Cost of Douglas promenade regeneration from APRIL 2018 until February

Summary: A request was made for the total taxpayer cost of the Douglas promenade regeneration scheme between April 2018 and February 2021. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed the specific total cost for the period ending 31 January 2021.

The request covered the Douglas promenade regeneration scheme costs from April 2018 to February 2021.

The Department of Infrastructure responded that the cost from 1 April 2018 to 31 January 2021 was £19,263,503.84.

The response was issued on 16 March 2021 following a request received on 22 February 2021.

No information was withheld; the outcome was classified as 'All information sent'.

The response provided details on the right to request an internal review or appeal to the Information Commissioner.


Part time General Practitioners

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Health and Social Care regarding the number of practicing GPs in the Isle of Man, specifically focusing on part-time workers and their gender distribution. The authority disclosed that there are 103 GPs on the Performers List, provided a breakdown of part-time sessions by practice, and stated that 55% of part-time GPs are female.

There are 103 GPs on the Isle of Man Performers List, including partners, locums, salaried GPs, and trainees.

Full-time work is defined as 8 sessions per week.

Part-time GP session counts vary by practice, with Peel having the highest at 4 and Hailwood having 0.

55% of GPs working part time in practices are female.

The gender statistic excludes locums who choose their own working hours and locations.


Printing suppliers on the Isle of Man used by Post Office

Summary: The Isle of Man Post Office disclosed the total spending on six specific printing suppliers for the calendar year 2020 in response to a Freedom of Information request. The data revealed varying expenditure levels, with Words & Spaces Limited being the highest spend and Cannell Print having zero spend.

The request covered spending data from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2020.

Words & Spaces Limited received the highest expenditure at £84,328.

Cannell Print had no recorded spending (£0) during the specified period.

The response was issued on March 8, 2021, confirming all information was sent.

Six specific suppliers were listed in the breakdown provided by the authority.


Cautions

Summary: The Isle of Man Constabulary responded to a request for a breakdown of cautions issued between June 2019 and March 2020, disclosing detailed statistics categorized by offence, age, and gender.

The request covered the period from June 2019 to 31st March 2020.

A total of 158 cautions were issued to males during this period.

A total of 11 cautions were issued to females during this period.

The most common offence category for males was Miscellaneous Offences with 39 cautions.

The response included data broken down by specific age ranges from under 10 to 70+.


DHSC Request Ref:1538749

Summary: The requester asked the Office of the Clerk of Tynwald to provide a copy of a document allegedly destroyed by a Minister or to investigate its destruction under the FOI Act. The authority responded that the information is not held as the document was received at the Minister's private home and never entered the official office records.

The request concerns a document originally sent to the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) regarding government matters.

The DHSC previously advised the requester to contact the Clerk of Tynwald after claiming the document was personal.

The Minister received the letter at his home address on Thursday 29 October 2020.

The Office of the Clerk of Tynwald confirmed the document was never sent to the Minister's official office.

The authority concluded it does not hold the information and cannot find it after reasonable steps.


Independent Inspectors - planning appeals

Summary: A request was made for details on Independent Inspectors for planning appeals, specifically focusing on the performance appraisals and complaints regarding Mr. Michael Hurley. The Cabinet Office disclosed the list of current inspectors and confirmed no complaints against Mr. Hurley, but stated they do not hold records of his performance appraisals.

The current Independent Inspectors are Mr Anthony Wharton, Mr Michael Hurley, and Mr Brian Sims.

The Cabinet Office does not hold information regarding the number or outcome of performance appraisals for Mr Michael Hurley.

There have been no complaints received in respect of Mr Michael Hurley regarding IoM Planning Appeal Hearings.

The response was issued on 11 March 2021 following a request received on 22 February 2021.

22 February 2021
11 March 2021
23 February 2021
15 years
0 complaints


Building Control queries with regard to Sandygate House, IM7 3AF

Summary: The requester asked for all correspondence regarding Sandygate House from September 2009, and the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture disclosed all requested information, including a 2015 demolition direction.

The request was received on 2021-02-22 and concluded on 2021-03-05.

The authority confirmed that all information was sent to the requester.

A Demolition Direction (DEMNO) was issued on 26 June 2015 for Sandygate House.

The demolition application was submitted by JCK Limited.

The demolition direction requires disconnection of gas, electricity, and water supplies prior to work.


Poortown Road Peel, 40mph buffer zone speed monitoring data

Summary: The requester asked for speed monitoring data and equipment locations regarding a proposed 40mph buffer zone on Poortown Road, Peel. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed historic traffic survey data from 2011 and confirmed the equipment location in an appendix.

The speed monitoring data provided is from a survey conducted between 31 October and 7 November 2011.

The survey location was Poortown Road, Peel, which had an unrestricted speed limit at the time.

The decision to install the buffer zone was based on traffic speed data, officer experience, and police consultation.

No vehicles were recorded speeding during the 2011 survey period.

The response was issued on 22 March 2021, confirming all requested information was sent.


Self isolation direction notice issued to iomspc crew

Summary: The request sought an example of the self-isolation direction notice issued to Isle of Man Steam Packet Company crew members. The Cabinet Office disclosed the full text of the notice, which outlines a 21-day isolation period with specific exemptions for crew who comply with risk assessments and testing protocols.

The notice requires a 21-day self-isolation period for crew members arriving on the island.

Exemptions from isolation are granted if crew comply with the Steam Packet Company Risk Assessment.

Crew must undergo biological sample tests (PCR) at the start and end of their duty period.

The duty period is defined as a shift cycle with no more than 7 days between tests.

Failure to abide by the direction can result in arrest and prosecution with a maximum penalty of 3 months custody.


Reporting of potholes

Summary: The request sought monthly statistics on pothole reports and repair actions from November 2020 to February 2021. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed the number of reports, repairs, escalations, and outstanding cases for each month in the specified period.

The request covered pothole reporting data from November 2020 to February 2021.

February 2021 saw the highest number of pothole reports with 427 incidents.

Not all reported potholes were repaired in the same month they were reported.

The Department of Infrastructure provided a breakdown of reports, repairs, escalations, and outstanding items.

The response was issued on 16 March 2021 following a request received on 25 February 2021.

Nov 2020: 235 reported, 220 repaired, 11 escalated, 4 outstanding

Dec 2020: 244 reported, 180 repaired, 46 escalated, 18 outstanding

Jan 2021: 196 reported, 156 repaired, 33 escalated, 7 outstanding

Feb 2021: 427 reported, 223 repaired, 103 escalated, 101 outstanding


Number of Road Traffic Accidents

Summary: A request was made for road traffic accident statistics on the Mountain Road and Marine Drive over the past 10 years, excluding TT and MGP periods. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed injury collision figures for the available data period from 2015 to 2020.

The request specifically excluded accidents occurring during the TT and MGP fortnights.

The authority only holds collision data starting from 1st January 2015, not the full 10 years requested.

The figures provided represent injury collisions only, excluding damage-only incidents.

There were 96 injury collisions recorded on the Mountain Road between 2015 and 2020.

There were 2 injury collisions recorded on Marine Drive between 2015 and 2020.


Steam Packet Direction Notices

Summary: The request sought all direction notices issued by the Chief Secretary to the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company regarding the Covid-19 pandemic, including superseded ones. The Cabinet Office released some information but withheld specific details citing an absolute exemption for personal data.

The request was received on 2021-03-01 and responded to on 2021-03-23.

The authority handling the request was the Cabinet Office.

Some information was released, but part of the request was exempt.

The exemption was applied under section 25 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

The withheld information was classified as personal data of individuals other than the requester.

Section 25 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (absolutely exempt personal information)

Data Protection (Application of GDPR) Order 2018, Article 5 (data protection principles)

Data Protection (Application of GDPR) Order 2018, Article 6 (lawful processing conditions)


Number of Hip Replacements carried out

Summary: The request sought monthly breakdowns of hip replacement surgeries and waiting list removal statistics for 2019 and 2020 at Nobles Hospital. The authority disclosed aggregate surgery counts and detailed waiting list removal reasons but could not provide monthly breakdowns due to incomplete clinical coding.

Monthly breakdowns for hip arthroplasty surgeries (2019-2020) were not provided due to incomplete and unaudited clinical coding.

A total of 16 prosthetic replacements of the head of femur were recorded between January 2019 and December 2020.

All 16 recorded hip replacement procedures were classified as emergency admissions.

113 orthopaedic waiting list entries were removed due to consultant decision between 2019 and 2020.

6 orthopaedic waiting list entries were removed due to patient death between 2019 and 2020.

16 Prosthetic replacements of head of femur procedures

31 Procedure provided by other provider removals

2 Patient admitted as an emergency removals


Anonymised copy of public sector pension scheme data

Summary: The requester asked for anonymised public sector pension data in an actuarial valuation format to assess potential insurance buy-out costs, but the Public Sector Pensions Authority refused the request citing that it would require substantial compilation and analysis of data.

The request was refused under Section 11(3) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 as it required substantial compilation and analysis.

The Authority suggested existing public reports could be used to estimate liabilities instead of providing raw data.

All public sector pension schemes managed by the PSPA are unfunded 'pay-as-you-go' schemes with no direct assets.

The estimated cost to buy out the schemes is approximately £4.3bn based on the 2018-19 valuation.

The Public Sector Pensions Act 2011 does not currently allow for a bulk buy-out of liabilities.

Section 11(3) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (not required to create, derive, research, analyse, or substantially compile information)


Summary: A request was made for consultation responses and documentation regarding the 2021 amendments to NHS Independent Review Body regulations, specifically questioning the exclusion of public consultation and the handling of 2006 recommendations. The authority provided a partial response containing a letter from the NHS IRB dated November 2020, which raised concerns about the consultation process and the complexity of the proposed complaint layers, while other requested documents were withheld.

The request targeted the Cabinet Office regarding the National Health Service (Independent Review Body)(Amendment) Regulations 2021.

The outcome was classified as 'Some information sent but part exempt'.

A letter from the NHS Independent Review Body dated 10 November 2020 was disclosed as part of the response.

The NHS IRB noted that the Social Services IRB was not included in the consultation process.

The NHS IRB identified five potential layers for complaint resolution: Commissioned Service Provider, Manx Care, DHSC, IRB, and Tynwald Commissioner.


Court Welfare Officer ("CWO") Reports to Court re Play Therapy

Summary: The requester sought statistics on Court Welfare Officer recommendations for play therapy and sibling engagement for 2019 and 2020. The Department of Home Affairs responded that records are only retained for six months, providing limited data for that specific period instead of the requested years.

The Department of Home Affairs only retains records for six months, preventing a full response for 2019 and 2020.

In the last six months, there was one referral for play therapy which had not yet been agreed upon.

One referral was made to a private sector therapist, specifically Beacon Therapeutic Services.

No referrals were made to CAMHS in the last six months.

No Court Orders requiring independent play therapist reports were issued in the last six months.

1 referral to Beacon Therapeutic Services

0 occasions CWO declined to meet siblings


SPco direction notices

Summary: The requester asked for the corporate direction notice issued to Steam Packet Company crew members regarding COVID-19 public health protocols. The Cabinet Office disclosed the full notice, which outlines self-isolation requirements and exemptions for crew members.

The request was received on 4 March 2021 and responded to on 23 March 2021.

The disclosed document is the 'SPCo Manx Crew Direction Notice' issued on 25 February 2021.

Crew members are generally required to self-isolate for 21 days upon arrival on the Island.

Exemptions from self-isolation apply if crew members comply with the SPCo Risk Assessment and undergo PCR tests at the start and end of their duty period.

The notice was issued by the Chief Secretary under the Public Health Protection (Coronavirus) Regulations 2020.


Contact tracing app

Summary: A request was made for documents regarding a contact tracing app decision and the number of contact tracers, but the Department of Health and Social Care stated they do not hold this information.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold the requested information on the contact tracing app.

The contract tracing app function falls under Public Health, which is part of the Cabinet Office.

The requester was advised to submit a separate FOI request to the Cabinet Office.

The request was received on 4 March 2021 and responded to on 5 March 2021.

The response cites Section 11(3)(a) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

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


Steam Packet and Public Health meeting minutes and notice

Summary: The requester asked for meeting minutes between the Steam Packet Company and Public Health regarding crew isolation, and a copy of a government direction notice from the start of the pandemic. The Cabinet Office confirmed no such meetings occurred between February and March 2021, but released an Exemption Certificate issued to the company in March 2020.

The Cabinet Office does not hold minutes for meetings between the Steam Packet Company and the Director of Public Health between 18 February 2021 and 5 March 2021.

No meetings took place during the specified period to discuss crew isolation requirements.

An Exemption Certificate was issued to the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company in March 2020.

The certificate covered all crew members under the Emergency Powers (Coronavirus) (Entry Restriction) (Amendment) Regulations 2020.

The request was processed by the Cabinet Office and closed on 1 April 2021.

18 February 2021
5 March 2021
1 April 2021
March 2020
1693509
2 pages
1 document


Influenza Numbers 2016-2021

Summary: A request was made for influenza case numbers in the Isle of Man from 2016 to 2021, but the Department of Health and Social Care responded that they do not hold this information.

The request was received on 2021-03-05 and responded to on 2021-03-18.

The Department of Health and Social Care stated they do not hold the requested influenza data.

The authority suggested the information may be held by the Public Health Directorate within the Cabinet Office.

The requester was advised to submit a separate Freedom of Information request to the Cabinet Office.

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


Temporary marquee for the storage of tramcars at Summerland

Summary: The request sought details on the cost, usage, and removal of a temporary marquee used for storing tramcars at Summerland. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed the completion date of the new depot and current usage, but withheld specific removal costs and directed the requester to a public news article for purchase/rental details.

The new Strathallan Horse Tram depot contract was completed on 26 June 2020.

A planning application (20/00399/B) extended the marquee's use until 1st June 2021.

The marquee has been used for the storage of trams and vehicles.

Removal of the marquee is contingent on coronavirus restrictions permitting the work.

Future use of the marquee is subject to a separate planning application (21/00051/B).

Specific costs for removal are unavailable as they are subject to a future pricing exercise.

Section 20 of the Act (information already reasonably accessible to the public)


Print breakdown by print suppliers.

Summary: A request was made for a breakdown of print spending by the Department for Enterprise with six specific suppliers for the year 2020. The authority disclosed the full net spend for each supplier, totaling approximately £34,778, along with a detailed transaction ledger.

The request covered the period from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2020.

Mannin Media Group Ltd was the largest supplier with a net spend of £23,335.03.

The total net spend across all six requested suppliers was £34,778.46.

The response included a detailed ledger showing 83 individual items purchased.

The request was processed and closed on March 9, 2021.


Duty and vat paid on fuel


How many vehicles are registered

Summary: The requester asked for the total number of government vehicles registered on the Isle of Man and whether duty is shown on their tax discs. The Department of Infrastructure confirmed there are 1,230 registered vehicles and stated that duty is shown on all discs except for those belonging to exempt services like the police and emergency services.

There are 1,230 government vehicles registered to be driven on Manx Roads.

Duty paid is displayed on all government vehicle tax discs.

Vehicles belonging to the Department of Infrastructure, Police, and emergency services are exempt from duty.

The Freedom of Information request was received on 9 March 2021.

The response was issued on 16 March 2021.


Information about traffic incidents/accidents on Poortown Road Peel

Summary: The requester asked for six years of traffic collision data and reports on dangerous driving on Poortown Road, Peel. The Department of Home Affairs responded that they do not hold this information and directed the requester to the Isle of Man Constabulary.

The request was received on 2021-03-10 and responded to on 2021-03-15.

The Department of Home Affairs does not hold the requested traffic incident data.

The information is likely held by the Isle of Man Constabulary, which is an independent authority.

The requester was provided with a specific link to submit a new FOI request to the Constabulary.


Steam coal

Summary: A request was made for details on steam coal procurement for the Isle of Man Steam Railway, including usage, costs, and transport logistics. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed the annual usage and transport method but withheld specific cost figures and contract renewal dates due to an ongoing tender process.

The average steam coal usage for the Steam Railway is 236 tonnes per year over the last two years.

The last contract for steam coal supplies was awarded in 2014.

Tenders are normally issued for 5 years but can be extended.

A new tender call was planned for April 2021, subject to lockdown restrictions.

Coal is transported to the Isle of Man by lorry and ferry.

Section 30 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Prejudice to commercial interests)


Sexual Harrassment complaints

Summary: The requester asked for statistics on sexual harassment complaints received by the Department of Home Affairs between 2015 and 2020, including demographic breakdowns. The authority responded that no such complaints were received during that period and noted that the Isle of Man Constabulary is a separate entity for such inquiries.

No sexual harassment at work complaints were received by the Department of Home Affairs between 2015 and 2020.

The Isle of Man Constabulary is independent from the Department of Home Affairs regarding data protection and FOI requests.

The request was received on 10 March 2021 and the response was issued on 22 March 2021.

The requester was advised to direct future enquiries about police matters to the Isle of Man Constabulary directly.


Description of "cases"

Summary: The requester asked for clarification on how 'positive cases' are defined, testing protocols, symptom data, PCR sensitivity, and potential links between vaccination and case increases. The Department of Health and Social Care confirmed that positive cases are based solely on PCR detection, provided technical test specifications, but withheld symptom data and investigation details citing that the information is not held by their department.

Positive cases are reported based solely on a PCR test detecting SARS-CoV-2, without further testing to confirm illness.

The main PCR testing platform uses a cycle threshold of 40 cycles with a sensitivity of 98.9%.

Information regarding the number of symptomatic cases is held by the Public Health Directorate within the Cabinet Office, not the Department of Health and Social Care.

No investigation into a link between vaccination and case increases was conducted because vaccines do not contain live virus and cannot cause COVID-19.

Infections in vaccinated age groups are reported as low or very low compared to unvaccinated groups.


Referred to by department of health

Summary: The requester asked the Cabinet Office for various statistics including flu death rates, vaccination status of flu deaths, and legal questions regarding common law and vaccine passports. The Cabinet Office confirmed it does not hold information on Ct/Cq thresholds, flu deaths by vaccination status, or legal definitions, but provided specific flu death statistics for 2018-2020.

The Cabinet Office does not hold information regarding the Ct/Cq threshold for positive cases, suggesting the Department of Health and Social Care instead.

Information on flu deaths specifically categorized by vaccination status (vaccinated vs. unvaccinated) is not held by the authority.

Questions regarding common law jurisdiction, court history, vaccine passports, cannabis classification, and murder as a common law crime were excluded from the response.

The authority cited a practical refusal reason under section 11(3)(a) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 for information not held.

The requester was advised to submit separate FOI requests to relevant departments for the excluded legal questions.


How much money has been given to Accommodation Providers?

Summary: The request sought total funding for accommodation providers and specific grants for Ballahowin Courtyard Accommodation under three government schemes. The Department for Enterprise disclosed aggregate figures for two schemes but exempted the specific business data and noted the third scheme is managed by a different division.

Accommodation providers received £8,755,993.84 through the Strategic Capacity Scheme between April 2020 and March 2021.

Accommodation providers received £400,500 through the Coronavirus Business Support Scheme between March 2020 and March 2021.

The Salary Support Scheme is administered by the Treasury Division, not the Department for Enterprise.

Specific grant details for Ballahowin Courtyard Accommodation were withheld due to breach of confidence.

The response was issued on 25 March 2021 regarding a request received on 12 March 2021.

Section 26 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Actionable breach of confidence)


small claims court

Summary: A requester asked the Department of Home Affairs if a specific individual had been charged in small claims court for non-payment to tradesmen. The authority responded that it does not hold the requested information and suggested it may be held by the General Registry.

The request was made to the Department of Home Affairs on 2021-03-15.

The authority suggested the data might be held by the General Registry.

The requester intended to use the information to protect themselves from future problems regarding property work.


Entry Certificates

Summary: The request sought daily statistics on entry certificates issued by the Isle of Man Cabinet Office between February and March 2021, categorized by key workers, compassionate grounds, and other reasons. The authority fully upheld the request, disclosing a detailed daily breakdown of certificate numbers for the specified period.

The request covered entry certificates issued from 1st February 2021 to 15th March 2021.

Data was categorized into Key Workers, Compassionate grounds, and Other categories.

The highest number of Key Worker certificates issued on a single day was 115 on 24th February 2021.

The Cabinet Office Travel Notification Service was the issuing authority for these certificates.

The Freedom of Information request was fully upheld with no information withheld.


Register of Heathland

Summary: The requester asked for the Register of Heathland maintained under the Heath Burning Act 2003 and inquired about its availability on the MANNGIS website. The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture provided the register map listing specific areas and confirmed that while it is not currently online, it is being considered for inclusion in a new system.

The Register of Heathland is maintained by DEFA in accordance with the Heath Burning Act 2003.

The map held on the computerised system serves as the official register.

The register includes areas owned by DEFA, private owners, the Manx National Heritage (MNH), and the Manx Utilities Authority (MUA).

The map is not currently available on the MANNGIS website but is under consideration for the upcoming system replacement.

The request was processed and closed on 16 March 2021.


2020 data relating to 5 Level 2 Qualifications (A*-C inc E&M)

Summary: The request sought 2020 performance data, correspondence, and quality assurance details regarding Level 2 qualifications from the Department of Education, Sport and Culture. The authority upheld the request in full, disclosing examination results, destination statistics, and school improvement targets.

The request was upheld in full by the Department of Education, Sport and Culture on 2021-06-15.

In Summer 2020, 75.5% of Year 11 students achieved 5+ Level 2 qualifications including English and Maths, an 8.1% increase from 2019.

All Year 11 students attending the Education Support Centre and all looked-after children achieved a positive destination by September 2020.

Over 3% more students stayed on in sixth form in 2020 compared to 2019.

The response included data from Ramsey Grammar School showing a 100% A*-E pass rate at A2 level.


Number of visitors (outpatients and signed in visitors) Nobles

Summary: The request sought data on hospital visitors, outpatients, and staff numbers for March 2021, broken down by time of day. The Department of Health and Social Care provided detailed outpatient appointment statistics by location and media type but did not hold data on general visitors or staff numbers.

The authority responded that some information was sent but not all was held.

Data provided covers outpatient appointments between 08/03/2021 and 16/03/2021.

The response includes breakdowns by clinic location, appointment media (Face to Face, Telephone, Virtual), and time (Morning/Afternoon).

Information regarding general visitors and staff on duty was not provided as it was not held.

The request was received on 2021-03-16 and the outcome was issued on 2021-04-09.


ICU COVID

No information sent - all held but exempt

Summary: The requester asked if a confirmed COVID-19 case was present on the non-COVID ICU ward on March 11, 2021, and why the ward was on 'Code Red'. The Department of Health and Social Care disclosed that a positive patient was isolated in a negative pressure room and explained that the 'Code Red' status was triggered by an internal contact tracing exercise on March 10.

A COVID-19 positive patient was present in a negative pressure side room on the ICU ward on March 11, 2021.

The rest of the ICU ward operated as a COVID-19 free area in line with infection control guidelines.

An internal contact tracing exercise was triggered on March 10, 2021, leading to the ward being declared a red area.

All patients on the ward were swabbed during the exercise, but no positive non-symptomatic cases were found.

The ICU ward was returned to a COVID-19 negative area status on March 12, 2021.

11th March 2021
10th March
12th of March
9th March
16 March 2021
9 April 2021
1711166


Steam Packet Report

Summary: The request sought a specific Steam Packet report on Coronavirus and related correspondence from the Treasury. The Treasury withheld the report and correspondence under a public business exemption to protect an ongoing independent review, though it confirmed the report will be published later as part of that review's final conclusion.

The requested Steam Packet report was commissioned around 18 February 2021 and received around 24 February 2021.

The information is currently exempt because its disclosure would prejudice the effectiveness of the Independent Review of Isle of Man Steam Packet Company.

The Treasury confirmed the report will be included in the independent review's concluding report, subject to redactions.

The exemption is time-sensitive and will fall away once the independent review is concluded and published.

Releasing the report without the context of the full review could mislead the public.

17 March 2021
18 February 2021
24 February 2021
30 April 2021
19 March 2021
section 35(c)
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6.v
Paragraph 9
1713397

Section 35(c) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (conduct of public business)


Proposed Asylum Seekers Detention Centre Isle of man

Summary: The request sought all internal and external correspondence regarding the UK's proposal to use the Isle of Man as an asylum seeker detention centre. The Cabinet Office released 94 pages of documents, primarily consisting of media monitoring, briefing notes, and internal communications, while confirming no official requests had been received from the UK government.

The Isle of Man government confirmed it had received no official requests from the UK regarding the asylum centre proposal.

Internal correspondence noted that the Isle of Man lacks legislative provisions to deal with asylum seekers.

Media reports suggested the UK was considering various locations including the Isle of Man, Gibraltar, and third countries like Papua New Guinea.

The response included extensive media monitoring and briefing notes prepared for a call with the Ministry of Justice.

The Chief Minister stated that Tynwald would debate any official requests if they were received.


Affordable Housing

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Infrastructure for the number of affordable housing units delivered in 2020, defined as newly made available to eligible applicants. The authority disclosed that 15 such units were delivered during that calendar year.

The request was received on 18 March 2021 and responded to on 14 April 2021.

The Department of Infrastructure delivered 15 affordable housing units in 2020.

The definition of affordable housing used includes publicly funded or subsidised domestic housing for rent or purchase.

The figure excludes existing public sector housing stock and non-new-build properties sold to first-time buyers.

The response was issued by the FOI Response Team at the Sea Terminal Building in Douglas.


Click and collect.

Summary: The request sought information on the spending and public demand for the Isle of Man Post Office's 'click and collect' initiative. The authority disclosed the total expenditure and provided a breakdown of service requests since the launch date.

The total amount spent on the 'click and collect' initiative was £9,744.

The service went live on 3rd December 2019.

A total of 4,804 requests were received for the service.

Of the total requests, 866 were for collection/pick up.

Of the total requests, 3,938 were for redelivery.


Patients in Nobles hospital

Summary: A request was made for statistics on COVID-19 test results and vaccination doses for 26 patients at Nobles Hospital on March 19, 2021. The Department of Health and Social Care refused to disclose the information, citing an absolute exemption for personal data.

The request concerned 26 patients reported at Nobles Hospital on 19 March 2021.

The applicant sought data on positive COVID-19 tests and first and second vaccine doses.

The authority determined the information constitutes personal data of which the applicant is not the data subject.

The response was issued on 24 March 2021 by the Chief Executive, Kathryn Magson.

The request was closed with no information sent as all data was held but exempt.

Section 25 (2)(a) of the Act (absolutely exempt personal information)


Processing of individual tax returns

Summary: The request sought statistics on delayed individual tax assessments for the year ended 5 April 2020 and the number of outstanding returns as of November 2020. The Treasury disclosed that 1,106 returns exceeded a six-month processing time and 4,273 returns remained outstanding, citing staff redeployment for COVID-19 support and pending taxpayer information as contributing factors.

1,106 individual tax returns for the year ended 5 April 2020 took longer than six months to assess.

4,273 tax returns submitted on or before 6 November 2020 remain outstanding.

Approximately 2,000 cases are delayed due to the Assessor awaiting information or conducting enquiries.

Income Tax Division officers were redeployed to assist with the Covid-19 Salary Support Scheme.

Tax assessments cannot be issued until employer remuneration returns are verified and credited.


Harbour dues /abandoned boats

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Infrastructure regarding unpaid harbour dues, court actions against owners, and disposal costs for abandoned boats. The authority disclosed that 36 boats have outstanding dues, only one owner was considered for court action, and £50,876.46 was spent disposing of 34 abandoned vessels over five years.

There are 36 boats currently in the Island's harbours with outstanding harbour dues.

The average outstanding harbour dues per vessel is 1.94 years.

Only one owner was proposed for court pursuit, but this was deemed illogical due to bankruptcy and lack of vessel value.

The Department relies on powers under sections 22 and 49 of the Harbours Act to dispose of vessels rather than using the courts.

It cost the Department £50,876.46 to dispose of 34 abandoned boats in the last 5 years.


PCR CT

Summary: The requester asked for PCR cycle thresholds, scientific advice on lockdowns, and risk assessments regarding face masks. The Department of Health and Social Care disclosed two PPE risk assessment documents for healthcare staff but withheld information on PCR thresholds and specific scientific advisors, citing partial exemptions.

The response included two Manx Care PPE Risk Assessments for COVID-19 (Level 1 and Level 2).

The Level 1 assessment was dated 11 August 2020 and reviewed on 11 October 2021.

The Level 2 assessment was dated 29 September 2020 and ratified by the Senior Clinical and Public Health Leadership Group.

Fit testing for FFP3 masks was available for 2,000 staff across the DHSC.

Information regarding PCR Cycle Amplification Thresholds and the names of scientists advising on lockdowns was not provided in the disclosed documents.

11 August 2020
11/10/21
29th September 2020
2,000 staff
Risk Rating 15
Risk Rating 10
Risk Rating 25
2 metre distance


Boat park/storage area dues

Summary: The request sought details on boats with outstanding storage dues and associated civil debt actions at the Department of Infrastructure's boat parks. The authority disclosed that 54 vessels have outstanding fees but confirmed no civil court actions have been taken, explaining that the Department relies on lien powers under the Harbours Act for recovery.

There are currently 54 vessels with outstanding storage fees in the Department's boat parks.

The average outstanding debt per vessel equates to 1.6 years of storage fees.

No civil debt actions have been commenced through the Courts for these debts.

The Department utilizes powers under section 49 of the Harbours Act to take a lien and sell vessels to recover debts.

37 of the 54 vessels accrued their debt during the previous financial year only.

54 vessels
1.6 years
37 vessels
2021-03-22
2021-04-28
30 day terms
section 49


Print spend

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Health and Social Care for print spending data with specific local suppliers between January 2020 and January 2021. The authority disclosed the net spend for each supplier, totaling over £111,000, with the majority spent on Mannin Media Group Ltd.

The request covered print spending from 1 January 2020 to 31 January 2021.

Mannin Media Group Ltd received the highest spend at £108,337.74.

Cannell Print had a recorded spend of £0.00 during the period.

The figures provided represent net spend and exclude VAT.

The total net spend across all six requested suppliers was £111,813.84.


Governing Body Minutes - All Secondary and Selected Primary Schools

Summary: The requester sought governing body minutes for all secondary and selected primary schools for the 2018-19 and 2019-20 academic years. The Department of Education, Sport and Culture provided some information but withheld parts of the response due to exemptions.

The request covered minutes for all secondary schools and selected primary schools for two academic years.

The response included excerpts from Andreas School minutes discussing a specific child's assessment and attendance.

Governors expressed concern that retaining a specific child on the register unfairly disadvantaged attendance and attainment figures.

The School Improvement Plan for 2018/19 focused on Special Education Needs, Maths Mastery, and Growth Mindset.

Governors noted that the Department did not provide sufficient advance notice for training sessions.


I'm requesting information on vehicle testing

Summary: The requester sought guidelines and regulatory information regarding vehicle testing on the Isle of Man. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed the specific manuals and legislation used by examiners and confirmed that testers are regulated under the Road Traffic Act 1985.

Heavy Goods Vehicles are tested using the IOM Inspection Manual for HGV vehicles.

Cars, light vans, and motorcycles are tested using the IOM Road Traffic Act 1985 and DVSA MOT Testers manuals.

All vehicle examiners are regulated and authorised under the IOM Road Traffic Act 1985.

Examiners are kept updated on legislation and testing practices via online bulletins and documentary publications.

The request was received on 2021-03-22 and fully answered on 2021-03-25.


SPco corporate direction notices

Summary: The requester asked for versions 1 and 2 of corporate direction notices for SPco crew members regarding COVID-19 protocols from April 2020 to February 2021. The Cabinet Office provided some documents but withheld specific information containing personal data under an absolute exemption.

The request was received on 23 March 2021 and responded to on 29 April 2021.

Some information was withheld because it constitutes personal data of individuals other than the requester.

In February 2021, Company Exemption Certificates were revoked and replaced with individually named certificates.

Manx-based crew were issued direction notices requiring weekly surveillance testing but no self-isolation between shifts if negative.

UK-based crew were issued entry certificates requiring mandatory self-isolation before and after their 7-day shift cycle.

23 March 2021
29 April 2021
1721195
March 2020
September – November
November 2020
December 2020
January 2021
February 2021
7 day shift cycle
Article 5
Article 6
section 25

Section 25(b)(i) & (ii) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Absolutely exempt personal information)

Data Protection (Application of GDPR) Order 2018


Land Registry Fees

Summary: The requester asked for details on how Land Registry fees are used and the justification for tiered pricing on the Isle of Man. The Department for Enterprise disclosed that all income goes to the General Reserve, provided 2020/21 budget figures, and noted significant capital investment in digital services.

Land Registry and Deeds Registry income is directed to the Isle of Man Government General Reserve rather than being ring-fenced for specific expenditures.

The Treasury sets the annual budget, and expenditure is allocated based on current government priorities.

The Land and Deeds Registries benefit from central government services such as buildings, utilities, and IT support without making a direct contribution.

A major capital investment of over £1.5 million has been made in new digital and online services over the last three years.

Income and expenditure cannot be split between the Land Registry and the Deeds Registry as they operate as a combined service.


Creeping speed limits

Summary: The requester asked for the number of previously derestricted roads in the Isle of Man that now have speed limits applied. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed that 10 specific road sections have had speed limits reintroduced since 2006.

10 instances of roads previously derestricted now have speed limits applied.

All changes were made via Traffic Regulation Orders (TRO) classified as 'Buffer Zone'.

The changes occurred between June 2017 and November 2020.

Locations affected include The Hope, Mount Rule, Clannagh Road, and Jurby Road.

The response was issued on 20 April 2021 following a request received on 23 March 2021.


Primary and secondary legislation timescale

Summary: The requester asked for a list of primary and secondary legislation drafting requests from March 2019, including dates and departments. The Attorney General's Chambers refused to disclose the information, citing qualified exemptions related to policy formulation and legal professional privilege.

The request was received on 23 March 2021 and the outcome was determined on 14 May 2021.

The authority responded that the information is subject to qualified exemptions under sections 34 and 40 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

Section 34 applies because the drafting process involves the formulation of government policy and communications between Ministers.

Section 40 applies because the information contains confidential communications between legal advisers and clients for the purpose of legal advice.

The authority stated that providing specific request dates would be misleading as legislation drafting is a collaborative and iterative process.

23 March 2021
14 May 2021
1 March 2019
15 April 2021
7 pages
1 document
section 34
section 40
Freedom of Information Act 2015

Section 40 (Legal professional privilege)


Jobs given without interview or advertisement internal and external

Summary: The requester asked the Department of Infrastructure for details on jobs filled without advertisement or interview in the past 24 months. The authority responded that 7 such posts were filled during that period.

The request was made to the Department of Infrastructure on the Isle of Man.

The inquiry specifically concerned jobs filled without internal or external advertisement or interview.

The time frame covered by the request was the 24 months prior to March 2021.

The authority confirmed that 7 posts were filled under these conditions.

The response was issued on 7 April 2021.


Contracted UDA's and provider performances


Attorney General and Independent Review Body for health care complaint

Summary: The requester asked for details on legal instructions and advice provided by the Attorney General's Chambers to the Independent Review Body (IRB) and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) over the last three years. The authority partially upheld the request, refusing to disclose specific counts, summaries, or client identities for most questions due to legal professional privilege, while the response regarding a specific 2020 jurisdictional advice appears incomplete in the provided text.

The request covered legal instructions from the IRB and DHSC to the Attorney General's Chambers over a 3-year period.

Questions 1-3 and 5-6 were refused disclosure under Section 40 of the Act.

The authority determined that the public interest in maintaining legal professional privilege outweighed the interest in transparency.

The response addresses a specific instance of advice provided to the Tynwald Ombudsman circa 2020 regarding jurisdiction.

The final outcome of the FOI request was recorded as 'Upheld - partial'.

Section 40 of the Act (Legal Professional Privilege)


BUS No 13

Summary: A requester asked for pre-pandemic average weekly passenger numbers for the Isle of Man's Bus No. 13, which the Department of Infrastructure clarified runs between Douglas and Laxey rather than Ramsey. The authority disclosed a table of passenger statistics covering a seven-month period from September 2019 to March 2020.

The requester incorrectly believed Bus No. 13 operated between Douglas and Ramsey; it actually runs between Douglas and Laxey.

The Department of Infrastructure provided passenger data for the period prior to the March 2020 pandemic outbreak.

The data covers a seven-month period from September 2019 to March 2020.

Average weekly passenger numbers ranged from a high of 94 in October 2019 to a low of 32.5 in March 2020.

The provided figures represent total passengers and do not reflect specific boarding or alighting points.

Sep 2019: 89.8 average passengers/week
Oct 2019: 94 average passengers/week
Nov 2019: 63 average passengers/week
Dec 2019: 53.8 average passengers/week
Jan 2020: 57.75 average passengers/week
Feb 2020: 63.5 average passengers/week
Mar 2020: 32.5 average passengers/week
2021-03-25
2021-04-07
1725525


Urban Development Agency Models - PWC Report

Summary: The request sought details regarding the PwC report on Urban Development Agency models, including costs, distribution, and internal memos. The Department for Enterprise disclosed the report cost, dates, and distribution lists but withheld internal memos under a public interest exemption.

The first draft of the report was received on 10 May 2019.

The report was presented to the Minister and Political members on 11 September 2019.

Internal memos were withheld to protect the formulation of government policy.

The final report was published in November 2019.

Section 34 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Formulation or development of government policy)


procurement of eastern area plan inspector

Summary: The request sought details on the procurement process, specific inspectors approached, and conflict of interest protocols for the Eastern Area Plan public inquiry. The Cabinet Office disclosed the names of six inspectors approached and the legal framework for their appointment, while the response was cut off before addressing all points regarding delays and correspondence.

The appointment of inspectors is governed by Schedule 1, 4.(2) of the Town & Country Planning Act 1999.

Six specific inspectors were approached for the Eastern Area Plan inquiry: Tony Wharton, Ruth Mackenzie, Brian Sims, Mike Hurley, Gerry Farrington, and Alan Langton.

Both retired and existing members of the Isle of Man Inspectors panel were contacted directly.

The Eastern Area Plan inquiry officially closed on 2 October 2019.

The authority requested clarification on conflict of interest protocols before proceeding with that specific part of the request.


planning application 18/00144/B- former Glenside Home

Summary: A request for correspondence regarding the selection of Inspector Mr Hurley and conflict of interest protocols for planning application 18/00144/B was partially fulfilled, with the Cabinet Office stating that most specific documents were not held as processes were verbal or standard.

The Cabinet Office does not hold written correspondence regarding the selection of Mr Hurley as Inspector, as assignments are made verbally during allocated appeal weeks.

No unpublished correspondence between the Cabinet Office and the Department of Infrastructure regarding highway matters was held, as all appeal documents are circulated to parties.

Correspondence regarding planning policy sent to Mr Hurley was not held in written form, as inspectors are advised verbally and given access to the planning website.

No written records of conflict of interest issues raised or concluded for this application were held.

The Cabinet Office does not hold a specific written protocol for conflicts of interest, though parties can raise the matter if they believe one exists.


Schools advice

Summary: The requester asked for advice given to the Council of Ministers regarding the decision to open schools on March 1, 2021. The Cabinet Office did not release new documents, stating the information was already reasonably accessible online via Hansard records and audio files.

The request was received on 29 March 2021 and closed on 1 April 2021.

The authority cited Section 20 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 to refuse providing the information directly.

The authority provided links to House of Keys Hansard and audio files as the source of the requested information.

The decision to open schools was made on 1 March 2021.

The requester has the right to an internal review or appeal to the Information Commissioner if dissatisfied.

29 March 2021
1 April 2021
1 March 2021
23 March 2021
30 March 2021
1728589
Section 20
Section 15
Written Question 1
Oral Question 6

Section 20 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Information already reasonably accessible)


Redeployment

Summary: The requester asked for a breakdown of staff redeployed per school during the closure starting March 4th, and the Department of Education provided specific numbers for eight educational institutions.

The request was received on 2021-03-30 and responded to on 2021-04-28.

Information was provided for 8 schools and colleges regarding redeployed staff numbers.

Ballakermeen High School had the highest number of redeployed staff with 7.

The response noted that individuals with multiple roles across schools were recorded only once.

The authority confirmed that all requested information was sent.


Monthly cost of airline subsidies and passenger numbers

Summary: The requester asked for a monthly breakdown of subsidies paid to LoganAir and passenger numbers since March 2020, but the Department of Infrastructure refused to disclose the financial data citing commercial and economic exemptions.

The request was made on 2021-03-30 and responded to on 2021-05-14.

The Department of Infrastructure withheld information on financial assistance to LoganAir.

The refusal was based on the potential harm to the Isle of Man's economy and LoganAir's commercial interests.

The authority stated the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighed the interest in transparency.

The requester was advised they could resubmit the request once border restrictions are fully removed.

Section 30 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Economy and Commercial Interests)

Section 35 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Conduct of Public Business)


Extension of #1594289

Summary: The requester asked for a monthly breakdown of road traffic collisions in the Isle of Man from January 2018 to December 2020 to complete data previously provided. The Isle of Man Constabulary responded by disclosing the full monthly statistics for all three years, confirming the total number of collisions for each period.

The request was an extension of FOI case #1594289 to include full 2020 data.

The Isle of Man Constabulary provided monthly road traffic collision figures for 2018, 2019, and 2020.

The total number of recorded road traffic collisions decreased from 818 in 2018 to 577 in 2020.

The response was issued on 31 March 2021, one day after the request was received.

No information was withheld; the outcome was 'All information sent'.

2018 Total RTCs: 818
2019 Total RTCs: 738
2020 Total RTCs: 577
January 2018: 82
December 2020: 55
Date received: 2021-03-30
Outcome date: 2021-03-31
Reference number: 1731021


Extension of #1595985

Summary: The requester asked for benefit claim figures as of 31 March 2021 to extend a previous request covering 2015-2020. The Treasury responded by providing the specific number of claims in payment for various benefit types as of that date.

The request was an extension of FOI case #1595985 regarding benefit claims data.

The Treasury provided data for 31 March 2021 after initially noting it might not be immediately available.

Short-term incapacity benefit figures represent an average for the 2020/2021 financial year due to erratic caseloads.

Jobseeker's allowance awards increased significantly due to the impact of a recent circuit breaker on the local economy.

The request was formally closed on 14 April 2021.


Child Protection Register 2011 - 2021

Summary: The requester asked for annual statistics on children placed on the Child Protection Register in the Isle of Man from 2011 to 2021. The Department of Health and Social Care provided the requested data for each year, noting that figures represent children placed on a Child Protection Plan and that some children may have had multiple periods on the plan.

The request was received on 31 March 2021 and responded to on 25 April 2021.

Data covers the number of children placed on a Child Protection Plan annually from 2011 to 2020.

The highest number of placements occurred in 2019 with 120 children.

The lowest number of placements in the provided dataset occurred in 2013 with 52 children.

The authority noted that 21 of the 79 children placed in 2011 had plans commencing between October and December of that year.


Current active positive Covid 19 cases

Summary: A request was made for current active Covid-19 case numbers by age group and details on the primary cause of 29 recorded deaths. The Department of Health and Social Care refused to provide this information, stating it is held by Public Health within the Cabinet Office.

The request was received on 31 March 2021 and responded to on 21 April 2021.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold the requested data on active cases or death causes.

The information is held by Public Health, which is part of the Cabinet Office.

The requester was advised to re-submit the request to the Cabinet Office.

The response cites Section 11(3)a of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 as the reason for refusal.

31/03/2021
21 April 2021
29 recorded Covid deaths
0-16 years
17-59 years
1734153

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


Ballahutchin Hill traffic data

Summary: A request was made for detailed individual speed data of vehicular traffic on Ballahutchin Hill for September 2020 across three specific sites. The Department of Infrastructure responded by disclosing all requested information via three appendices.

The request was received on 2021-04-07 and the response was issued on 2021-04-14.

Data was requested for three sites: Union Mills, between Union Mills and Glen Vine, and Glen Vine.

The requested data covered the period of September 2020.

The response included maximum speeds recorded and times during the 24-hour period.

The authority confirmed that all information was sent with no redactions.


Manx Care Executive Management Team

Summary: A request was made for the membership, organizational chart, and job descriptions of the Manx Care Executive Management Team. The Department of Health and Social Care refused the request because the information is held by Manx Care, not the Department.

The request was received on 2021-04-07 and responded to on 2021-04-13.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold the requested information.

The information is held by Manx Care, a separate entity.

The requester was advised to re-submit the request directly to Manx Care.


Peter Greenhill- submission Eastern Area Plan

Summary: A request was made regarding a 2019 submission by Peter Greenhill concerning Site DH009 in the Eastern Area Plan, specifically asking about receipt dates, forwarding details, oral evidence requests, and email origin. The Cabinet Office disclosed that the submission was received on 22 September 2019, forwarded to the Planning Policy Team and Appointed Inspector, that Greenhill requested oral evidence, and that the submission did not originate from a gov.im host.

The submission from Peter Greenhill regarding Site DH009 was received by the Cabinet Office on 22 September 2019.

The submission was forwarded to the Planning Policy Team and the Appointed Inspector.

Peter Greenhill made a request to be heard at the Inquiry to give oral evidence.

The submission was not forwarded from a gov.im host.

The Freedom of Information request was received on 7 April 2021 and closed on 23 April 2021.

22 September 2019
7 April 2021
23 April 2021
1740245
Site DH009
September 2019


How much money has been given to the Hospitality sector?

Summary: A request was made to the Department for Enterprise for data on financial support provided to the hospitality sector (pubs, cafes, and restaurants) since March 2020. The authority confirmed the scope of the request and stated that all information was sent, though the specific monetary figures are not included in the provided text.

The request was received on 2021-04-07 and closed on 2021-05-06.

The Department for Enterprise clarified that 'hospitality' refers to pubs, cafes, and restaurants.

The response covers Salary Support, CBSS, and other grants since March 2020.

The outcome was 'All information sent' with 2 pages and 1 document provided.


Attorney General Government Tenders

Summary: The requester asked if the Isle of Man Attorney General had business interests in construction companies awarded contracts by the Department of Infrastructure over the last 10 years. The authority refused to provide the information directly, citing that it is already reasonably accessible in public Government Audited Accounts.

The request was received and responded to on 8 April 2021.

The Department of Infrastructure stated the information is available in the Government Audited Accounts (Dark Blue Books).

Audited Accounts are publicly available online dating back to the 2013/14 financial year.

The most recent completed accounts at the time were for 2018-19.

Details of 'Related party' transactions can be found from page 78 onwards in the 2018-19 accounts.

Section 20 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Information reasonably accessible)


COVID-19 vaccination adverse events leading to hospitalisation

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Health and Social Care for the number of hospital admissions in the Isle of Man due to adverse COVID-19 vaccination effects between November 2020 and April 2021. The authority responded that the information is not held and suggested re-submitting the request to Manx Care.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold the requested information on vaccination-related hospital admissions.

The request covered the period from 1st November 2020 to 8th April 2021.

The authority recommended submitting the request to Manx Care instead.

The response was issued on 16 April 2021 under reference number 1742377.

The refusal was based on the practical reason that the information could not be found after reasonable steps.


PCR test cycle threshold

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Health and Social Care regarding the PCR cycle threshold for SARS-CoV-2 detection, but the information was not held by the department as it is managed by Manx Care.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold the requested information.

The information regarding the PCR cycle threshold is held by Manx Care.

The cycle threshold test conducted on the island is CT40.

The request was refused under Section 11(3)a of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

The applicant is advised to re-submit the request to Manx Care.


Deaths within 28 days of receiving the Pfizer or Astra Zeneca Vaccine

Summary: A request was made for statistics on deaths within 28 days of receiving Pfizer or AstraZeneca vaccines on the Isle of Man, including age breakdowns. The Department of Health and Social Care refused the request, stating the information is not held by them and may be held by Manx Care.

The request covered deaths within 28 days of vaccination with Pfizer-BioNTech and Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccines.

The information may be held by Manx Care, and the requester was advised to re-submit the request to them.

The request was received on 9 April 2021 and the response was issued on 21 April 2021.

The requester initially asked for data up to 9 January 2021 but corrected the date to 9 April 2021.


Consultation on Health Complaints Regulations

Summary: The requester asked for a copy of the October 2020 consultation document regarding amendments to Health Complaints Regulations for the establishment of Manx Care. The Cabinet Office provided the document, noting that some information was sent but part was exempt.

The consultation paper was issued on 14 October 2020 to key stakeholders.

The document proposes amendments to the NHS (Complaints) Regulations 2004 and Social Services Independent Review Body Regulations 2014.

The changes are intended to allow Manx Care to operate effectively from 1 April 2021.

Proposals include requiring Manx Care to submit an annual complaints report to the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC).

Manx Care must notify the DHSC of any serious complaints as soon as reasonably practicable.


Information

Summary: The requester asked four questions regarding Isle of Man law, including the status of Halsbury's Laws, court types, the Settlement Act, and private prosecution documentation. The Attorney General's Chambers provided information on Halsbury's Laws and the Settlement Act but declined to answer questions about court administration and private prosecution documentation, citing a policy against providing legal advice to the public.

Halsbury's Laws of England is not Isle of Man law but may be referenced.

No Act entitled 'Settlement Act' exists for the years 1707 or 1777.

Acts of Settlement from 1704 are available on the legislation.gov.im website.

The Attorney General's Chambers does not provide legal advice to members of the public.

The Isle of Man Law Society was recommended for finding a Manx advocate.

Policy against providing legal advice to members of the public


Vaccine damage payments

Summary: A request was made to the Isle of Man Department of Health and Social Care for the number of families receiving vaccine damage payments between 2010 and 2019. The authority responded that the information is not held because the scheme is administered by the UK Department for Work and Pensions.

The request was received on 12 April 2021 and responded to on 19 April 2021.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold the requested data.

Vaccine Damage Payments are administered by the United Kingdom Department for Work and Pensions.

The Isle of Man Department does not receive this specific information from the UK authority.


Pregnancy questions

Summary: A request was made for statistics on inductions, C-sections, and infant deaths between 2018 and 2020, along with drug details. The Department of Health and Social Care refused the request because the information is held by Manx Care.

The request was received on 2021-04-12 and responded to on 2021-04-14.

The refusal is based on Section 11(3)a of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

The requester was advised to re-submit the request to Manx Care.


Number of Charities closing down

Summary: The request sought the number of charities that ceased operating in the Isle of Man for 2019, 2020, and 2021. The Attorney General's Chambers disclosed the specific counts for each year, noting that some closures involved mergers or asset transfers rather than total dissolution.

The Attorney General became the registrar of charities on 1 April 2020 under the Charities Registration and Regulation Act 2019.

In 2019, 7 charities ceased operating, with 3 merging or transferring assets to other charities.

In 2020, 16 charities ceased operating, with 4 merging or transferring assets to other charities.

As of 14 April 2021, 2 charities had ceased operating.

The date of cessation is often presumed from file reviews rather than recorded precisely, especially for charities removed due to failure to file accounts.


Registration of Cosy Nook Cafe, Shore Road, Port Erin


Deaths within 28 days of Covid test

Summary: The requester asked for the number of deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test and within 28 days of Covid vaccination doses. The Department of Health and Social Care responded that it does not hold this information, stating it is likely held by Public Health and Manx Care respectively.

The request was received on 2021-04-13 and responded to on 2021-04-21.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold data on deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold data on deaths within 28 days of Covid vaccination.

The requested information regarding Covid test deaths may be held by Public Health within the Cabinet Office.

The requested information regarding vaccination deaths may be held by Manx Care.


Abbotswood Nursing Home Deaths

Summary: A request for detailed data regarding deaths, autopsies, DNR orders, and gagging orders at Abbotswood Nursing Home in 2019 and 2020 was submitted to the Department of Health and Social Care. The authority responded that it does not hold the requested information, directing the requester to other bodies like the General Registry and Manx Care, while noting that DNR data would be exempt as personal health records.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold data on autopsies where 'covid' or 'coronavirus' was mentioned on death certificates.

Information regarding specific terms used on death certificates is held by Manx Care, not the Department.

Data on DNR orders for deceased individuals is not held by the Department and would be absolutely exempt as personal data if it were held.

The Department does not hold statistics on how many 'covid' deaths were listed by GPs versus coroners.

The request was received on 2021-04-13 and the outcome was issued on 2021-04-27.

Section 11(3)a: Information not held or cannot be found after reasonable steps

Section 25(1)(c): Absolutely exempt personal data (deceased persons health records)


Ardwhallan Outdoor Education Centre

Summary: The Department of Education, Sport and Culture responded to a request for financial and operational data regarding the Ardwhallan Outdoor Education Centre, disclosing staff salaries, training costs, grants, and course statistics while noting that some information on equipment purchases was not held.

Staff salary costs ranged from £101,286 in 2014-15 to a peak of £190,341 in 2019-20.

The centre received a consistent annual grant of £7,500 from the Youth Service between 2018/19 and 2020/21.

Approximately 1,000 weekly term-time sessions were delivered annually to schools and government establishments.

The Department confirmed 8 paid government staff were provided to assist the centre.

Information regarding purchases of equipment and physical resources could not be provided as it was not held.

Information not held or cannot be found after taking reasonable steps


IOM RPI: Leisure Goods

Summary: The request sought a list of items and index data for the Leisure Goods line in the Isle of Man RPI basket, as well as internal correspondence regarding its impact on inflation. The Cabinet Office provided the list of items but confirmed it does not hold the requested internal correspondence or index data.

The request was received on 2021-04-21 and responded to on 2021-05-06.

The Cabinet Office disclosed a list of 39 specific items comprising the Leisure Goods RPI basket.

The authority stated it does not hold the secondary information regarding internal correspondence or commentary on the RPI contribution.

The outcome was classified as 'Some information sent but not all held'.

The response included details on the right to request an internal review or appeal to the Information Commissioner.


Covid breaches travel

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Home Affairs for the number of individuals who breached 21-day isolation regulations after traveling from the UK. The authority responded that the information is not held by the department and suggested contacting the Isle of Man Constabulary or Cabinet Office instead.

The request was received on 2021-04-23 and responded to on 2021-04-26.

The Department of Home Affairs does not hold the requested data on isolation breaches.

The authority suggested the Isle of Man Constabulary or Cabinet Office may have the information.

The request reference number is 1761261.

The response outlines the right to an internal review and appeal to the Information Commissioner.


Covid returning passengers

Summary: A request was made for the number of passengers who tested positive for Covid-19 while isolating after traveling to the Isle of Man. The Department of Health and Social Care refused the request, stating they do not hold the information as it is likely held by Public Health within the Cabinet Office.

The request was received on 2021-04-23 and responded to on 2021-04-27.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold the requested data.

The information may be held by Public Health, which is part of the Cabinet Office.

The requester was advised to re-submit the request to the Cabinet Office.


Covid travel to Island breached

Summary: The requester asked for the number of travelers apprehended for breaching 21-day isolation regulations on the Isle of Man. The Department of Home Affairs responded that they do not hold this information and suggested contacting the Isle of Man Constabulary or Cabinet Office instead.

The request was closed on the date of the response.


Governing Body Minutes - Selected Primary Schools

Summary: The requester sought governing body minutes for 13 primary schools for the 2018-19 and 2019-20 academic years. The Department of Education provided partial information, citing that some meetings did not occur and redacting personal data under data protection laws.

Minutes were requested for 13 specific primary schools including Anagh Coar, Ballasalla, and Bunscoill Ghaelgagh.

The request covered all meetings held during the 2018-19 and 2019-20 academic years.

Some information was withheld because governors' meetings did not take place for certain terms.

Personal information within the minutes was redacted to comply with data protection principles.

The response was issued on 24 May 2021 following a request received on 26 April 2021.

Section 11 (3) (a) of the Freedom of Information Act (information not held or cannot be found)

Section 25 of the Freedom of Information Act (absolutely exempt personal information)

Article 5 of the General Data Protection Regulation (data protection principles)


Arrests and Fixed Penalty Notices

Summary: The Isle of Man Constabulary responded to a request for statistics on arrests and Fixed Penalty Notices related to COVID-19 regulation breaches, as well as disciplinary actions against serving officers. The authority disclosed specific counts for detentions and fines issued to the public while confirming no officers had been cautioned or fined.

57 detentions were recorded for COVID-19 offences between 27 January 2021 and 4 May 2021.

11 Fixed Penalty Notices were issued for breaches of COVID Regulations during the same period.

No serving police officers were cautioned or issued Fixed Penalty Notices for COVID breaches between 1 March 2020 and 4 May 2021.

The request was received on 27 April 2021 and the response was issued on 6 May 2021.

All requested information was released with no exemptions applied.


Summary: The request sought copies of receipts, forwarding emails, and online entry timestamps for a 2019 submission by Peter Greenhill regarding the Eastern Area Plan. The Cabinet Office partially upheld the request, releasing the receipt but withholding email copies due to personal data exemptions and stating that online entry timestamps could not be located.

The submission from Peter Greenhill was received by the Cabinet Office on 22 September 2019.

The submission was forwarded to the Planning Policy Team and the Appointed Inspector.

Peter Greenhill requested to be heard at the Inquiry to give oral evidence.

Copies of forwarding emails were withheld as they contain personal data exempt under Section 25 of the Act.

The exact date and time the submission was put online could not be confirmed, though the standard process is 3 to 5 days after receipt.

Section 25 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (absolutely exempt personal information)

Article 6 of the General Data Protection Regulation (conditions for lawful processing)


Minutes of DEFA meetings

Summary: The request sought minutes of DEFA meetings regarding the Environmental Protection Unit's actions at the Middle Park Recycling facility, and the authority disclosed all information including a detailed site visit report from October 2020.

A site visit on 13 October 2020 confirmed that vehicles entering with materials must use the weighbridge.

The light scrap metal bailer was repaired, allowing for the crushing of cars and regular export of light fraction metals.

Two large mounds of heavy scrap metal were removed, with plans for more frequent exports to prevent accumulation.

Manx Waste Solutions is investigating alternative processing facilities as the Viridor site closes, with WEEE exports pending authorization.

The area adjacent to the lagoon was largely cleared, though some bails of plastics and refrigerators remain awaiting shipment.

13 October 2020
22nd July
10/08/2020
Public Health Act 1990
WDL/02/2013/V2
Fields Nos. 522518 & 522551
IDG 8 wheel tipper
50 bails
2-3 pallets
07624 406 333


Isle of Man High School (year 7) capacity and current usage

Summary: The request sought Year 7 pupil numbers, capacity, and ability band breakdowns for all Isle of Man High Schools. The Department of Education provided capacity and enrollment data for all schools but could not supply ability band figures for most institutions as they do not use such grouping.

Queen Elizabeth II High School is operating over its indicative capacity with 171 pupils against a capacity of 140.

Ballakermeen High School has 259 pupils, exceeding its indicative capacity of 250.

Ramsey Grammar School has 186 pupils, slightly exceeding its indicative capacity of 180.

Only Castle Rushen High School provided data on upper, middle, and lower ability bands.

The Department does not hold ability band data for other high schools because they do not use this system.


Meetings in lockdown

Summary: The requester asked for details of all government meetings during the 2020-2021 lockdowns, including attendee names and gender counts. The Department of Education, Sport and Culture provided a list of meetings and attendees but refused to provide gender statistics as that data was not held.

The request covered meetings during three lockdown periods in 2020 and 2021.

The Department provided names of attendees for many meetings but noted some were unknown.

The Department stated it does not hold data on the number of men and women in each meeting.

Some meeting records were directed to online Hansard archives rather than provided directly.

The response was issued on 2 June 2021 following a request received on 3 May 2021.

Section 20 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (information already reasonably accessible)

Section 8(3) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (no requirement to create or derive information)


Child protection

Summary: A request was made for annual statistics on children who were not placed on the child protection register between 2009 and 2021. The Department of Health and Social Care responded that the information is not held, noting that responsibility for Children's Social Care transferred to Manx Care in April 2021.

The requested information covers the period from 2009 to 2021 regarding initial child protection meetings.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold the requested data.

Responsibility for Children's Social Care transferred to Manx Care on 1st April 2021.

The requester is advised to re-submit the request to Manx Care.

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


rentable land at jurby

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Infrastructure for detailed statistics on rental units, leasing rates, and drainage conditions at the Jurby Industrial Estate. The authority responded by sending an appendix containing the Development Plan, with the outcome recorded as all information sent.

The request concerned the Jurby Industrial Estate.

The Department of Infrastructure was the responding authority.

The response included an appendix titled 'Development Plan'.

The outcome was recorded as 'All information sent'.

The request covered topics including unit availability, leasing rates, and drainage responsibility.


Printing paper cost.

Summary: The requester asked for the Isle of Man Financial Services Authority's annual spending on printing paper and ink to support a paper-reduction initiative. The authority disclosed the specific costs for paper and internal printing for the financial years 2018/19, 2019/20, and 2020/21, noting that ink costs are volume-based and included in the printing figures.

The request was received on 4 May 2021 and responded to on 11 May 2021.

Costs provided cover only internal printing/photocopying machines and exclude external printing services.

Ink costs are charged based on volume of usage and are included in the 'Printing' cost figures.

Spending on paper and printing decreased significantly in 2020/21 due to a move away from paper and COVID-19 working from home arrangements.

The authority confirmed that all requested information was sent.


Contractor payment Peel Dredging

Summary: A request was made for payment details regarding AD Bates Associates' work on the Peel Harbour Dredging Contract, but the Department of Infrastructure refused to disclose the information citing commercial interest exemptions.

The request concerned payments made to AD Bates Partnership LLC for the Peel Harbour Dredging Contract.

The Department of Infrastructure determined that all requested information was held but exempt from disclosure.

The exemption was applied under Section 30 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 regarding economy and commercial interests.

The authority concluded that disclosure would likely harm the commercial interests of the contractor and the Isle of Man Government's future tendering processes.

The public interest test determined that factors favoring withholding information outweighed those favoring transparency.

Section 30(2)(b) (Prejudice-based exemption)


Replacement CRHS and Southern Swimming Pool

Summary: The request sought plans, cost estimates, and meeting minutes regarding the inclusion of a replacement swimming pool in the new CRHS development. The response disclosed business case extracts and minutes detailing a £6.24 million cost estimate for a 25m pool, discussions on joint funding with King William's College, and the decision to add the pool as a 'bolt-on' to the Treasury paper.

A new 25m, 6-lane swimming pool complex was proposed as part of the CRHS redevelopment with an additional cost of £6,240,000.

Discussions in 2016 suggested a 50-50 joint funding model between the Department of Education and King William's College (KWC).

Local authorities including Castletown, Port St Mary, and Malew expressed support for the proposal, while Santon required more information.

By December 2019, the cost of the swimming pool was confirmed to be added to the Treasury Paper as a 'bolt-on' to the main school project.

The Department considered the Arbory Road site the best location for a replacement pool for the South.


Summary: The applicant requested plans, cost estimates, and meeting minutes regarding the replacement of Castle Rushen High School and the Southern Swimming Pool. The Treasury withheld all information, citing that plans were already publicly accessible via another FOI response and that cost estimates were exempt to protect commercial interests.

The request was made to the Treasury on 2021-05-04 regarding CRHS and Southern Swimming Pool redevelopment.

Plans for the CRHS replacement were deemed already reasonably accessible via a separate FOI response from the Department for Education, Sport and Culture (DESC).

Cost estimates for both the CRHS building and the swimming pool were withheld under Section 30(2)(b) to prevent prejudice to commercial interests.

Meeting minutes and notes regarding the inclusion or exclusion of a swimming pool since 2010 were not disclosed.

The outcome was determined on 2021-06-18 with no information sent as all held data was exempt.

Section 20: Information accessible to applicant by other means

Section 30(2)(b): Prejudice to commercial interests


Children reported knocked down by a vehcile in Cedar Grove Pulrose

Summary: A request was made for statistics on children knocked down by vehicles in Cedar Grove, Pulrose over the last 10 years. The Department of Home Affairs responded that they do not hold this information and directed the requester to the Isle of Man Constabulary.

The request was received on 2021-05-04 and responded to on 2021-05-10.

The Department of Home Affairs does not hold the requested accident data.

The information is likely held by the Isle of Man Constabulary.

The Constabulary is independent from the Department of Home Affairs for FOI purposes.

The requester was provided with a link to submit a new request to the Constabulary.


TT Spending

Summary: The requester asked for a breakdown of £1m spent by the Department for Enterprise on motorsport events and the TT. The authority responded that the £1m figure represented remaining contractual spend after significant savings were made due to the 2020 event cancellation, and provided economic impact data from 2019.

Contractual discussions following the March 2020 cancellation resulted in savings of £5,757,746.

The remaining spend was primarily contractual and reviewed on a case-by-case basis to ensure necessity.

Staff costs included personnel redirected to pandemic response and others working on strategic reviews.

The budget covers the TT, Classic TT, Manx Grand Prix, and Southern 100, but not the National or International Rally.

In 2019, motorsport events generated £48.9m in visitor spend and £6.3m in exchequer benefit.


Radio TT

Summary: The requester sought documentation regarding the 2019 tender process for radio broadcasting of the Isle of Man TT and associated events. The Department for Enterprise disclosed tender criteria, invitations, agreements, and adverts, but noted that no contract was awarded due to the cancellation of all events between 2020 and 2021.

No contract was awarded under the 2019 procurement process because the events were cancelled.

The 2020 TT Races were cancelled on 16th March 2020 due to the global pandemic.

The 2020 Classic TT and Manx Grand Prix were cancelled on 4th May 2020.

The 2021 TT Races were cancelled on 30th November 2020.

The 2021 Classic TT and Manx Grand Prix were cancelled on 10th March 2021.


cortisol tests

Summary: The requester asked for monthly cortisol test statistics from 2015 to 2020 and details on testing policy development. Manx Care provided the requested test data but stated they do not hold a local policy, instead following UK advice.

Manx Care provided data on cortisol and urine cortisol tests carried out from 2015 to 2020.

The authority does not hold a local Cortisol Testing Policy Development and Strategy.

Manx Care follows advice from the United Kingdom regarding cortisol testing policy.

The request was received on 6 May 2021 and the response was issued on 3 June 2021.

The outcome was classified as 'Some information sent but not all held'.

Information not held by the public authority


Urgent referrals to breast clinic

Summary: The requester asked for monthly statistics on urgent breast clinic referrals and average waiting times for the 12 months prior to May 2021. Manx Care disclosed the complete dataset covering May 2020 to April 2021, including a total of 232 referrals and an overall average wait time of 26 days.

The data covers urgent breast surgery referrals from May 2020 to April 2021.

A total of 232 urgent referrals were recorded during this 12-month period.

The overall average waiting time for these referrals was 26 days.

The highest number of referrals in a single month was 28 in March 2021.

The longest average wait time in a single month was 41 days in November 2020.


Secret societies

Summary: A request was made to identify Members of the House of Keys and Members of the Legislative Council who are members of secret societies like Freemasons or Rotary Club. The Cabinet Office responded that they do not hold this information and suggested contacting the Clerk of Tynwald's Office instead.

The request was received by the Cabinet Office on 2021-05-10.

The outcome was determined as 'Information not held' on 2021-05-11.

The request specifically asked for names of MHKs and MLCs in secret societies.

The authority suggested the Clerk of Tynwald's Office as an alternative contact.


Information regarding assaults on Licensees and their staff

Summary: A requester asked the Isle of Man Constabulary for statistics on assaults at licensed premises over the past four years, including investigation, arrest, and sentencing outcomes. The authority responded by confirming the release of baseline data covering events recorded at licensed premises classified as 'violence against the person' for the last four crime years.

The request covered a four-year period regarding assaults on licensees and their staff.

The Constabulary analyzed baseline data for the last four crime years (April-March).

Data was filtered for events at addresses identified as licensed premises.

Events were specifically those opened or closed as 'violence against the person'.

The authority noted that some potentially relevant events may have been excluded from the analysis.


ManxCare is an unaccountable quango

Summary: The requester asked for all advertising expenditure records (authorisations, budgets, invoices, payments) for Manx Care from January 1, 2021. Manx Care disclosed the 2021-22 advertising budget and specific expenditure for April 2021 but refused to provide copies of authorisations, invoices, and payments citing a practical refusal under Section 11(3)(a) of the Act.

Manx Care was established on 1 April 2021.

The total advertising budget for 2021-22 is £170,000.

Expenditure data provided covers only the period from 1 April 2021 to 30 April 2021.

Copies of authorisations, invoices, and payments were withheld because the authority does not hold or cannot find them.

The requester was advised to contact the Treasury for the withheld information.

Section 11(3)(a) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Practical refusal: information not held or cannot be found after reasonable steps)


CO un-redacted email  to planning Inspector Mr Hurley.

Summary: The requester sought unredacted emails and selection process details regarding Planning Inspector Mike Hurley and the Eastern Area Plan. The Cabinet Office refused to disclose information relating to communications with the Lieutenant Governor under Section 23 of the Act, stated they did not hold responses from other inspectors, and directed the requester to previous FOI responses for other items.

The request concerns emails between Andy Johnstone (CSO) and Planning Inspector Mike Hurley regarding the Eastern Area Plan.

Information regarding the original correspondence engaging Mr. Hurley was withheld under Section 23 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

The Cabinet Office stated it does not hold the responses from the six other inspectors approached.

Several parts of the request were deemed previously answered in FOI requests 1727858 and 1774158.

The Information Commissioner upheld the complaint as 'not upheld' on 2021-11-12.

1786413
1727858
1774158
25 March 2019
17 February 2020
27 November 2019
June 2019
11 May 2021
7 June 2021
2021-11-12
6 Inspectors
Section 23
Freedom of Information Act 2015

Section 23 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Communications with the Lieutenant Governor)


CO decision not provide a site development brief, Dandara.

Summary: The request sought documentary confirmation regarding a Cabinet Office decision not to provide a Site Development Brief for site DH011 (Dandara) during the Eastern Area Plan process. The authority disclosed that the decision was made in August 2019, recorded via email, and confirmed that the relevant paper was published and provided to the Inspector.

The decision not to provide a Site Development Brief for site DH011 was taken in August 2019.

The decision is documented in the Draft Area Plan for the East, Development Briefs Paper (PIP 6), specifically Section 5.

The Department agreed to the publication of the Development Brief Paper in August 2019.

The decision was recorded via email evidence of agreement to release the paper.

A copy of the Development Brief Paper was provided to the Inspector.


Strang Road Union Mills

Summary: A request was made for correspondence regarding traffic and highway issues in Union Mills and Strang Road over five years, to which the Department of Infrastructure responded by disclosing all relevant information including letters about proposed road safety improvements and traffic management schemes.

The Department of Infrastructure proposed reducing the speed limit on the A23 between Mount Rule and Strang to 40mph.

Road narrowing and build-outs were selected over speed cushions to deter through traffic on Strang Road.

Installation of the Strang Road traffic calming scheme was delayed due to a review requiring a temporary road closure for safety.

The response included correspondence from 2016 regarding highway improvement works and traffic management.

Concerns raised by residents and Mr Howard Quayle regarding vehicle speeds and pedestrian safety triggered the A23 study.


Pricecooperwaterhouse   Report.

Summary: The requester asked for a copy of a PriceCooperWaterhouse report received in May 2019, an attached letter from PWC, and a schedule of proposed changes. The Department for Enterprise confirmed that all requested information was sent to the applicant.

The request was made to the Department for Enterprise on 2021-05-11.

The outcome was that all information was sent on 2021-06-08.

The request concerned a report received by the Department on 10 May 2019.

The response included standard information regarding the right to review and contact details.

The request was formally closed following the disclosure of information.


P50 Fire Extinguishers

Summary: The requester asked for procurement details, costs, and correspondence regarding P50 plastic fire extinguishers and the Department's policy on plastic purchases. The Department of Infrastructure responded that it has not procured any P50 extinguishers itself, though some were installed by contractors or occupants, and released redacted correspondence regarding potential future use.

The Department of Infrastructure has not procured any P50 fire extinguishers to date.

A small number of P50 extinguishers were fitted in properties by building occupiers or contractors during construction projects.

No decision has been made to utilize P50 extinguishers in Government buildings due to resource constraints during the pandemic.

Correspondence and a briefing report were released with cost information redacted.

The Department does not currently have a specific procurement strategy for these appliances.

Section 30 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Commercial sensitivity)

Section 25 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Data protection)


Employee headcount on a FTE Basis

Summary: The request sought the total employee headcount on a Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) basis for the Isle of Man government as of March 31, 2016, and March 31, 2021. The Cabinet Office disclosed the total figures for both dates and provided a detailed breakdown of the 424.4 FTE increase across various departments and roles.

The total government employee headcount increased from 7280.8 FTE in 2016 to 7705.3 FTE in 2021.

The net increase of 424.4 FTE was attributed to new roles, insourced services, and conversions from self-employed or contractor status.

The Department of Health & Social Care accounted for the largest portion of the increase with 104.0 FTE across insourced services, medical, and nursing roles.

Significant increases were also noted in the Cabinet Office (54.1 FTE for COVID response) and Department of Environment Food & Agriculture (26.8 FTE).

The response included details on apprenticeships increasing from 9 to 39 and the creation of new roles for Information Governance & GDPR.


Planning Approval for works in Conservation Areas

Summary: The requester asked if the Department of Infrastructure has a policy requiring planning approval or consultation for works in Conservation Areas, similar to other property owners. The authority responded that it complies with the appropriate legislation and provided a link to the relevant planning order.

The Department of Infrastructure confirmed it complies with appropriate legislation regarding works in Conservation Areas.

The response directed the requester to the Planning Development Order 2012 for specific legal details.

The request was received on 13 May 2021 and the response was issued on 15 June 2021.

The authority stated that all information requested was sent.


whistleblower policy and strategy

Summary: The requester asked the Cabinet Office about the consideration of financial rewards and 'qui tam' legal proceedings to address whistleblowing policy weaknesses. The authority responded that it does not hold the requested information but noted a commitment to consult on a new statutory whistleblowing framework in 2021/22.

The Cabinet Office does not hold information regarding fixed scale rewards, percentage rewards, or 'qui tam' proceedings for whistleblowers.

At the February 2021 sitting of Tynwald, the Cabinet Office and Department for Enterprise committed to consulting on an all-encompassing statutory framework for whistleblowing.

Legal support for whistleblowers is likely to be considered as part of the 2021/22 consultation.

The Department for Enterprise was suggested as an alternative contact for further assistance.

The request was formally closed on 8 June 2021.


Environmental Impact of the Promenade Redevelopment

Summary: A request was made for environmental impact assessments, construction measures, and carbon footprint data regarding the Promenade Redevelopment. The Department of Infrastructure responded that none of this information exists as no assessments were undertaken or calculated for the project.

No environmental impact assessment was undertaken for the redevelopment works.

There is no available information on measures taken to reduce environmental impact in construction methods or materials.

A carbon footprint assessment has not been calculated for the project.

The request was received on 17 May 2021 and the response was issued on 16 June 2021.

The authority handling the request is the Department of Infrastructure.


Former Groudle Glen Hotel

Summary: A request was made for all information regarding discussions on registering the former Groudle Glen Hotel as a protected building, to which the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture responded by providing a full consultation report and related documents.

The Groudle Glen Hotel was constructed in 1893 by Richard Maltby Broadbent to serve visitors to the newly established Groudle Glen.

The building is attributed to renowned Arts and Crafts architect M.H. Baillie Scott, though no documentary evidence definitively proves this.

The hotel was assessed for inclusion in the Register of Protected Buildings following an external inspection on 25 January 2019.

The property features distinctive architectural elements including a wooden veranda, oriel windows with leaded lights, and hanging tiles.

The hotel reached its peak popularity in the late 1970s under a landlady known as 'Ma' and was refurbished in the early 1980s.