dyslexia training

Summary: The requester sought details on formal dyslexia training for 11 teachers, but the Department of Education clarified that only 6 teachers received such training and could not provide CPD points for any course. The authority disclosed course names, lengths, providers, and modes of delivery for the six confirmed cases while noting the original count of 11 was an error.

The Department of Education corrected the number of teachers with formal recognised dyslexia training from 11 to 6.

Information regarding CPD points awarded for the training courses was not held by the authority.

Training providers included Nessy.com, Bristol Dyslexia Centre, The School Psychology Service, and the British Dyslexia Association.

Course durations ranged from 1 hour to 1 year, with modes including online, face-to-face, and workbook follow-ups.

The error in the previous FOI response (3814753) was attributed to a school misinterpreting the question regarding formal training.

3880053
3814753
2024-05-23
2024-06-21
11 teachers
6 teachers
1 Hour
5 modules
3 hours
90 Minutes
1 Year
Level 5


Complaints of bus drivers

Summary: The request sought statistics on complaints against Bus Vannin drivers over two years, details on handling procedures, and improvements to customer service. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed full complaint logs for 2022-2024, explained their processing workflow, and outlined initiatives involving local charities and hidden disability support.

Total customer feedback complaints were 359 in 2022, 376 in 2023, and 133 in the first five months of 2024.

Average response time for complaints decreased from 1.66 days in 2022 to 0.79 days in 2023.

A common complaint involves drivers passing bus stops, which is often resolved by CCTV showing no passengers were present.

95% of complaints are processed via email, with a dedicated staff member directing them for immediate review.

Improvements include partnerships with charities like Manx Blind Welfare and RNIB, and the provision of free 'Hidden Disability' lanyards since October 2021.


Business case for the 'Farm carbon engagement officer'

Summary: The request sought documentation for the creation of the Farm Carbon Engagement Officer position, including the business case and draft contract. The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture released some information regarding project scope and salary calculations but withheld other details as out of scope.

The position is a 2-year Limited Term Appointment (LTA) intended to launch the project and train farmers on the Farm Carbon Calculator.

Future plans involve reviewing the Calculator's effectiveness after two years to determine if it reduces data monitoring workload for the GHG inventory.

Salary estimates were calculated using the maximum pay band to account for potential negotiated increases and budget margins.

The business case was prepared for submission to the Treasury Board in January 2024.

Several sections of the correspondence were redacted as being out of scope for the request.


National Insurance

Summary: The request sought data on National Insurance holiday scheme claims for the Department of Education, Sport and Culture and the wider Isle of Man government from 2017-2018 to date. The Treasury disclosed total monetary claims, the number of beneficiaries, and the count of those still employed for both the specific department and the entire public sector.

The Department of Education, Sport and Culture claimed back £243,276.28 through the scheme.

86 individuals from the Department of Education, Sport and Culture benefitted from the scheme.

69 of the beneficiaries from the Department of Education, Sport and Culture are still employed there.

The total amount claimed back by all eight Government Departments was £1,331,532.04.

Records do not identify specific job roles (e.g., teacher vs. officer) for the beneficiaries.


Request for all legislation pertaining to PPV minibus driving

Summary: The requester asked for all legislation and policy regarding Public and Private minibus driving on the Isle of Man, including government department driving. The Road Transport Licensing Committee provided Policy Document No. 01/21 detailing medical examination requirements for PPV drivers but withheld some information citing that it is already reasonably accessible.

The Road Transport Licensing Committee (RTLC) requires PPV drivers to be deemed 'fit persons' under Section 40(4)(a) of the Road Transport Act 2001.

New PPV licence applicants, including those from government departments, must undergo a medical examination.

Drivers aged 50 or over but under 65 must undergo medical examinations upon their first renewal after turning 50, except for specific government commercial courtesy drivers.

Drivers aged 65 and over must undergo annual medical examinations with reports submitted by their birthday.

Failure to submit required medical reports results in licence invalidation and surrender requirements.

Section 40(4)(a)
Road Transport Act 2001
Policy Document No. 01/21
7th October 2021
7th October 2026
24 May 2024
17 June 2024
3883045
9 pages
3 documents
age 50
age 65
six months

Section 20 of the Act (information already reasonably accessible)


Gender bias in healthcare staff towards female patients and relatives

Summary: The requester asked Manx Care for surveys, reports, training materials, and policies regarding gender bias in healthcare. The authority responded by providing training materials focused on unconscious bias, including definitions, types, effects, and strategies for reduction, rather than specific gender bias surveys or reports.

Manx Care provided 27 pages across 3 documents in response to the request.

The disclosed information consists primarily of general unconscious bias training materials rather than specific gender bias surveys.

The materials define the difference between explicit (conscious) and implicit (unconscious) bias.

The response includes a list of various types of unconscious bias, including gender, age, and affinity.

Strategies for addressing bias in oneself and others are outlined, referencing the Implicit Association Test (IAT).

The outcome of the request was recorded as 'All information sent'.


Name the people who have accessed my medical records

Summary: The requester asked for the names, reasons, and dates of individuals who accessed their medical records since the Data Protection Act came into force. The Department of Health and Social Care refused the request, stating they do not hold the information as it is managed by Manx Care.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold the requested medical access records.

The information is likely held by Manx Care, which is responsible for service delivery.

The requester was advised to submit a Data Subject Access Request (DSAR) to Manx Care instead.

The Department was redesigned on 1 April 2021 following Sir Jonathan Michael's Independent Review.

The redesign separated policy setting from service delivery.

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


projected costs of windfarm

Summary: The requester asked for a full financial appraisal and environmental impact data for a proposed windfarm, but the Manx Utilities Authority responded that the information is not held because a manufacturer has not yet been appointed.

Manx Utilities Authority does not hold the requested financial appraisal or environmental impact data.

The information is unavailable because a windfarm manufacturer has not yet been appointed.

Previous cost working assumptions were provided in a prior FOI request (3843909).

Further details may become available once the design is finalized or the Environmental Impact Assessment is complete.

Relevant feasibility studies and project updates are available on the Manx Utilities website.


Maximum load weights

Summary: The request sought maximum load weights for linkspans and piers at Douglas and Heysham ports. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed that Heysham assets are not under their control, Douglas pier capacities are unknown due to age, and provided specific weight limits for Douglas Link Spans 1 and 5.

Heysham linkspans and piers are not owned or maintained by the Department of Infrastructure.

No load capacity information exists for Douglas piers due to their age and historical amendments.

Link Span 5 has a static weight limit of 160t and 89t on the tide follower.

Link Span 1 has a theoretical limit of 100t but is restricted to 1-2 trailer loads (approx. 80t) to extend equipment lifespan.

Link Span 1 restrictions apply only when Berth 5 is unavailable.


windfarm effects on the airport

Summary: The requester asked for details on revised airport procedures required if a windfarm proposal proceeds, but the Manx Utilities Authority stated they do not hold this information as they do not advise on aviation procedures.

Manx Utilities Authority does not hold details on airport procedures.

Procedural or system changes may be necessary for wind farm infrastructure construction.

Manx Utilities and Wardell-Armstrong do not advise the Airport Authorities or Civil Aviation Authority on aviation procedures.

The Isle of Man Civil Aviation Administration has published guidance on renewable energy installations and aviation effects.


List of courses

Summary: The requester asked for a list of specific courses for which the Department of Education, Sport and Culture paid grants during the most recent available financial year. The authority responded by disclosing a comprehensive list of over 100 approved course titles that received funding.

The request was made on 2024-05-29 and the response was issued on 2024-06-17.

The Department of Education, Sport and Culture confirmed that all requested information was sent.

The response consisted of 24 pages across 2 documents.

The data covers courses actually paid for during the last financial year, prioritizing 2023/24 or 2022/23.

The disclosed list includes a wide range of subjects including Law, Medicine, Engineering, Education, and Arts.


SARC Referral Centre query

Summary: A request was made for annual user statistics of the Isle of Man's Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) since its opening. Manx Care responded that the information is not held because the facility is not yet fully operational and the building is under construction until May 2025.

The SARC building is currently under construction.

Construction is not due to be completed until May 2025.

A service for police referrals only is currently available for adults and children.

Manx Care does not hold the requested user statistics.

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


MHO's (Houses in Multiple Occupation)

Summary: The request sought the number of registered Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), their locations by sheading, and total room counts on the Isle of Man. The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture disclosed that 20 HMOs are registered across three local authorities with a total of 210 rooms.

There are 20 registered HMOs on the Isle of Man.

The total number of rooms in these HMOs is 210.

Douglas has the highest number of registered HMOs with 11 properties.

Braddan has 7 registered HMOs and Ramsey has 2.

The actual capacity may exceed 210 as many rooms can accommodate two people.


Airfield Operations Electricians Market Rating Exercise

Summary: A request was made for emails and evidence regarding a Market Rating exercise for Airfield Operations Electricians between 2021 and 2024, resulting in the disclosure of some correspondence while parts were exempt.

The Market Rating exercise for Airfield Operations Electricians requires approval by the Public Service Commission (PSC).

Staff involved were initially at a base grade of Skill Zone 3 before a market rating review could be conducted.

The process requires a rationale, organizational chart, job description, and confirmation of funding from the Chief Executive.

Charlotte Coué, Senior Job Evaluation Advisor, managed the correspondence regarding the evaluation.

The response included emails from October 2021, November 2021, and March 2022.


legal aid handbook

Summary: The requester asked for versions 1-6 of the Civil Legal Aid Handbook, draft versions, and working papers regarding amendments, but the Treasury only released the October 2015 2nd Edition, stating not all information was held.

The request was made to the Treasury on 2024-06-03.

The outcome was determined on 2024-06-21 as 'Some information sent but not all held'.

The released document is the Legal Aid Handbook, 2nd Edition, dated October 2015.

The response included 6 documents totaling 361 pages.

The requester noted that the website link for version 6 was broken because the file had been deleted.


Chamber of commerce South Africa gala dinner

Summary: The request sought a breakdown of Finance Isle of Man's platinum sponsorship expenditure for the South African Chamber of Commerce gala dinner in London. The authority disclosed all information, providing a detailed list of costs totaling over £20,000 including sponsorship fees, travel, and promotional items.

Finance Isle of Man was the platinum sponsor of the 2024 South African Chamber of Commerce London Gala Event.

The event took place on June 24 at the Mansion House in London.

The total expenditure for the sponsorship and related activities was £20,008.26.

Promotional items included Manx gift bags containing miniature gin, honey, popcorn, and booklets.

The Freedom of Information response was formulated in one hour.


IG 2029 Bid Document

Summary: A request was made for the Isle of Man's 2029 Island Games bid documents, drafts, and internal feedback, resulting in a partial disclosure of venue capabilities and technical official statistics.

The Department of Education, Sport and Culture partially upheld the request, releasing data on sports facilities and technical officials.

The response details venue suitability for 18 sports, including Archery, Athletics, and Football, noting specific infrastructure gaps.

Several venues require upgrades, such as the Athletics track needing repair and the Badminton secondary hall being suboptimal.

The document lists the number of technical officials available on-island versus those needing to be imported for each sport.

Streaming capabilities vary by sport, with some venues relying on government Wi-Fi and others unable to stream.


market Rating exercise completion date and back dated pay

Summary: The requester asked the Cabinet Office for details on market rating exercise completion dates and backdated pay for Department of Infrastructure roles under the JEGS 2017 scheme. The Cabinet Office responded that it does not hold this information and directed the requester to contact the Public Services Commission instead.

The Cabinet Office does not hold the requested information regarding market rating exercises or backdated pay.

The information requested likely resides with the Public Services Commission (PSC).

The requester clarified they were interested in all Department of Infrastructure (DOI) roles that had a market rating exercise agreed.

The request was received on 4 June 2024 and the final response was issued on 27 June 2024.

The requester was advised to submit a separate Freedom of Information request directly to the PSC.


Dental Waiting List Crisis

Summary: A request was made to Manx Care regarding the current size of the dental waiting list and the longest wait time for an individual. The authority disclosed that as of May 2024, over 5,000 people were on the list, with the longest wait exceeding four years.

As of 31st May 2024, there were 5,169 people on the dental allocation list.

The longest period an individual has been on the list is 1,611 days.

The individual with the longest wait was added to the list in January 2020.

The request was received on 4th June 2024 and responded to on 11th July 2024.

The response contrasts current figures with a previous count of five people from five years prior.


On-call information

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Home Affairs for details on on-call hours, response times, and pay rates for Isle of Man government staff. The authority partially disclosed the information by providing a detailed salary and overtime rate table for the Fire and Rescue Service, while withholding specific data on on-call hours and response times.

The response provided salary and overtime data specifically for the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service.

Pay rates are categorized by rank, ranging from Firefighter to Senior Divisional Officer.

Salaries are listed with incremental increases based on years of service and time in rank.

Overtime rates are calculated at 1.5 times the standard hourly rate.

The data reflects salary adjustments effective from April 2020 through April 2023.


On-call information

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Infrastructure regarding on-call staff hours, pay rates, and response times. The authority disclosed specific operational details for Highways and Housing divisions but withheld pay rate information citing public availability and personal data exemptions.

Highways Division staff have no minimum on-call hours, with standby frequency ranging from every 4 to 12 weeks depending on the role.

Highways Division response times are 1 hour for urgent call-outs and 2 hours for non-urgent ones.

Housing Division foremen provide on-call cover from 4:30pm to 8am on weekdays and 24-hour cover on weekends and bank holidays.

Housing Division emergency response times are 24 hours for general issues and 30 minutes for safety concerns.

Pay rates and call-out fees are not disclosed in the letter as they are available via the OHR website or exempt as personal data.

Section 20: Information accessible to applicant by other means

Section 25: Absolutely exempt personal information


On-call information

Summary: A request for on-call staff details at the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture was partially fulfilled, disclosing hours and response times while withholding specific pay rates due to personal data exemptions and directing the requester to public HR resources for call-out fees.

Five staff members at the Cornaa Fish Hatchery provide an on-call service.

The total on-call coverage provided during a standard week is 113 hours.

Staff are expected to respond to call-outs within 45 minutes due to the sensitive nature of aquaculture.

Hourly rates were withheld as absolutely exempt personal information under Section 25 of the Act.

Call-out fee information was deemed accessible by other means via the Government HR website.

Section 25(b)(i)&(ii) – Absolutely exempt personal information

Section 20 – Information accessible to applicant by other means


On-call information

Summary: A request was made to the Manx Utilities Authority regarding on-call staff hours, pay rates, and response times. The authority clarified that they operate a 'Standby' system rather than a traditional on-call arrangement, providing specific ranges for coverage hours, payments, and typical response times.

Manx Utilities staff have a 'General Availability' clause in their contracts for advice outside hours with no special payment.

A separate, remunerated 'Standby' system is used to ensure maintenance of service levels.

Standby coverage hours vary between 15.5 and 24 hours depending on the day and employment terms.

Typical standby payments range from £20.81 to £75, with critical infrastructure weekend cover reaching £127.23.

Staff are expected to respond to call-outs safely, typically within around 15 minutes.


Promotional materials for Locate.im

Summary: The Department for Enterprise responded to a request regarding promotional materials for the 2024 Isle of Man TT, disclosing that no new beer mats were ordered but 2,000 from 2023 stock were distributed, alongside details on other produced collateral and associated costs.

No new 'Locate.im' beer mats were ordered for the 2024 TT; approximately 2,000 were distributed from 2023 stock.

Beer mats were distributed at key locations including Sea Terminal, IOM Airport, TT Fan Park, and various public houses.

The 2023 production cost for 30,000 beer mats was £1,953, meaning there was no production cost for the 2024 distribution.

Additional 2024 promotional materials included 'Visit Isle of Man' leaflets costing £696 and 'Locate Isle of Man' guides and postcards costing £1,526.

The request was received on 2024-06-06 and the full response was issued on 2024-06-19.

£696 cost for Visit Isle of Man leaflets

£1,526 cost for Locate Isle of Man guides and postcards


Red Arrows

Summary: The request sought the annual costs of bringing the RAF Red Arrows to the Isle of Man for the last 10 years, and the Department for Enterprise disclosed a detailed breakdown of costs for each year from 2014 to 2023.

The Red Arrows displays are arranged to provide entertainment during the TT motorsport event.

No displays took place in 2017 and 2020.

In 2021, Manx Radio arranged the display with a £7,500 contribution from the Department for Enterprise.

Final costs for the 2024 display were not available at the time of the response.

The response took four and a half hours to complete due to archived figures.


E scooter complaints

Summary: A request was made to the Isle of Man Constabulary for statistics on e-scooter complaints, arrests, seizures, and police policy. The authority disclosed that there were 3 recorded events with one fixed penalty notice and one seizure, but stated that specific arrest and stop data are not held and no specific policy exists.

There were 3 relevant events relating to e-scooters recorded since January 2023.

No arrests resulted from the recorded e-scooter incidents.

One individual was issued a fixed penalty notice.

One e-scooter has been seized by the police.

There is no specific police policy for e-scooters, as they are treated as mechanically propelled vehicles under the Road Traffic Act.

3 relevant events
1 fixed penalty notice
1 E Scooter seized
January 2023
2024-06-11
2024-07-10


The Calculation of Contribution Based JSA for Temporary Workers

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Health and Social Care regarding how temporary employment income affects Contribution Based Job Seekers Allowance eligibility. The authority responded that the information is not held by them and may be held by the Treasury.

The request concerned the calculation of Contribution Based JSA for individuals taking temporary jobs.

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

The authority suggested the information may be held by the Treasury.

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

Part 2 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015

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


No information sent - all held but exempt

Summary: The requester asked for details on how temporary earnings affect Contribution Based Job Seekers Allowance eligibility and calculation periods. The Treasury refused to provide new information, citing that the relevant rules are already publicly accessible in existing legislation and guides.

The request was refused under section 20 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 because the information is reasonably accessible to the public.

The Jobseekers Act 1995 and Jobseeker's Allowance Regulations 1996 contain the rules governing earnings and eligibility.

Specific sections cited include 4(1)(b) and 12 of the Act, and Regulations 52, 93, 94, 96, 97, 98, and 99.

Earnings received after claiming Jobseeker's Allowance must be declared to the Social Security Division as they may affect benefit amounts.

Further guidance is available in the Benefits Information Guide on pages 48-56.

3915409
2024-06-12
2024-07-08
1 July 2024
Jobseekers Act 1995
Jobseeker's Allowance Regulations 1996
Section 4(1)(b)
Section 12
Regulations 52, 93, 94, 96, 97, 98, 99
pages 48-56
685656
Freedom of Information Act 2015

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


Fixed Penalty Notice **REDACTED**

Summary: The applicant requested evidence including photographs and emails regarding a disputed parking fine, but the Department of Infrastructure refused the request under the Freedom of Information Act 2015 because the information constitutes absolutely exempt personal data.

The request was refused as the information is absolutely exempt personal data under Section 25 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

The applicant was advised to contact parkingfines@gov.im or submit a Subject Access Request (SAR) under GDPR to obtain the evidence.

The dispute concerns a £60 fine issued at 11:59 with a stated disc time of 12:00.

The applicant claims to have been in Braddan at 11:52 and questions the accuracy of the fine.

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

Section 25: Absolutely exempt personal information (Personal data of which the applicant is the data subject)

Section 11: Grant of requests for information (Refusal based on exemption)


Releasing Raw Sewage into Peel Bay

Summary: A request was made for three years of detailed sewage discharge and defect statistics for Peel Bay, but the authority only provided defect data and partial flow records starting from 2022 due to data format limitations and server failures.

Manx Utilities does not hold the requested data for the full three-year period as some records only date back to 2022.

The Peel Promenade pumping station is automated to pump only during ebbing tides during the bathing season.

Tide data is supplied by the National Oceanography Centre and interpreted via industry-specific software.

Hourly flow data is incomplete due to a failure of the historian server.

Information regarding defects in the Peel pumping station and sewer network for the last three years was provided.

Information not held or cannot be found after taking reasonable steps

Data format limitations (requires industry specific software)


Peel Rates collected on behalf of Peel Commissioners

Summary: The Treasury partially disclosed data regarding rates collected on behalf of Peel Commissioners and a list of properties with zero or reduced rates, but refused to provide the total number of dwellings citing a practical refusal reason.

The request covered the last three financial years (21/22, 22/23, 23/24).

Appendix 1 provides figures for total rates collected and collection fees charged by the Treasury.

A list of zero-rated properties was provided, citing reasons such as renovation or poor state.

A list of properties with reduced rates was provided, citing reasons like adjacent building works or sewerage smells.

The Treasury refused to provide the total number of dwellings under section 8(3)(b) of the Act.

Section 8(3)(b) of the Act (practical refusal reason regarding research or analysis)


Climate Change and Sustainability Island Wide

Summary: A request for detailed budget and spending data on Isle of Man climate change initiatives was partially fulfilled, with a table of 17 specific projects and their financial status provided, while information on future initiatives requiring additional budget was withheld.

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) received the request on 2024-06-18 and responded on 2024-07-18.

A total of 17 climate change and sustainability initiatives were listed with a combined approved budget of £19,191,327.

Funding sources include the Climate Change Fund, Environmental Protection Fund, and Internal Revenue.

The Climate Change Team and its budget transferred from the Cabinet Office to DEFA during the 2022-23 financial year.

Information regarding new initiatives requiring additional budget was exempted from disclosure.

Section 41 of the Act (information held with a view to future publication)


Quest Curriculum at CRHS

Summary: The request sought documentation on lesson planning, assessment, and evaluation of the 'Quest' curriculum at Castle Rushen High School for the first half of the 2024 Summer Term. The authority released 439 pages of materials, including teacher guides and success criteria for various student showcase formats, though the response was partially exempt.

The Quest curriculum was introduced at Castle Rushen High School in September 2019.

The program targets Year 7 students and aims to ensure a continuum of learning underpinned by 'FACE'.

Each Quest consists of four stages: Engage, Develop, Innovate, and a fourth stage cut off in the text.

Student showcases can be created individually, in pairs, or in groups of three.

Showcase formats include Infographics, Slideshows, Models, Films, Podcasts, Speeches, Performances, and Extended Writing.

September 2019
2024 Summer Term
Year 7
4 stages
2-3 minutes
4-5 minutes
300 words
400+ words
439 pages
7 documents


Top 10 most prescribed drugs 23/24

Summary: A request was made to Manx Care for the top 10 most prescribed drugs and their costs for the 2023/24 financial year. The authority fully disclosed the data, listing the specific medications, item counts, and total actual costs for each.

The request was received on 2024-06-17 and responded to on 2024-07-16.

Apixaban 5mg tablets were the most prescribed item by cost at £498,516.20.

Omeprazole 20mg capsules had the highest volume of items prescribed at 37,367.

The top 10 list includes anticoagulants, diabetes sensors, and respiratory inhalers.

All requested information was released without any exemptions applied.


Deaths in Hospital

Summary: A request was made to Manx Care for statistics on hospital deaths in 2022, 2023, and 2024, including breakdowns by day of the week and hospital location. The authority disclosed all requested information, providing total counts, daily splits, and specific data for Nobles and Ramsey hospitals.

Manx Care provided a total of 685 hospital deaths across 2022, 2023, and the first half of 2024.

Deaths in 2022 totaled 294, while 2023 saw 238 deaths.

As of June 24, 2024, there were 153 recorded hospital deaths.

Nobles Hospital accounted for the majority of deaths (616 total) compared to Ramsey Hospital (69 total).

The data includes a detailed breakdown of deaths by day of the week for each year.


Rejected company names


Roundel road traffic collisions

Summary: A request was made for the number of road traffic collisions at the Douglas roundel from 2021 onwards. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed that only one personal injury collision was recorded in 2022, with zero incidents in 2021, 2023, and up to May 2024.

The request covered road traffic collisions at the Douglas roundel junction of Broadway, Harris Promenade, and Central Promenade.

The data provided specifically relates to personal injury collisions.

The reporting period covers from 1 January 2021 to 31 May 2024.

Only one collision was recorded during the entire period, occurring in 2022.

No collisions were recorded in 2021, 2023, or the first five months of 2024.


Benefits deductions

Summary: The request sought data on the number of benefit claimants with deductions and the specific reasons for those deductions over the last three financial years. The Treasury disclosed the total number of affected customers and a detailed breakdown of deduction reasons for the years 2021-22, 2022-23, and 2023-24.

The total number of customers with benefit deductions was 2996 in 2021-22, 2982 in 2022-23, and 2992 in 2023-24.

Rent for accommodation was the most common reason for deductions, affecting 1482, 1441, and 1326 customers respectively across the three years.

Recovery of budgeting loans was the second most frequent reason, with 790, 726, and 640 customers affected.

The response clarified that the grand total of deductions (4626, 4607, 4585) exceeds the number of unique customers because some individuals had multiple deductions.

Deductions for Manx Credit Union increased significantly from 288 customers in 2021-22 to 559 in 2023-24.


Prepaid meter disconnections

Summary: The requester asked for the number of prepaid meter electricity disconnections over the past five years, but the authority disclosed that historical data is unavailable due to system limitations, providing only a recent six-week statistic instead.

Historical disconnection data for the past five years is unavailable because it was not stored prior to the rollout of smart meters.

Disconnection event data is currently only retained for a period of six weeks.

Between 3 June 2024 and 15 June 2024, 1,549 disconnection instructions were sent to prepaid meters.

The 1,549 instructions do not represent unique customers, as some may have disconnected multiple times.

There are approximately 5,500 Pay As You Go (PAYG) customers in total.


Statistics

Summary: The requester asked for statistics on the number of Department of Education, Sport and Culture staff who work from home, but the authority confirmed it does not hold this specific data. The subsequent internal review upheld the refusal, noting the diversity of working practices across the department and providing a link to general homeworking guidelines instead.

The Department of Education, Sport and Culture does not hold statistics on how many staff work from home.

The authority conducted a reasonable search but could not find the requested information.

Working practices vary significantly across different areas of the department, including schools, UCM, and the Youth Service.

The internal review outcome was 'Not upheld', confirming the initial refusal.

The authority provided a link to the 'Homeworking Guidelines' as advice and assistance.


The challenges and benefits of relocating to the Isle of Man

Summary: The request sought all records, including contracts and payments, related to a media article on the challenges and benefits of relocating to the Isle of Man. The Department for Enterprise disclosed email correspondence regarding the collaboration but withheld personal data under exemption, confirming no financial expense was incurred for the article.

Locate Isle of Man was approached by Media Isle of Man in May 2024 for a 'Diversity' Future Series campaign.

The Department shared content links and contact details, but Media Isle of Man conducted interviews independently.

The resulting media coverage was produced at no expense to the Department for Enterprise.

Contributors granted permission for their inclusion in the feature.

Personal data within the correspondence was redacted as it was deemed absolutely exempt.

Section 25(b)(i)(ii) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Personal Information)

Data Protection (Application of GDPR) Order 2018 (Article 5 and Article 6)


Minutes from an RGS School Governors meeting

Summary: The requester sought minutes from RGS School Governors meetings regarding the shortening of the school day. The Department of Education, Sport and Culture provided the minutes from the 26th March 2024 meeting but redacted specific information under Section 35 to protect the free and frank exchange of views.

The request was received on 19 June 2024 and responded to on 11 July 2024.

Minutes from the 26th March 2024 meeting were attached to the response.

Some information was redacted to prevent inhibiting the free and frank provision of advice.

The authority cited Section 35 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 as the basis for exemption.

The response included a public interest test weighing transparency against the 'chilling effect' on decision-making.


Home schooling numbers

Summary: A request for 10 years of home schooling statistics and assessment details was partially fulfilled, with data provided for 2022-2024 and a link to Hansard for 2018-2022, while older records and specific proportions were withheld due to retention limits or lack of holding.

Records for home schooling numbers prior to 2018 are not held due to a 6-year retention period.

Data for 2018-2022 is available via a Tynwald Hansard link rather than direct provision.

The Department does not hold data on the proportion of children home schooled or the reasons given for choosing it.

The Home or Private Education Registration Form does not request reasons for choosing home schooling.

Information on how home schooling environments are assessed is not held by the Department.

Section 20 of the Act (Information accessible to applicant by other means)

Records not held or cannot be found after reasonable steps (Retention period)


Cost of new accommodation cabins at Jurby Prison.

Summary: A request was made for details regarding new accommodation cabins at Jurby Prison, including costs, allocation criteria, and operational regimes. The Department of Home Affairs disclosed the estimated installation cost and confirmed the cabins are for male prisoners only, but withheld information on allocation criteria, move-in dates, and daily regimes as these procedures were not yet finalized.

The total estimated cost for installing the new cabins is £191,366.33.

The cabins are located adjacent to the prison football field and consist of at least 24 single occupancy units.

Only male prisoners will be accommodated in the new cabins.

Allocation criteria for prisoners are currently under development and not yet documented.

The move-in date and specific daily regimes for the cabins have not been determined.

Information not held or cannot be found after reasonable steps

Procedures not yet officially documented or finalized


Air ambulance donations

Summary: The requester asked for policies, oversight details, and five years of financial data regarding Isle of Man air ambulance donations. Manx Care disclosed that the service is taxpayer-funded and charities handle donations, providing a list of donation expenditures from the last two years instead of the requested five-year financial breakdown or policies.

The Air Ambulance is a Manx Care taxpayer-funded service.

Donations are managed by external charities, not Manx Care, so the authority does not hold their policies or financial records.

Manx Care provided a list of how donations were used over the last two years rather than the requested five years.

Expenditures included staff training courses, conference attendance, and equipment like mattresses.

The response was issued on 22 July 2024 following a request received on 25 June 2024.

2024-06-25
2024-07-22
3934958
last 5 years
last 2 years
3 staff members
2 days
September 23
One mattress
2 covers


Information regarding IT hacks/cyber attacks at Hillside Dental

Summary: The requester asked for details on cyber attacks and data breaches at Hillside Dental before and after Manx Care took over, specifically regarding an IT issue in February 2024. Manx Care responded that no cyber attacks have occurred since they managed the practice and they are unaware of any prior attacks.

Hillside Dental has not been subject to a cyber-attack since Manx Care took over management.

Manx Care is not aware of any cyber-attacks at the practice prior to their management.

The response addresses the specific IT issue reported in February 2024 by confirming no illegal access of personal information occurred.

The request was received on 24 June 2024 and closed on 11 July 2024.


Amount of currently incarcerated

Summary: A request was made to the Attorney General's Chambers for statistics on individuals currently incarcerated in Jurby Prison for various cannabis-related offences. The authority refused the request under section 11(3)(a) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015, stating they do not hold the information and advised contacting the Department of Home Affairs instead.

The request sought data on incarceration numbers for cannabis possession, sale, and production/importation.

The Attorney General's Chambers does not hold the requested information.

The refusal was issued on 2 July 2024 based on a practical refusal reason.

Applicants were advised to contact the Department of Home Affairs for the data.

The request covered sentences passed both before and after November 2018.

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


Licenses lost due to drug wipe failure

Summary: The requester asked for statistics on driver suspensions due to roadside drug wipe failures since November 2018, specifically regarding cannabis. The Attorney General's Chambers refused the request, stating they do not hold the information and advised contacting the Isle of Man Constabulary instead.

The request was received on 2024-06-24 and responded to on 2024-07-02.

The authority handling the request was the Attorney General's Chambers.

The information requested was not held by the authority.

The requester was advised to contact the Isle of Man Constabulary for the data.

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


CQC Inspections of Nobles Hospital

Summary: A request was made for details regarding the next CQC inspection and rating timeline for Nobles Hospital, but Manx Care refused to provide the information as it is held by the Department of Health & Social Care.

Manx Care does not hold the requested information regarding CQC inspection schedules.

The commissioning of CQC inspections is the responsibility of the Department of Health & Social Care.

It is anticipated that the CQC will return to inspect in 2025.

Manx Care aspires to achieve a 'good' overall quality rating by 2025.

The requester was advised to redirect their inquiry to the Department of Health & Social Care.


Wind Turbine Costs

Summary: A request for detailed cost assumptions, turbine specifications, and business case documents regarding the Earystane wind project was refused by the Manx Utilities Authority as vexatious. The authority cited a lack of clarification from the requester and argued that many questions sought opinions or public statements rather than recorded information.

The request was classified as vexatious under Section 11(3)(c) and 11(3)(d) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

The authority stated that information for questions 1 and 6 is already publicly available on their website.

Questions 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, and 9 were deemed to seek assumptions, comparisons, or opinions rather than held information.

The requester was advised to contact the Energy Transition team directly for a public statement or specific answers.

The authority recommended submitting a new, focused request for the business case document (question 5).

The request was received on 2024-06-25 and the outcome was issued on 2024-08-02.

Section 11(3)(c) - Vexatious request due to lack of acknowledgement or instruction after clarification request

Section 11(3)(d) - Vexatious request due to being misconceived or seeking a public statement rather than information


IOM National Cancer treatment waiting times

Summary: The requester asked Manx Care for data on whether specific cancer treatment waiting time targets were being met and for details on the risks associated with missing these targets. The authority confirmed that all requested information was sent, though the provided text only contains the closing administrative letter and not the actual data.

The request was made to Manx Care regarding National Cancer treatment waiting times.

The authority stated that all information requested was sent to the applicant.

The request was received on 2024-06-26 and the outcome was confirmed on 2024-08-21.

The response document consists of 2 pages and 1 document.

The request specifically inquired about targets for diagnosis, decision to treat, and referral to first treatment.


Locate Isle of Man Promotional Video

Summary: The request sought details on the production, costs, and participant payments for a specific Isle of Man promotional video. The Department for Enterprise confirmed the video was externally commissioned, disclosed the full production cost breakdown, and stated that no payments or reimbursements were made to the subjects.

The video 'Dean Harrison's Move to the Isle of Man With Family' was commissioned from an external local provider.

The total cost to produce the video was GBP 2,412.00 including VAT.

No payments were made to the video subjects for their participation.

No reimbursements were provided to the video subjects.

The video is part of a broader marketing campaign and is not measured as a standalone piece for ROI.


South Africa Chamber of Commerce

Summary: The request sought invoices, contracts, photographs, and attendee lists for the Department for Enterprise's sponsorship of the South African Chamber of Commerce Gala Dinners in 2023 and 2024. The Department provided the financial documents but disclosed that no photographs were held and no private attendee list existed as the drinks were open to all event guests.

Finance Isle of Man was the Platinum Sponsor for the 2023 and 2024 events.

No formal contract existed for the 2023 event; a proposal served as the agreement.

The Department does not hold high-resolution photographs for either year.

The post-event drinks at 1 Lombard Street were open to all attendees, not a private sponsor event.

The Department does not hold a specific list of people who attended the post-event drinks.


Health Impact from current Power Plants

Summary: A request was made for calculations regarding the public health impact and societal cost of NOx and SOx emissions from Pulrose and Peel power stations. The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture responded that the information is not held as no such calculations have been undertaken.

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture does not hold calculations on the health effects of Pulrose and Peel power stations.

The authority stated it is not required to create or derive information from existing data to answer hypothetical questions.

The requester was advised to direct future inquiries to the Cabinet Office Public Health or Manx Utilities.

A previous FOI response from Manx Utilities regarding emissions records (case 1028829) was suggested as a potential resource.

The request was formally closed on 1 July 2024.

No requirement to create or derive information


Residential qualification ignored?

Summary: The requester asked for statistics and decision-making details regarding overrides of the five-year residency requirement for three specific benefits over the past ten years. The Department of Health and Social Care responded that the information is not held by them and may be held by the Treasury.

The request concerns Income-based jobseekers' allowance, Income support, and Employed persons' allowance.

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

The authority suggested the information may be held by the Treasury.

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

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


Rent Rquests

Summary: The request sought the number of rent direct payment requests from Douglas City Council to the Social Security Benefits Section over the last 12 months, along with details on unauthorized requests and relevant policies. The Treasury disclosed that 156 requests were received but stated it does not hold data on how many lacked claimant authorization, while citing specific regulations that allow for such payments in cases of debt.

156 requests were received from Douglas City Council for rent to be paid directly from benefits in the 12 months to 1 July 2024.

The authority does not hold information on how many of these requests were made without the benefit claimant's authorization.

Requests from the Council are not required to contain authorization details.

Regulation 35 and Schedule 9 (paragraph 3) of the Social Security (Claims and Payments) Regulations 1987 allow adjudication officers to approve rent deductions without claimant authorization if the individual is in debt or likely to get into debt.

The process is known as 'Rent Direct' and involves paying the housing cost component of a benefit award directly to a housing provider.


Covid Jabs at pharmacies

Summary: The requester asked about discussions regarding private COVID-19 vaccinations at Isle of Man pharmacies and when such services would be available. The Department of Health and Social Care responded that they do not hold records of specific inquiries on this topic, though they noted discussions have occurred regarding GP-led vaccination programs.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold records of specific discussions or inquiries about local pharmacies providing paid COVID-19 jabs.

Discussions have been held regarding the delivery of COVID vaccination programs by GPs alongside existing programs like Flu and Shingles.

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

The response was issued by Chief Officer Paul Richardson on 12 July 2024.

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


Maintenance and plans for abandoned property

Summary: A request was made regarding the maintenance, safety, and future plans for the abandoned Cooil Ny Marrey property in Ramsey. The Department of Infrastructure responded that they do not hold the requested information and suggested contacting local housing committees instead.

The Department of Infrastructure does not hold information regarding the maintenance or plans for Cooil Ny Marrey.

The property has been abandoned for over two years with residents having moved out.

Concerns were raised about unsafe premises, tall grass, dog fouling, and youths breaking in.

Requesters were advised to contact the Ramsey and Northern District Housing Committee or Ramsey Town Commissioners.

The request was formally closed on 3 July 2024.


Isle of Man Prison Portacabins

Summary: A request for details on portacabins used as temporary prisoner accommodation at Isle of Man Prison was partially fulfilled, disclosing the number of units and estimated costs while exempting specific staffing figures.

The Isle of Man Prison is using 24 single occupancy portacabins for temporary accommodation.

The total estimated cost for installation, transportation, and 12 months of hire is £200,000.

Precise final costs for obtaining and running the cabins were not held at the time of the request.

Staffing numbers assigned to the portacabins were withheld to prevent prejudice to prison security.

The need for the cabins is to increase prison capacity due to a rising prisoner population.

Section 32(1)(f) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (prejudice to security and good order in institutions)

Information already in the public domain (absolute exemption)


Health Impact from current Power Plants

Summary: The requester asked for a study on the health costs of emissions from Pulrose and Peel power stations, specifically regarding NOx and SOx. The Manx Utilities Authority disclosed a document titled 'Appendix 13' which estimates the annual cost of non-GHG emissions at £11.57 million and discusses the relevance of these impacts to social housing and climate justice principles.

The response estimates the total annual cost damage from non-GHG emissions at £11.57 million.

Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) emissions account for the majority of the cost at £11.3 million.

The Pulrose power station is located in an area primarily dedicated to social housing with low-income residents.

The document references the Climate Change Act 2021 and its 'just transition' and 'climate justice' principles.

Emission data for gas and diesel generators was extrapolated from limited 1-hour test periods using UK Government methodology.


Vehicle speed monitoring Barregarrow Crossroads Kirk Michael

Summary: A request was made for traffic flow and speed data at Barregarrow Crossroads on the A3, but the Department of Infrastructure confirmed they do not hold this information as no counters are currently installed at that location.

The Department of Infrastructure does not hold traffic flow or speed data for Barregarrow Crossroads.

Traffic data is only available for locations where counters have been or are currently placed.

Counters can be installed at specific locations upon request, but this service incurs a charge.

The request specifically focused on vehicles traveling along the A3, excluding Ballaleigh or Sartfell roads.

The requester was provided with contact details for the highways team to inquire about installing counters.


dyslexia

Summary: The requester asked for details on Dyslexia courses funded by the Department of Education, Sport and Culture (DESC) and their associated costs. While the department identified one specific course, it stated it could not provide the cost information as it was not held or could not be found.

The request relates to a previous FOI (3814753) regarding Dyslexia courses.

One course titled 'Understanding Dyslexia' was identified as being funded by the School, not directly by DESC.

The course was delivered by Nessy.com in an online mode and lasted 3 hours.

The authority stated it does not hold or cannot find the cost information for the course.

The request was formally closed on 16 July 2024.

Information not held or cannot be found after taking reasonable steps


Staff turnover at Rushen School

Summary: A request was made for staff turnover data at Rushen Primary School between 2017 and 2024, but the Department of Education, Sport and Culture could not provide data for the 2017-2018 period due to storage format issues and withheld specific details on small numbers of staff to protect personal privacy.

The request covered staff departures from September 1, 2017, to June 1, 2024.

Information for the period between September 1, 2017, and September 2018 was not provided because it is stored on a previous system and not readily accessible.

Specific data regarding five or fewer staff members was redacted to prevent individual identification.

The Department determined that the public interest in maintaining privacy outweighed the interest in disclosure for the redacted data.

The response was issued on July 31, 2024, following a request received on July 3, 2024.

September 1, 2017
June 1, 2024
September 2018
31 July 2024
3 July 2024
five staff members
3955129
3 pages
1 document

Section 39 Qualified Exempt Personal Information

Section 8 of the Data Protection Act 2002

Information not held in a readily accessible format


Residential qualification ignored?

Summary: The requester asked for statistics on how often residency requirements were overridden for three specific benefits over the past three months, including decision levels and reasons. The Treasury refused the request, stating that compiling the information from non-machine-readable paper files would require substantial work not mandated by the Freedom of Information Act.

The request concerns Income-based jobseekers' allowance, Income support, and Employed persons' allowance.

The requester originally asked for 10 years of data but amended the request to cover the past three months.

All claims for the specified benefits are currently processed on paper and recorded in hard copy files.

The hard copy files are not machine readable and decisions are not uploaded to electronic payment systems.

The Treasury determined that complying would require substantial compilation or collation of information.

Section 8(3)(c) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (substantial compilation or collation)

Section 11(3)(b) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (practical refusal reason)


Summerhill View

Summary: The requester asked for the contract value, tender applicant numbers, and a copy of the contract for Summerhill View care home. Manx Care disclosed the tender applicant breakdown and explained the contract value calculation method but refused to provide the specific contract value or the contract document itself as they were not yet finalized or held.

Summerhill View has 45 residential care beds which are block booked.

Three qualified organizations responded to the tender, all based on the Isle of Man.

One additional expression of interest was rejected for not meeting eligibility criteria.

The total contract value cannot be determined yet because the opening date of the home is unknown.

The contract with the provider is currently in the process of being concluded.

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


Covid vaccine numbers update request - July 2024

Summary: The requester asked for updated statistics on the number of individuals receiving specific doses (1st through 8th) of the Covid-19 vaccine on the Isle of Man. Manx Care refused to provide the specific dose breakdown because the data is no longer recorded in that format, but disclosed the total number of booster doses administered since the previous request.

Manx Care does not hold information on vaccine doses categorized as first, second, third, etc.

Current eligible individuals receive vaccinations recorded simply as 'Boosters'.

6,755 booster doses were administered between the last FOI response and July 19, 2024.

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

The response was issued on July 22, 2024, regarding a request received on July 3, 2024.

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


Coronavirus Regulations

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Home Affairs for details regarding Coronavirus Regulations, lockdowns, and circuit breakers in the Isle of Man. The authority responded that it does not hold the requested information and advised the requester to contact other government departments or consult specific legislation websites.

The Department of Home Affairs does not hold the information requested regarding Coronavirus Regulations.

The authority advised redirecting the request to the Cabinet Office, Clerk of Tynwald's Office, or Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture.

Public legislation updates can be found at legislation.gov.im and tynwald.org.im.

The request was formally closed on 26 July 2024.

The response cites the duty to advise and assist under section 15 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.


Coronavirus Regulations

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Home Affairs to determine when Coronavirus Regulations were revoked on the Isle of Man. The authority responded that it does not hold the requested information and directed the requester to the Clerk of Tynwald's Office and specific legislation websites.

The Department of Home Affairs does not hold information regarding the revocation date of Coronavirus Regulations.

The authority advised the requester to contact the Clerk of Tynwald's Office for the information.

The response cites section 15 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 regarding the duty to advise and assist.

The requester was provided with links to legislation.gov.im and tynwald.org.im as alternative sources.

The case reference number for this request is 3960401.


Policing Duties

Summary: The requester asked the Isle of Man Constabulary about their duties to prevent crime and keep the peace, as well as the specific text of the constable's oath. The authority confirmed the duties exist but stated they do not hold the text of the oath, as it is administered and held by the Isle of Man Courts.

The Isle of Man Constabulary has a duty to prevent crime.

The Isle of Man Constabulary has a duty to keep the peace.

The text of the police oath is not held by the Constabulary.

Police officers are sworn in as Constables at the Isle of Man Courts.

The oath is held by the Isle of Man Courts rather than the police force.


Recruitment for Information Commissioners Office

Summary: The request sought details on recruitment, vacancies, and appointments at the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) between 2022 and 2024. The Cabinet Office partially upheld the request, providing a table of advertised roles, application statistics, and appointment dates, while noting that some senior interim positions were not advertised.

Three staff members left the ICO between 2022 and 2024, all of whom were replaced.

Senior roles such as Assistant Commissioner and Interim Information Commissioner were not advertised as they were internal appointments.

The Senior Compliance Officer role advertised in April 2024 received 16 applications, with 5 shortlisted and 1 appointed.

The Information Commissioner role advertised in April 2024 received 15 applications, with 5 shortlisted and 1 appointed.

An internal-only recruitment for a Senior Compliance Officer in March 2024 received 7 applications but resulted in no appointments.


Crimes solved by video doorbell footage

Summary: A request was made to the Isle of Man Constabulary for statistics on crimes solved, incidents reported, and arrests made using video doorbell footage since January 2022. The authority responded that the information is not held because the data is not captured.

The request covered the period from January 2022 to the date of the request.

The Isle of Man Constabulary does not hold the requested data.

The authority stated the data is not captured in their systems.

The request was received on 9 July 2024 and closed on 11 July 2024.


Risk assessments when arresting

Summary: The request sought details on risk assessments for arrests, specifically regarding vulnerable persons and those needing medical help. The Isle of Man Constabulary disclosed that no standardized pre-arrest risk assessment exists due to dynamic scenarios, but standardized assessments occur post-arrest in custody, with medical needs taking precedence.

Arrests must be 'necessary' under s27(5) of the Police Powers and Procedures Act.

Police officers use dynamic risk assessments and the National Decision-Making Model (NDM) rather than a standardized form during arrest.

Standardized risk assessments for vulnerability, medical needs, and mental health are conducted by Custody Sergeants once a detainee arrives at a police station.

Medical needs almost always take precedence over custody procedures for individuals requiring treatment.

Officers may decide to take a detainee to an Emergency Care setting or have them assessed by a Force Medical Examiner before or upon arrival at custody.


Covid arrests

Summary: The requester asked the Isle of Man Constabulary about risk assessments, specific factors, and protective measures used during arrests involving COVID-19 suspects during lockdowns. The authority confirmed that officers adhered to National Police Chiefs Council guidance regarding risk assessments, operational procedures, and the use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment.

Officers adhered to national guidance issued by the National Police Chiefs Council for arrests during the pandemic.

Risk assessments were conducted in line with this national guidance.

Operational guidance specific to the COVID pandemic was followed.

Officers wore appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) during arrests involving suspected or known COVID-positive individuals.

The request was fully satisfied with all information sent.


Query regarding rentals and Public Sector Housing

Summary: The requester asked for the number of people waiting for public sector housing and private rentals broken down by constituency. The Department of Infrastructure provided public sector waiting list figures by housing provider as of April 2024 but refused to provide private rental data or constituency breakdowns.

The authority does not hold data on the number of individuals seeking private rentals.

The authority cannot derive a constituency breakdown from the existing housing provider data.

Public sector housing waiting list figures were provided as of the end of April 2024.

The total number of people on the public sector housing waiting list is 902.

The waiting list is split between 735 general applicants and 201 sheltered housing applicants.

FOIA section (8)(3)(a) - Public authority not required to create or derive information


Generation and Expenditure (Electricity)

Summary: The request sought data on electricity generation sources, financial expenditure versus income, and costs related to Climate Change Act consultations. The authority provided generation breakdowns and fuel costs, directed the requester to public financial statements for income figures, and stated that no specific consultation costs exist as no directions were issued under the cited Act.

Electricity generation data for 2022-23 was provided, though specific percentages were not detailed in the text.

Fuel and energy costs for the period were £63.485m.

Total income figures were not directly provided but referenced in the 2022-23 annual report.

Manx Utilities confirmed it has not received directions from the Department of Infrastructure regarding electricity supply targets under the Electricity Act.

The authority's renewable energy target is 100% decarbonised electricity by 2030.

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

Information not held or cannot be found after reasonable steps


Interconnector and Standing Charge (Electricity)

Summary: The request sought details on electricity costs from the interconnector, green energy certification, other generation tariffs, and standing charge calculations. The authority disclosed the average interconnector cost, confirmed green energy is more expensive and certified via Renewable Energy Certificates, provided specific tariff rates for sustainable generation, and explained the standing charge is not cost-reflective.

The average cost of electricity from the interconnector for 2022-23 was £176.73 per MWh.

Green electricity from the interconnector costs more and is certified using Renewable Energy Certificates of Origin.

The Domestic and Commercial Sustainable Generation tariffs are currently 9.5 pence per kWh excluding VAT.

The Home Generation Tariff operates on a net metering basis using the domestic unit rate.

The standing charge is not a cost-reflective charge but contributes to overall supply costs.

Freedom of Information Act 2015, Exemption 20 (Information accessible to the applicant by other means)


Electricity Costs - Loan interest payments and Maintenance

Summary: The request sought details on loan interest contributions to electricity charges and the specific costs of maintaining distribution infrastructure. The authority disclosed the total loan interest amount and provided a breakdown of maintenance, staff, and other costs, noting that detailed financial statements are publicly available.

Loan interest payments of £11.37 million were included in customer electricity charges for 2022-23.

The cost of maintaining pipes, cables, and pylons for the distribution network was £1.76 million.

Staff costs for distribution and transmission totaled £4.91 million.

Other related costs such as wayleaves and materials amounted to £2.40 million.

The authority cited Section 20 of the Act regarding the public availability of the 2022-23 Annual Reports.

Section 20 of the Act (Information reasonably accessible)


Policing during the circuit breaker

Summary: The request sought details on the Isle of Man Constabulary's policing approach, warning procedures, and enforcement statistics during the March 2021 circuit breaker. The authority disclosed specific statistics on warnings and arrests, clarified procedural rules for issuing warnings, but withheld information on training dates, warning elements, and the concept of policing by consent.

There was no difference in policing approach between the lockdown and the circuit breaker.

COVID warnings can be issued in person or over the phone but require the recipient's full details.

No additional training was required for officers regarding COVID enforcement.

Recipients of a COVID warning do not receive a physical copy of the warning.

Arrests for suspected breaches are assessed on an individual basis and must be justified by the officer.

7 fixed penalty notices
133 covid warnings
104 total arrests
27 covid 19 arrests
03/03/2021 - 31/03/2021
case_id: 3966673


Suicide

Summary: The requester asked for suicide statistics from 2014 to present, but the Isle of Man Constabulary could only provide data from 2019 onwards, directing the requester to the General Registry for earlier records. The response disclosed a total of 68 suicides between 2019 and 2024, broken down by year, sex, and age group.

Data prior to 2019 is unavailable from the Constabulary and should be requested from the General Registry.

A total of 68 suicides were recorded between 2019 and 2024.

Males accounted for 52 of the recorded suicides, while females accounted for 16.

The highest number of suicides in a single year was 19 in 2020.

The age group 30-44 had the highest number of suicides with 23 cases.


DHSC and Manx Care's powers in 2020 in respects of private dentists

Summary: The requester asked for the legislation under which Manx Care officials visited a private dental surgery on 3 September 2020. Manx Care disclosed that the visit was conducted under two specific sets of Emergency Powers (Coronavirus) Regulations from 2020.

The request concerns a visit to the private dental surgery of LLA Hanson at Unit 20, Onchan Precinct.

The visit occurred on 3 September 2020 involving a dentist and two co-workers.

The authority acted under the Emergency Powers (Coronavirus) (Closure of Businesses and Other Premises) Regulations 2020, specifically Regulation 4.

The authority also acted under the Emergency Powers (Coronavirus) (Closure of Businesses and Other Premises) (No.2) Regulations 2020, specifically Regulation 5.

The response was issued by Manx Care on 6 August 2024.

3 September 2020
Unit 20
Regulation 4
Regulation 5
2020
10 July 2024
6 August 2024
3969593


Summary: The requester asked for the legislation under which a dentist and co-workers visited a private surgery in September 2020. The Department of Health and Social Care responded that it does not hold this information, citing a practical refusal reason as the data may be held by Manx Care following a 2021 restructuring.

The request concerns a visit to LLA Hanson's private dental surgery on 3 September 2020.

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

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

The Department was redesigned on 1 April 2021 to separate policy setting from service delivery by Manx Care.

The requester was advised that Manx Care may be able to provide the information.


Covid boosters

Summary: The requester asked for total numbers of individuals receiving Covid boosters in 2023-2024 and first vaccinations in 2020-2023. 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 Department of Health and Social Care does not hold the requested vaccination data.

The information may be held by Manx Care, which handles service delivery.

The Department was redesigned on 1 April 2021 to separate policy setting from service delivery.

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


CEO vacancy job description and advertising 2019/2020

Summary: The Department of Health and Social Care responded to a request for information regarding a 2019/2020 CEO vacancy, NHS secondment pools, and work permit outsourcing by stating the information is not held.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold the requested information regarding the CEO vacancy job description and recruitment strategy.

Chief Officer appointments are coordinated by the Cabinet Office, Office of Human Resources, and the Public Service Commission, not the individual department.

Manx Care is identified as the Statutory Board responsible for its own recruitment of clinical and professional medical staff.

Queries regarding work permit compliance outsourcing to HM AG Chambers should be directed to the Cabinet Office or Attorney General's Chambers.

The authority recommends the requester contact other departments for the specific information sought.


Taxi driver complaints

Summary: A Freedom of Information request was made to the Road Transport Licensing Committee for details on taxi driver complaints over the last three years, including categories and outcomes. The authority disclosed a full list of 29 complaints from 2021 to 2024, detailing specific allegations such as overcharging and criminal offenses, along with their respective resolutions.

The Road Transport Licensing Committee received 2 complaints in 2021, 4 in 2022, 12 in 2023, and 11 in 2024 to date.

Common complaint categories include alleged overcharging, offensive language/actions, and non-compliance with the Road Transport Act 2001.

Several complaints in 2023 resulted in criminal convictions and the voluntary surrender of driver licenses.

Many complaints were closed due to insufficient corroborative evidence or the inability to identify the driver.

As of July 2024, 11 complaints remain currently under investigation.


QEII School Budget 2024/2025

Summary: A request was made for the full budget breakdown of QEII High School for the 2024/2025 academic year, and the Department of Education, Sport and Culture disclosed all information including detailed expenditure by department and cost centre.

The total budget for Books & Materials is £175,000.

Salaries and related costs account for £5,907,818 of the budget.

Building and Utilities are allocated £284,097.

School Operational costs total £158,300.

The request was received on 2024-07-12 and fully answered on 2024-07-23.


legal aid review response recommendation 4(c)

Summary: The requester asked for documents and correspondence regarding the implementation of Legal Aid review recommendation 4(c), including copyright considerations and engagement with courts. The Treasury responded that the information is not held because work on the recommendations has not yet commenced.

The Treasury does not hold the requested information regarding recommendation 4(c).

Work on the Legal Aid review recommendations has not yet started.

The authority cannot provide an estimated start date for the work.

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

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

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


Sexual abuse to Children 15 years and under over the last 30 years

Summary: The Isle of Man Constabulary responded to a request for detailed statistics on child sexual abuse over 30 years, providing aggregate data on victim ages and crime years while stating that specific information regarding abuser relationships, establishment involvement, and individual case records was not held.

The authority provided a breakdown of sexual offences against victims under 18 by age group and year of offence.

The total number of recorded sexual offences against victims under 18 in the dataset is 837.

The Constabulary stated it does not hold information regarding the specific relationship between abusers and victims or the establishments where abuse occurred.

No public register of offending persons with names and addresses was confirmed to exist.

Specific details regarding the John Foster case and church involvement were not provided as the information was not held.

Information not held by the public authority


legal aid review response recommendation 18

Summary: The requester asked the Treasury for information regarding engagement with the Isle of Man Law Society on pro bono legal schemes following a 2013 court recommendation. The Treasury responded that the information is not held because work on the Legal Aid review recommendations has not yet commenced.

The request concerns Legal Aid review recommendation 18 regarding pro bono legal representation.

The Treasury does not hold the requested information as work on the recommendations has not started.

The refusal was issued under section 11(3)(a) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

The request references a 2013 Family Court judgment (FAM 2013/0090) by Deemster Corlett.

The Treasury cannot provide an estimated start date for the work on these recommendations.


legal aid review response recommendation 26

Summary: The applicant requested documents regarding the Statutory Charge scope review and Legal Aid recommendation 26, including emails and meeting minutes from August 2022. The Treasury responded that the information is not held because work on the review recommendations has not yet commenced.

The request was received by the Treasury on 16 July 2024.

The outcome was determined as 'Information not held' on 23 August 2024.

The refusal is based on the fact that work on Legal Aid review recommendations has not started.

The Treasury cannot provide advice on when the work is expected to begin.

The applicant has the right to request an internal review or appeal to the Information Commissioner.


Government support for the redevelopment of the Ocean Castle site

Summary: A request was made for financial cases, meeting minutes, conflict declarations, and strategic analysis regarding government support for the Ocean Castle redevelopment under the Island Infrastructure Scheme. The Department for Enterprise partially responded by providing links to scheme legislation and guidance but withheld specific project documents and analysis.

The request concerns government support for the Ocean Castle site redevelopment.

The support is provided under the Island Infrastructure Scheme.

The Department for Enterprise is the responding authority.

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

The response provided links to scheme legislation and guidance instead of specific project data.


Divisions and Sub-Divisions of DESC

Summary: The requester asked for the names of all Sub-Divisions within the Department of Education, Sport and Culture, but the authority responded that the information is not held because the department does not have formal subdivisions.

The Department of Education, Sport and Culture does not have formal subdivisions.

Instead of subdivisions, the Department's Divisions have specific areas of responsibility.

Information regarding these areas of responsibility is available in the Department plan 2023-24.

The request was received on 15 July 2024 and closed on 18 July 2024.

The authority offered advice and assistance by directing the requester to a specific PDF document.


Consumption of electricity at the National Sports Centre

Summary: The request sought electricity consumption data and costs for the National Sports Centre between April 2023 and March 2024, broken down by site. The authority confirmed the tariffs used for each site and clarified that waste heat units are unmetered, though the specific consumption figures were referenced as provided below in the original document.

The NSC Swimming Pool operates on the 'Economy 8 Demand' two-rate tariff.

The Sports Track, Buildings, and NSC Office operate on the 'Standard commercial' tariff.

Waste heat units provided directly from the power station to the NSC are not metered.

There has been no change in the metering of waste heat since a previous FOI response.

The request was received on 15 July 2024 and closed on 29 July 2024.

1st April 2023
31st March 2024
15 July 2024
29 July 2024
3981113
3588661
Economy 8 Demand
Standard commercial


Children's services improvement board

Summary: The requester asked for minutes and papers from the Children's Services Improvement Board from January 2024 to the present, and the Department of Health and Social Care disclosed all requested information.

A colleague from Barnett is shadowing teams to identify improvements in child exploitation work.

The Youth Justice workstream is in early stages with a 'plan B' if resourcing is not approved.

Leeds Local Authority is being invited to present their early help hub model as a best practice example.

70% of children in care are there due to issues surrounding domestic abuse.

Temporary staff are being hired for 12 months to clear the CAHMS waiting list.

18th June 2024
July
70%
12 months
Level 2 needs


OPEN SPACES TO BE CONSIDERED FOR DEVELOPMENT

Summary: A requester sought documentation regarding the appointment of Sarah Corlett to advise Manx National Heritage on developing 'Gifted Land' for residential use. The authority provided email correspondence detailing the fee proposal and site assessment but withheld specific trustee minutes, contracts, and payment records, citing partial exemptions.

Manx National Heritage engaged Sarah Corlett Town Planning Consultancy Limited to prepare a submission for residential development of two fields (Site B and Site C).

The consultant assessed the sites as unconstrained by flood risk or ecology, recommending their inclusion in the Area Plan for the North and West.

The engagement was confirmed via email on 27 November 2023 with a target draft submission date of Christmas 2023.

The FOI response included email chains but excluded Trustee Minutes, Resolutions, Contracts, and Payment details.

The authority directed the requester to FAQs on the Manx National Heritage website for additional background information.

Part exempt (specific exemption clauses not detailed in the provided text)


Plantation Catering Van Applications

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture regarding catering van applications at plantations, resulting in the disclosure of application counts, contract durations, and trading status. The authority confirmed that no future plans exist for installing public toilets in the plantations.

Three applications for catering vans were received.

No specific start date for trading has been identified.

The contracts for the catering vans are for a one-year period.

The Department currently has no plans to install public toilets in any plantations.


Statutory Regulations - MANX MUSEUM AND NATIONAL TRUST

Summary: The requester asked for the statute, establishment documentation, and statutory obligations for Charity No 603 (Manx Museum and National Trust). The Attorney General's Chambers declined to provide physical copies, citing that the information is already reasonably accessible via public links.

The request was made under the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

The authority determined the information was already publicly accessible.

The governing statute is the Manx Museum and National Trust Act 1959.

Statutory obligations are listed on the Index of Charities Registered in the Isle of Man.

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


Recruitment and retention allowance - GTS

Summary: The requester sought detailed statistics and criteria regarding recruitment and retention allowances for Government Technology Services (GTS) roles, including breakdowns by grade and job descriptions. The Cabinet Office responded with a partial disclosure, providing a specific job description for a Service Desk Analyst while withholding the requested statistical breakdowns and policy criteria.

The request was made on 2024-07-16 and the outcome was issued on 2024-08-07.

The response included a job description for a 'Service Desk Analyst - 1st line Support' within the Government Technology Services division.

The Service Desk Analyst role covers Pay Band 7-10 and is located at Markwell House.

The authority clarified that the request for information relates to data held at the time of receipt.

The response was marked as 'Some information sent but part exempt', indicating statistical data on allowance proportions was not provided.


Yellowcard reports for all vaccines from MHRA

Summary: The requester asked the Department of Health and Social Care for details on MHRA Yellowcard data sharing agreements and specific vaccine adverse event reports for the Isle of Man. The authority responded that they do not hold the requested information and confirmed there is no existing agreement or process to share Yellowcard data with the MHRA.

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

There is no agreed process or sharing agreement in place between the Department and the MHRA for Yellowcard data from the Isle of Man.

The requester was advised to re-submit the request to Manx Care or The Cabinet Office (Public Health).

The response was issued by Chief Officer Paul Richardson on 31 July 2024.

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


Equipment Rental

Summary: The requester asked for annual spending on temporary traffic lights and road work signage from Watling Street Works for 2022-2023. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed that specific costs could not be separated, providing a combined total of £39,978 for all traffic management services from that supplier.

The request was received on 16 July 2024 and responded to on 8 August 2024.

The authority could not separate invoice costs between temporary traffic signals and cones/signage.

Invoices often contained descriptors referencing both types of equipment simultaneously.

The total spend on traffic management from Watling Street Works in 2022-2023 was £39,978.

The response was issued by the Department of Infrastructure's FOI Response Team.


Children's & Families Disabilities

Summary: The requester asked for statistics on children's disability services and the criteria for case closure, to which Manx Care responded by providing a detailed decision-support tool and referral form rather than the specific numerical data requested.

The response includes a 'Referrals to Respite Services' form developed by the Children with Disabilities Team in September 2023.

The authority provided a scoring matrix for assessing care needs, including technical support, sleep hygiene, and supervision requirements.

The response references the NHS Continuing Healthcare Decision Support Tool guidance from 2022.

Specific numerical data regarding open cases, referrals, and closed cases over the last three years was not included in the provided text.

The document outlines various reasons for referral, such as carer respite, socialization, and early intervention.

September 2023
2022
High: 10
Medium/High: 8
Medium: 6
Low/Medium: 4
Low: 2
5-6 episodes
Less than 6 hours
16+


Prisoner suicides in relation to the UK.

Summary: The request asked for suicide statistics at the Isle of Man Prison over the last 10 years and a comparison to UK averages. The authority confirmed no new suicides since a previous 2023 disclosure but stated it does not hold the requested UK comparative data.

No further deaths due to suicide occurred at the Isle of Man Prison between March 2023 and July 2024.

Information regarding suicide numbers from the last 10 years was previously released in March 2023 under case reference 2956417.

The Department of Home Affairs does not hold information regarding the average suicide rate in the UK.

The authority is not required to provide comparisons to information held by other bodies under the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

The request was closed on 26 July 2024 with the outcome 'No information sent - all held but exempt'.

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

Section 5 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (authority does not hold the information)


Friends of Isreal Isle of Man

Summary: The requester asked for details on any financial or in-kind connections between Tynwald members and the 'Friends of Israel' group. The Office of the Clerk of Tynwald stated it was not required to fulfill the request because the relevant information is already publicly available on the Register of Members' Interests, where no results were found for the specific group.

The request was received on 2024-07-17 and responded to on 2024-08-12.

The authority determined it was not required to provide the information under Section 20 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

A search of the public Register of Members' Interests yielded no results for 'Friends of Israel'.

The authority noted that not all transactions with the group would necessarily be registrable.

Requesters without internet access were offered a paper copy of the Members' Interests register.

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


SEA PEGASUS DRAFTING SERVICES LIMITED

Summary: The applicant requested unredacted contracts, payment details, and cost-benefit analyses for SEA PEGASUS DRAFTING SERVICES LIMITED from the Attorney General's Chambers. The Information Commissioner upheld the request, ruling that the authority's blanket refusal based on confidentiality was inappropriate and ordered the release of the information.

The request was submitted on 2024-07-18 to the Attorney General's Chambers.

The Authority initially refused to provide any information citing confidentiality.

The Information Commissioner determined that public authority contracts do not qualify as 'information provided in confidence'.

The Commissioner ruled that applying a blanket exemption to all requested information was inappropriate.

The Authority was ordered to re-process the request and provide a new response.

Section 42 (Information provided in confidence)


Guidance for practical motorcycle tests

Summary: The requester asked for guidance used by examiners for practical motorcycle tests, specifically regarding fault definitions. The Department of Infrastructure stated that while general test guidance is available in hardcopy, no specific document defining faults exists, as faults are determined by failure to meet testable requirements.

The Department of Infrastructure does not hold specific guidance on what actions constitute a fault for motorcycle tests.

A fault is defined only as a failure to meet a testable requirement.

General guidance on passing motorcycle tests is available in hardcopy form at the Vehicle Test Centre.

The request was refused under section 20 of the Act because the information is already reasonably accessible.

The requester was informed of their right to an internal review or appeal to the Information Commissioner.


Manx Utilities Authority

Summary: The request sought records of interactions between the Cabinet Office and Manx Utilities Authority regarding area and strategic plans, but the response provided details on the Department of Infrastructure's review of the Isle of Man Strategic Plan 2015 instead.

The response focuses on the Department of Infrastructure's review of the Isle of Man Strategic Plan rather than Manx Utilities Authority interactions.

The Draft Isle of Man Strategic Plan 2015 was produced following a review initiated in December 2013.

The total housing need was revised from 6,000 dwellings in the 2007 plan to 5,100 in the 2015 draft.

The plan period was updated from 2001-2016 to 2011-2026.

The spatial distribution of housing was adjusted, with the North and West allocations reduced to 770 each.

6000 additional dwellings
5100 additional dwellings
2001 to 2016
2011 to 2026
North 1,200
South 1,300
East 2,500
West 1,000
North 770
South 1,120
East 2,440
West 770
13th March 2015
December 2013
2007
2015


Covid sentences

Summary: The requester asked for statistics on non-custodial sentences (fines, community service, probation, and costs) for Coronavirus Regulation breaches between March 2020 and December 2022. The General Registry disclosed that 13 people were fined between March 2020 and July 2021 but refused to provide data for the remaining period or specific values due to system limitations.

The General Registry confirmed 13 people were fined for Coronavirus breaches between 23 March 2020 and July 2021.

Data for the period from August 2021 to December 2022 could not be extracted due to legacy system constraints.

The authority cited a practical refusal reason under Section 11.3(b) and Section 8(3)(c) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

A new courts management system is expected to be implemented by the end of March 2025, but may only migrate current data.

Information regarding the total value of fines, community service orders, probation orders, and costs was withheld.

70 persons (custodial sentences mentioned in request context)

2 juveniles (custodial sentences mentioned in request context)

Section 11.3(b) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015

Section 8(3)(c) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (substantial compilation or collation of information)


civil litigation templates

Summary: The requester sought a list of actively used civil litigation templates, specifically narrowing the scope to employment matters and Microsoft Word formats after an initial clarification request. The Attorney General's Chambers responded by interpreting the request as seeking templates held within their case management system for employment matters, though the provided text cuts off before listing the specific documents.

The request was initially deemed too broad, prompting a clarification request on 23 July 2024 under Section 14 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

The requester refined the scope to civil litigation employment matters and Microsoft Word templates.

The authority interpreted the final request as seeking templates held within the case management system for employment matters.

The response letter is dated 31 July 2024 from the Attorney General's Chambers.

The outcome is recorded as 'All information sent' with 3 pages and 1 document.

2024-07-19
2024-08-02
23 July 2024
31 July 2024
3 pages
1 document
20 working days
28 days
20+ page submissions
Section 14(1)(a)(i), (2), and (3)
Section 15
paragraph 4.4


appointment of SPC Directors

Summary: The request sought details on the recruitment process for non-executive directors at the Steam Packet Company, specifically regarding application and interview numbers. The Treasury disclosed that 51 applications were received for two roles, resulting in six candidates being shortlisted and interviewed.

51 total applications were received for the non-executive director positions.

Applications were split between a Finance role (24), a Marketing role (23), and candidates for both (4).

Six candidates were shortlisted: four for Finance and two for Marketing.

All six shortlisted candidates were interviewed by the Treasury Minister and the Deputy Chief Financial Officer.

The recruitment information was extracted from a Treasury Paper submitted on 19 June 2024.


Information on North West Area Plan submission RR011 & RR012

Summary: The requester sought all internal and external correspondence regarding Manx National Heritage's planning submissions RR011 and RR012 for land off Bowring Road. The authority provided links to previously published FAQs and documents from a related FOI case but withheld internal discussions and advice under exemptions for the conduct of public business.

Manx National Heritage directed the requester to published FAQs and a related FOI response (Case ID 3983942) containing board meeting extracts and consultant agreements.

Internal emails and discussions between senior management, staff, and external consultants were withheld to protect the free and frank exchange of views.

The authority applied a public interest test, concluding that maintaining the exemption outweighed the public interest in disclosure.

The withheld information relates to the preparation of planning submissions and briefing notes ahead of a public inquiry.

The response was issued on 15 August 2024 following a request received on 19 July 2024.

Section 30(2)(b) - Qualified exempt commercial information

Section 35(b)(i) - Conduct of public business (free and frank provision of advice)

Section 35(b)(ii) - Conduct of public business (free and frank exchange of views for deliberation)


Service 28 - Cregneash

Summary: The requester asked for financial viability figures, ticket breakdowns, costs, and schedules for the discontinued Service 28 bus route to Cregneash. The Department of Infrastructure partially upheld the request, releasing passenger statistics, ticket values, estimated operational costs, and historical service schedules.

Passenger numbers for Service 28 dropped from 3,202 in 2019 to 929 in 2023.

The service was not operated during the Isle of Man TT period.

Estimated daily operating costs for a small vehicle are at least £220, including labour, fuel, and overheads.

In 2019, the service ran seven days a week from March to October using full-size buses.

Ticket types include zero-value concession cards (Silver, Gold, Privilege) and prepaid options (Explore, Places, Easy).

The response notes that driver wages have increased to £15/hr with weekend premiums up to £20.03.


working from home

Summary: The requester asked for statistics on employees working from home at the Department of Health and Social Care between December 2022 and December 2023. The authority refused the request stating they do not hold the specific data, as home working is monitored individually by line managers rather than centrally recorded.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold central records of where staff work on a day-to-day basis.

Monitoring of home working is conducted on a case-by-case basis by individual line managers.

Staff are permitted up to 2 full days of working from home per week subject to manager agreement.

The policy is prorated for part-time staff to ensure 60% of working time is spent in the office.

Ad-hoc requests for extended home working are allowed at the discretion of the line manager.

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


employees working from home

Summary: The requester asked for statistics on employees working from home between December 2022 and December 2023, but the Department of Infrastructure disclosed that it does not hold records for ad hoc arrangements, only noting one formal case.

Working from home is typically arranged ad hoc between employees and line managers without central records.

Only one employee had a formal working from home arrangement during the requested period.

The Department of Infrastructure does not hold data on the total number of days spent working from home.

The Office of Human Resources may hold the full employee count for the period.

The request was partially fulfilled with available staff numbers but denied for specific WFH statistics.

December 2022 to December 2023
34 office staff
120 drivers
128 employees
one and half days per week
23 July 2024
2 August 2024
3997823

Information not held or cannot be found after taking reasonable steps