Isle of Man Government News

First World War centenary coins officially launched

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 10:07:08 GMT

The official launch of the special commemorative coins issued to mark the centenary of Armistice Day at the end of the First World War took place in Douglas today (31 October).

The launch included the presentation of both the distinctive 50 pence coin featuring red poppies and the image of the soldier from the Douglas war memorial, which will be distributed to all those on the Island in full time education, as well as two specially-minted £50 commemorative coins, made from pure silver and decorated with gold-plated poppies.

One of the silver coins was presented to Steve Rodan MLC, the President of Tynwald and President of the Isle of Man County Branch of the Royal British Legion. The second was presented to Juan Watterson SHK, the Speaker of the House of Keys. This coin will then be placed in a prominent position within the Legislative Buildings as a permanent reminder of the launch.

The venue was the Millennium Room in the Legislative Buildings with a specially invited audience in attendance. Alongside the President and Speaker were the Chief Minister and the Treasury Minister as well as representatives from the Isle of Man County Branch of the Royal British Legion, including Ray Ferguson, Chairman, and Ann Cottier, Secretary.

Speaking after he was presented with the silver commemorative coin, the President of Tynwald commented:

'I take tremendous pleasure in accepting this wonderful gift on behalf of the Royal British Legion in commemoration of the Armistice. The Legion was established in the aftermath of the First World War to promote welfare and remembrance, and I can’t think of anything more tangible and worthwhile to mark the end of that conflict.'

The 50 pence coin featuring red poppies will be issued to schools and other educational establishments during Monday 5 and Tuesday 6 November, to be issued to the pupils at the most appropriate moment.

Financial Sanctions: Republic of Guinea

Tue, 30 Oct 2018 11:08:00 GMT

This news release is issued in respect of the asset freezing measures relating to the Republic of Guinea.

On 26 October 2018, Council Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2018/1604 was published in the Official Journal of the European Union. Amending Annex II to Regulation (EU) No 1284/2009 with effect from 27 October 2018.

The following entries have been amended and remain subject to an asset freeze.

Individuals

Deleted information is in square brackets. Additional information is shown in italics.

CAMARA Moussa Dadis

Title: Captain

DOB: (1) 01/01/1964. (2) 29/12/1968.

Passport Details: R0001318

Position: President of the CNDD Person identified by the International Commission of Inquiry as responsible for the 28 September 2009 events in Guinea

Listed on: 24/12/2009 Last Updated: [24/12/2009] 29/10/2018 Group ID: 10956.

CAMARA Moussa Tiegboro

Title: Commandant Colonel

DOB: 01/01/1968.

Passport Details: 7190

Position: Member of the CNDD. Minister attached to the Presidency with responsibility for special anti-drug services and organised crime Person identified by the International Commission of Inquiry as responsible for the 28 September 2009 events in Guinea

Listed on: 24/12/2009 [29/10/2018]Last Updated: 24/12/2009 Group ID: 10982.

DIABY Abdoulaye Cherif

Title: Colonel Dr

DOB: 26/02/1957.

Passport Details: 13683

Position: Member of the CNDD. Minister for Health and Sanitation Person identified by the International Commission of Inquiry as responsible for the 28 September 2009 events in Guinea

Listed on: 24/12/2009 Last Updated: [24/12/2009] 29/10/2018 Group ID: 10985.

DIAKITE Aboubacar Cherif

Title: Lieutenant

a.k.a: DIAKITE, Toumba

Position: Presidential aide-de-camp Person identified by the International Commission of Inquiry as responsible for the 28 September 2009 events in Guinea

Listed on: 24/12/2009 Last Updated: [24/12/2009] 29/10/2018 Group ID: 10992.

PIVI Jean-Claude

Title: Lieutenant Colonel

DOB: 01/01/1960.

Position: Member of the CNDD. Minister with responsibility for presidential security Person identified by the International Commission of Inquiry as responsible for the 28 September 2009 events in Guinea

Other Information: Also referred to as COPLAN.

Listed on: 24/12/2009 Last Updated: 24/12/2009 29/10/2018 Group ID: 10975.

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 FIU.

Where a relevant institution has already reported details of accounts, other funds or economic resources held frozen for the designated individuals 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 Guinea and links to the UK’s Consolidated List of individuals and entities subject to other financial sanctions regimes may be found on the Customs and Excise pages of the Isle of Man Government website.

Financial Sanctions: Burundi

Tue, 30 Oct 2018 10:25:00 GMT

This news release is issued in respect of the asset freezing measures relating to Burundi.

On 26 October 2018, Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2018/1605 was published in the Official Journal of the European Union. Amending Annex I to Council Regulation (EU) 2015/1755 with effect from 27 October 2018.

The following entry has been amended and remains subject to an asset freeze.

AMENDMENT

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

Individual

NIYONZIMA Mathias Joseph

DOB: (1) 06/03/1956 (2) 02/01/1967

POB: Kanyosha Commune, Mubimbi, Bujumbura-Rural Province, Burundi

a.k.a: KAZUNGU

Nationality: Burundian

Passport Details: Passport number: OP0053090

Position: Officer of the National Intelligence Service

Other Information: Registration number (SNR): O/00064

Listed on: 02/10/2015 Last Updated: [02/10/2015] 29/10/2018 Group ID: 13283.

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

Where a relevant institution has already reported details of accounts, other funds or economic resources held frozen for the designated individual 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 Burundi and links to the UK’s Consolidated List of individuals and entities subject to other financial sanctions regimes may be found on the Customs and Excise pages of the Isle of Man Government website.

Illegal fishing: DEFA urges public to remain vigilant

Tue, 30 Oct 2018 14:54:43 GMT

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture is asking for the public’s help in protecting salmon and sea trout by reporting illegal fishing activity.

DEFA is urging the public to report suspected illegal activity at the earliest possible opportunity, either to the Fisheries Directorate (+44 1624 685857) or to the local police station if the Department’s offices are closed.

Typical signs to look out for are tyre marks going onto the beach, vehicles on the beach during the hours of darkness and small boats near the shore. Suspicious activities during the hours of darkness include lights on rivers, as it is illegal to locate or disturb any fish in inland waters with a light.

Fishing for salmon and sea trout in Manx rivers is now closed until 1st April to allow fish to spawn undisturbed and there is a complete prohibition on fishing for these fish at any time at sea, in a harbour or from the foreshore.

The Sea-Fisheries (Protection of Migratory Fish Species) Bye-Laws 2005 mean that unless licensed by the Department it is an offence to use or even be in possession of gill and other specified nets within 750m of the high water mark between The Stack at the northern point of Peel Bay, clockwise round to the northern side of Ramsey Harbour.

The Department has brought a number of successful prosecutions over the years. Penalties for poaching usually take the form of a fine, confiscation of fishing equipment (potentially including the boat or vehicle) and the catch itself. Confiscated items may be destroyed on the advice of the courts.

Geoffrey Boot MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said:

‘I would urge people to report any suspicious activities immediately. Fisheries officers conduct regular night-time patrols during high-risk periods, liaising closely with the Isle of Man Constabulary, which takes wildlife crime very seriously. However, neither my officers nor the police can be everywhere at once. Information on suspicious activity helps resources to be deployed efficiently and effectively.’

Constable John Hills, Police Wildlife Crime Officer, added:

‘The Isle of Man Constabulary has two wildlife crime officers who liaise with our partners at the Department on wildlife crime-related matters. The unit is committed to the sustainable use of the countryside and we will support our partners at the Department in the apprehension and prosecution of anyone fishing unlawfully.

‘If you have suspicions about illegal fishing taking place then please report it to your local police station, to Police Headquarters on +44 1624 631212 or call the anonymous Crimestopper’s Line on 0800 555 111.’

First look at new designs of Isle of Man Ferry Terminal at Liverpool Waters

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 10:32:03 GMT

Images of the proposed design of the Isle of Man Ferry Terminal at Peel Land and Property’s Liverpool Waters have today been released ahead of the submission of a planning application next month.

The digital illustrations will be displayed at a public exhibition in Liverpool on Thursday (1 November) to fulfil the requirements of planning legislation. Residents who live close to the site have been sent letters inviting them to view the plans (Pictured below).

Infrastructure Minister Ray Harmer MHK said:

‘The proposed terminal has been designed to combine a high standard of civil engineering with a high quality building.

‘Passengers’ needs have been at the forefront of the design process, with comfortable and modern facilities housed in a building which will serve generations of travellers well for many years to come.’

Planning approval pending, the building will be constructed at Princes Half Tide Dock, which is 800 metres downriver of the current Pier Head facility. The new ferry terminal will be part of the £5 billion waterfront regeneration scheme which will see five new neighbourhoods created as part of the 60-hectare Liverpool Waters project.

The Isle of Man Government announced last month it had completed negotiations with Peel Land and Property Limited for the long-term leasehold ownership of the site, which sits within Liverpool’s Maritime Mercantile City World Heritage Site and the Stanley Dock Conservation Area.

The development of the design, in partnership with architects The Manser Practice, has involved consultation with a number of parties, including Liverpool City Council, Liverpool Waters Conservation Board, Places Matter Design Review Panel and Peel Holdings.

Vehicles and freight traffic will be served by a link road currently under construction, paid for by Liverpool City Council and the Combined Authority who have worked together to deliver funding through the major City Centre Connectivity project. Foot passengers, meanwhile, will be able to access the terminal via a riverside footbridge, near to the planned Cruise Liner Terminal Hotel which will be located at Princes Dock. Bus and taxi facilities will be provided to the new site and will also be available across the footbridge, adjacent to Alexandra Tower as part of the Cruise Liner scheme.

Joe Anderson, Mayor of Liverpool, said:

‘The new Isle of Man Terminal is a critical piece in our regeneration plans for the north shore of Liverpool. The city council is investing a huge amount of money in the transport infrastructure to support this new facility and we look forward to its completion. The Isle of Man and Liverpool have a historic relationship and this new ferry terminal will cement our strong links and forge even closer ties into the future.’

Funding for the project is subject to approval from Tynwald. The new terminal is scheduled to open in late 2020.

Securing the provision of a replacement landing stage in Liverpool is a commitment contained in the Programme for Government as a matter of national importance.

A formal planning application will be submitted following the public exhibition of the design.

Financial Sanctions: Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea)

Fri, 26 Oct 2018 14:57:23 GMT

This news release is issued in respect of the restrictive measures directed against the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

Council Regulation (EU) 2017/1509 has been amended following the publication in the Official Journal of the European Union of Council Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2018/1606(“the Amending Regulation”).

The Amending Regulation amends Annex XIV to Council Regulation (EU) 2017/1509 with effect from 26 October 2018.

The following vessels have been added to the list of entries subject to an asset freeze.

Addition

Entities

KUM UN SAN 3

Other Information: IMO: 8705539. The DPRK oil tanker KUM UN SAN 3 engaged in a ship-to-ship transfer, likely for oil, with the M/V NEW REGENT on June 7, 2018. Date of UN designation 16.10.2018.

Listed on: 26/10/2018 Last Updated: 26/10/2018 Group ID: 13718.

NEW REGENT

Other Information: IMO: 8312497. The M/V NEW REGENT engaged in a ship-to-ship transfer, likely for oil, with DPRK oil tanker KUM UN SAN 3 on June 7, 2018. Date of UN designation 16.10.2018.

Listed on: 26/10/2018 Last Updated: 26/10/2018 Group ID: 13717.

SHANG YUAN BAO

Other Information: IMO: 8126070. The merchant vessel M/V SHANG YUAN BAO engaged in a ship-to-ship transfer, likely for oil, with UN-designated DPRK vessel M/V PAEK MA on May 18, 2018. The SHANG YUAN BAO also engaged in a ship-to-ship transfer, likely for oil, with the DPRK vessel MYONG RYU 1 on June 2, 2018. Date of UN designation 16.10.2018.

Listed on: 26/10/2018 Last Updated: 26/10/2018 Group ID: 13716

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

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

Further details of the sanctions regime related to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and links to the Consolidated List of individuals and entities subject to these and other financial sanctions may be found on the Customs and Excise pages of the Isle of Man Government website.

Financial Sanctions - Libya

Fri, 26 Oct 2018 15:52:51 GMT

This news release is issued in respect of the asset freezing measures relating to Libya.

On 26 October 2018, a Corrigendum to Council Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2018/1285 was published in the Official Journal of the European Union.

The following entry has been corrected and is still subject to an asset freeze

CORRECTION

Deleted information appears in square brackers . Additional information appears in italics

Individual

OMAR Mus'ab Mustafa Abu Al Quassim Qassim

DOB: 19/01/1983.

POB: Sabratha, Libya

a.k.a: (1) ABU-AL QASSIM OMAR, Musab, Boukrin (2) QARIN, Mus'ab, Abu

Nationality: Libya

Passport Details: 782633 issued on 31 May 2005. And 540794 issued on 12 Jan. 2008

Position: Leader of a transnational trafficking network

Other Information: UN Ref LYi.024. Low quality aka- The Doctor and Al-Grein. Travel ban and asset freeze.

Listed on: 08/06/2018 Last Updated: [25/09/2018] 26/10/2018 Group ID: 13674

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

Where a relevant institution has already reported details of accounts, other funds or economic resources held frozen for the designated individual 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 Libya and links to the UK’s Consolidated List of individuals and entities subject to other financial sanctions regimes may be found on the Customs and Excise pages of the Isle of Man Government website.

Isle of Man Arts Council returns with Free Lantern Workshops

Thu, 25 Oct 2018 17:00:58 GMT

After the success of last year’s lantern-making workshops, the Isle of Man Arts Council has announced their return for 2019.

The workshops are a chance to create willow lanterns for a parade through Douglas on the 22 November during the switching-on of the Christmas lights.

As well as traditional lanterns, last year’s creations saw stars, Viking longboats and famous culture characters such as Mario and Hello Kitty.

All ages are welcome but under-12s must be accompanied by an adult.

The Workshops will take place on the 3 & 4 November and the 10 & 11 November at Henry Bloom Noble primary school from 10am to 4pm, with last entry at 2pm each day.

For more information please contact the Arts Council on +44 1624 694598

Safety Notice – Cooke & Lewis Mirrors Sold at B&Q

Wed, 24 Oct 2018 09:01:50 GMT

The Isle of Man Office of Fair Trading is making the public aware of a safety notice which has been issued in relation to Cooke & Lewis Mirrors sold at B&Q.

B&Q has decided to recall the mirrors listed below as, in some circumstances, the safety backing may be ineffective or missing. This may result in the mirror detaching from the fixings and falling. Additionally, the shelves supplied are not toughened glass. Both of these concerns present a risk of cuts should the glass break. For products with lights, this could result in live wires becoming exposed, presenting a risk of electric shock.

Products affected:

3663602941668 BEAUPORT Arch mirror 65x50 with spot
3663602941675 CLARACH Rectangular mirror 60x50 with spot
3663602942122 GARWICK Regular mirror 60x45 with shelf

What to do:

If you have purchased one of the mirrors, stop using it immediately and follow the Customer guide to returning recalled mirrors link in the safety notice to return it safely to the local B&Q store for a full refund.

If you do not have access to a computer, you can contact the OFT directly on tel. no. 686500 if you think that you may have purchased one of the mirrors affected.

You can contact B&Q’s helpline on tel. no. 0300 303 4482 if you have any further queries about this recall.

Measures agreed for 2018/19 king scallop season

Wed, 24 Oct 2018 10:01:07 GMT

The Island’s Scallop Management Board (SMB) has made recommendations to the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture on the management of the forthcoming king scallop season, which starts on 1 November this year and runs through until the end of May 2019.

Acknowledging the long-term importance of the king scallop fishery to the Island’s maritime economy, and the continuing decline in king scallop stocks, Board members agreed that a reduction in Total Allowable Catch (TAC) for the coming season was essential in order to protect the vulnerable stock.

The Board recommended that the TAC be reduced from last season’s 3,203 tonnes to a new TAC limit of 2,562 tonnes for the 2018/19 season. It also recommended a daily catch limit of 700kg per vessel and a closure of the fishery over the Christmas and New Year period.

These decisions are based upon an authoritative report produced by the Department’s independent fisheries science advisors at Bangor University. It shows that king scallop stocks are continuing to decline, and that a precautionary approach is needed to ensure the long-term viability of the sector.

The Minister for the Department for Environment, Food and Agriculture, Geoffrey Boot MHK, has supported in full the recommendations from the Board and has asked for close monitoring of the fishery.

He commented:

'The economic effect of the declining king scallop stock has been hidden by the higher prices being charged, but there is no mistaking the downward trend in the availability of this valuable resource. Bangor University’s report clearly shows this to be true. That’s why I endorse the recommendations of the Scallop Management Board. Reducing the total catch across the coming season will ensure that this continues to be a sustainable and economically worthwhile business for all those who fish for king scallops in Manx waters.'

The new regulations follow the appointment of a new Chair for the Isle of Man Scallop Management Board.

Jennifer Mouat comes to the role with extensive experience in the fishing industry, initially with the Shetland Shellfish Management Organisation (SSMO) before working with the Scottish Whitefish Producers’ Association.

Whilst working with the SSMO she was instrumental in introducing a management framework which ensured that the fishery was sustainable both from a stock and economic perspective.

Amongst other qualifications she holds an MA in Environmental Policy and Society.

Venue change for 2019 budget meeting

Tue, 23 Oct 2018 11:20:58 GMT

Thursday’s Budget 2019 road show meeting will be held at the Corrin Hall in Peel, not Peel Town Hall as previously advertised.

The change has been made to accommodate the numbers expected to attend the interactive workshop sessions, which have proved successful during the two events held so far in Ramsey on Thursday and Castletown last night.

The Corrin Hall is located in the grounds to St German’s Cathedral, directly opposite the Town Hall on Derby Road.

The session will also begin a little later than advertised, at 7.30pm, to allow people taking part in the Funding of Nursing and Residential Care focus group meeting at Peel Clothworkers School to attend.

The Budget 2019 roadshow continues tomorrow evening (Wednesday 24 October) at the Manx Legion Club, 7-9pm, before concluding in Peel on Thursday.

All welcome.

Financial Sanctions: Chemical Weapons

Tue, 23 Oct 2018 11:57:48 GMT

This news release is issued to publicise a new sanctions regime introduced to counter the threat posed by the use and proliferation of chemical wepons.

On 15 October 2018, the Council of the European Union adopted Council Regulation (EU) 2018/1542. The restrictive measures target persons and entities who are directly responsible for the development and use of chemical weapons as well as those who provide financial, technical or material support, and those who assist, encourage or are associated with them.

The European Union (Chemical Weapons Sanctions) Order 2018, applies the provisions of the EU Regulation, as modified by the Schedule to the Order, as part of the law of the Island.

The Chemical Weapons Sanctions Regulations 2018 puts in place enforcement provisions for breaches of the financial sanctions contained in the EU Regulation.

To date no individuals or entities have been included in Annex I of the EU Regulation.

Further details of the sanctions regime related to Chemical Weapons and links to the UK’s Consolidated List of Individuals and entities subject to other financial sanctions regimes may be found on the Customs and Excise pages of the Isle of Man Government website.

Department progressing with plans to remove silt from Peel Marina

Mon, 22 Oct 2018 14:54:07 GMT

The Department of Infrastructure is progressing with plans to begin the removal of silt from Peel Marina in spring 2019.

About 3,000 tonnes of silt enters the marina from the River Neb each year, containing traces of heavy metals and other contaminants, largely as a result of historical mining operations.

If dredging does not take place, the accumulation of silt threatens the closure of a number of berths within the marina, which was last dredged in 2015.

A Peel Marina Project Board was established in May 2017 to examine the issue, chaired by Tim Baker MHK, Member for the Department of Infrastructure with responsibility for Ports.

A number of solutions have been considered during the intervening months, in partnership with the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture, balancing the need to maintain the marina with the cost to the public purse and Government’s responsibilities to the marine ecosystem and the Island’s commercial fishery.

A proposed scheme has now been agreed and specialist external consultants appointed. A Prior Information Notice has now been placed on the Isle of Man Government Procurement Portal seeking expressions of interest from contractors who are able to carry out the dredging and construct a temporary lagoon to remove the water.

Mr Baker said:

‘The project board has considered a range of options to address this challenging issue. Plans are progressing well to begin removing silt next year, with an innovative solution which will address the issues of Peel Marina at the same time as providing wider environmental benefits.

’The proposed scheme has the support of the Council of Ministers and Treasury and we expect to be in position to submit a planning application before the end of the year. I look forward to being able to share full details of exactly how the process will work in the near future.’

Coastguard’s dedication follows strong family tradition

Mon, 22 Oct 2018 14:54:10 GMT

An Isle of Man coastguard with a long family history of service recently celebrated 20 years with the voluntary organisation.

Mark Leadley, Deputy Station Officer for Peel Coastguard Rescue Team, followed in his father's and grandfather's footsteps when he joined the team in 1998. The family now have a combined total of almost 100 years' service.

A ceremony to celebrate Mark's dedication took place at the organisation's Peel base following a team training exercise. It was attended by Infrastructure Minister Ray Harmer MHK and Tim Baker MHK, Member with responsibility for Ports, and Mark was presented with a Long Service and Good Conduct Medal and a gift to mark his dedication.

Mark's grandfather joined the Coastguard after leaving the Royal Navy at the end of the First World War. He served in England and Ireland before being stationed at the Coastguard house at Knockaloe. Cementing the family's links, Mark's father was actually born in the Coastguard house and he eventually went on to serve for 42 years.

With this strong family connection, it was no surprise when Mark joined the Peel team in April 1998 and was promoted to Section Leader after 10 years, becoming the Deputy Station Officer 5 years later.

In a coastal emergency, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

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

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 09:33:03 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 Regulation (EC) No 881/2002 has been amended with effect from 15 October 2018 following the publication of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2018/1539.

The following entry has been added to the UK’s Consolidated List and is now subject to an asset freeze.

Addition

Individual

BOUGUETOF HOCINE

DOB: 01/07/1959.

POB: Tebessa, Algeria

Nationality: Algerian

Other Information: EU listing only.

Listed on: 16/10/2018 Last Updated: 16/10/2018 Group ID: 13715.

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

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

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

Financial Sanctions: ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaida 2

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 10:51:40 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 Regulation (EC) No 881/2002 has been amended with effect from 18 October 2018 following the publication of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2018/1562.

The Amending Regulation reflects the decision made on 15 October 2018 by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Committee to add one entry to the list of persons to whom the freezing of funds and economic resources apply.

Addition

Individual

CHOUDARY Anjem

DOB: 18/01/1967.

POB: Welling, London, United Kingdom

a.k.a: LUQMAN, Abu

Nationality: British

Passport Details: British Passport number 516384722, issued on 6 May 2013 by Passport Office Glasgow and expires on 6 June 2023.

Address: Frankland Prison, United Kingdom.

Other Information: UN Ref QDi.419. Pledged allegiance to Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), listed as Al-Qaida in Iraq (QDe.115) in July 2014. Imprisoned in the United Kingdom in September 2014 with a tentative release in October 2018.

Listed on: 18/10/2018 Last Updated: 18/10/2018 Group ID: 13714

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

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

Access changes at NSC on Monday 22nd October

Thu, 18 Oct 2018 16:15:57 GMT

The National Sports Centre will have amended access on Monday 22^nd October while maintenance work is taking place on the atrium roof.

That means that from 6am until 6pm entry to the NSC will be from the rear of the building only. Users will still be able to make use of the gym, spa, squash courts and bowls hall. Classes will be held in the secondary sports hall. The café, reception and main sports hall will not be open during these hours.

After 6pm access will return to normal.

Disabled users will also have to use the rear of the building, but access to the gym via the lift will not be affected.

If weather disruption causes any last minute changes, customers can check on the NSC’s Facebook page, or call the NSC on 688588.

Further work is currently planned for Friday 9^th November, with the same restrictions put in place, but in addition a total facility closure from 9am until 10am due to MUA work resulting in no water supply.

NSC would like to thank customers and staff for their patience during the pool refurbishment works.

State of the Nation Address 2018

Tue, 16 Oct 2018 16:23:19 GMT

Mr President, Honourable Members,

This administration has now entered its third year and it is once again time for me to review the state of our Island Nation.

This is the year when Brexit changes from a concept into a reality.

One possible outcome is that the UK will leave the EU on 29 March without any form of a deal.

There is still a huge amount of work that needs to be done to make sure that the Isle of Man is totally prepared for that scenario and indeed for all scenarios.

This is one of the greatest challenges that a Manx Government and parliament has ever faced.

Our European Union and Trade Bill – which will come to the Keys for its first reading later this month – is probably the most important piece of legislation that this Honourable Court will need to consider in a generation.

We simply don’t know whether there will be a deal or not.

There are many critical issues that are still unresolved.

The EU will not allow free movement of goods without free movement of people.

The UK does not want a physical border in Ireland and it does not want free movement of people.

After all, this was one of the key drivers behind the vote for Brexit in the first place.

If you had asked me about the likelihood of a deal before the Salzburg conference I would have said with some confidence that I think they will find a way through.

But as we saw the summit did not go to plan.

The signs are now improving and I am picking up more of a note of optimism.

But we have to remember that this is a difficult time both technically and politically.

Especially politically.

And we know there are still difficulties on the UK side as well as with the Northern Irish MPs, which means that any deal may not get the backing it needs in Parliament.

The UK and the EU both need to agree and sign off the Withdrawal Agreement with a workable backstop on Northern Ireland as well as the broad scope of a High Level Political Declaration which will set out the future relationship.

We are entering a crucial stage and we will hopefully see some detail emerge at the end of this week with further scope for final sign off in November.

This means that the negotiations will be intense over the next two or three weeks.

But I want to make sure that what I say next is totally clear:

Deal or no deal, we are making the necessary preparations so that we are ready whatever happens.

And we will have made the necessary preparations for either scenario.

Because we are small and agile we will be ready to take advantage of post-Brexit opportunities.

And because we have planned meticulously for any outcome we will be as well prepared as possible.

I have always said that when I finish my political career I want to leave the Island in a better position than when I started.

The cornerstone of this administration is sustainability.

We have continued to deliver the Programme for Government to make the Isle of Man an even more special place to live and work.

I will not steal the thunder from my colleague Minister Thomas who will return to this Honourable Court next month for a debate on the Programme for Government but I would emphasise that we remain committed to delivering our three core aims:

An inclusive and caring society
An Island of enterprise and opportunity; and
A financially responsible government.

We are focusing on achieving some very specific outcomes in the Programme for Government.

One of the actions set out in the Programme was to 'Ensure the future security, sustainability, and reliability of our sea and air routes.'

We now own our strategic sea services.

After an enormous amount of careful consideration the Council of Ministers decided in the best interests of our residents, in the best interests of our businesses, and in the best long-term interests of the Isle of Man, as a whole that we would take control of the future of our ferry service.

We listened to the concerns of the public and with the support of Tynwald we took action.

And that has secured sustainability on our seas for many years to come.

Our investment in infrastructure will have benefits for many future generations.

Planning is in for Lord Street with an intention to build a new hotel, seven screen cinema, restaurants, and parking.

And, ending many years of prevarication, work has finally begun on the promenade.

Yes, it is going to be a little bit more difficult for us to get around Douglas over the next two years, but this work will benefit the Island for many decades to come.

A deal has been signed with Peel Holdings to build a new ferry terminal in Liverpool.

And we spent a few extra months negotiating the details so that we could get the best possible deal for the Isle of Man.

But it’s not just our physical environment where we have made sustainable decisions.

We took the decision to write-off £95 million of debt from Manx Utilities, scaling down proposed significant price increases and therefore helping every resident of the Isle of Man.

In fact we are always looking to help those people in our society on low income.

Writing-off this debt also meant that the MUA could realistically plan for the future.

Their sensible and robust new pricing structure is laid ready for discussion with Members later in this sitting. It is a structure that I wholeheartedly approve of.

Socrates once said:

'The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old but on building the new.'

None of these important decisions have been easy and quite rightly there has been debate.

But ultimately this Honourable Court has worked together for the greater good of the Isle of Man.

I have set up a Chief Minister’s committee to look into the policy for gas regulation on the Island.

And I am delighted that the Minister of Policy and Reform will be reporting back to me in December.

And also laid before the Court today is our telecommunications strategy.

This is an area in which we used to lead the world.

But we have now fallen to sixty-second place for the speed of our network.

If we want to maintain and grow our digital economy and our associated industries like fintech and digital health then we have to have the right infrastructure.

Sustainability is also at the heart of our policies for the environment.

We remain the only jurisdiction with UNESCO biosphere status.

This is an accolade that even The Guardian newspaper couldn’t ignore.

The Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture recently announced nine new marine nature reserves, bringing the total up to ten.

The reserves will cover over 10 per cent of the Island’s territorial sea and more than 50 per cent of the inshore waters that contain the highest diversity of species and habitats.

Over the past year we have given Beach Buddies funding to help their magnificent work of clearing plastic from our beaches and footpaths.

In the business arena we are making real and lasting reforms.

Businesses told us that work permits were not working. So we fundamentally reformed our work permit regime.

The new system provides a balance between supporting employers and the need to protect our Manx workers.

As a result overall business confidence in the system has doubled and over 90% of all permits are now approved within 24 hours.

Business told us that planning needed to be reformed.

So we consulted on a wide range of reforms and back in May a plan to reform the planning system was laid before this Honourable Court.

A fundamental change to the Town and Country Planning Bill is currently out for consultation.

The Bill proposes a number of key changes including national policy directives and community infrastructure levies.

Business told us that we needed to make it easier to work with Government.

So we reformed the Department for Enterprise, setting up the delivery agencies so that we can work more closely with those at the coal face.

As a result we have improved the way we communicate with business.

But we still need to improve our communication with the public.

We want to build openness and transparency.

We know that every day more and more people want to access information and services online and through social media.

The way that people receive information is constantly changing and they may not always want to hear what politicians have to say.

We have to constantly improve our ability to convey information in a clear and simple way to all audiences, especially younger audiences.

Last week saw an important focus on mental health with World Mental Health Day recognised globally.

Indeed Minister Ashford attended the first global Mental Health Summit hosted by the UK Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.

We have a huge task ahead of us to ensure that our people, especially the younger generation, receive the support that they need in facing mental health challenges.

The Department for Health and Social Care is rolling out mental health first aid training for Government employees, followed by private organisations.

We will be training members of staff to be mental health first aiders so that they learn how to identify, understand and help someone who might be experiencing a mental health issue.

Yes we have made advances in this important area but we can and should do more.

And now I am going to spend a couple of minutes celebrating some of our recent successes.

At the Commonwealth Games in Australia we had the enormous pleasure of supporting Charlotte Atkinson when she finished fourth in the women's 200m butterfly swimming.

And I was proud to watch Tim Kneale win a silver medal in the men’s individual double trap shooting.

In fact the whole team was just magnificent.

And in the Arts:

The 2018 BBC Young Folk Musician of the Year is Mera Royle

And the first Pretty Woman on Broadway is Sam Barks

And there are many, many other people performing on the international stage and representing the Isle of Man with pride.

And I have not forgotten our young people.

This summer saw the best A-Level results ever, with a 5% increase in A*, A and B grades.

And there was an increase in the number of pupils obtaining five or more GCSE's including maths and English.

There was also the highest ever levels of achievement across most areas in early years and key stages 1 and 2.

I hope that all members share my pride in everything that these Manx people of all ages have achieved.

There have also been significant achievements in our economy.

Our GDP in real terms has increased by 7.4%.

The amount of money people take home in their pocket has increased by 4.4%.

Whilst we cannot expect growth like this every year, I believe that we are heading in the right direction.

And when I talk about sustainability I don’t just mean in our environment. I also mean in our society.

We are rolling out the Equality Act – part of our commitment to an inclusive and caring society.

From 1 January 2019 there will be wider protection for all members of our society ensuring equal treatment when accessing services or in employment.

As an employer the Government has introduced the living wage and is committed to increasing the pay for 86 Public Services Commission and healthcare workers to the living wage of £8.61 per hour.

Members will hear more about this shortly from the Minister for Policy and Reform.

And Minister Thomas is also looking at how we can help those who are cold, hungry or homeless.

But I think we still need to do more than this.

I have asked the Minister for Health and Social Care, David Ashford, to chair a new Chief Minister’s committee to look carefully at the issues faced by those on zero hour contracts.

This is something that I’ve been concerned about for some time.

I know that some workers like those in the care industry or those in seasonal work rely on this type of contract.

But we need to ensure that they are not being abused by employers.

This is also the Year of Our Island.

And we have had some fantastic activities run for our young people our old people and for everyone in between.

It has been fantastic to see so many people out and about and enjoying this beautiful Island.

There has been the trail guide, the dark skies events in January, and the summer passports, to name just a few.

Many of you joined us for the opening of the Blein Yn Ellan Ain garden in St Johns.

And I was deeply proud of the work that our children carried out.

On a more sombre note next month will be the centenary of the end of World War One.

It will be a deeply moving occasion for us all.

This year I visited my Great Uncle’s grave in France as part of my trip to represent the Island at the commemoration of the centenary of the Battle of Amiens.

I would also like to commend the Isle of Man community for all of the moving ways in which they have paid tribute to those who served their country.

Personally I was very moved by Ramsey Commissioners when they invited me to attend the commemoration of the one hundreth anniversary of the loss of my Great Uncle.

This is a poignant act of remembrance that the town is observing for every single person on the war memorial.

Mr President, in summary the Government is well placed to continue delivering sustainability for the Isle of Man.

But we are not complacent.

We have a lot more work to do.

And we are still facing significant international challenges:

TAX 3

Moneyval

The EU Code of Conduct Group

And the debate over beneficial ownership still goes on.

In all good organisations you have the front of house team and you have the behind the scenes team, without both you won’t succeed.

And I would like to thank all of our public sector workers for their valuable work and the contribution they make to the Isle of Man every day.

And we will continue down the path of delivering sustainable policies at home and meeting international standards abroad.

We will make the most of every opportunity that we can find in the post-Brexit world.

And we will continue to make the right decisions for the present and for the future of this most special and proud Island nation. A truly special place to live and work.

We will make absolutely certain that the Isle of Man will always be a shining jewel in the Irish Sea.

EpiPen shortage – advice for users

Mon, 15 Oct 2018 13:52:32 GMT

Advice has been issued to users of EpiPen and EpiPen Junior in the Island, as the UK Department of Health and Social Care confirms the current shortage is likely to continue for several months.

Users are urged not to order more devices than they need. Repeat prescriptions will be monitored to ensure limited supplies remain available to everyone that needs them. Any additional dispensing to patients worried about shortages could make the situation worse

Certain batches of EpiPens can be used beyond their labelled expiry dates for a period of four months. The relevant lots have expiry dates between July 2018 and November 2018 and are listed in the table available

Always use an out of date EpiPen rather than no EpiPen – it cannot do you any harm. So the advice is not to throw away an expired device until it’s been replaced

Parents should consider having their child assessed by a GP as some children may be appropriate for any adult dose pen

Different brands of preloaded injection pens are available from other suppliers, but are not used in exactly the same way – GPs and pharmacists will work together to ensure patients switched to different devices are trained in how to use them

Over the next few days, the DHSC’s pharmacy team will establish how many devices and of what type are available at Island pharmacies. GPs will then be advised where stocks are available.

The latest advice from the UK has also been given to parents and guardians of Isle of Man school pupils.

A delay in the manufacture of EpiPen products has affected supplies for several months and the shortage is affecting countries around the world. Suppliers of alternative adrenaline auto injectors are working to meet increasing demand for all stocks and the situation is being closely monitored by the Manx Government.

Licence awarded to explore Manx waters for oil and gas

Tue, 16 Oct 2018 11:08:13 GMT

An oil and gas exploration licence has been awarded for part of the Isle of Man’s seabed.

Crogga – an Isle of Man-based company setup by local residents with experience in the oil and gas sector – was awarded the licence following a bidding process held between September and December 2017.

Two bids were received and both underwent a technical assessment and evaluation by the Department of Infrastructure, the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture, and the Department for Enterprise with the assistance of legal and technical advisers, including the British Geological Survey.

The initial seismic surveys will be subject to approval by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture and will require consultation with other stakeholders.

Any progression to future stages, such as exploratory drilling, would require further consent and approvals. It would be based on the findings of the seismic data collected and would require the licensee to demonstrate further financial and technical capability. Appropriate environmental information would also be sought at this stage in order to inform any decision.

The area of seabed licensed is off the east coast of the Island and covers 266 square kilometres.

The area was previously explored by BP in the 1980s and 90s. Advances in technology may make further exploration and extraction a more viable proposition.

The granting of the licence fulfils a commitment in the Programme for Government to maximise the social and economic value of the Island’s territorial seabed.

Allowing the appraisal of the field will promote economic growth at no cost to the Isle of Man Government.