of appointment and full details of the knowledge and skills required.

Appointees must be able to provide an ongoing commitment in terms of their time, interest and attention and demonstrate the qualities that underpin public life – selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

The application process is fair, open and transparent, and appointments are made on merit, based on a person’s skills and experience.

Applications forms can be completed and submitted electronically via the webpage. Printed versions of the information pack and application form can be obtained from the Cabinet Office, Government Office, Bucks Road, Douglas, IM1 3PN, tel: 685711 or email publicappointments@gov.im

The deadline for applications is 5pm on Monday 7 November.

A further round of vacancies on Statutory Boards and Bodies will be advertised in November 2016. Anyone who wishes to be kept informed of forthcoming public appointments can register their details on the website or via the Cabinet Office.