Bus Cancellations

Summary: The request sought internal communications regarding bus cancellations during the 2022 TT period and details on Minister Tim Crookall's parliamentary answers. The Department of Infrastructure released some documents, including draft answers and emails discussing driver shortages and congestion, but withheld parts of the information under exemptions.

Internal emails reveal confusion over bus cancellations and a lack of clear communication to the public during the TT period.

Only four 'starred' drivers were working at one point, causing significant service disruptions.

Delays of up to 20 minutes were reported due to congestion at Pulrose Bridge traffic lights.

The response includes draft oral answers for House of Keys questions Q391, Q401, Q405, and Q407.

Bank holiday schedule changes caused confusion regarding Go Silver card fare rules.


Monkeypox

Summary: A request was made to the Isle of Man Cabinet Office for the number of available Monkeypox vaccines as of August 9, 2022. The authority responded that they do not hold this information as vaccine stock control is the responsibility of Manx Care.

The Cabinet Office does not hold information on Monkeypox vaccine stock levels.

Vaccine ordering and stock control are the responsibility of Manx Care, not the Cabinet Office.

The requester was advised to contact Manx Care at Noble's Hospital for the requested information.

The request was formally closed on August 12, 2022.


case management software, optional modules and associated costs

Summary: The request sought detailed cost breakdowns for the Prescient+ case management system and information on digital systems used by the Attorney General's Chambers. The authority disclosed the specific first-year costs for the software, configuration, training, and support, though the response regarding Manx Care system access was cut off in the provided text.

The Attorney General's Chambers uses the Prescient+ case management system.

The Civil Litigation team has limited access to Manx Care's 'Protocol' system.

The Civil Litigation team has limited access to Manx Care's SharePoint site.

The response provided a total first-year cost breakdown for the Prescient+ system.

The request was received on 2022-08-09 and the outcome was issued on 2022-09-06.


Fires

Summary: The request sought statistics on trackside fires attributed to the Isle of Man steam railway and the usage of the fire train, along with mitigation measures. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed that 26 fires were recorded, 11 were handled by the fire train, and detailed several safety protocols implemented to reduce fire risks.

26 fires were recorded in the vicinity of railway lines during the exceptionally hot and dry year.

The fire train was used to deal with 11 of these fires.

Mitigation measures include enhanced vegetation management and minimized train lengths to reduce spark ejection.

Spark arrestors have been fitted to all locomotives and ash pans are emptied more frequently.

A controlled burn process is being developed in high-risk areas with assistance from DEFA and IOMFRS.


Request for information on driver shortages

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Infrastructure regarding driver shortages, sick leave statistics, and bus tracking capabilities. The authority disclosed information on bus tracking systems but redirected the requester to the Cabinet Office for employee absence and recruitment data.

Buses are fitted with dedicated trackers.

Vehicle location can also be identified via the GPS facility in the ticket system when drivers are logged in.

The Department of Infrastructure does not hold current records on employee absence or recruitment.

Records for sick leave and recruitment are held by the Office of Human Resources at The Cabinet Office.

The requester was advised to submit a new FOI request to The Cabinet Office for the missing information.


Buses

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Infrastructure for the number of bus services cancelled on each day in July 2022. The authority responded by providing a daily breakdown of lost bus services for the specified period.

The request was received on 11 August 2022 and responded to on 4 October 2022.

All requested information regarding bus cancellations was disclosed.

The highest number of cancellations occurred on Monday 25 July with 28 services lost.

The lowest number of cancellations occurred on Sunday 24 July with 13 services lost.

The data covers the period from Friday 22 July to Sunday 31 July 2022.


Number of population from 16+ with driving licences

Summary: The requester asked for the number of Isle of Man residents aged 16 and over holding driving licenses, broken down by age segments. The Department of Infrastructure provided full statistics for both full and provisional licenses across five age groups.

The total number of full driving license holders aged 16+ is 60,087.

The total number of provisional driving license holders aged 16+ is 3,356.

The largest group of full license holders is in the 21-49 age bracket with 24,628 individuals.

The largest group of provisional license holders is in the 16 years age bracket with 618 individuals.

Only 1 person aged 80+ holds a provisional driving license.


Legal advice

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Infrastructure for legal advice sought by the Cabinet Office in 2020 regarding quarantine charges and the use of the Comis Hotel. The authority responded that it does not hold the requested information and suggested contacting the Cabinet Office directly.

The request concerned legal advice from the Attorney General Chambers in 2020.

The specific topics were the legality of charging for quarantine and using the Comis Hotel as detention.

The Department of Infrastructure confirmed it does not hold the information.

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

The request was closed on 11 August 2022.


Legal advice

Summary: A request was made for legal advice sought by the Cabinet Office in 2020 regarding quarantine charges and the use of the Comis Hotel as a detention facility. The Attorney General's Chambers responded that they do not hold the requested information.

The request was received on 11 August 2022.

The response was issued on 8 September 2022.

The authority stated it does not hold the information within the scope of the request.

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

The requester was directed to answers provided to oral questions at the May 2020 sitting of Tynwald.

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


Legal advice

Summary: The requester asked if the Department of Home Affairs sought legal advice in 2020 regarding quarantine charges and the use of the Comis Hotel. The authority responded that it did not hold such information because the Department of Infrastructure, not Home Affairs, was responsible for establishing the facility.

The Department of Home Affairs did not request legal advice regarding the use of the Comis Hotel.

The Department of Infrastructure undertook the work to establish the Comis Hotel as a quarantine facility.

The request was received on 11 August 2022 and closed on 7 September 2022.

The authority stated it does not hold or cannot find the requested information after taking reasonable steps.

Requesters are advised to approach the Department of Infrastructure for further assistance.


Legal advice

Summary: A request was made to the Attorney General's Chambers for legal advice regarding the legality of charging for quarantine and using the Comis Hotel as detention in 2020. The authority responded that the information was not held and refused the request under section 11(3)(a) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

The request concerned legal advice sought in 2020 by the Department of Home Affairs or Chief Secretary's Office.

The specific topics were the legality of charging for quarantine and the use of the Comis Hotel as a place of detention.

The Attorney General's Chambers stated they do not hold the requested information.

The authority suggested referring to an answer provided to an oral question at the May 2020 sitting of Tynwald.


Dezoning

Summary: The request sought the number of land parcels dezoned since October 2011 and the reasons for these changes. The Cabinet Office disclosed that 5 parcels totaling 11.85 hectares were dezoned, citing reasons such as landscape impact, deliverability, and infrastructure concerns.

5 parcels of land have been dezoned since 2011.

2 parcels in the South (Knock Rushen and Red Gap) were dezoned due to landscape impact and deliverability.

3 parcels in the East (Laxey) were dezoned due to surface water run-off, inadequate access, sustainability concerns, and deliverability.

The total area dezoned is 11.85 hectares.

The request was received on 12 August 2022 and responded to on 18 August 2022.


Passenger numbers

Summary: The Department of Infrastructure responded to a request for bus passenger statistics by providing average load figures for scheduled journeys and the Connect Villages service between January and August 2022. All requested information was disclosed without any exemptions.

The request covered passenger data from 1st January 2022 to the date of response.

The average passenger load for all scheduled bus trips was 24.3856.

The Connect Villages service had an average of 4.735 passengers per trip.

The Connect Villages service operated an average of 21.731 trips per day.

The response was issued on 4 October 2022 following a request received on 16 August 2022.


Ramsey Swing Bridge

Summary: A request was made for correspondence and reports regarding the Ramsey Swing Bridge and its potential addition to the Protected Buildings Register. The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture responded by releasing all requested information.

The request was received on 15 August 2022.

The response was issued on 9 September 2022.

The authority handling the request is the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture.

All information requested was disclosed with no redactions.

The response included 1 document spanning 2 pages.


Publication of Information Requests

Summary: The requester asked for details on who published an unsigned FOI document, who set the publication criteria, and the legal basis for these actions. The Cabinet Office responded that it does not hold recorded information on these specific decisions, noting that FOI publication is voluntary and not mandated by the Act.

The Cabinet Office does not hold recorded information regarding the specific individuals who published the document or set the criteria.

Publication of FOI responses is a voluntary act by public authorities and is not subject to the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

Each individual public authority decides whether to publish responses to requests.

The unsigned document was recalled by colleagues as being published by the Cabinet Office during the implementation of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

The request was closed on 17 August 2022.

Section 5(1) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (information not held)


civil service headcount and sick days 2012-2022

Summary: The request sought total government employee headcounts and sick days for the years 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018, 2020, and 2022. The Cabinet Office disclosed all requested information, providing Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) averages and total days lost due to sickness for each specified year.

Data is reported as Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) averages calculated for March of each year.

Sickness absence data covers the financial year from 1 April to 31 March.

A change in HR systems in 2018 from Oracle to PiP may affect data consistency regarding how part-time staff sickness is recorded.

Casual staff with no contracted hours are excluded from the data as they are recorded as 0 FTE.

The scope includes various departments and bodies such as Manx Care, Treasury, and the Gambling Supervision Commission (from 2016).


Douglas High Street NCEF's

Summary: The requester asked for statistics on NCEF forms filed by retailers and businesses struck off the registry in specific Douglas streets over the last 12 months. The authority disclosed that it could not filter NCEF data by 'retailers' due to legal limitations, but provided total counts for NCEF submissions and various business deregistrations meeting the address criteria.

The authority cannot provide NCEF data specific to 'retailers' because the Foreign Companies Act 2014 does not require foreign entities to disclose their principal trade.

44 NCEF submissions were received in the period, none of which were linked to Strand Street, Castle Street, or Duke Street.

3 foreign companies meeting the address criteria were struck off the register.

2 local 1931 Register Companies were struck off, 1 company was dissolved, and 7 business names ceased registration in the specified areas.

The request was received on 16 August 2022 and the response was issued on 19 August 2022.

2 local 1931 Register Companies struck off

No provision under the Foreign Companies Act 2014 for foreign registered entities to disclose their principle trade or activity


Northern Schools Capacity and Roles

Summary: A request was made for the maximum pupil capacity and anticipated September 2022 roll numbers for six specific schools in the Isle of Man. The Department of Education, Sport and Culture disclosed all requested data, providing full capacity and enrollment figures for each institution.

The request covered Andreas, Jurby, Sulby, Dhoon, Bunscoill Rhumsaa, and Ramsey Grammar School.

Ramsey Grammar School has the highest maximum capacity at 1005 pupils.

Bunscoill Rhumsaa has the highest maximum capacity among primary/community schools at 680 pupils.

All requested information regarding capacity and roll numbers was released without redaction.

The response was issued on 15 September 2022, following a request received on 18 August 2022.


Our Big Picture

Summary: The applicant requested details on KPMG payments, billable hours, and tender responses for the 'Our Big Picture' economic strategy project. The Treasury disclosed the pricing schedule framework but refused to provide billable hours as the contract was deliverable-based and directed the applicant to a previous FOI response for tender statistics.

The agreement between the Treasury and KPMG is based on deliverables rather than billable hours.

The Treasury does not hold information on instructed or advised hours for the project.

Information regarding tender responses was previously published in FOI request 240589 by the Department for Enterprise.

The response was issued on 2022-09-30 following a request received on 2022-08-19.

The project 'Our Big Picture' informed the draft of the Isle of Man's new economic strategy.

Section 20 - Information accessible to the applicant by other means


Civil legal aid

Summary: The request sought the total amount paid by the Isle of Man Treasury to advocates under the green form and civil legal aid schemes over the last two years. The Treasury disclosed the specific payment figures for the 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 financial years.

The Treasury provided data for the two complete financial years ending March 2022.

A financial year in the Isle of Man runs from 1 April to 31 March.

The total amount paid in 2020/2021 was £937,336.

The total amount paid in 2021/2022 was £913,742.

The request was received on 22 August 2022 and closed on 31 August 2022.


memorandum of agreement covid vaccinations

Summary: The request sought a copy of the memorandum of agreement between the Crown Dependencies regarding the supply of COVID-19 vaccinations, and the Department of Health and Social Care disclosed the full document containing terms on ownership, risk, and compliance.

Ownership of vaccines passes from the Supplier to BEIS, then to UKHSA, and finally to the Crown Dependency upon receipt by authorized personnel.

Risk of loss or damage transfers to the Crown Dependency upon receipt, after which BEIS and UKHSA are not compelled to provide replacements.

Crown Dependencies are prohibited from reselling, donating, or supplying vaccines to third parties without prior written consent from BEIS.

Participants must cooperate in good faith and respond to reasonable data requests from BEIS within 24 hours.

The agreement acknowledges duties under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and equivalent legislation in Crown Dependencies.

Environmental Information Regulations 2004


KPMG Contract

Summary: A request was made for the contract appointing KPMG as a strategic partner to assist the Isle of Man Treasury in delivering a future economy. The authority released the Framework Agreement dated 2021, though the outcome indicates some information was withheld under exemptions.

The contract is a Framework Agreement between the Treasury and KPMG LLC.

The agreement aims to support the Isle of Man's economic growth for the next ten years.

The Invitation to Tender was issued on 26 October 2020.

KPMG submitted their tender response on 23 November 2020.

Specific service details are to be agreed via Purchase Orders appended to the Framework Agreement.

2021
26th October 2020
23rd November 2020
11th December 2020
ten (10) years
two percent (2%)
fifty percent (50%)
Data Protection Act 2002

Commercially Sensitive Information
Confidential Information


Annual Electricity Usage Isle of Man

Summary: The requester asked for detailed electricity usage data broken down by dwelling type, bedrooms, and occupants for the last 10 years and monthly data for 2019-2021. The Manx Utilities Authority disclosed that they do not hold the specific demographic breakdowns requested but provided aggregate annual and quarterly electricity demand figures in millions of kWh by tariff type.

Manx Utilities does not collect or hold data on dwelling type, number of bedrooms, or number of occupants as part of customer accounts.

The authority provided aggregate annual electricity demand figures for 9 years (2013-2021) broken down by Domestic, Non-Domestic, Demand, and Public Lighting.

Monthly data for 2019-2021 was not provided because most domestic meters are read on a quarterly basis.

Quarterly raw data extracts for 2019, 2020, and 2021 were supplied instead of the requested monthly breakdown.

The 2021 Isle of Man Census report was recommended as an alternative source for household statistics.

Information not held by the public authority


Police Pension scheme transfers

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Home Affairs for the number of police officers transferred to the 1991 pension scheme since April 2018 and the associated costs. The authority responded that it does not hold the requested information and suggested contacting other departments.

The Department of Home Affairs does not hold the information regarding police pension scheme transfers.

The request specifically covered transfers occurring since the April 2018 amendment to the Police Pensions Regulations 2010.

The authority suggested the requester contact the Cabinet Office, Office of Human Resources, or the Isle of Man Constabulary.

The request was formally closed on 20 September 2022.

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


TT Scoreboard Location

Summary: The requester asked about the fate of the dismantled TT scoreboard, and the Department of Infrastructure disclosed that it was removed by Tooms Ltd, with a section donated to the Manx Museum and the rest discarded due to poor condition.

The contractor Tooms Ltd dismantled and removed the TT scoreboard.

A complete section of the scoreboard was donated to the Manx Museum.

The majority of the scoreboard was discarded because of its poor condition.

Small sections were offered to interested parties on permanent loan.


Declaration of conflict of interest

No information sent - all held but exempt

Summary: A request was made to determine if MHK Andrew Smith declared a conflict of interest regarding a 2021 gas price vote and if any investigation occurred into an undeclared conflict. The Office of the Clerk of Tynwald withheld all information, citing that voting records are publicly accessible via Hansard and that investigating a member's conduct falls under parliamentary privilege.

The request concerns Andrew Smith, MHK, and a vote on gas price increases in October 2021.

The authority stated that information on declarations of interest is accessible by other means, specifically via the Tynwald website and Hansard.

The authority refused to confirm or deny if an investigation into an undeclared conflict exists due to parliamentary privilege.

A certificate signed by the President of Tynwald was provided to validate the exemption claim.

The request was formally closed on 16 September 2022.

Section 20(2)(b) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Information accessible to applicant by other means)

Section 22(1)(a)(i) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Parliamentary privilege and business)


Children who don't identify as human

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Education, Sport and Culture regarding policies and statistics on children identifying as non-human. The authority responded that it does not hold any information on this subject.

The request was submitted on 2022-08-26.

The Department of Education, Sport and Culture is the responding authority.

The outcome of the request was 'Information not held'.

The request covered policies, numbers, and school provisions for children identifying as non-human.


Manx Electric Railway Accidents & Injuries

Summary: The request sought data on Manx Electric Railway accidents, injuries, employee concerns, and a specific 2013 incident. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed that there were no deaths, 111 personal injury accidents, and 1,136 reported near misses or hazards, while confirming investigations and mitigation measures were implemented.

No deaths to persons or animals have been recorded on the Manx Electric Railway since January 2013.

There were 111 reported personal injury accidents between January 2013 and August 2022.

Staff reported a total of 1,136 near misses, accidents, or hazards during the requested period.

Investigations are conducted on all personal injury incidents, with control measures introduced as necessary.

A specific incident involving an electric shock on a tram was investigated, reported to the HSI, and resulted in wiring updates.


Love IOM

Summary: A request was made to the Department for Enterprise for data on Love IOM gift card sales, consumer spending, government incentives, and marketing costs between September 2021 and August 2022. The authority disclosed all requested information, providing specific figures for card purchases, monthly credit totals, incentive expenditures, and marketing service fees.

2,350 Love IOM cards were purchased between 1 September 2021 and 26 August 2022.

Total consumer money credited to cards during the period was £94,753.25.

The government spent £14,061.40 on incentives, including a launch reward and a weekday cashback scheme.

Marketing services cost £13,893.52 before responsibility moved to the internal Department for Enterprise team.

No individual breakdown of marketing costs was provided as services were delivered on a fixed fee package basis.


Cost of legal proceedings

Summary: The requester asked for a breakdown of legal costs for the DHSC v Ranson High Court appeal, but the Department of Health and Social Care refused to provide the information because it was deemed a repeated request made shortly after a previous one.

The request was made on 29 August 2022 regarding legal costs for the DHSC v Ranson appeal.

The Department of Health and Social Care classified the request as a 'Repeated request'.

A substantially similar request was made by the same individual on 29 August 2022 and answered on 16 September 2022.

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

29 August 2022
26 August
16 September 2022
23 September 2022
2602716
section 11(3)(e)

Section 11(3)(e) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Repeated request)


Running costs Attourney Generals Office

Summary: The request sought wage costs for the Attorney General's Office and details regarding legal actions against Dr Ranson, including decision-making levels and total costs. The authority provided links to public accounts for wage data, clarified that litigation decisions rest with the client, and disclosed specific legal fees while citing exemptions for information already available online.

Wage cost information for 2020-2021 is available in public government accounts ('Light Blue Book', 'Dark Blue Book', 'Pink Book').

The Attorney General's Chambers does not hold information on the internal decision level for appealing against Dr Ranson, as that decision belongs to the instructing litigating party.

Specific legal fees disclosed include £1,125.00 plus VAT prior to the Tribunal main hearing and £1,631.25 plus VAT after the Decision and Reasons.

Internal lawyer time recorded between 12 May and 30 August 2022 totaled 108 hours.

Lawyers have a duty to secure justice before a court while fearlessly protecting their client's interests based on instructions.

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


Douglas Flood Mitigation Feasibility Study Overarching Report - JBA

Summary: The requester asked for the cost paid to Jeremy Benn Associates Limited for the July 2019 Douglas Flood Mitigation Feasibility Study. The Manx Utilities Authority confirmed the total payment amount was £56,767.54 excluding VAT.

The request concerned the cost of the 'Douglas Flood Mitigation Feasibility Study Overarching Report'.

The report was produced by Jeremy Benn Associates Limited in July 2019.

The Manx Utilities Authority paid a total of £56,767.54 for the report.

The request was received on 29 August 2022 and closed on 16 September 2022.


Boat Park fees - Derbyhaven Boat Park

Summary: The request sought details on outstanding boat park fees and enforcement actions for specific vessels and trailers in Derbyhaven. The Department of Infrastructure responded that most photographed items were on private land or had no outstanding fees, with one unidentified trailer scheduled for disposal.

Photographs IMG-9030(2), IMG-9032(3), and IMG-9031 depict private land, not the Department's boat park.

The white trailer and red kayak in photograph IMG-9035 have no outstanding fees.

One trailer in photograph IMG-9035 has no identification mark and an unknown owner.

The unidentified trailer was scheduled for disposal by the Department at the end of October 2022.

No enforcement action was taken because no fees were outstanding for the photographed items.


Covid Amnesty

Summary: A request was made for statistics regarding the number of individuals and businesses who admitted to incorrect claims during the COVID-19 amnesty period, as well as data on returned funds and subsequent investigations. The Department for Enterprise disclosed that no individuals explicitly contacted the government to admit incorrect claims, though 14 requested further information, while noting that the broader review of schemes is ongoing.

No individuals contacted the government during the amnesty to indicate they had incorrectly claimed monetary support.

14 individuals requested further information during the amnesty process to help decide on repayment.

The amnesty allowed recipients to return monies without providing a reason or facing investigation.

A detailed review of eight specific financial assistance schemes is currently ongoing.

The Department for Enterprise stated that some requested information is not held.

20-day amnesty period
14 individuals
2 September 2022
14 September 2022
26 August


FOI TO VEHICLE TEST CENTRE TREMODE.

Summary: A request was made to the Road Transport Licensing Committee for statistics on vehicle noise testing and legal limits, but the authority responded that it does not hold this information.

The request was received on 2022-09-02 and responded to on 2022-09-09.

The Road Transport Licensing Committee stated it does not hold the requested information.

The Department of Infrastructure manages the Vehicle Test Centre and may hold the data.

The requester was advised to contact the Vehicle Test Centre directly via phone or email.


independent monitoring board

Summary: The requester asked for details on the appointment process and member history of the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) from 2019 to 2022. The Department of Home Affairs disclosed the legal basis for appointments and confirmed that member names were withheld due to unanimous refusal, though appointment and expiry dates were provided.

The Independent Monitoring Board was previously known as the Visiting Committee and the Board of Visitors.

The IMB has been in existence for more than sixty years.

The Department does not hold information regarding policy decisions on using the Appointments Commission for IMB appointments.

The Department has not considered using the Appointments Commission as there is no evidence of a lack of independence in the current Board.

Unanimous refusal was received for the release of IMB member names.

Unanimous refusal for the names of members of the IMB to be released


Airport Parking

Summary: A request for information regarding Airport Parking enforcement, payment statistics, and contractor costs was partially fulfilled by the Department of Infrastructure. While data on penalty notices and non-app payments was provided, the cost paid to the Ring Go service was withheld under a public interest exemption.

Fixed Penalty Notices are issued under the Isle of Man Airport Parking Places (Amendment) Order 2022 and the 2012 Order.

Traffic Wardens enforce parking restrictions and are appointed under section 33 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1985.

A total of 440 fixed penalty notices were issued between 24th May 2022 and 28th September 2022.

7.60% of total users (552 individuals) made payments without using the Ring Go app during the specified period.

The amount paid to Ring Go for the service was exempted from disclosure to protect the economic interests of the island.

440 fixed penalty notices
552 non-app payments
7.60% user percentage
£13,305.50 total non-app revenue
24th May 2022 to 28th September 2022
SD 2022/0205
SD 0279/2012

Section 30 of the Act (prejudice to economic interests)


Job grades in Payroll

Summary: The requester asked for job role grades containing 'customer service' in the Payroll team and which grades were included in the original business case. The Cabinet Office confirmed that Executive Officer (EO) and Administrative Officer (AO) grades hold these titles and were included in the business case.

Two job role grades, EO and AO, have 'Customer Service' in their job titles within the Payroll team.

EO and AO grades were included in the original business case for customer service positions in Payroll.

The request was received on 6 September 2022 and responded to on 21 September 2022.

The responding authority is the Cabinet Office of the Isle of Man.

The outcome of the request was that all information was sent.


trainee lawyers

Summary: The requester asked for a summary of trainee legal roles by division and year for the current and previous two financial years. The Attorney General's Chambers disclosed that only one trainee advocate was appointed during the 2020/21 financial year, with no other positions filled within the requested timeframe.

Only one trainee advocate position was appointed within the scope of the request.

The appointment occurred during the 2020/21 financial year.

The role was supervised by Her Majesty's Solicitor General.

The position required meeting Isle of Man Law Society guidance and degree requirements.

No trainee legal roles were appointed in the other financial years covered by the request.


Document Retention Policy

Summary: The requester asked for the Department of Health and Social Care's current Document Retention Policy effective as of September 1, 2022. The authority disclosed two specific retention policies ratified in 2016 and 2019, noting that a broader review of departmental policies is currently underway.

The request was received on 5 September 2022 and responded to on 9 September 2022.

Two documents were released: the Corporate Services Retention of Records Policy and the Registration and Inspections Team Retention of Records Policy.

The Corporate Services policy was ratified on 26 February 2016.

The Registration and Inspections Team policy was ratified on 27 June 2019.

The Department is currently reviewing its policies with the intention to publish them on its website upon approval.


chief secretary appointments commission review report

Summary: The request sought the 2015 Chief Secretary review report on the Appointments Commission and related correspondence regarding alleged inaction. The Cabinet Office disclosed the review report itself but withheld some information, citing partial exemptions.

The review was commissioned by the Chief Secretary in January 2015 following concerns raised in the Appointments Commission's 6th Progress Report in July 2014.

The review was conducted by Yvette Mellor, Director of the Cabinet Office, and produced a draft report in September 2015.

The Appointments Commission submitted a four-page response to the draft report citing factual inaccuracies and erroneous assumptions.

Staffing for Tribunals administration has remained unchanged since 2006 despite the number of Tribunals increasing from 16 to 28.

The Appointments Commission is not a Part 1 or Part 2 Tribunal and lacks specific statutory provisions for its own administrative support staff.

July 2014
January 2015
September 2015
October 2015
June 2016
32 appointments in 2006
101 appointments in 2013
16 Tribunals in 2006
28 Tribunals today
one full-time Executive Officer
two full-time Administrative Officers
4 page response
6 weeks
Tribunals Act 2006
Tribunals Regulations 2010


W3W Communications

Summary: A request was made for all correspondence between the Department of Home Affairs and What 3 Words, including meeting metadata. The authority responded by releasing all requested information with minor redactions applied to personal details of staff.

The request covered all constituent bodies of the Department of Home Affairs, including the Constabulary and Fire Service.

The response included copies of all correspondence and meeting metadata.

Minor redactions were applied to protect personal information of officers and What 3 Words staff.

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

The case was closed on 29 September 2022.

Studio 301 Great Western Studios, 65 Alfred Rd, London, England, W2 5EU, UK


DHSC Complaints report 2021/22

Summary: A request was made for the DHSC health complaints report for the year ended 31 March 2022, but the Department of Health and Social Care responded that the information is not held.

The requested DHSC health complaints report for the year ended 31 March 2022 does not exist.

The non-existence of the report is due to the structural split between DHSC and Manx Care.

The requester was advised to submit a new request to Manx Care for the information.

The Department of Health and Social Care was redesigned on 1 April 2021 following Sir Jonathan Michael's Independent Review.

The redesign separated policy setting (DHSC) from service delivery (Manx Care).

31st March 2022
5 September 2022
8 September 2022
1 April 2021
2612485

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


Manx Radio

Summary: The requester sought a letter from the Treasury to Manx Radio dated July 11, 2022, regarding future funding. The Treasury confirmed that all requested information was sent and closed the request on September 11, 2022.

The request was made to the Treasury on September 6, 2022.

The subject of the request was a letter concerning future funding for Manx Radio.

The Treasury responded that all information was sent.

The request was formally closed on September 11, 2022.

The response included information on the right to a review via the Information Commissioner.


Code of conduct for public servants

Summary: The requester asked for details on complaints regarding inappropriate conduct in the payroll office since 2020 and whether staff were advised to comply with the code of conduct. The Cabinet Office responded that no formal complaints were held or known to managers within that timeframe, resulting in an 'Information not held' outcome.

The Cabinet Office does not hold information on formal complaints regarding inappropriate conduct in the payroll office since 2020.

Managers in the payroll team are unaware of any formal complaints within the specified timeframe.

Informal concerns are typically resolved through face-to-face interactions rather than formal records.

Staff can raise formal complaints under the 'Fairness at Work' framework.

The public can use the Cabinet Office's published Complaints Procedure for service standards.


Cones in Braddan for Manx Grand Prix 2022

Summary: The requester asked for the full contract regarding the borrowing of Department of Infrastructure cones for the 2022 Manx Grand Prix and the collection deadline. The authority provided specific sections of the contract but withheld the full document citing commercial interests.

Cones were placed in Braddan by course contractors to prevent parking during the Manx Grand Prix 2022.

The Department of Infrastructure stated it is not responsible for collecting the cones back in.

Specific sections of the contract were released in Appendix 1.

The full contract was withheld to protect commercial interests and future tender procedures.

The request was closed on 11 October 2022.

Section 30(2)(b) of the Act (Economy and Commercial Interests)


FOI - Cabinet Office - Unpublished Responses to FOI Requests

Summary: The requester asked for unpublished FOI responses from the Cabinet Office since the Act's introduction, but the authority provided two specific past responses instead: one refusing a repeated request about appeal times and another confirming no drug testing policy exists for government workers.

The Cabinet Office refused a request regarding average appeal times as it was substantially similar to a previous request from September 2019.

The authority confirmed there is no specific policy for drug testing Isle of Man Government workers.

An Alcohol & Drug Workplace Policy for the Public Service exists and applies to employees.

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

The original request covered the period from the introduction of the FOIA under the 2015 Appointed Day Order to the date of the request.

Section 11(3)(e)(i) and (ii) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (repeated requests)


Unpublished Respnses to FOI Requests

Summary: The requester asked for copies of all unpublished Freedom of Information Act responses from the Department for Enterprise since the legislation's introduction. The authority confirmed that all requested information was sent to the requester.

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

The requester sought responses not included in the official Disclosure Log.

The scope of the request covered the period from the FOIA's introduction to the date of the request.

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

The response was issued on 26 September 2022.


Unpublished Responses to FOIA Requests

Summary: The request sought unpublished Freedom of Information responses from the Department of Health and Social Care, but the provided text contains a specific response regarding colonoscopy waiting times, monthly procedure statistics, and backlog reduction plans.

The average waiting time for a colonoscopy to investigate potential cancer is less than two weeks.

Routine colonoscopies following an outpatient consultation have an average waiting time of seven months.

The UK NHS standard for colonoscopy waiting times is 6 weeks, with 96.1% of patients meeting this target.

The Endoscopy Unit moved to a new facility in September, increasing productivity by 25%.

Plans to clear backlogs include employing a Nurse Endoscopist and adding a weekly list at Ramsey Cottage Hospital.


Unpublished Responses to FOIA Requests

Summary: The requester asked for copies of Freedom of Information Act responses by the Communications Commission that were missing from the official Disclosure Log. The authority confirmed that all responses are published, identified one missing case due to a system error, and stated that the missing response has now been uploaded.

The Communications and Utilities Regulatory Authority has received 21 FOI requests since the Act's introduction.

Only one previous case (ID 1224182 regarding ConnectMann) was missing from the Disclosure Log due to a system error.

The missing response for case 1224182 has been published to the log following this request.

The authority plans to implement additional checks to prevent future publishing errors.

All other 20 previous cases were already published in the Disclosure Log.


Unpublished Responses to FOIA Requests

Summary: The requester asked for unpublished Freedom of Information Act 2015 responses from the Gambling Supervision Commission since the Act's introduction. The Commission disclosed redacted copies of three previously unpublished responses that were withheld due to their focus on a specific employee and the use of abusive language.

Three specific responses (refs 1487969, 1492833, 1496233) were identified as missing from the public Disclosure Log.

The original requests were targeted personally at an employee rather than their official capacity.

The original requests contained language deemed abusive, aggressive, or intemperate.

Redactions were applied to the employee's name and local business names to prevent identification and avoid causing distress.

The Gambling Supervision Commission closed the request on 7 October 2022.

Freedom of Information Act 2015 Section 25(2)(a) - Absolutely exempt personal information

Requests relating to private interest rather than wider public interest

Requests containing abusive, aggressive, or intemperate language


Unpublished Responses to FOIA Requests

Summary: The requester asked for copies of Freedom of Information Act responses not included in the official Disclosure Log since the Act's introduction. The Isle of Man Post Office responded that all such responses have already been published to the log, meaning no additional documents were withheld.

The request was received on 9th September 2022.

The response was issued on 22nd September 2022.

The authority confirmed all FOI responses are published on the IOM Government FOI Disclosure Log.

The request covered the period from the introduction of the FOIA 2015 to the date of the request.


Unpublished Responses to FOIA Requests

Summary: The request sought unpublished FOIA responses from the Public Sector Pensions Authority, specifically regarding pension payouts for MHK/MLC members and injury awards for former police officers. The authority disclosed total payout figures and recipient counts for pensions, as well as the total number of police injury award recipients, but withheld data broken down by specific bands or review types.

In the 2018/2019 financial year, £960,132.96 was paid in pensions to 46 retired MHK/MLC members.

As of 1st April 2020, 59 former Isle of Man Constabulary police officers were in receipt of injury awards.

The PSPA does not hold information collated by band for police injury awards.

Data on Regulation 37(1) reviews and Regulation 32 reconsiderations was withheld as it is personal to individuals.

The response was issued by Chief Executive Officer Ian T Murray.

Information not held or cannot be found after reasonable steps


Unpublished Responses to FOIA Requests

Summary: The requester asked for copies of unpublished Freedom of Information Act responses from the Attorney General's Chambers since the Act's introduction. The authority responded that the information is not held because all such requests have already been published on the official Disclosure Log.

The request was received on 2022-09-09 and responded to on 2022-09-29.

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

All FOIA requests made to the authority have been published on the Disclosure Log.

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

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

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


Unpublished Responses to FOIA Requests


Unpublished Responses to FOIA Requests

Summary: The requester asked for copies of unpublished Freedom of Information Act responses from the Office of the Clerk of Tynwald since the Act's introduction. The authority disclosed that only two responses were not published in the log, providing a redacted copy of one and explaining the reasons for the exclusions.

The Office of the Clerk of Tynwald has received 45 FOI requests in total, excluding the current one.

Only two responses have not been published in the official disclosure log.

One unpublished response (Ref IM86231I) was excluded because the request was withdrawn.

The second unpublished response (Ref IM91841I) was excluded because the information was not held and publishing it would reveal identifiable personal information.

A redacted version of the response regarding government policy on blacklisting individuals was attached to the disclosure.

Identifiable personal information from requestor would be published


Unpublished Responses to FOIA Requests

Summary: The request sought unpublished FOIA responses from the Road Transport Licensing Committee, which disclosed two specific past responses regarding meeting minutes and bus operating centre planning permissions. Both disclosed responses cited Section 20 exemptions, stating the information was either not held or already reasonably accessible to the applicant through other means.

The Road Transport Licensing Committee (RTLC) responded to a request for unpublished FOIA responses by providing two specific letters.

A request for meeting minutes since June 2018 was refused because the minutes were not yet transcribed, though recordings were available under formal procedures.

A request for a list of Bus Vannin operating centres was refused under Section 20 as the information is already accessible via the RTLC office.

The RTLC stated it does not hold information regarding planning permission status or appeals for operating centres.

The overall outcome of the FOIA case was that all requested information was sent.

Section 20: Information accessible to applicant by other means


MFVP Barrule

Summary: A request was made regarding the MFVP Barrule's fisheries protection voyages and its operational status, specifically whether it was laid up due to technical difficulties. The authority disclosed monthly voyage counts but withheld specific dates under a crime prevention exemption, while clarifying that the vessel has not been laid up this year.

The MFVP Barrule has not been laid up in 2022 due to technical difficulties.

Specific dates of voyages were withheld to prevent prejudice to crime detection and apprehension.

The vessel completed 25 voyages on fisheries protection duties between January and August 2022.

No voyages were recorded for the MFVP Barrule in September 2022 up to the 12th.

Six additional patrols were carried out by the vessel Enbarr during 2022.

January: 4 voyages
February: 2 voyages
March: 2 voyages
April: 5 voyages
May: 4 voyages
June: 1 voyage
July: 2 voyages
August: 5 voyages
September (up to 12th): 0 voyages
6 additional patrols by Enbarr
Request received: 2022-09-12
Response date: 2022-09-29

Section 32(1) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (prevention or detection of crime; apprehension or prosecution of offenders)


Food and Drink Festival

Summary: The requester asked for all records regarding the consideration of postponing or cancelling the 2022 Isle of Man Food and Drink Festival following the death of Queen Elizabeth II. The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture responded by sending all requested information, including emails and Microsoft Teams messages.

The request was received on 12 September 2022.

The response was issued on 7 October 2022.

The authority confirmed that all requested information was sent.

The request specifically covered records related to the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

The response included 1 document spanning 2 pages.


HR Complaints

Summary: A request was made for details regarding HR complaints against Digital Agency board members over the last five years. The Cabinet Office disclosed that one complaint was received under the Fairness at Work Policy, which was not upheld.

One complaint was made against a board member of the Digital Agency in the last 5 years.

The complaint was lodged under the Isle of Man Government Fairness at Work Policy.

The Digital Agency is part of the Department for Enterprise.

The response was issued by the Cabinet Office on 3 October 2022.


Public Health and Vaccines

Summary: A request for data on adverse reactions and deaths related to Covid-19 vaccines on the Isle of Man was partially fulfilled, with the Cabinet Office clarifying that the Public Health Directorate does not collate this specific data as the island participates in the UK MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.

The Public Health Directorate does not collate data on adverse drug reactions for Covid-19 vaccines.

The Isle of Man participates in the UK MHRA Yellow Card Scheme due to its small population size.

There have been no deaths registered on the Isle of Man where the cause was stated as vaccine-related.

The UK MHRA Yellow Card Scheme recorded 2,226 deaths in the United Kingdom where concern existed regarding association with vaccination.

Public Health collates data on deaths from all causes but does not specifically monitor vaccine-related injuries or illnesses.


Sudden Adult Death Syndrome

Summary: A request was made for the number of deaths from Sudden Adult Death Syndrome over the last five years, split by month. Manx Care refused the request stating they do not hold this information as cause of death is determined via death certificates held by the Civil Registry.

Manx Care does not hold information on the cause of death for Sudden Adult Death Syndrome.

Cause of death is determined from death certificates which are held by the Civil Registry, Department for Enterprise.

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

The requester was advised to contact the Civil Registry for the requested data.

The request was received on 13 September 2022 and closed on 15 September 2022.

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


Fall Boosters for covid and seasonal flu

Summary: The request sought details on COVID-19 and flu booster vaccine distribution, dosages, and scheduling for various age groups in the Isle of Man as of September 2022. Manx Care disclosed vaccination statistics and booking numbers but cited Section 20 of the Act to withhold specific vaccine types and dates, directing the requester to their public website instead.

Manx Care provided data on COVID-19 doses administered between September 1 and 13, 2022, totaling 1,844 doses.

The response indicated that 21,948 individuals were registered on the vaccination booking system for Priority Groups 1 through 4.

Co-administration of annual flu vaccinations is offered to eligible individuals depending on availability.

Specific vaccine types and appointment dates for groups 2-4 were not provided in the letter but referenced as available on the Manx Care website.

Individuals cannot choose their vaccine type; it is determined by age and medical history.

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


Amnesty for Ineligible Covid-19 Financial Support Payments

Summary: The requester asked for details on repayments made during a 20-day amnesty for ineligible Covid-19 financial support and confirmation of ongoing formal reviews. The Cabinet Office responded that they do not hold this information and suggested contacting the Department for Enterprise or The Treasury instead.

The Cabinet Office does not hold the requested information regarding amnesty repayments or formal reviews.

The requester was advised to contact the Department for Enterprise or The Treasury for the data.

The amnesty period for reviewing Covid-19 support claims ran from 6th July 2022 to 4th August 2022.

The request was received on 14 September 2022 and closed on 20 September 2022.

20 day amnesty
6th July 2022
4th August 2022
14 September 2022
20 September 2022
2628529


Parking signage

Summary: The requester asked for a count of one-way streets in the Isle of Man with different parking limits on each side, excluding Hill Street. The Department of Infrastructure declined to provide this specific count, citing that the information is already publicly available via Tynwald and that compiling the data would require significant officer time.

The request was received on 14 September 2022 and responded to on 13 October 2022.

The authority stated that one-way consolidated orders and disc zone orders are publicly available on the Tynwald website.

The authority refused to create new information because it would take a significant number of officer working hours.

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

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

Section 20 of the Act (Information already reasonably accessible)

Cost/Resource exemption (Creation of information would take significant officer working hours)


Suicide

Summary: The requester asked for the number of suicide deaths on the Isle of Man over the past five years and the current year to date. The Cabinet Office disclosed the specific annual figures from 2017 to 2022, confirming all requested information was provided.

The request was received by the Cabinet Office on 14 September 2022.

The response was issued on 29 September 2022 with the outcome 'All information sent'.

The data is held by the Public Health Directorate within the Cabinet Office.

The figures cover the period from 2017 through to September 2022.


NHS dental patients ejected from dental practices

Summary: A request was made for statistics on NHS dental patients ejected from practices over the past five years, including reasons and specific locations. Manx Care responded that the information is not held because there is no formal registration process for patient removals and practices are not required to report them.

Manx Care does not hold data on the number of patients ejected from dental practices.

There is no formal registration process for dental patients in the Isle of Man.

Dental practices are not mandatory to inform Manx Care when they remove a patient from their list.

Manx Care only becomes aware of removals if a patient reports it during allocation or via a complaint.

Patients may be removed for failing three appointments or not attending within a two-year period.


Complaints made about  NHS Dental practices

Summary: The request sought the number and nature of complaints against NHS dental practices on the Isle of Man over the last five years. Manx Care disclosed anonymized data for 2017 through 2021, detailing complaint counts per practice and specific reasons, though some information was withheld under exemptions.

Complaint data covers the period from 2017 to 2021.

Practice 6 is no longer contracted by Manx Care.

The highest number of complaints in a single year was 50 in 2018.

Complaint compilation methods changed in August 2019.

Data is anonymized by practice number rather than name.

Part exempt (specific exemption clauses not detailed in text)


Results

Summary: The requester asked for a breakdown of GCSE and A-Level results by school, and the Department of Education, Sport and Culture provided a detailed table of performance statistics for five schools despite stating the outcome as 'all held but exempt'.

The request was received on 2022-09-15 and responded to on 2022-02-10-18.

Data was provided for five schools: Ballakermeen High, Castle Rushen High, Queen Elizabeth 2 High, Ramsey Grammar, and St Ninian's High.

The response includes Level 1/2 pass rates, A*-A percentages, and 5+ Level 2 achievement rates.

The response includes Level 3 (A-Level) percentages for A*-E, A*-C, and A*-B grades.

The authority stated the outcome as 'No information sent - all held but exempt' while simultaneously providing the data.


specific tribunal costs and hours

Summary: The request sought total legal costs and hourly breakdowns for the Mr Graeme Jones tribunal; the authority disclosed detailed billable hours but refused to provide financial cost data as it was not held.

The Attorney General's Chambers does not hold information regarding the financial costs of the Employment and Equality Tribunal case.

A total of 582.42 hours were recorded for direct instruction on the EET case between January 2021 and September 2022.

An additional 30.39 hours were incurred in 2022 for third-party disclosure orders related to the case.

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

The response was issued on 30 September 2022 following a request received on 16 September 2022.

Section 11(3)(a) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015


HM AG salary

Summary: The requester asked for salary, overtime, and bonus details for the HM Attorney General from 2010/11 to the latest year to compare permanent and acting roles. The authority disclosed that the HM AG is paid a flat rate with no overtime or bonuses, aligned to Group 4 judicial salaries less 7.5%.

The HM Attorney General is paid at a flat rate.

There is no overtime or bonuses paid to the HM Attorney General.

The salary is aligned to Group 4 judicial salaries and fees set by the Ministry of Justice.

The salary calculation involves a deduction of 7.5% from the Group 4 rate.

The request was received on 16 September 2022 and closed on 23 September 2022.


all payments to Expol

Summary: A request was made to the Attorney General's Chambers for a list of all payments to the supplier Expol from the 2010/11 financial year to date. The authority responded that no such information is held because no payments have ever been made to this supplier.

The request was received on 16 September 2022.

The outcome was determined on 23 September 2022.

The Attorney General's Chambers confirmed they do not hold the requested information.

No payments have been made to the supplier Expol.

The request covered the period from financial year 2010/11 to the date of the request.


payments to M and P legal

Summary: The request sought a list of payments made to M and P legal from the 2010/11 financial year to date. The Attorney General's Chambers disclosed that only one payment was made during this period, totaling £1,536 plus VAT for a court costs award in November 2011.

The request covered the period from financial year 2010/11 to the date of response.

Only a single payment was made to M&P Ltd within the specified timeframe.

The nature of the payment was a Court costs award.

The amount paid was £1,536 excluding VAT.


Local authority rent increases

Summary: The requester asked about the legality and Tynwald approval of local authority rent increases and five-year tenancy agreements. The Department of Infrastructure confirmed the legal basis for these practices but stated that social housing rent charges do not require Tynwald approval.

Douglas Borough Council is best suited to answer questions regarding the correct application of the Fixed Term Tenancy Policy.

The Landlord and Tenant Act 1954, Section 4(1) permits landlords to operate tenancies for any fixed period.

Rent increases are authorized by the Housing Act 1955, Local Government Act 1985, Isle of Man Government Financial Regulations 2020, and a 1999 Tynwald resolution.

Rent charges for social housing are not subject to Tynwald approval.

The Department of Infrastructure does not hold specific information on whether rent increases were carried out correctly on Douglas Corporation properties.


Ballasalla ByPass Bridge

Summary: A request was made for documents regarding the planning and construction of the Ballasalla Bypass Bridge, specifically concerning weight restrictions, life expectancy, and aesthetic designs. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed all requested information, providing 210 pages of structural calculations and design records.

The bridge was designed as a portal frame using the unit width method of analysis.

The structure was designed for 30 units of HB loading.

The carriageway is 7.3m wide and divided into two notional lanes of 3.65m each.

Accidental wheel loads on footways were assessed and found to be less onerous than HA and HB loads.

Vertical loads due to centrifugal effects were concluded to be negligible.


Hospice Care Clinical/Non-Clinical provision

Summary: The requester asked for details on why non-clinical Hospice Care employees were excluded from the Government Unified Scheme 2011, but the Public Sector Pensions Authority stated it does not hold this specific information. The authority provided historical context explaining that the exclusion originated from the 2001 Hospice Care Superannuation Scheme managed by the Civil Service Commission before the PSPA took over.

The PSPA does not hold the specific information regarding the consultation or reasoning for excluding non-clinical employees.

The exclusion of non-clinical staff originated in the Hospice Care Superannuation Scheme 2001 under Clause 1(3).

The Government Unified Scheme 2011 (GUS) was an amalgamation of existing schemes including the 2001 Hospice Care scheme.

The PSPA became the Scheme Manager for GUS in 2012 and has not altered the membership criteria since.

Prior to 2001, membership was available to all Hospice Care employees under the 1989 Scheme.


Homes built

Summary: The requester asked for records of homes built annually from 2015 to 2022 and any earlier available data to verify a government claim about housing development. The Department of Infrastructure provided a complete dataset covering 2005 to 2021, broken down by private and public housing, but confirmed that no records for 2022 were yet available.

The Department of Infrastructure released housing completion data spanning from 2005 to 2021.

No records for the year 2022 were held by the Department at the time of the response.

Public housing is defined as all affordable housing, including first-time buyer and public rented properties.

Private housing is defined as all new housing excluding affordable housing.

The 2020 lockdown delayed completions by three months, resulting in a corresponding increase in 2021 figures.


Glen Wylin Campsite

Summary: The requester sought a copy of the lease agreement between the Forestry Board and Glen Wylin Campsite to understand the legality of seasonal campers being asked to vacate. The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture provided the requested document with personal information redacted.

The request was made to the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture regarding Glen Wylin Campsite.

The requester questioned the legality of approximately 20 seasonal campers being told to vacate.

Management reportedly plans to accept only motor homes for the next season.

The lease agreement was released with personal data redacted under section 25(1)(a) of the FoI Act.

The request was received on 2022-09-21 and closed on 2022-09-28.

Section 25(1)(a) of the FoI Act (Personal data of which the requester is not the data subject)


Summary: The requester asked for an itemised list of police officer pension rights by qualifying employment date, but the Public Sector Pensions Authority withheld specific dates to prevent individual identification under Section 25 of the FOI Act 2015, providing only aggregated totals instead.

The request sought anonymised data on active and inactive police officers with pension rights predating 1st September 1995.

Specific employment dates were withheld because they could identify individual members.

The authority provided a summary table of active and inactive members split by scheme join date.

The data reflects the status of members as of 23rd September 2022.

The response was issued by the Public Sector Pensions Authority on 30th September 2022.

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


Covid Regulations

Summary: The requester asked for details on who drafted specific COVID-19 quarantine regulations, the drafter's qualifications, and whether legal advice was sought regarding international health and torture conventions. The Cabinet Office disclosed that the Attorney General's Chambers drafted the regulations under the Emergency Powers Act 1936 but stated it did not hold information regarding the specific qualifications of the individual drafter.

The regulations were drafted by the Attorney General's Chambers.

The regulations were made under the Emergency Powers Act 1936.

The Governor in Council is the body legally empowered to make these regulations.

The Cabinet Office does not hold information regarding the specific qualifications of the person who drafted the regulations.

Staff of the Attorney General's Chambers must be a qualified advocate or barrister.

Information not held by the public authority


Dredging - Peel Harbour/Marina

Summary: A request was made regarding the dredging schedule, silt accumulation, and disposal plans for Peel Harbour/Marina following a planning application for a silt dump. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed the last dredging date, annual silt deposition rates, and future dredging timelines, but withheld specific disposal method details due to ongoing contractual discussions.

Peel Harbour/Marina was last dredged in Spring 2021.

The river deposits approximately 2,000 cubic meters of sediment into the Marina annually.

A further dredge is being considered for Spring 2024, potentially deferred to 2025.

Specific silt disposal methods for the 2024/25 dredge cannot be disclosed as discussions are in early stages.

There is no current intention to let the Marina become unusable or return it to a tidal state.

Information withheld due to early stage discussions and contractual agreements


Summary: The requester asked for details on repayments made during the July-August 2022 amnesty for ineligible Covid-19 financial support and confirmation of ongoing formal reviews. The Department for Enterprise disclosed the total committed repayment amount, the sum received to date, and confirmed that a formal review of all claims is currently underway.

A 20-day amnesty for reviewing Covid-19 support claims ran from 6 July 2022 to 4 August 2022.

The total amount committed to be returned during the amnesty was £186,059.99.

As of 27 September 2022, £136,888.05 had been received from the committed total.

Repayment plans were agreed with some businesses to assist with cash flow.

The Department confirmed that a formal review of all coronavirus support scheme payments is currently being undertaken.


how many of the people who died of covid were vaccinated

Summary: The requester asked for the number of vaccinated individuals among those who died of COVID-19 in the Isle of Man. The Department of Health and Social Care refused the request, stating they do not hold the information as it is likely held by Manx Care following a 2021 service redesign.

The Department of Health and Social Care does not hold the requested data on vaccination status of COVID-19 deaths.

The information may be held by Manx Care due to the separation of policy and service delivery.

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

The Cabinet Office (Public Health) was suggested as an alternative source for death figures and causes.

The health system redesign occurred on 1 April 2021 following Sir Jonathan Michael's Independent Review.


MHK opt in/out of which pay award list.

Summary: The requester asked if Payroll holds records of MHKs opting in or out of pay awards and if these are kept in compliance with the OHR Records Management Policy. The Cabinet Office confirmed that if such data is provided to the Payroll Team, they are responsible for holding and retaining it in compliance with the policy.

The Payroll Team in the Office of Human Resources is responsible for holding data on MHK pay award opt-ins/opt-outs if provided with the details.

Any such records held by Payroll must be retained in compliance with the OHR Records Management Policy.

The request was received on 27 September 2022 and responded to on 29 September 2022.

The response was issued by the Cabinet Office in Douglas, Isle of Man.

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


King Edward Pier works

Summary: The request questioned the Department of Infrastructure's timeline and awareness regarding necessary pier works to accommodate the new Manxman vessel, citing a 2016 proposal. The Department disclosed that specific engineering data on vessel loading was only received in December 2020, triggering the re-scoping of the project, but withheld cost estimates due to an ongoing procurement process.

The Department was aware the new vessel (Manxman) would be larger than the Ben-My-Chree but lacked specific loading data until 2020.

A vessel mooring study detailing increased loading on the King Edward VIII Pier was received on 14 December 2020.

Royal HaskoningDHV was appointed in July 2021 to develop an Options Study for the new berth and pier repairs.

Cost estimates for the proposed works cannot be provided because a competitive procurement process has commenced.

The project scope was re-focused to upgrade the pier for the new vessel and carry out general repairs.


Two energy doctors

Summary: The requester asked the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture about the employment status, current hiring status, and required qualifications for two proposed 'energy doctors'. The authority confirmed the roles will be contract-based, no one has been hired yet, and specified that training will be provided alongside desirable experience in energy management or DIY.

The two energy doctors will be employed on contracts rather than as civil servants.

No one has yet been hired or engaged to deliver the energy doctor service.

Training will be provided to enable energy doctors to conduct house surveys and offer advice on energy use.

Desirable qualifications include an energy management certification or experience in DIY related to energy saving measures.

DEFA previously funded a similar successful energy doctor service provided by Age Concern.


Updated Cost of Covid lateral flow testing

Summary: The requester asked for updated figures on the cost and volume of free lateral flow tests issued to Isle of Man residents between July 2021 and August 2022. Manx Care disclosed the total number of tests distributed, unit purchase costs, delivery and distribution expenses, and the overall total cost to the taxpayer.

3,107,922 individual tests and 70,000 packs of 5 tests were distributed to residents.

The total overall cost to the Manx taxpayer for lateral flow testing was £9,072,127.48 (ex VAT).

Purchase costs varied by batch, ranging from £1.09 to £2.75 per individual test.

Distribution costs to residents (£800,444.06) were significantly higher than delivery costs to the island (£176,038.42).

As of the response date, 158,178 lateral flow devices remained in stock.


Gender balance of Primary school teachers.

Summary: A request was made for statistics on the gender balance of primary school teachers in the Isle of Man as of September 2022 and details on any schools lacking male teachers. The authority responded by sending all requested information, including a 2019 Equal Opportunities Employee Handbook, though the specific statistical data is not visible in the provided text excerpt.

The request was received on 2022-09-27 and the outcome was 'All information sent' on 2022-10-18.

The response included 43 pages across 3 documents.

The Isle of Man Government is committed to promoting equal opportunities and fairness at work.

The response included the 'Promoting Equal Opportunities Employee Handbook' dated June 2019.

The handbook outlines protections against discrimination based on sex, age, race, and other grounds.


Isle of Man Deaths

Summary: The requester asked for confirmation on whether death statistics included Isle of Man residents who died in UK hospitals and requested specific figures for the last five years if they were excluded. The Cabinet Office responded that this information is not held by them or Public Health, as mortality data is limited to deaths registered within the Isle of Man.

The Cabinet Office does not hold information on Isle of Man residents who died in UK hospitals.

Public Health mortality data only covers deaths registered in the Isle of Man.

Deaths are registered in the place where the person died, not where they are resident.

The Isle of Man Civil Registry may be able to provide further advice on the death registration process.

The request was closed on 29 September 2022.


Registered Deaths

Summary: The requester asked for clarification on whether death statistics include residents dying in UK hospitals and requested monthly death data from 2016 to September 2022. The authority confirmed that deaths occurring outside the Isle of Man are not held in their registry and directed the requester to an open data portal for monthly figures, while also correcting previous errors in released data.

Deaths of Isle of Man residents occurring in UK hospitals are not included in Central Registry figures because registration must occur in the district where death happened.

The Central Registry does not hold information on the number of residents who died in UK hospitals.

Monthly death data from January 2016 is available via the government open data portal.

Data for September 2022 was not yet available at the time of the response.

Previous figures released in response to FOI requests contained errors due to manual compilation issues.

Section 18 of the Civil Registration Act 1984

Information not held by the authority (deaths outside the Island are registered in the UK)


Promenade Costs

Summary: A request was made for detailed cost breakdowns of various temporary works and landscaping associated with the Isle of Man Promenade scheme. The Department of Infrastructure disclosed specific monetary values for labour, tarmac, kerbs, and landscaping, while noting that paving blocks and topsoil were provided from stock or free of charge.

Paving blocks used were from Department of Infrastructure stock with no material cost attributed.

Labour for block laying and associated work was performed by DOI staff.

The dropped kerb crossing over Loch Promenade was part of main works, not temporary works.

Plant hire costs were included within the provided monetary figures.

Topsoil for the wild flower corridor was provided free of charge.


Primary Care Service reviews and CQC report Ramsey Group Practise

Summary: The requester asked for Primary Care Service reviews and a CQC report regarding Ramsey Group Practise, but the Department of Health and Social Care stated it does not hold this information.

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) does not hold the requested Primary Care Service reviews as they may be held by Manx Care.

The DHSC does not currently hold the CQC report for Ramsey Group Practise from July 2022.

The DHSC intends to publish all GP Practice reports on its website within three months of receipt from the CQC.

The separation of policy (DHSC) and service delivery (Manx Care) was implemented on 1st April 2021 following Sir Jonathan Michael's Independent Review.

The request was formally closed on 17 October 2022.

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


Parking Restrictions at Ronaldsway Airport

Summary: A request was made for details on parking restrictions at Ronaldsway Airport and the A5 highway, along with links to the legal basis. The Department of Infrastructure responded by providing direct links to the relevant Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) held in the Tynwald library.

The request concerned parking restrictions on the roadway in front of the Airport Building and the A5 highway opposite it.

The Department of Infrastructure stated that road restriction information is publicly available via Traffic Regulation Orders.

Three specific TRO documents were provided as the legal basis for the restrictions.

The request was received on 4 October 2022 and the response was issued on 14 October 2022.

The outcome of the request was that all information was sent.


Agri-Environment Scheme claims

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture for statistics on successful Agri-Environment Scheme claims for new dubs and scrapes, including planning approval requirements. The authority disclosed that there were 2 successful claims for dubs and 1 for scrapes, with specific details on the planning evidence submitted for each.

There have been 2 successful claims for the creation of new dubs under Section 5/01a(ii) since the scheme's inception.

Both successful dub claims required the submission of full planning approval details before payment.

There has been 1 successful claim for the creation of new scrapes under Section 5/01a(ii) since the scheme's inception.

The single scrape claim required evidence of permitted development rather than full planning approval.

No scrape claims were made without submitting either planning approval or permitted development evidence.


FOI Requests and Responses

Summary: The requester asked for hyperlinks to all previous FOI responses from the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture since 2015. Although the department initially stated it did not hold this specific data, it voluntarily created and provided a list of 16 hyperlinks to published responses, noting one case was withheld from publication due to personal information.

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture received the request on 2022-10-04 and responded on 2022-10-18.

The department initially stated it did not hold the requested hyperlinks as there is no requirement to do so.

Despite the initial stance, the department exercised its duty to assist and created hyperlinks for 16 past cases.

One case (ID 1006619) was not published on the website because it contained significant personal information.

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


Heathrow

Summary: A request was made for a weekly breakdown of payments made to underwrite Loganair's Heathrow route from May to October 2022. The Department of Infrastructure refused to disclose the information, citing exemptions related to commercial interests.

The request was received on 2022-10-05 and responded to on 2022-10-17.

The Department for Enterprise previously stated it did not hold the requested information.

The Department of Infrastructure confirmed it holds the information but refused to release it.

The refusal was based on the public interest test weighing commercial prejudice against transparency.

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

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


VAT refunds on imported aircraft

Summary: The requester asked for quarterly data on VAT refunds for aircraft imported into the EU via the Isle of Man for 2021 and early 2022. The Treasury disclosed that no such refunds were made, no claims were submitted, and no aircraft received full refunds during the specified periods.

The UK left the EU on 31st January 2021.

No aircraft were imported into the European Union via the Isle of Man between 1st January 2021 and 31st January 2021.

There were zero VAT refund claims submitted for the requested periods.

The total amount of VAT refunded was £nil for all quarters in 2021 and January to September 2022.

No aircraft received a 100% VAT refund during the requested timeframe.


Cost of Government Conference

Summary: A request was made for a detailed cost breakdown of the Government Conference at Villa Marina, but the Cabinet Office responded that they do not hold this information.

The Cabinet Office does not hold the requested cost breakdown information.

The Department for Enterprise was suggested as an alternative contact for the information.

The information is expected to be published online within 90 days of the conference end.

The request was received on 11 October 2022 and closed on 12 October 2022.

The conference took place at the Villa Marina venue.


Manx utilities gas import

Summary: A request was made to the Department of Infrastructure for data on gas import volumes, costs, and suppliers for the Isle of Man. The authority responded that it does not hold the requested information and suggested contacting the Manx Utilities Authority instead.

The Department of Infrastructure does not hold the requested information on gas imports.

The request was received and answered on the same day, 13 October 2022.

Applicants are advised to contact the Manx Utilities Authority for the data.

The request covered average monthly gas volume, cost per cubic meter, and the undersea pipeline supplier.


Land and properties owned in Peel

Summary: The requester asked for a list of properties and land owned by the Department of Infrastructure in specific areas of Peel. The Department refused to fulfill the request, stating the information is already publicly available via the Land Registry.

The request was received on 17 October 2022 and responded to on 18 October 2022.

The Department of Infrastructure is not required to fulfill the request under Part 3 (20) (1) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015.

The requested information regarding land ownership is already publicly available from the Land Registry.

The specific areas of interest were West Quay, East Quay, Shore Road, and Harbour in Peel.

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

Part 3 (20) (1) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Information already publicly available)


Communication CM/Cabinet Office with DHSC 19/9/2022 - 5/10/2022

Summary: The request sought communications between the Isle of Man Cabinet Office/Chief Minister and DHSC regarding the Ranson v DHSC appeal between September and October 2022. The authority confirmed holding the information but withheld it citing legal professional privilege, though provided a narrative context regarding the appeal timeline.

The request covered communications between 19 September 2022 and 5 October 2022 regarding the DHSC's second appeal in the Ranson v DHSC case.

The DHSC's second appeal was heard in the High Court on 6 October 2022 and was dismissed.

The Cabinet Office and DHSC issued a conjoined response stating that information is held but exempt under Section 40 (Legal Professional Privilege).

A court deadline for filing the DHSC legal argument was set for 16:00 on Wednesday 28 September 2022.

Messrs Callin Wild advocates took over conduct of the proceedings on 10 August 2022.

2984926
2951619
19 September 2022
5 October 2022
6 October 2022
4 August 2022
10 August 2022
28 September 2022
17 April 2023
4 April 2023
17 March 2023
16:00
s. 34
s. 40
s. 35
s. 6
Government Departments Act 1987
FoI Act 2015
Judgment 111022


Number of registered charities

Summary: The request sought statistics on registered charities in the Isle of Man for April 2020 and April 2023, as well as data on non-submission of annual returns. The authority disclosed the registration numbers for both dates but refused the request regarding annual returns because the information was not held and would require creation.

The new charity act came into force on 1st April 2020.

There were 355 charities registered with the new commission in April 2020.

There were 765 charities registered as at 1st April 2023.

Information on charities that had not submitted annual returns by 31st March 2021 was refused.

The refusal was based on the fact that the authority does not hold the information and creating it would require deriving data from existing records.

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

Section 8(3)(a) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (create or derive information)


Evidence to Tynwald Standards Committee

Summary: The requester sought evidence submitted by four specific Members of Tynwald to the Standards Committee regarding an investigation announced by Chief Minister Alfred Cannan. The Office of the Clerk of Tynwald refused to disclose the information, citing an exemption to protect the privileges of Tynwald, though they listed some related documents available in a public report.

The request was made to the Office of the Clerk of Tynwald on 2023-04-27.

The response was issued on 2023-05-24 with the outcome 'No information sent - all held but exempt'.

The request targeted evidence from MHKs Rob Callister, Joney Faragher, Michelle Haywood, and MLC Tanya August-Hanson.

The investigation was announced by Chief Minister Alfred Cannan in the House of Keys on 15 November 2022.

A certificate signed by the President of Tynwald was provided to confirm the exemption.

3086865
2023-04-27
2023-05-24
15 November 2022
17th November 2022
12th December 2022
8th February 2023
16th February 2023
18th February 2023
PP2023/0032
section 22
Freedom of Information Act 2015

Section 22 of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Privileges of Tynwald)


Vaccination board moved to Manx Care- request for minutes

Summary: The requester sought the new name, Terms of Reference, minutes, and evidence for the vaccination board transferred to Manx Care. The authority disclosed the Terms of Reference for the 'Immunisation Committee' and minutes from an initial meeting in October 2022, resulting in a partial upholding of the request.

The vaccination board was renamed the 'Immunisation Committee' under Manx Care.

The committee reports to the Health Protection Committee.

Membership includes representatives from Primary Care Network, Manx Care Executive, Community Pharmacy Services, Public Health, School Nursing, and DHSC.

An initial meeting was held on 6th October 2022 to review the Terms of Reference.

Concerns were raised regarding operational resources, data assurance, and the need for a permanent service budget for clinical advice.


Government Non-Disclosure Agreements

Summary: The requester asked for statistics on Government Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) and financial settlements from 2018 to 2022, along with procedural questions about the Attorney General's role. The Attorney General's Chambers refused the request, stating they do not hold the specific records on NDA counts or settlement values, and that the procedural questions were not valid requests for recorded information.

The Attorney General's Chambers (AGC) does not hold records of the number of NDAs or financial settlements as these are held by individual government departments.

AGC provides legal advice to departments but does not track whether agreements prepared on their behalf reached conclusion.

Questions regarding AGC advice, Chief Minister notification, and NDA criteria were rejected as they constitute questions rather than requests for recorded information.

The authority cited Section 11(3)(a) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 regarding the inability to find the information.

The authority cited Section 9(5)(a)(iii) regarding the inadequate description of information for the procedural questions.

Section 11(3)(a) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Information not held or cannot be found)

Section 9(5)(a)(iii) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Inadequate description of information requested)

Section 11(3)(c) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Practical refusal reason)

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


Earystane & Scards, Sulby & Druidale

Summary: The request sought all information regarding proposed onshore wind farms, including notes and meeting records. The response disclosed internal Manx Utilities Authority documents detailing site selection, capacity targets, and timelines for three potential locations, though the overall FOI complaint was not upheld.

Three potential onshore wind farm sites were identified: Earystane & Scards, Sulby & Druidale, and West Baldwin & Injebreck.

The proposed wind turbines will reach 150m in height, making them the tallest infrastructure on the Island.

Earystane & Scards is projected to generate 105-130 GWh annually with 4-5 turbines.

Sulby & Druidale is projected to generate 81 GWh annually with 7-12 turbines.

The Council advised against releasing specific site names until a single site was identified to reduce community disruption.

105-130 GWh annual output (Earystane & Scards)

45 kT CO2(e) reduction (Sulby & Druidale)

60-74 kT CO2(e) reduction (Earystane & Scards)

January 2026 full manufacturing contract


Earystane & Scards, Sulby & Druidale

Summary: A request was made for all documents regarding proposed onshore wind farms at Earystane, Scards, Sulby, and Druidale, but the Attorney General's Chambers responded that they do not hold the information.

The request was received on 19 July 2023 and responded to on 8 August 2023.

The authority stated it does not hold or cannot find the requested information after reasonable steps.

The requester was advised to submit a new request to the Manx Utilities Authority.


Cummal Mooar Residential Home, Ramsey

Summary: A request was made for financial records, inspection reports, closure meeting notes, and land sale inquiries regarding Cummal Mooar Residential Home. The Department of Health and Social Care provided an unannounced inspection report from 2018 but indicated that not all requested information was held.

The request covered income/expenditure for 5 years, inspection reports, closure meeting notes, and land purchase offers.

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

An unannounced inspection report dated September and October 2018 was included in the response.

The inspection found the service 'Not met' regarding mandatory staff training and 'Partially Met' for policy reviews.

The facility was identified as the Cummal Mooar Resource Centre with 40 individuals attending at the time of inspection.


Education professional development and review of Crown Prosecution IOM

Summary: A request for information regarding Crown Prosecutor qualifications, training, and case statistics was partially refused because the authority does not hold the specific data or deemed some questions as not being requests for recorded information. The response clarified that prosecutors are members of the Manx Bar rather than Crown Prosecutors and provided a job description for a Legal Officer in Prosecutions.

The Attorney General's Chambers does not hold information on procedures for auditing prosecutors or statistics on cases not progressed.

Prosecutors in the Isle of Man are members of the Manx Bar and are not technically 'Crown Prosecutors'.

There are no formal Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements or mandatory training hours for prosecutors.

Training is provided by the Isle of Man Law Society and various external bodies.

A job description for a Legal Officer in Prosecutions was enclosed as the closest available document.

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

Section 9(5)(a)(iii) of the Freedom of Information Act (questions do not constitute an adequate description of recorded information)

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


hours logged to public sector clients

Summary: The request sought metadata on hours logged by category for public sector clients by the Attorney General's Chambers for the 2021/22 and 2022/23 financial years. The authority responded by sending all requested information, including detailed time analysis reports listing hours spent on various activities for multiple government departments.

The request was made on 2023-08-17 and the outcome was 'All information sent' on 2023-09-15.

The response included 55 pages across 3 documents containing time analysis reports.

Data covers activities such as drafting, court time, research, and correspondence for clients including the Cabinet Office and Department of Health and Social Care.

The information was sourced from Microsoft Dynamics and Prescient+ systems.

Specific hours were logged for the Bishop of Sodor and Man, Communications & Utilities Regulatory Authority, and Department for Enterprise.


Closure of Cummal Mooar

Summary: A request was made for details regarding the decommissioning of Cummal Mooar, including meeting attendees, decision-makers, and mitigation measures. Manx Care provided excerpts for some questions but withheld information on attendees and decision-makers due to data protection exemptions and stated they could not locate records for mitigation measures and PSC notification.

The request concerned the closure of Cummal Mooar and the impact on staff and residents.

Information regarding who attended meetings and who the decision maker was was withheld.

The authority stated they do not hold or could not find information on mitigation measures.

The authority stated they do not hold or could not find information on when the PSC was informed.

The response was issued on 23 May 2024 following a request received on 22 August 2023.

Section 25(b)(i)&(ii) - Absolutely exempt personal information (Data Protection)

Section 11(3)a - Practical refusal (Information not held or cannot be found)


legislation

Summary: The request sought a list of primary and subsidiary legislation drafted by external suppliers over the last five years, but the authority only disclosed details for two specific bills while refusing the rest due to lack of records, personal data, and confidentiality clauses.

The Attorney General's Chambers received the request on 2023-08-23 and responded on 2023-09-20.

Information was partially withheld because the authority does not hold or cannot find some of the requested data.

Some information was exempted as it constitutes personal data of which the requester is not the data subject.

Disclosure of supplier contract details was refused to avoid an actionable breach of confidence.

Two bills were disclosed: the Education Bill (2018-2020) and the Animal Welfare Bill (2022).

Section 25(2)(a) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (Personal data)

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


Summary: A request was made for details of respondents and proposals regarding a 2020 PIN for at least 20 MW of onshore renewables, but the Attorney General's Chambers refused the request stating the information is not held.

The request concerned a PIN published in 2020 for at least 20 MW of onshore renewables.

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

The authority suggested contacting the Manx Utilities Authority (MUA) as they may have run the PIN.

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

The case was closed on 12 September 2023.

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


Cost of running Attorney General's Chambers

Summary: A request for staffing numbers and operational costs of the Attorney General's Chambers was partially fulfilled, disclosing headcounts for lawyers and non-lawyers while refusing remuneration and rent data due to practical refusal reasons.

There are 36 qualified lawyers currently employed at the Attorney General's Chambers.

There are 45 non-lawyer staff members currently employed at the Chambers.

The authority does not hold separate information regarding total remuneration for legal versus non-legal roles.

No rent is paid for the office accommodation at Belgravia House as it is a Government-owned property.

The overall total cost of running the Chambers was not provided due to the inability to compile the data.

Section 11(3)(b) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (practical refusal: creation or derivation of information)

Section 8(3)(a) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (not required to create information)

Section 8(3)(c) of the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (not required to undertake substantial compilation)

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


Yellow card data, who reviewed it

Summary: The requester asked for correspondence and governance details regarding Yellow Card data for COVID-19 vaccines in the Isle of Man, but Manx Care disclosed that they do not hold this data as it is submitted directly to the UK's MHRA.

Yellow Card reports are direct one-way communications from patients or staff to the MHRA, not held by Manx Care.

Manx Care does not currently receive feedback on Yellow Card reports from the Isle of Man.

No local committee or board reviews Yellow Card information because the data is not available locally.

The Medicines Optimisation Team was not involved in preparing Minister Ashford's response to Tynwald Question 3.3.

Manx Care circulates the MHRA's monthly 'Drug Safety Update' newsletter which is informed by national Yellow Card reports.

Information not held by the public authority


Unclaimed Manx Residents in U.K.

Summary: The requester asked about the policy for repatriating or handling the remains of unclaimed Manx residents who die in the UK. The Attorney General's Chambers responded that they do not hold this information and suggested contacting the Cabinet Office instead.

The request concerned the pathway for unclaimed Manx residents who die in the UK.

The authority cited section 11(3)(a) as the reason for refusal.

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

The request was closed on 18 October 2023.