Pay increase teachers

Summary: A request was made for correspondence regarding teacher pay offers and union demands, but the Department of Education, Sport and Culture withheld all information.

The request was received on 17 February 2020 and responded to on 16 March 2020.

The authority determined that disclosure would inhibit the free and frank exchange of views during ongoing negotiations.

The Trade Unions advised the Department that releasing the information would negatively impact sensitive pay talks.

The Department concluded that the public interest in withholding the information outweighed the interest in disclosure.

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

17 February 2020
16 March 2020
1183649
section 35
Freedom of Information Act 2015

Section 35 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (prejudice to the free and frank exchange of views for the purposes of deliberation)


No information sent - all held but exempt

Summary: The requester asked for copies of the 2016 Final Expenditure Revenue Sharing Arrangement (FERSA), the 2018 Customs and Excise Amendment Agreement, and other active VAT sharing arrangements. The Treasury withheld the 2016 and 2020 FERSA agreements citing international relations exemptions, while confirming the 2018 amendment is publicly available.

The 2016 FERSA is a strictly confidential arrangement between the Isle of Man Treasury and Her Majesty's Treasury (HMT).

Disclosure of the FERSA was refused under Section 29 of the Freedom of Information Act to avoid prejudicing relations with the UK.

The Customs and Excise (Amendment) Agreement 2018 is publicly available on the Tynwald website.

A new FERSA agreement was signed in March 2020, superseding the 2016 version, and is also held as confidential.

The public interest test concluded that maintaining the exemption outweighs the benefits of disclosure due to potential damage to the Island's reputation and future negotiations.

Section 29(1)(a) - International Relations (qualified exemption)

Section 20(1) - Information available to the applicant by other means (absolute exemption)


Fallen Animals 2017

Request lapsed - requested information not provided

Summary: A request for detailed 2017 statistics on fallen animals was partially answered with 2017/18 financial year data, while specific details on cause of death, origin, and missing animal estimates were withheld as not collected or outside the department's scope.

The Department of Infrastructure does not collect data on the cause of death for fallen animals.

Records do not distinguish whether animals originated from farms, zoos, or as pets.

Age data is only collected for cattle (calves, juveniles, cows) for invoicing purposes.

The department cannot speculate on the number of missing or unaccounted-for animals.

Statistics are reported on a financial year basis (March to February) rather than calendar years.


Primary School Assessments data.

Department of Education, Sport and Culture

Summary: The requester asked for details on primary school assessment practices and data storage, but the Department of Education stated it does not hold the specific information as recorded data under the FOI Act. Despite the formal refusal, the Department provided advisory answers explaining that assessments are continuous, data is held by individual schools, and aggregate performance data is retained by the Department.

The Department does not hold the requested information as it is not recorded in any form, which is a requirement under the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

Primary school assessments occur continuously within lessons, at the end of units, and through external accreditation.

The purpose of assessment is to determine what pupils can do and what they still need to learn to tailor educational programs.

Individual pupil data is retained by schools, while the Department retains aggregate data on school performance.

The Department advised future requests to be specific about recorded information such as reports, minutes, or emails.

Information not held (not recorded in any form as defined by the Freedom of Information Act 2015)


Children unable to attend school data and Home Education data

Summary: The Department of Education, Sport and Culture disclosed the number of home-educated children and those unable to attend school due to health or refusal issues in the Isle of Man as of March 2020. The response provided specific counts for primary and secondary levels, noting that attendance data was based on partial school responses.

There were 35 primary school-aged home educators.

There were 56 secondary school-aged home educators.

2 primary school children were unable to attend due to health or refusal issues.

45 secondary school children were unable to attend due to health or refusal issues.

Attendance data was based on responses from 30 of 32 primary schools and 3 of 5 secondary schools.


Secondary School Assessments & data

Summary: The requester asked for details on secondary school assessments and data retention, but the Department of Education stated the information was not held as recorded data under the FOI Act 2015. Despite the formal refusal, the Department provided advisory answers explaining that assessments are continuous, individual data is held by schools, and aggregate data is retained by the Department for monitoring trends.

The Department does not hold the requested information as recorded data under the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

Assessment of pupils takes place continuously within lessons, at the end of units, and through external accreditation.

The primary purpose of assessment is to determine what pupils can do and what they still need to learn.

Assessments are administered in various formats including self-assessment, peer assessment, observation, and formal exams.

Information not recorded (not classified as 'information' under the Freedom of Information Act 2015)


KWC & Buchan Assessments

Summary: The requester asked if the Department of Education, Sport and Culture conducts annual assessments on children at King Williams College and Buchan School, and where such data is held. The authority responded that no such assessments are conducted, meaning no data exists, though they provided advice that King Williams College must submit annual examination returns.

The Department does not complete annual assessments of children at King Williams College.

The Department does not complete annual assessments of children at the Buchan School.

Consequently, no assessment data is held by the Department for these institutions.

King Williams College is required to submit an annual return including examination information under the Independent Schools Regulations 2004.

Schools may be inspected by the Department of Health and Social Care under section 48 of the Education Act 2001 regarding child welfare.

Information not held (information not recorded in any form)


Arrears of NI

Summary: The Treasury responded to a request for National Insurance arrears and write-off figures for the last three complete financial years. The authority disclosed specific debt amounts and written-off values for the tax years ending in 2017, 2018, and 2019.

Treasury defines arrears as collectible debts outstanding for six months or more.

NI arrears increased from approximately £3.3 million in 2017 to £4.7 million in 2019.

NI write-offs rose significantly from £75,529.68 in 2017 to £488,433.10 in 2019.

Written-off debts are deemed irrecoverable after collection procedures are exhausted but may be written back if funds become available.

The request was clarified on 26 February 2020 to cover the last three full years.


Western Wellbeing Partnership

Summary: A request was made for patient numbers, cost breakdowns, complaint procedures, privacy assessments, and data sharing agreements regarding the Western Wellbeing Partnership. The authority disclosed a Data Sharing Agreement but indicated that not all requested information was held.

The request was received on 2020-02-24 and the outcome was issued on 2020-03-23.

The response included 31 pages across 4 documents.

A Data Sharing Agreement between the Department of Health and Social Care and another party was provided.

The agreement references the Data Protection Act 2018 and the Applied GDPR.

The authority stated that some information was not held.


Country side payments

Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture

Summary: The requester asked for total payments, land names, and recipient details for countryside payments over the last 12 months. The authority provided links to aggregate statistics but refused to disclose specific land names and recipient identities due to practical refusal grounds and personal data exemptions.

Aggregate payment data for the Agricultural Development Scheme is available on the government website.

Specific land names could not be linked definitively to payments as they are calculated on a per-acre basis.

Recipient names and payment amounts were withheld as personal data under absolute exemption.

The request was received on 2020-02-24 and the response was issued on 2020-03-03.

The case outcome was recorded as 'Not upheld' on 2020-04-20.

Section 8(3) - Practical refusal (creating or deriving information)

Section 25 - Absolutely exempt personal information


Directors fees

Summary: A request was made to the Isle of Man Post Office for the total directors' fees paid over the last 12 months. The authority disclosed the full amount paid to directors between March 2019 and February 2020.

The request was received on 24 February 2020.

The response was issued on 19 March 2020.

The total directors' fees paid were £318,217.76.

The payment period covered 01/03/2019 to 29/02/2020.

No information was withheld or exempted.


Number of staff

Summary: The requester asked for details on remand prisoners, their privileges, work eligibility, and specific vocational training programs. The Department of Home Affairs disclosed the number of remand prisoners and their visit privileges but stated that records on remand duration and specific training data were not held.

There are currently 23 prisoners on remand.

No records are held calculating how long each prisoner has been on remand.

Prisoners on remand receive an extra visit day per week compared to committed prisoners.

Only sentenced prisoners are considered and risk assessed for outside work.

The authority does not hold information regarding training on excavators, HGVs, forklifts, or airport bankman roles.


HumajnWaste,and,Silt,disposal

Summary: The requester submitted a statement regarding the disposal of human waste and silt for agricultural use, but the Department of Infrastructure determined it was not a valid request for information held. Consequently, the authority was not required to fulfill the request under the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

The request was received and responded to on the same day, 24 February 2020.

The Department of Infrastructure classified the submission as opinions and suggestions rather than a request for held information.

The authority cited Section 8(1) and 8(2) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 as the legal basis for not complying.

The views expressed in the request were forwarded to the Waste Team for their interest.

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

Section 8(1) and 8(2) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Request not for information held)


Villa Gaiety


No.1176149  No. of staff employed

Summary: The requester asked for staff employment figures for the Department of Infrastructure comparing 2013 to 2020, specifically distinguishing between civil servants and manual workers by full-time and part-time status. The Cabinet Office disclosed the requested data, providing both Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) and headcount numbers for both categories, noting that zero-hours contracts were excluded.

The request was initially directed to the Cabinet Office but clarified to concern the Department of Infrastructure.

Data was provided for two specific dates: 31 March 2013 and 27 February 2020.

The figures exclude employees on zero-hours contracts.

Civil Service headcount increased from 275 in 2013 to 311 in 2020.

Manual and Craft worker headcount increased from 437 in 2013 to 564 in 2020.


Number of road traffic incidents Hillberry Road  Area

Summary: A request was made for statistics on road traffic incidents, illegal parking notices, and complaints in the Hillberry Road and Onchan areas over the past five years. The Department of Home Affairs responded that they do not hold this information and suggested contacting the Department of Infrastructure or the Onchan District Commissioner instead.

The request was received and responded to on 27 February 2020.

The Department of Home Affairs does not hold the requested traffic and parking statistics.

The requester was advised to contact the Department of Infrastructure for traffic collision data.

The requester was advised to contact the Onchan District Commissioner for parking notices and complaints.


Traffic/Parking Birch Hill/Hillberry Road Areas

Summary: A request was made for statistics on illegal parking notices and complaints in the Birch Hill and Briarfield Avenue areas over the past five years. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed that only two fixed penalty notices were issued and no records of complaints were found for the specified period.

The request covered the Birch Hill Crescent and Briarfield Avenue Onchan area.

The data period requested was the past 5 years to date.

Two fixed penalty notices were issued for illegal parking in the last 5 years.

No records were found for parking, illegal parking, or traffic management complaints in the last 5 years.

The response was issued by the Department of Infrastructure on 9 March 2020.


Road Traffic Incidents and Parking Hillberry Road Area

Summary: A request was made for statistics on road traffic collisions, illegal parking notices, and complaints in the Hillberry Road and Birch Hill area over five years. The Constabulary provided collision and traffic incident data but stated they do not hold records for illegal parking notices.

The request covered the period from 2015 to 2019 for the Hillberry Road/Birch Hill area.

Police recorded 16 total road traffic collisions in the area over the five-year period.

Illegal parking notices are not held by the Isle of Man Constabulary, so no data could be provided.

An additional 80 traffic incidents (obstructions, other incidents, and offences) were recorded via the iNet system.

Only one collision was recorded within 150m of the junction of Hillberry Road and Birch Hill Crescent.

10 other traffic incidents near junction


Development of a Marina

Summary: A request was made for details regarding the criteria, meetings, and appraisal reports for the Isle of Man Marina Development procurement process. The Department of Infrastructure partially responded, withholding information on proposal viability and meeting details due to commercial and public business exemptions.

The request concerned the procurement process for the IOM Marina Development involving Ramsey Marina Ltd.

Information regarding the criteria for proposal compliance and viability was withheld.

Details of a meeting between AG Chambers, DOI, DfE, and Ramsey Marina Ltd were not disclosed.

The authority cited harm to the economy and commercial interests as the reason for exemption.

The public interest test favored maintaining the exemption to prevent nullifying the procurement process.

Section 30 (economy and commercial interests)


Connect Villages

Summary: A request was made for the total cost, passenger numbers, and fare revenue of the Connect Villages Scheme. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed passenger and revenue statistics but could not provide total costs as they are not recorded separately from general Mini Bus Operations.

The Department does not record running costs for the Connect Villages service separately from general Mini Bus Operations.

20,058 passengers have been carried by the service since its introduction in December 2018.

Total fare revenue collected was £12,045.50 from 7,065 paying passengers.

Over 2,300 journeys were made using prepaid tickets where revenue is not allocated to a specific route.

Over 10,500 journeys were made by concessionary fare card holders generating no attributed revenue.


CAMHS & Adult Services

Summary: The requester asked for statistics on adolescents refused adult mental health services and the policies authorizing such refusals. The Department of Health and Social Care responded with an operational policy document but stated that not all requested information was held.

The request covered the last 5 calendar years up to 31-12-2019 regarding adolescents transitioning from CAMHS to Adult Services.

The authority responded with the 'Adult Community Mental Health Service Operational Policy'.

The policy was ratified by Ross Bailey, Manager of Community Mental Health Service for Adults.

The policy has been active since March 2018.

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


Savings

Summary: A request was made to the Isle of Man Cabinet Office for accumulated savings from the 'New Terms for New Starters' initiative. The authority responded that the information is not held because it is impossible to accurately identify savings due to constantly changing job roles.

The request was received on 2020-03-02 and responded to on 2020-03-04.

The Cabinet Office stated it does not hold the requested information on accumulated savings.

The authority explained that while the number of new starters can be identified, specific savings cannot be calculated.

The inability to provide savings data is attributed to jobs and roles changing all the time.

The request was closed with the reference number 1204949.


Eelgrass within the Ramsey Bay Marine Nature Reserve

Summary: The requester asked for the full scientific findings of a 2019 eelgrass survey in Ramsey Bay Marine Nature Reserve, and the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture disclosed the complete report including methodology and results.

Eelgrass (Zostera marina) is a protected species under Schedule 7 of the Isle of Man Wildlife Act 1990.

The survey was conducted on July 10, 2019, using a drop-down camera from the vessel FPV. Barrule.

Eelgrass presence is closely related to sandy substrates and water depths of less than 10 meters.

The highest eelgrass densities were found north of Queen's Pier and in areas north and east of Gob ny Rona.

The survey covered the southern part of Ramsey Bay MNR but was not extended further east due to time constraints.

2019
July 10, 2019
1930s
33% to 90%
2011
July 2018
less than 10 m
1 and 3 metres
Schedule 7


COST, USAGE AND REVENUE OF CONNECT VILLAGES AND CONNECT PORTS SERVICES

Summary: The requester sought detailed cost, usage, and revenue data for Connect Villages and Connect Ports services, but the Department of Infrastructure stated it was not required to fulfill the request due to internal budgeting policies that prevent isolating specific service costs. The authority did disclose approximate minibus purchase costs and fleet replacement figures from a previous 2019 request, noting that minibuses are used for multiple services and costs are aggregated.

The Department of Infrastructure is not required to fulfill the request because shared services are funded via internal budget transfers rather than invoicing.

No minibuses were purchased solely for Patient Transport Services or Connect Ports/Villages; they are part of a general fleet replacement program.

All running costs for minibuses are incorporated into the operational expenditure of the entire bus fleet and cannot be split by service.

Approximate purchase cost for a new minibus is between £50,000 and £60,000 depending on specification.

Between 2017 and 2019, the department purchased 16 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 35 Mobility minibuses and 4 Sprinter 45 Transfer minibuses.

8 x Mercedes Benz Sprinter 35 Mobility minibus

4 x Mercedes Benz Sprinter 45 Transfer minibus

Information not held in a separable format due to internal budget transfer policies rather than invoicing

Costs incorporated into general operational expenditure of the entire bus fleet


Request for a copy of the Analysys Mason report

Summary: A request was made for a 2016 Analysys Mason report on the Isle of Man's telecommunications infrastructure commissioned by the Department of Economic Development. The Department released the report but redacted specific pages citing commercial interests and trade secrets.

The report was commissioned in 2016 by the Department of Economic Development.

The request was received on 2 March 2020 and responded to on 26 March 2020.

Pages 13, 17, 20, 23, 25, and 39 were withheld from disclosure.

The exemption was applied under section 30 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

The withheld information was deemed to prejudice commercial interests and constitute a trade secret.

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

Section 30(2)(a) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (trade secrets)


Half term holidays

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Education, Sport and Culture regarding Isle of Man schools traveling to Italy during the February half term and subsequent quarantine measures. The authority confirmed that no schools from the Isle of Man traveled to Italy on a school holiday during that period, rendering the requested information not held.

No schools from the Isle of Man went to Italy on a school holiday during the February half term.

The Department of Education, Sport and Culture does not hold information on specific schools, self-quarantine, or family quarantine for this trip because the trip did not occur.

The request was received on 2 March 2020 and the response was issued on 25 March 2020.


White paper of working group for national telecoms infrastructure

Summary: A request was made for a white paper on national telecoms infrastructure prepared by the Chief Minister's working group, but no information was sent because the document was already publicly available online.

The requested white paper was submitted to Tynwald in May 2018.

The document is titled 'The National Telecoms Infrastructure Committee Report September 2017'.

The Cabinet Office refused to send the document as it is reasonably accessible to the public.

The request was closed on 11 March 2020.

The working group was tasked to prepare the paper by October 2017.

Section 20(2)(b) of the Freedom of Information Act 2016 (Information reasonably accessible)


Bus sales

Summary: The request sought details on buses sold by Bus Vannin since January 2018, including types and purchasers. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed the number and type of buses sold to organizations but redacted the names of individual purchasers citing data protection exemptions.

Bus Vannin sold 9 large buses (Wrightbus StreetLites and Mercedes Citaros) to three companies since January 1, 2018.

14 minibuses were sold to various organizations and individuals since January 1, 2018.

Purchaser names for sales to individuals were redacted to protect personal data.

The response was issued by the Department of Infrastructure on March 13, 2020.

The request specifically excluded financial information regarding the sales.

Section 25 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Personal Information)

Article 5 of the General Data Protection Regulation (Data Protection Principles)

Article 6 of the General Data Protection Regulation (Conditions for Lawful Processing)


Road speed limits and changes since 2004

Summary: The request sought data on new speed limits introduced since 2004, road works policies, and accident statistics in speed-restricted areas. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed that records for temporary limits only exist from 2015, provided links to permanent orders and UK traffic manuals, and supplied 2019 collision statistics.

Records for temporary speed limit notices are only held back to 2015, not 2004.

149 temporary speed limit notices have been introduced since 2015.

Permanent speed limit orders are publicly available via the Tynwald website.

The Department follows the UK Traffic Signs Manual, specifically Chapter 8 Parts 1, 2, and 3.

Accident statistics provided are current only up to 2019.


Knockaloe Steam Train

Summary: A request was made for details regarding the cost, business case, and safety assessments for moving the 'Caledonia' steam train to Knockaloe for the Manx Heritage Transport Festival. The Department of Infrastructure responded that there are no costs to the department, no business case or risk assessment exists, and no formal meeting minutes were taken.

There are no costs to the Department of Infrastructure for the Caledonia steam train visiting Knockaloe.

No business case was created because there is no expenditure involved.

Treasury approval was not required as the activity was a departmental decision.

No formal minutes are taken for meetings related to the Manx Heritage Transport Festival.

No health and safety risk assessment exists for the event at the time of the response.


Promenade Minutes

Summary: The requester asked for minutes from a Promenade Strategic Project Board meeting held on 14 February 2020, but the Department of Infrastructure refused to send them directly because they are exempt under the FOI Act as they are held for future publication and will be made available on the MyProm website after the next meeting.

The requested minutes are for the Promenade Strategic Project Board meeting on 14 February 2020.

The Department of Infrastructure cited Section 20 and Section 41 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 to withhold the information.

Minutes are not published until they have been discussed and approved at the subsequent meeting.

The February meeting minutes are scheduled to be reviewed at the meeting on 11 March 2020.

Final minutes will be published on the MyProm webpage after redaction of personal data.

14th February 2020
10.15am
11th March
1211849
4 March 2020
Section 20
Section 41
Freedom of Information Act 2015

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

Section 41 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (information held for future publication)


Alleged Breach of Planning - Unit 269A Jurby Industrial Estate, Jurby

Summary: The requester sought information regarding an alleged planning breach involving workers living in a mobile home at Unit 269A Jurby Industrial Estate, specifically asking for the identity of the accuser and investigation details. The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture refused to disclose any information, citing exemptions for personal data and ongoing investigations.

The request was received on 2020-03-04 and responded to on 2020-03-18.

The authority stated the identity of the accuser is absolutely exempt personal information under section 25(2) of the Act.

Information regarding the alleged planning breach is exempt under section 31(1)(a) due to ongoing investigations under the Town & Country Planning Act 1999.

The Department determined that the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the interest in disclosure to avoid prejudicing the investigation.

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

Section 25(2) - Absolutely exempt personal information

Section 31(1)(a) - Investigations and legal proceedings


The steam train known as 'Mannin'

Summary: A request was made regarding the plans, costs, and Treasury approval for overhauling the steam train 'Mannin'. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed that the train was moved to remove asbestos and assess its condition, stating that specific Treasury approval is not required and costs cannot be determined until the assessment is complete.

The primary reason for moving the 'Mannin' steam train from the Port Erin Train Museum is to remove asbestos.

The overall condition of the locomotive will be assessed during the asbestos removal process.

No specific Treasury approval is required for this work.

Anticipated costs for the overhaul cannot be provided until the condition assessment is completed.

The Isle of Man Railways contribute approximately £15m to the Island's GDP.


Promenade Concrete Cracking

Summary: The request sought minutes from a meeting convened to discuss concrete cracking on the Douglas Promenade, and the Department of Infrastructure disclosed the full minutes of the meeting held on 28 January 2020.

A meeting was held on 28 January 2020 to discuss repair methods for cracking concrete infill slabs on the Douglas Promenade.

Attendees included representatives from the Department of Infrastructure (DOI), BSA, and Auldyn.

It was agreed that cracks wider than 0.3mm would be the criteria for repair.

The horse-drawn tram service was scheduled to resume on 21 April 2020, creating a deadline to test repair methods.

Proposed repair materials included Fosroc Nitofill LV epoxy resin and Renderoc ST 05 cement-based mortar.


Number of staff working in the Dept

Summary: The request sought the number of administrative staff, the latest Ofsted report, and teacher salary scales for the Department of Education, Sport and Culture. The authority disclosed the staff count but directed the requester to public websites for the report and salary scales, citing that the information was already reasonably accessible.

There are 211 administrative staff employed by the Department of Education, Sport and Culture.

The latest Ofsted report is available online via a provided government link.

Teacher salary scales were previously disclosed in an FOI response regarding Ballakermeen High School Budget.

The request was received on 5 March 2020 and closed on 9 April 2020.

The authority invoked Section 20 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 to avoid duplicating publicly available information.

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


John Quinn's conflict of interest in operation Braid

Summary: The request sought details on why UK barrister Timothy Sinclair Green acted for the Isle of Man Attorney General in Operation Braid and the specific conflict of interest involving John Quinn. While the authority confirmed Green's delegated authority for the investigation, the specific details of the conflict of interest were withheld under FOI exemptions.

Operation Braid is a joint criminal investigation between the Isle of Man and the UK into the activities of Paul Bell.

Timothy Sinclair Green made the forfeiture application in the name of the Attorney General as required by section 50 of POCA.

Green has delegated authority to exercise certain statutory functions of the Attorney General specifically for Operation Braid.

The detailed conflict of interest between Attorney General John Quinn and Paul Bell was not disclosed.

The Attorney General's Chambers determined that the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighed the interest in disclosure.

Section 31(2)(a) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (information for criminal proceedings)

Section 31(2)(b) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (confidential sources)

Section 32 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (prejudice to prevention/detection of crime, apprehension/prosecution, administration of justice, and tax collection)


Salary Scales and Structure

Summary: A Freedom of Information request to the Isle of Man Post Office sought details on salary scales, allowances, and staffing structure from executives to postmen. The authority responded by providing full salary grading tables and a breakdown of full-time equivalent staff numbers across various business areas as of February 2020.

The Isle of Man Post Office pays the Island's living wage, meaning lower salary scales are seldom used.

The salary grading structure was implemented with assistance from Korn Ferry Hay Group to comply with the Equality Act.

Total establishment staffing was 290.57 full-time equivalents as of 29th February 2020.

The largest staffing area was Douglas Mails – Early shift with 85.00 full-time equivalents.

Some roles listed in the establishment figures were vacant at the time of the response.


Salary scales for postal workers and Administrative staff/managers

Summary: The Isle of Man Post Office disclosed full salary scales for postal workers and a detailed breakdown of administrative staff numbers and costs in response to a Freedom of Information request. All requested information was provided without any exemptions.

The salary scale for postal workers ranges from a minimum of £20,894.75 to a maximum of £24,283.09.

There are 33 clerical staff members with a total cost of £1,154,253.74.

There are 10 managers with a total cost of £482,700.24.

There are 3 directors with a total cost of £318,217.76.

The grand total cost for all administrative staff is £1,955,171.74.


How much is received from road tax licenses

Summary: A request was made to the Isle of Man Treasury for information on revenue received from road tax licenses. The Treasury refused the request stating they do not hold the information and advised the applicant to contact the Department of Infrastructure instead.

The request was received by the Treasury on 8 March 2020.

The Treasury does not hold information regarding road tax license revenue.

Vehicle Licensing is managed by the Department of Infrastructure, not the Treasury.

The applicant was advised to resubmit the request to the Department of Infrastructure.

The request was closed on 11 March 2020.

8 March 2020
11 March 2020
1217082
section 11(3)(a)
Freedom of Information Act 2015

Section 11(3)(a) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Practical refusal: information not held)


Waste Licenses

Summary: The requester asked for waste licenses and inspection records for four civic amenity sites and an Energy from Waste site. The authority provided the licenses but confirmed that no information regarding site inspections was held.

The request was received on 9th March 2020 and responded to on 31st March 2020.

Copies of waste licenses for the four amenity sites and the Energy from Waste Plant were released.

The authority does not hold any information regarding site inspections for compliance.

The requested information predates the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (October 2011) but was released under the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information.

9th March 2020
31st March 2020
October 2011
1217084
4 civic amenity sites
1 Energy from waste site

Information not held by the public authority


Decision to publish EIS moderation reports for all schools

Summary: The requester sought documentation regarding the Department of Education's decision to publish Education Improvement Service moderation reports for all schools. The authority disclosed internal emails confirming the decision to publish redacted reports from the last three years but withheld specific names and details under redaction.

The Department of Education, Sport and Culture decided to publish all moderation reports for the last three years in redacted form.

The decision was made following a meeting between the Director of Education and School Improvement Advisers in January 2020.

Corporate Services agreed to handle the redaction of reports before publication.

Reports are not to be retained for longer than three years, excluding the current academic year.

The collation of reports was scheduled to be completed by the end of half-term on 21st February 2020.

Section 41 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (qualified exemption)


Costs of maintenance of the MER track and infrastructure

Summary: The request sought details on Manx Electric Railway (MER) track and infrastructure spending, future allocations, and ticket revenue. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed historical expenditure and revenue figures but noted that 2023/24 budget allocations had not yet been determined.

Spending on laying new track increased from £409,139 in 2016/17 to £1,795,081 in 2018/19.

Infrastructure spending for the MER ranged between £143,799 and £225,836 over the last three years.

The estimated spend for the 2020/21 track renewals programme is £1,669,305.

Direct revenue from MER ticket sales was £566,545 in 2018/19 and £517,479 in 2019/20.

Income from combined rail explorer tickets was £1,022,939 in 2018/19 and £875,915 in 2019/20.


South Douglas by election

Summary: The requester asked for the specific dates of each stage in the South Douglas by-election process. The Cabinet Office provided a draft timetable but noted that the election was postponed indefinitely following an announcement by the Chief Minister on 16 March 2020.

The request was received on 9 March 2020 and responded to on 20 March 2020.

A draft timetable for the House of Keys election was provided, outlining 42 days of activities.

The Chief Minister announced on 16 March 2020 that the South Douglas by-election would be postponed until further notice.

The formal election timeline only commences when the Writ of election is issued by the Lieutenant Governor.

The response included information on nomination deadlines, advance voting, and polling day procedures.


Livestock figures for Isle of Man

Summary: The requester asked for annual figures on livestock born and imported to the Isle of Man, as well as data on causes of death for fallen livestock. The Department of Infrastructure responded that it does not hold this information as it is not involved in monitoring livestock or collecting cause-of-death data.

The Department of Infrastructure does not hold data on the number of livestock born or imported to the island.

The Department's role regarding deceased animals is limited to waste collection and disposal.

The Department does not gather information on the causes of death for fallen livestock.

Requesters are advised to contact DEFA for potential assistance with livestock data.

The request was closed on 9 March 2020 with an outcome of 'Information not held'.


fuel deliveries

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Home Affairs for details on recent and upcoming fuel and gas deliveries due to concerns over transport restrictions. The authority responded that it does not hold this information and suggested contacting the Department of Infrastructure instead.

The Department of Home Affairs does not hold information on fuel or gas delivery schedules.

The request was received and answered on the same day, 9 March 2020.

The authority recommended contacting the Department of Infrastructure for the requested data.

The request was motivated by conjecture regarding travel and transport restrictions.

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


analysis of mine spoil , harbour silt and river water quality

Summary: A request for analysis of mine spoil, harbour silt, and river water quality in the Foxdale and Glen Rushen areas was closed because the applicant failed to provide requested clarification within 28 days. The authority noted that some information was already publicly available and other data could not be located without more specific location details.

The request was closed on 2020-08-17 due to lack of clarification from the applicant.

The authority identified 13 separate information requests within the original submission.

Data for Beckwiths Mine and Dixons Vein was not currently located.

Some analysis for Cross Vein Mine and the Eairy area was located, with Eairy data dating from 1985 to 1991.

The Peel Harbour silt analysis report was already publicly available via planning application PA18/01293/B.

Information already freely available to the public

Request too broad requiring clarification to avoid significant burden


Sea Fisheries Licensing

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture for statistics on Isle of Man sea fishing licences issued to vessels registered in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Isle of Man, broken down by species. The authority responded with specific licence counts for English registered vessels for the period April 2019 to March 2020, though the response text provided is truncated before covering other regions.

The data provided covers the period from 1st April 2019 to 31st March 2020.

There were 14 Isle of Man sea fishing licences issued to English registered fishing vessels.

Of the English licences, 2 were for king and queen scallops.

Of the English licences, 2 were for whelks.

No English registered vessels held licences for crab and lobster or a combination of the requested species.


Livestock Births

Summary: The requester asked for total annual livestock births and imports on the Isle of Man, categorized by animal type and origin. The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture refused to provide the data directly, citing that cattle birth and import statistics are already reasonably accessible on their official website.

The request was received on 9th March 2020 and the outcome was determined on 19th March 2020.

The authority refused the request under Section 20 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

The refusal was based on the information being already reasonably accessible to the public.

Specific data on cattle births and imports is available on the gov.im website under the agriculture section.

The request was closed without providing the data in the response letter.

9th March 2020
19th March 2020
1223181
Section 20
Freedom of Information Act 2015


Dept for Enterprise Payments to Manx Radio

Summary: The request sought details on Department for Enterprise payments to Manx Radio and other media organizations between 2014 and 2019. The authority confirmed payments to Radio Manx Ltd, provided a breakdown of contracted coverage and sponsorship costs, but stated no records exist for payments to other media outlets.

The original payment figures cited in the request were provided by the Treasury, not the Department for Enterprise.

The Department confirmed payments to Radio Manx Ltd were made for TT/MGP coverage and sponsorship obligations.

No records of payments to other media organizations (e.g., Energy FM, BBC) were found for the specified period.

Copies of contracts were released, but invoices were not available.

A new contract was negotiated for the 2018-19 financial year, increasing the total payment amount.


IOM Government Tender - ConnectMann - Internet Connectivity -

Summary: A request was made for all bid responses regarding the ConnectMann Internet Connectivity Lot 2 tender, but the Communications Commission refused to disclose any information citing commercial interests and security concerns.

The request concerned tender responses for IOMG Tender ConnectMann - Internet Connectivity Lot 2 (Ref: CABO.626).

The Communications Commission withheld all information under Section 30(2)(b) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

Disclosure was deemed likely to prejudice commercial interests and threaten government network security.

A subsequent tender process similar in nature was still in progress at the time of the response.

The Commission concluded that factors favoring withholding outweighed those favoring disclosure.

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


Policy Paper / advice to Minister to Close Snuff The Wind

Summary: The requester sought policy papers and evidence regarding the closure of Snuff the Wind at Cross Vein Mine, including health impacts and pollution sources. The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture released some documents but withheld specific information to protect bird breeding sites and stated that certain requested reports on health and pollution causation were not held.

The Department withheld information regarding the closure decision to protect bird breeding sites from public disclosure.

No report exists proving that people's health has suffered from using the land at Cross Vein Mine.

No specific report exists proving pollution in Peel harbour silt and the lower River Neb originated from Cross Vein Mine or riding activities.

The Peel Marina Maintenance Dredging Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) links pollution to former mining areas in the upper catchment of the River Neb.

Personal information was redacted from released documents under Section 25 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

Wildlife conservation (adverse effect on breeding sites of birds)

Section 25 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Personal Information)


Drug death and suicide rates

Summary: The requester asked for annual statistics on suicide, drug deaths, and alcohol-related deaths from 2014 to 2019, plus ICD-10 categorization details. The Department of Health and Social Care provided rolling 3-year rate statistics for the requested causes of death but stated they did not hold the specific ICD-10 scenario information.

Statistics are reported on a rolling 3-year basis to accurately show trends due to small numbers.

The authority does not hold the specific information regarding ICD-10 categorization scenarios for mental and behavioural disorders.

The request was received on 12 March 2020 and the outcome was issued on 28 May 2020.

Suicide rates increased from 7.8 to 10.7 per 100,000 across the reported rolling periods.

Alcohol-related deaths had the highest rate among the three categories, ranging from 33.9 to 35.5 per 100,000.

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


Data Protection Policy and Procedures

Summary: The requester asked for the Data Protection Policy and Procedures relevant to the Isle of Man Prison and Probationary Services. The Department of Home Affairs responded by sending all requested information, confirming the release of the documents.

The request was received on 13 March 2020.

The response was issued on 27 March 2020.

The authority handling the request is the Department of Home Affairs.

The outcome was that all information was sent to the requester.

The response included 1 document spanning 2 pages.


Salary Payments by Financial Institution

Summary: The requester asked for detailed public sector salary payment data by currency and financial institution for December over the last five years. The Cabinet Office provided aggregated totals and a split between resident and non-resident banks but withheld specific institution details to protect personal data.

The request was received on 16 March 2020 and responded to on 25 June 2020.

A spreadsheet containing aggregated total payments by value and number was provided.

The data includes a percentage split between Isle of Man resident and non-resident banks.

Specific details by sort code, branch, or unique financial institution were withheld.

The exemption was applied to prevent the direct or indirect identification of individuals.

16 March 2020
25 June 2020
1231681
5 financial years
December
Section 25(b)(i)&(ii)
Article 5
Article 6

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

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


stress and anxiety related prescriptions national trend

Summary: The request sought patient prescription numbers for stress and anxiety medications by dose over five years and a comparison with other jurisdictions. The Department of Health and Social Care disclosed aggregate item counts and costs for antidepressants, hypnotics, and proton pump inhibitors but refused to provide patient-specific data or international comparisons due to data limitations.

The authority cannot link specific drugs to conditions like stress or anxiety as they are used for multiple purposes.

Data provided is from the EPACT2 system and contains no patient details or diagnoses.

International comparisons with the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, and Guernsey were refused as the Department does not hold that data.

The request for information by dose and patient count was partially refused under Section 11(3)(b) as it would require creating new information.

Aggregate prescription data was provided for the financial years 2014/2015 through 2018/2019.

Section 11(3)(b) - Information not held or would require creation/derivation

Section 11(3)(a) - Practical refusal reason (information not held)


Work Permitts issued By the Department of Enterprise to Walker Fire Uk

Summary: The requester asked for details on work permits issued to Walker Fire UK over five years, including checks on local labor availability and advertising. The Department for Enterprise disclosed that 15 applications were received, confirmed statutory considerations are always applied, but stated it does not hold information on other departments' involvement or enforce self-isolation rules.

Fifteen work permit applications (including renewals) were received for Walker Fire UK in the last five years.

The Department considers statutory matters such as local worker availability and economic consequences for every permit decision.

Advertising requirements are generally mandatory but may be waived in specific minority cases.

The Department for Enterprise has no responsibility for enforcing self-isolation rules for permit holders.

No records were found regarding other Government Departments supporting these specific applications.

Information not held or cannot be found after reasonable steps


Suspension related to mobile phone use

Summary: The requester asked for suspension figures related to mobile phone misuse in Isle of Man secondary schools for the last two years. The Department of Education, Sport and Culture provided a breakdown of these figures per school for the 2018/19 and 2019/20 academic years.

The request was clarified to cover only secondary schools.

Suspension figures include cases due to mobile phone misuse alone or in combination with other reasons.

Ballakermeen High School had the highest number of suspensions in both years (15 in 2018/19, 10 in 2019/20).

Queen Elizabeth High School recorded zero suspensions for mobile phone misuse in both years.

The response was issued on 17 April 2020.


Funding to attend any Performing Arts school/course in last 5-10 years

Summary: The request sought details on funding provided by the Isle of Man Department of Education, Sport and Culture for students attending performing arts schools off-island between 2011 and 2020. The authority confirmed that funding was granted for various courses and listed the specific number of students funded at numerous institutions, noting that most recipients were aged 13 to 19.

Funding has been provided for performing arts courses off the Isle of Man since October 11, 2011.

The majority of funded students were in the 13 to 19 age group.

Funding was confirmed for BTEC, A Level, Drama, Acting, Dance, and Singing courses.

The Academy of Live & Recorded Arts (ALRA) and Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) received zero funded students during this period.

The Hammond, Chester had the highest number of funded students with 5.


Deaths

Summary: The requester asked for monthly 2019 statistics on deaths from hospital-acquired pneumonia and seasonal respiratory viruses, as well as hospitalizations for flu-like symptoms. The Department of Health and Social Care refused the request, stating they do not hold the mortality data and are not required to create the hospitalization statistics.

The request was received on 2020-03-23 and responded to on 2020-05-28.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold mortality statistics for the requested causes of death.

Mortality statistics are collected by the Department of Public Health within the Cabinet Office.

The department is not required to create or derive information to answer the question regarding hospitalizations.

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

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

Section 11(3)(b) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Not required to create or derive information)


Distance between people

Summary: The requester asked how Tynwald and the House of Keys would achieve 2-meter social distancing while seated. The authority responded by confirming that revised seating plans were implemented to maximize distancing and provided copies of these plans along with a media release.

Revised seating plans were created for both the Tynwald chamber and the House of Keys chamber.

The seating plans were designed to allow for maximum distancing.

The response included attachments of the seating plans and a media release.

The presiding officers set out the arrangements for parliamentary business for the coming six to eight weeks.

The request was closed on 26 March 2020.

2 metres
23rd March 2020
26 March 2020
six to eight weeks
1243282
01624 685500
IM1 3PW
2025


Diabetes technologies used

Summary: A request was made to the Isle of Man Department of Health and Social Care for statistics on diabetes technologies and patient registrations. The authority disclosed the specific number of adults and children using insulin pumps and the total count of Type 1 Diabetes patients registered with the Diabetes Centre and Paediatric Department.

72 adults are currently using an insulin pump.

36 children are currently using an insulin pump.

393 adults with Type 1 Diabetes are registered at the Diabetes Centre.

44 children with Type 1 Diabetes are registered with the Paediatric Department.

Children transition from the Paediatric Department to the Diabetes Centre at age 16.


Silt leachate tests and licence for Peel Marina Dredging

Summary: The requester asked for the licence and leachate test results required before authorizing the discharge of silt dewatering waste into Peel Marina. The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture confirmed that both the report and the licence were enclosed and released in full.

The request concerned silt leachate from a settling pond at Peel Marina being discharged into the marina.

The leachate is classified as a waste stream requiring licensing under the Water Pollution Act.

The authority released copies of both the leachate test report and the licence.

The request was received on 27 March 2020 and closed on 23 April 2020.

The response was issued by the Freedom of Information Co-ordinator at the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture.


Bread

Summary: The request asked whether the Isle of Man prison purchases locally made bread and details about its supply chain. The Department of Home Affairs disclosed that no Manx bread is bought; instead, frozen bread made by Fletchers is purchased from Robinsons.

The prison does not buy Manx-made bread.

Bread is purchased from Robinsons on the island.

The bread is shipped to the Isle of Man in a frozen state.


Deaths per annum

Summary: A request was made for detailed annual death statistics on the Isle of Man, including breakdowns by month, location, age, and specific causes like flu and pneumonia. The Department of Health and Social Care responded that they do not hold this information and therefore could not disclose it.

The request was received on 2020-03-30 and the response was issued on 2020-05-05.

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

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

Applicants were advised to contact Public Health within the Cabinet Office for potential assistance.

The request covered data for the last 5 years with specific breakdowns by month, location, age group, and cause of death.

Section 11(3)a of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Practical refusal: information not held)


Medical advice supplied to Chief Minster

Summary: A request was made for medical advice used by the Chief Minister to justify excluding Manx residents from returning to the Isle of Man during the pandemic. The Cabinet Office withheld all information, citing exemptions related to the formulation of government policy during an ongoing emergency.

The request was received on 1 April 2020 and the response was issued on 28 April 2020.

The information was withheld under Section 34 of the Freedom of Information Act regarding the formulation of policy.

The authority argued that disclosure would inhibit free and frank discussion necessary for emergency decision-making.

The exemption is qualified and subject to a public interest test, which favored withholding the information.

The Cabinet Office stated the policy formulation was still ongoing at the time of the request.

1 April 2020
28 April 2020
2020-04-29
1256182
Section 34
Emergency Powers Act 1936


Doctors pay within public and private sector

Summary: The requester asked for a spreadsheet detailing the income of top-paid doctors and the number of doctors on each wage scale in both public and private sectors. The Department of Health and Social Care provided current public sector pay scales but refused to disclose the number of doctors on each scale, citing that creating this data would require deriving information not currently held.

The request was received on 2020-04-08 and the response was issued on 2020-05-26.

Pay scales for public sector doctors (Consultants, Associate Specialists, Specialty Doctors, and GPs) were provided.

Information regarding the private sector was not provided as the Department does not hold it.

The Department refused to provide the count of doctors on each pay scale.

The refusal was based on the requirement to create or derive information, which is not mandatory under the Act.

Section 11(3)(b) of the Act (information not held or would require creation/derivation)


Police injury awards.

Summary: A request was made for statistics on former Isle of Man police officers receiving injury awards and related reviews, but the Department of Home Affairs stated they do not hold this information.

The Department of Home Affairs does not hold the requested information regarding police injury awards.

The request covered data as of 1st April 2020 and reviews from 2017 to 2019.

The authority suggested contacting the Public Services Pensions Authority for the data.

The response was issued on 21 April 2020.


Data on Food Supply Capacity of Local Producers

Summary: The requester asked for raw data supporting the DEFA Minister's claims of Isle of Man food self-sufficiency during the coronavirus pandemic. The authority responded that the information was already reasonably accessible via the 2015 Food Matters Strategy and online Agricultural Census data, citing Section 20 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

The request was made on 2020-04-13 in response to Ministerial statements on 2020-04-05 and 2020-04-10 regarding food supply capacity.

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) refused to provide new raw data because it is already publicly available.

The authority directed the requester to the 2015 Food Matters Strategy (Part 2, page 45 onwards) as a source of the requested information.

The authority also provided a link to the Agricultural Census data on the government website.

The case was closed on 2020-06-16 with the outcome 'Some information sent but part exempt'.

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


IoM Schools Pupil Statistical  Data 2019-20

Summary: The requester sought detailed pupil statistics and class structure information for Isle of Man schools for the 2019-20 academic year. The Department of Education provided most data directly but directed the requester to existing public documents for school roll numbers and class size policies under Section 20 of the Act.

The request was received on 20 April 2020 and responded to on 19 May 2020.

Data on Free School Meals, Special Educational Needs, and English as an Additional Language was enclosed in the response.

School roll data was not enclosed but directed to a specific PDF available on the government website.

Class size policy information was directed to an existing admissions update document rather than provided anew.

Head teachers retain discretion over internal school organization and class arrangements under the Articles of Governance.

Section 20 of the Act (Information already reasonably accessible)


Retail business tax

Summary: A request was made to identify companies that paid the Isle of Man Retail Business Tax in the past 24 months, but the Treasury refused to disclose the information.

The request was received by the Treasury on 20 April 2020.

The response was issued on 23 April 2020 with the outcome 'No information sent - all held but exempt'.

The refusal is based on Section 27 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

Section 106 of the Income Tax Act 1970 prohibits the disclosure of taxpayer data.

The Assessor has a statutory duty of confidentiality regarding all income tax documents.

Section 27 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Information the disclosure of which is restricted by law)

Section 106 of the Income Tax Act 1970 (Information confidential)


Species list assess by International Union for Conservation of Nature

Summary: The requester asked for a comprehensive list of IUCN-assessed species found in the Isle of Man across various threat categories. The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture refused to provide the list, stating the information is already reasonably accessible via the IUCN Red List website.

The request was received on 2020-04-27 and responded to on 2020-05-27.

The authority cited Section 20 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 as the reason for not providing the information.

The response directs the requester to www.iucnredlist.org to find the species data themselves.

The request covered species classified as Extinct, Extinct in the Wild, Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable, and Near threatened.

The outcome was recorded as 'No information sent - all held but exempt'.


Key workers

Summary: The request sought sector-specific data on exemptions granted under the Emergency Powers Act for key workers to return to the Isle of Man and avoid self-isolation. The Cabinet Office disclosed detailed statistics on travel and self-isolation exemptions issued up to 13 May 2020, clarifying that no quarantine exemptions were issued.

A total of 501 travel exemptions were issued to key workers by 13 May 2020.

399 travel exemptions were granted for personnel vital to critical national infrastructure, primarily transport links.

442 self-isolation exemptions were issued by 13 May 2020, with the majority (377) for transportation of essential goods and workers.

The authority clarified that it does not issue exemptions for quarantine, only for travel and self-isolation.

Patient transfer exemptions (75) are now certified by the Department of Health and Social Care following legislative revisions.


Covid advice

Summary: The requester sought all Covid-19 advice and Council of Ministers minutes regarding health, borders, human rights, and schools since January 1, 2020, resulting in a 'Not upheld' outcome with the disclosure of specific papers on childcare risks and border re-entry quarantine protocols.

The request was initially broad but was narrowed to focus on health advice, border closures, human rights, and schools.

Public Health advice indicated that adults under 70 not in the extremely vulnerable group would not face elevated risk providing childcare.

Extending childcare provision for all parents was identified as having the largest economic impact but also the greatest virus transmission risk.

A proposal was made to allow ordinarily resident individuals to return to the Island on a phased basis.

Returnees were required to undergo mandatory 14-day quarantine at a designated facility rather than self-isolating at home due to transmission risks.


Local Maternity System lead query

Summary: The requester asked for the structure and lead contacts for local maternity services in the Isle of Man. The Department of Health and Social Care disclosed the names and roles of the Head of Midwifery and several Lead Midwives, noting that the structure is currently under review.

Barbara Roberts is the Head of Midwifery.

Verity Imlach is the Lead Midwife for Safeguarding and Community Services.

Regan Baggley is the Lead Midwife for In-patient services.

Liza Munro is the Lead Midwife for Governance.

The position for Antenatal services is currently vacant.

The maternity service structure is under review and expected to change.


Custodial sentences arising from breach of Covid-19 Regulations

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Home Affairs for statistics on custodial sentences, arrests, and fixed penalty notices related to breaches of Covid-19 Emergency Powers Regulations. The authority responded that it does not hold the requested information, suggesting the General Registry and Isle of Man Constabulary as alternative sources.

The Department of Home Affairs does not hold the requested data on custodial sentences or arrests for Covid-19 regulation breaches.

The General Registry is identified as the body responsible for recording court appearances and sentencing.

The Isle of Man Constabulary is identified as the body responsible for recording information regarding breaches of emergency powers.

The request was received on 30 April 2020 and the initial response was issued on 1 May 2020.

An internal review response was issued on 19 May 2020 confirming some information is held by the Constabulary.

30 April 2020
1 May 2020
19 May 2020
1277345
Emergency Powers Regulations 2020


Suicide rates 2020

Summary: A request was made for monthly suicide statistics for the first four months of 2020, but the Department of Health and Social Care responded that they do not hold this information.

The request was received on 1 May 2020 and responded to on 28 May 2020.

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

Mortality statistics are collected by the Department of Public Health within the Cabinet Office.

The requester was advised to contact the Cabinet Office for the information.


Mental Health Manannan Court Readmissions

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Health and Social Care for data on Manannan Court readmissions in 2019, specifically asking for the number of individuals with three or more admissions split by age. The authority disclosed that out of 149 total admissions, 11 individuals aged 65 and under had three or more admissions, while no individuals over 65 met this criterion.

The total number of individuals admitted to Manannan Court in 2019 was 149.

Zero individuals over the age of 65 had three or more admissions in 2019.

Eleven individuals aged 65 and under had three or more admissions in 2019.

The request was received on 1 May 2020 and the response was issued on 27 May 2020.

138 individuals (93%) had fewer than three admissions in 2019.


Number of Island Residents using Patients Transfer.

Summary: The request sought statistics on patients transferred off the Isle of Man by air between February and April 2020, including those traveling for cancer treatment. The authority disclosed the total number of air transfers but refused to provide cancer-specific data due to the substantial compilation of information required.

904 patient transfers off the island via air were booked between 17 February 2020 and 12 April 2020.

The disclosed figure represents individual transfers, meaning the same patient may have been counted more than once.

The data excludes patients who traveled by sea and does not include the number of escorts.

Information regarding the number of patients traveling for cancer-related purposes was withheld.

The request was processed by the Department of Health and Social Care under the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

Section 11 (3)(b) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (substantial compilation or collation of information)


Social distancing police advice to shop owners

Summary: A requester asked the Isle of Man Constabulary to confirm if police advice stated that shop owners had no responsibility for ensuring social distancing. The authority refused to provide specific documents, citing that the information was already reasonably accessible via social media and government websites.

The request was made on 2020-05-04 regarding police advice on social distancing responsibilities for shop owners.

The Constabulary stated they enforce the law but do not enforce government guidance.

Information was withheld under Section 20 of the Act because it was already reasonably accessible to the public.

The Constabulary listed their Covid priorities as 40mph speed limits, isolation directives, social gatherings, and criminal behaviour.

The response directed the requester to official social media channels and the government website for advice details.


Number of detainees on/been on Isolation wing at IOM Prison

Summary: The requester asked for statistics on detainees passing through and currently remaining on the IOM Prison Isolation wing introduced in March 2020. The Department of Home Affairs confirmed that all requested information was sent, though the specific numerical data is not included in the provided text.

The IOM Prison introduced an Isolation wing in March 2020 due to the coronavirus crisis.

New detainees were required to stay on the Isolation wing for up to 14 days.

The Freedom of Information request was received on 4 May 2020.

The authority responded on 14 May 2020 stating all information was sent.

The response letter contains standard procedural information regarding internal reviews and appeals.


employee capacity and capability variance

Summary: The request sought detailed staff appointment and departure records, total employee counts, and workload assessments for the Office of the Clerk of Tynwald. The authority refused to provide specific data, citing that some information is already publicly available in annual reports, some is exempt as personal data, and some regarding workloads is not held.

Staff starters and leavers data is published annually in the Tynwald Annual Report.

Detailed reasons for individual staff departures are withheld as personal information.

Data for the period October 2019 to September 2020 is exempt as it is scheduled for future publication.

The authority does not hold data on external expectations, internal workloads, or backlogs.

Headcount information is also available in the Isle of Man Government Pink Book under 'Legislature (Parliament)'.

Section 20 (Information reasonably accessible)

Section 41 (Information for future publication)


E-Bike donation from Zurich International

Summary: A requester asked for all documents regarding Zurich International's donation of 10 e-bikes to the Isle of Man Constabulary, and the authority responded by releasing all requested information.

The request concerned a donation of 10 e-bikes from Zurich International to the Isle of Man Constabulary.

The request was received on 2020-05-06 and responded to on 2020-05-11.

The authority confirmed that all information held was released to the requester.

The response included 3 pages of documents.


National Strategy Group

Summary: A request was made for details on the National Strategy Group's membership, qualifications, minutes, and the scientific advice underpinning the Isle of Man's State of Emergency and key worker definitions. The authority responded with some information, including Hansard records, but withheld parts of the request citing exemptions.

The request was received on 2020-05-07 and the outcome was determined on 2020-06-08.

The response included 278 pages across 4 documents.

The requester sought clarification on the medical and scientific expertise of NSG members regarding virus science.

The authority requested clarification on the broad scope of the minutes request before providing a response.

The disclosed documents include the Official Report (Hansard) from the Tynwald Court sitting on 31st March 2020.


Bank holidays

Summary: The request sought details on the decision-making process and impact assessment regarding the cancellation of the 2020 Senior Race Day bank holiday. The authority responded by providing the official Tynwald Court Hansard report from May 12, 2020, which documents the discussion and the subsequent refusal to grant leave for a debate on the cancellation.

The request asked who proposed cancelling the Senior Race Day bank holiday and what impact assessment was conducted.

The response consists of the Official Report (Hansard) from the Tynwald Court sitting on Tuesday, 12th May 2020.

The Council of Ministers discussed the cancellation of the Senior Race Day bank holiday for 2020 during the sitting.

Leave to debate the cancellation of the Senior Race Day bank holiday was not granted during the Urgent Motion segment.

The response included 69 pages across 3 documents published by the Office of the Clerk of Tynwald.


Cancellation of Senior Race Day 2020

Summary: The request sought information regarding the cancellation of the 2020 Senior Race Day bank holiday and the establishment of a replacement holiday in August. The Cabinet Office disclosed all information, including the statutory order cancelling the holiday due to the cancellation of the Tourist Trophy races and Council of Ministers minutes approving a replacement holiday on August 28, 2020.

The Senior Race Day bank holiday for 2020 was cancelled because the Tourist Trophy motorcycle races did not take place.

The Bank Holidays (Amendment) Order 2020 was made on 4 May 2020 and came into operation on 1 June 2020.

The Council of Ministers approved Friday 28 August 2020 as a replacement bank holiday.

The replacement holiday weekend was themed to recognize the Isle of Man's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Treasury and Department for Enterprise were tasked with leading stakeholder consultation on the replacement holiday's activities.


Number and list of Petitions to Tynwald on record and the outcome.

Summary: The requester asked for a list of all petitions to Tynwald on record and their outcomes, receiving a partial disclosure covering petitions from 2007 to 2010 with some information exempt.

The response covers petitions for redress from 2007 to 2019, though the provided text only details entries up to 2010.

Many petitions were 'laid on table' and subsequently lapsed without being picked up by Tynwald.

Some petitions were rejected due to procedural issues, such as lack of petitioner's address or not being presented at St. John's.

Successful petitions were considered by Select Committees and resulted in approved reports and recommendations.

The outcome of the FOI request was classified as 'Some information sent but part exempt'.

National Service (Armed Forces) Act 1939


Restraint Order Statistics

Summary: The request sought annual statistics on Restraint Orders from 2016 to 2020, but the authority only provided specific data for 2019 and 2020, referring the requester to previous FOI responses for earlier years. The response confirmed the number of orders granted and their current status under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2008.

Information for years prior to 2019 was previously released under references 518536 and 692667.

In 2019, 4 Restraint Orders were granted and all remain in force.

As of May 22, 2020, 4 Restraint Orders were granted in 2020.

Of the 2020 orders, 3 remain in force and 1 was discharged on the application of the Attorney General.

All mentioned orders relate to criminal proceedings and investigations under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2008.


Council of Ministers Senior Race Day Bank Holiday discussions

Summary: The request sought minutes regarding Council of Ministers discussions on cancelling and rescheduling the 2020 Senior Race Day Bank Holiday. The authority disclosed all information, providing 61 pages of documents including the Official Report of Tynwald Court proceedings from May 12, 2020.

The request was received on 2020-05-11 and the outcome was 'All information sent' on 2020-06-08.

The response included 61 pages across 2 documents from the Cabinet Office.

The provided documents contain the Official Report of Tynwald Court proceedings held on Tuesday, 12th May 2020.

The agenda for the May 12th sitting included a discussion on the cancellation of the Senior Race Day bank holiday 2020.

The Chief Minister and other Council members were present during the virtual sitting where the topic was addressed.


IM119872I Fire Exinguisher Servicing

Summary: The requester asked for updated total expenditure on fire equipment for the years 2017 to 2020 and 2020 to date. The Department of Infrastructure responded that some information was sent, but not all requested data was held.

The request was made to the Department of Infrastructure on 2020-05-11.

The outcome was determined on 2020-05-21 as 'Some information sent but not all held'.

The request covered expenditure periods from 2017 to 2018, 2018 to 2019, 2019 to 2020, and 2020 to date.

The response included standard information regarding the right to an internal review and appeal to the Information Commissioner.

The case reference number for future communications is 1287845.


KS2-KS4 Levels of Progress 2019

Summary: The request sought KS2-KS4 value-added progress measures and cohort sizes for Isle of Man secondary schools for the 2019 academic year. The Department of Education, Sport and Culture disclosed all requested data, including percentages for English and Mathematics progress and average levels of progress for five specific schools.

The request was received on 2020-05-13 and the outcome was 'All information sent' on 2020-06-04.

Data covers five secondary schools: SNHS, CRHS, BHS, RGS, and QEII.

The response includes percentages of pupils making 3 or 4 whole levels of progress in English and Mathematics since Year 6.

Average levels of progress (ALP) were provided, noting that all pupils including those in special units are included in the calculation.

Cohort sizes for 2019 ranged from 119 pupils at CRHS to 227 pupils at BHS.


vaccine costs

Summary: A request for total vaccine costs, issuance numbers, and specific pricing data for the Isle of Man over three years was partially fulfilled, with total costs disclosed but detailed administration and manufacturer data withheld as not held by the authority.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold data on the number of vaccines issued or administered.

Information regarding double dose flu vaccinations and their rationale is not held by the Department.

GP Practices are identified as the likely holders of the missing detailed vaccine data.

A list of vaccine manufacturers and their Drug Tariff costs as of May 2020 was provided.

Total vaccine expenditure was disclosed for the financial years 2017-2018, 2018-2019, and 2019-2020.

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


Imuvac vaccine

Summary: The applicant requested quantity, cost, and invoice details for Imuvac vaccine supplies over the last three years. The Department of Health and Social Care responded that they do not hold this information because GP practices purchase vaccines individually.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold information on Imuvac vaccine purchases.

GP Practices on the Isle of Man purchase their own vaccines individually.

The request was received on 13 May 2020 and closed on 10 June 2020.

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

The applicant was advised to contact GP Practices directly for the requested data.


Death rate after inpatient stay in mental health clients

Summary: A request was made for the number of individuals aged 60 or under who died after being inpatients at a mental health facility in 2015. The Department of Health and Social Care stated it does not hold complete records but disclosed that it is aware of 11 such deaths as of June 2020.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold the specific information requested due to a lack of policy to maintain records after patient discharge.

The authority is aware of 11 individuals aged 60 or under who were inpatients in 2015 and have since died.

The provided figure of 11 deaths is correct as of 2nd June 2020.

Deaths of individuals not known to the service at the time of death are not recorded on the patient database.

The request was formally closed on 10 June 2020.

11
60 years old or under
2015
1st January 2015
31st December 2015
2nd June 2020
14th May 2020
10 June 2020
1290945


Number of defendants remanded in custody for mental health problems

Summary: A request was made for the number of defendants remanded in custody as a place of safety due to mental health problems in 2018 and 2019. The Department of Home Affairs responded that they do not hold this information and suggested contacting the Isle of Man Constabulary, while clarifying that 'remand to a place of safety' is not a valid legal procedure.

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

The authority clarified that there is no ability to 'remand' to a place of safety.

Individuals may be admitted to care establishments for Mental Health Treatment under the Mental Health Act instead.

The request was directed to the Isle of Man Constabulary for potential assistance.


number of admission 60 years of under to acute mental health unit

Summary: The requester asked for the number of patients aged 60 or under admitted to the Grianagh Court acute mental health unit in 2015. The Department of Health and Social Care disclosed that there were 135 unique patients admitted during that calendar year.

The request concerned admissions to Grianagh Court, an acute inpatient mental health unit.

The data covers the full calendar year of 2015 (January 1 to December 31).

The Department noted that they typically report on a financial year basis, but provided calendar year data for this request.

There were 135 unique patients admitted to the unit in 2015.

The response was issued on June 5, 2020, following a request received on May 14, 2020.


Promenade redeveloment

Summary: The request sought strategic board minutes and correspondence regarding the Promenade redevelopment project with Sleepwell Hotels and the Treasury. The Department of Infrastructure provided some minutes and redacted correspondence with Sleepwell, but confirmed it held no correspondence with the Treasury.

January and February 2020 strategic board minutes were published on the MyProm website.

March 2020 minutes were withheld pending sign-off at the next meeting.

Correspondence with Sleepwell Hotels was released with third-party personal data redacted.

The Department confirmed it does not hold any correspondence with Treasury political members regarding the project.

The response was issued on 18 June 2020 following a request received on 14 May 2020.

Section 25 (absolutely exempt personal information)

Data Protection (Application of GDPR) Order 2018 Article 5

Data Protection (Application of GDPR) Order 2018 Article 6


Arrest and sentencing of Juveniles for Covid-19 offences in 2020.

Summary: A request was made for statistics on juvenile arrests and custodial sentences for breaching 2020 Emergency Powers Regulations in the Isle of Man. The Department of Home Affairs responded that they do not hold this information and advised the requester to contact the Department of Health and Social Care instead.

The request concerned arrests and sentencing of juveniles under 17 for Covid-19 offences.

The Department of Home Affairs stated they do not hold the requested information.

The authority indicated the request should be directed to the Department of Health and Social Care.

The response was issued on 19 May 2020, four days after the request was received.


Expenditure

Summary: A request was made for expenditure details regarding the Nautical Museum, the Peggy, and the Peggy conservation facility in Braddan. Manx National Heritage responded by sending all requested information via enclosed documents.

The request was received on 15 May 2020.

The response was issued on 12 June 2020.

The authority handling the request was Manx National Heritage.

The outcome was that all information was sent.

The response consisted of 1 document containing 2 pages.


University fees

Summary: The request sought data on outstanding student loan debt, repayment rates, and student award costs for Manx university students since 2014. The Department of Education, Sport and Culture disclosed detailed loan statistics and award costs, while directing the requester to a public report for historical award numbers.

As of 31 March 2020, the total outstanding loan value for all students was £9,602,843 across 1,789 loans.

296 students have fully repaid their tuition fee loans, representing 14.2% of all loans advanced.

471 students whose repayment due date has been reached have made no repayments as of 31 March 2020.

The total cost of student awards (maintenance grants and tuition fees) for the 2019-20 financial year was £8,846,012.

The department tracks repayment eligibility by issuing annual loan statements accompanied by income declarations.

Section 20 of the Act (information already reasonably accessible)


Claimed Planning Breach.

Summary: A request was made for details regarding a planning breach complaint, including the complainant's identity, the extent of the issue, and the date. The authority disclosed the nature of the complaint and the date but withheld the complainant's name citing data protection exemptions.

The complaint concerned the siting of a storage container, creation of a bank, and clearing of ditches, gorse, and heather.

Initial site visits identified possible unauthorized works including the creation of a track and alterations to site access.

The complaint was lodged on 7th May 2020.

The name of the person making the complaint was withheld as absolutely exempt personal information.

The response was issued by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture on 29th May 2020.

Section 25(2) of the Act (Absolutely exempt personal information)

Incompatibility with the second data protection principle


Entry Excemption Certificates

Summary: The requester asked for statistics and copies of Entry Exemption Certificates issued under Regulation 6 between March and May 2020. The Cabinet Office responded with a partial disclosure, providing template documents and specific exemption certificates issued in May 2020, while withholding the total number of certificates issued.

The request covered Entry Exemption Certificates granted under paragraph 6 of the Emergency Powers (Entry Restrictions) Regulations 2020.

The response included exemption templates signed by the Chief Secretary and the Department of Health and Social Security.

Holders of these certificates were required to self-isolate for 14 days upon entry to the Isle of Man.

Specific exemption periods cited in the response include 18/05/2020 to 01/06/2020 and 17/05/2020 to 25/05/2020.

The authority withheld the total count of certificates issued for individuals and corporate bodies.


Total persons sentenced to custody for breach of Emergency Powers Regs

Summary: The request sought the total number of persons sentenced to custody for breaching Emergency Powers Regulations 2020. The authority disclosed a corrected figure of 24 sentenced individuals but stated it does not hold data regarding juvenile defendants.

The initial response on 21 May 2020 incorrectly stated 26 people were sentenced.

A correction on 3 July 2020 clarified that 2 of those individuals were on remand awaiting trial, not sentenced.

The corrected total number of persons sentenced to custody is 24.

The Department of Home Affairs does not hold information on juvenile defendants as this is the responsibility of the DHSC.

The request covered sentences by the High Bailiff, Deputy High Bailiff, and Magistrates.

Information not held by the authority (specifically regarding juveniles)


Short Term Detainee Licence Conditions Issue

Summary: The requester asked for policies and procedures regarding licence conditions for short-term detainees in the Isle of Man. The Department of Home Affairs responded by stating the information is publicly available and provided a direct link to the relevant webpage.

The request was made to the Department of Home Affairs regarding Prison and Probationary Services.

The authority advised that the requested policy and procedure documents are publicly available online.

A specific URL was provided to access the information on addressing offending behaviour.

The request was formally closed on 4 June 2020.

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


Students entering into Higher Education 2010-2020

Summary: The requester asked for the total number of Isle of Man students entering higher education from 2010 to 2020, but the Department of Education, Sport and Culture stated it does not hold exact figures for the entire period. The authority provided partial data including University College Isle of Man enrollment, Student Award statistics, and school leaver destination data for 2016-2019.

The Department does not hold an exact number of Isle of Man students who entered higher education from 2011 onwards.

Destination data for school leavers entering higher education is only held for the years 2016 to 2019.

University College Isle of Man enrollment data is available from the 2011/12 academic year to 2019/20.

Student Award data excludes students attending University College Isle of Man and self-funded students studying off-island.

The request was adjusted to cover information created on or after 11 October 2011 due to FOI Act limitations.

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


Returning Residents who stayed at The Comis Hotel

Summary: The requester asked for the number of returning residents quarantined at The Comis Hotel who tested positive for COVID-19 during or within 14 days after their stay. The Cabinet Office responded that their records show zero instances of repatriated citizens testing positive for the virus.

The request concerned returning residents quarantined at The Comis Hotel.

The Cabinet Office holds no records of repatriated citizens testing positive for COVID-19.

The Department of Health and Social Care was suggested as an alternative contact for broader testing data.

The request was received on 20 May 2020 and closed on 28 May 2020.

The response was issued under reference number 1298677.


Question about Essential Workers

Summary: The requester asked for the number of essential workers who tested positive for Covid-19 within 28 days of entering the Isle of Man. The Cabinet Office responded that it does not hold this information because it does not track incoming essential workers for that specific period.

The Cabinet Office does not track incoming Essential Workers for a 28-day period after arrival.

The requested information regarding Covid-19 positive tests among essential workers is not held by the authority.

The Department of Health and Social Care was suggested as an alternative contact for testing information.

The request was formally closed on 28 May 2020.

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


Number of juveniles arrested for Covid-19 Regulations breaches.

Summary: A request was made to the Isle of Man Constabulary for the total number of juveniles arrested for breaching Emergency Powers Regulations 2020. The authority confirmed that 11 juveniles under the age of 17 had been arrested for these offences.

The request concerned arrests of juveniles (persons under 17) for breaches of Emergency Powers Regulations 2020.

The Isle of Man Constabulary confirmed 11 juveniles were arrested for these offences.

The request was received on 22 May 2020 and responded to on 27 May 2020.

All requested information was released with no redactions.

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


Number of Juveniles sentenced to custody for Covid-19 Regs breaches.

Summary: The request sought the total number of juveniles sentenced to custody at the Secure Unit for breaching Emergency Powers Regulations 2020 related to COVID-19. The Attorney General's Chambers confirmed that one juvenile had been sentenced to custody for such an offence as of May 2020.

The request was made to the Attorney General's Chambers on 22 May 2020.

One juvenile defendant was sentenced to custody at the Secure Unit for a COVID-19 offence.

The offence involved a breach of the Emergency Powers Regulations 2020.

All requested information was released with no exemptions applied.

22 May 2020
29 May 2020
one case
1300878
Emergency Powers Regulations 2020


Communication for Pedestrianisation of Parliament St

Summary: The request sought correspondence between the Department for Enterprise and Ramsey Town Commissioners regarding the pedestrianisation of Parliament Street in May 2020. The authority responded by providing email correspondence and calendar appointments, though the official outcome is recorded as 'Information not held'.

The request was made on 2020-05-26 and responded to on 2020-06-15.

The Department for Enterprise provided copies of Microsoft Outlook calendar appointments and email correspondence.

The DfE supported Ramsey Town Commissioners on a weekly basis regarding the day-to-day impact of the works.

The official outcome of the request is listed as 'Information not held'.


Companies registry late filing charges

Summary: The requester asked for annual statistics on late filing charges for Annual Returns between 2009 and 2019, but the Department for Enterprise disclosed that specific data is unavailable due to system limitations and payment methods. Instead, the authority provided a general estimate that late fees account for approximately 5% of the Companies Registry's total income.

The Companies Registry cannot distinguish late fees for Annual Returns from other late filings in their till system.

Payments received via BACS are not receipted through the till, making specific tracking difficult.

The authority offered a summary of total income from which late fees could be extrapolated, which the requester accepted.

Late fees generally account for circa 5% of the Companies Registry's total income.

The request was formally closed on 30 June 2020.


Coronavirus confirmed fatalities and influenza

Summary: The requester asked for data on laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 fatalities and influenza-related deaths in the Isle of Man. The Cabinet Office confirmed that all reported COVID-19 deaths were laboratory-confirmed and provided an attached document containing respiratory mortality trends for influenza.

All individuals reported as dying due to SARS-CoV-2 had laboratory-confirmed positive tests.

Data regarding influenza and influenza-led pneumonia deaths was provided via an attachment from the Public Health Directorate.

The request was received on 29 May 2020 and the response was issued on 18 June 2020.

The response references a previous FOIA request (1278245) as the basis for this inquiry.

The authority handling the request was the Cabinet Office, specifically the Government Office in Douglas.


Body Worn Cameras

Summary: The request asked if all on-duty Isle of Man police officers are equipped with body-worn cameras that must be activated immediately upon responding to calls, and if evidence-based de-escalation training is used. The Constabulary disclosed that cameras are not issued to all officers due to insufficient units, recording is situational based on officer judgment rather than mandatory for all calls, and annual Unarmed Defence Tactics training includes de-escalation components.

There are 60 body-worn video units in total, which is insufficient to equip every officer on duty.

Cameras must be switched on to standby mode whenever an officer leaves a police station.

The decision to actively record is at the individual officer's discretion based on the National Decision Making Model.

Officers must justify any decision not to record if questions are raised about an incident.

Annual mandatory Unarmed Defence Tactics (UDT) training includes tactical communications to reduce conflict.


Restricted service broadcasting licences

Summary: The request sought details on Restricted Service Licences (RSLs) granted in the last two years, and the Communications Commission disclosed a list of specific licences issued to Manx Radio for major sporting events in 2017, 2018, and 2019.

All disclosed RSLs were granted to Manx Radio for broadcasting major sporting events.

The licences covered the Isle of Man TT, S100, and Classic TT & MGP Festival events.

Broadcasting locations varied between 1 and 4 sites depending on the specific event.

Some broadcasts were also transmitted on 1368kHz AM frequencies.

The response covered licence data from 2017 through 2019.

Thursday 23rd August to Saturday 1st September

Friday 16th August to Sunday 1st September


Information Retention and GDPR

Summary: The request sought details on information retention schedules and GDPR compliance progress for the Office of the Clerk of Tynwald, which was disclosed through a self-assessment table and milestone statements. The response indicated that while many data protection measures were complete, several key areas regarding training, auditing, and incident management were still underway or under review as of 2018 and 2019.

The FOI request outcome was 'Not upheld' by the Office of the Clerk of Tynwald on 2020-09-10.

A self-assessment dated 12/01/2018 shows 17 standards as 'Green' (Complete/No change), 9 as 'Amber' (Underway/Review), and 0 as 'Red'.

Specific areas marked 'Amber' include data protection training, auditing, fair processing notices, and breach reporting procedures.

A GDPR Compliance Self-Assessment Milestone Statement was submitted on 11/01/2019.

The response documents 22 pages and 5 documents covering data protection officer responsibilities and subject access request procedures.