Differentiation of variants

Summary

The requester asked Manx Care for details on SARS-CoV-2 variant differentiation processes and non-PCR virus isolates. Manx Care refused to provide the information, stating they do not hold the requested data and do not perform virus isolation.

Key Facts

• Manx Care does not hold information regarding the test process for differentiating SARS-CoV-2 variants.
• Manx Care explicitly stated they do not isolate SARS-CoV-2 virus.
• The authority suggested the requester consult the CerTest BIOTEC website for advice.
• The request was refused under Section 11(3)a of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.
• The response was issued on 6th September 2021 regarding a request received on 9th August 2021.

Data Disclosed

• 1942281
• 2021-08-09
• 2021-09-06
• Section 11(3)a
• IM4 4R
• 01624 650 000

Exemptions Cited

• Section 11(3)a of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Information not held)

Original Request

Pls provide the information relating to the test process that can show how the differentiation between sars-cov2 variants is being done? Pls provide the isolate for sars-cov2 virus not using a pcr test?

Data Tables (1)

Full Response Text

Manx Care Noble’s Hospital, Strang Braddan, Isle of Man IM4 4R (01624) 650 000

Our ref: 1942281 6th September 2021

Dear ###

We write further to your request which was received on 9th August 2021 and which states:

"Pls provide Q1 the information relating to the test process that can show how the differentiation between sars-cov2 variants is being done? Q2 Pls provide the isolate for sars-cov2 virus not using a pcr test?"

Our Response Q1 the information relating to the test process that can show how the differentiation between sars-cov2 variants is being done? While our aim is to provide information whenever possible, in this instance Manx Care is unable to provide the information that you have requested. This is in line with Section 11(3)a of the Act, as a practical refusal reason applies; namely we do not hold or cannot, after taking reasonable steps to do so, find the information that you have requested. In order to offer advice and assistance, you may find the information on Spanish website CerTest BIOTEC useful www.certest.es. Q2 Pls provide the isolate for sars-cov2 virus not using a pcr test?" While our aim is to provide information whenever possible, in this instance Manx Care is unable to provide the information that you have requested. This is in line with Section 11(3)a of the Act, as a practical refusal reason applies; namely we do not hold or cannot, after taking reasonable steps to do so, find the information that you have requested. Manx Care do not hold this information as we do not isolate.

Please quote the reference number 1942281 in any future communications.

Your right to request a review

If you are unhappy with this response to your freedom of information request, you may ask us to carry out an internal review of the response, by completing a complaint form and submitting it electronically or by delivery/post.

An electronic version of our complaint form can be found by going to our website at https://services.gov.im/freedom-of-information/Review . If you would like a paper version of

our complaint form to be sent to you by post, please contact me and I will be happy to arrange for this. Your review request should explain why you are dissatisfied with this response, and should be made as soon as practicable. We will respond as soon as the review has been concluded.

If you are not satisfied with the result of the review, you then have the right to appeal to the Information Commissioner for a decision on; 1. Whether we have responded to your request for information in accordance with Part 2 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015; or 2. Whether we are justified in refusing to give you the information requested.
In response to an application for review, the Information Commissioner may, at any time, attempt to resolve a matter by negotiation, conciliation, mediation or another form of alternative dispute resolution and will have regard to any outcome of this in making any subsequent decision. More detailed information on your right to a review can be found on the Information Commissioner’s website at www.inforights.im. Should you have any queries concerning this letter, please do not hesitate to contact me. Further information about freedom of information requests can be found at www.gov.im/foi.

I will now close your request as of this date.