TYNWALD has voted through a 6 per cent increase in road tax – adding further pressure on already squeezed household incomes.

Infrastructure Minister David Cretney MHK told the court: ‘While the department understands that vehicle operating costs are continuing to increase, when general standards of living are not, I am sure members will understand that many highways need to be repaired and therefore it is essential that the income generated from this duty continues to meet inflationary costs.’

Mr Cretney said with the 6 per cent increase, road tax was forecast to bring in revenue of £11,253,277 – and he insisted that ‘every penny’ would go on road maintenance.

‘Anybody who drives on the island’s roads presently will know that there is work required in some areas,’ he said.

The Minister explained that the Vehicle Duty Order 2011 has two aims – to maintain revenue and provide funding for road safety measures but also to address an anomaly that occurred when emission-based duty was introduced in April 2010, which means that two identical cars can be charged different rates of duty.

To address that anomaly, a two phased approach was proposed. Phase 1 to be introduced in 2012-13 will apply to vehicles brought into the island, but first registered elsewhere before April 1 2008, which will move to duty based on engine capacity rather than CO2 emissions – unless the duty based on emissions is lower.

This is estimated to affect more than 2,000 vehicles.

Phase 2 of the process of getting most vehicles on a similar charging basis would be introduced in 2013-14, when vehicles brought into the island, but first registered elsewhere between April 1 2008 and March 31 2010, will be moved to duty based on engine capacity, unless the duty based on CO2 emissions is lower.

Mr Cretney said: ‘The department appreciates that this is not the ideal time to be reducing overall income by addressing this anomaly of different duties to the same vehicle, especially when the numbers of vehicles being registered and licensed are reducing, but these measures should assist vehicle traders by reducing barriers that currently exist with some ages of vehicle.’

Tynwald voted overwhelmingly to approve the order, with only David Quirk MHK (Onchan) voting against.

CERVICAL Cancer Prevention Week 2012 is well under way in the island this week.

The Department of Health is focusing on two specific aspects of cervical cancer prevention – immunisation and screening – as the island joins the rest of Europe to support the annual initiative which began on Sunday and runs until Saturday (January 28).

The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Immunisation Programme that has been running for two-years is offered to all girls aged 12 and 13 (Year 8).

Evidence indicates that the introduction of this vaccination will prevent 70 per cent of cervical cancers – it offers protection against the two main forms of HPV.

The vaccinations can still commence before a girl is 18 if she missed the opportunity while in Year 8.

Health Minister David Anderson MHK said: ‘To be able to vaccinate against this type of cancer is a remarkable step forward.

‘By providing an HPV Immunisation Programme annually, the department is taking action to save the lives of numerous women in the Isle of Man.

Vaccination

‘We hope to see the number of cases of cervical cancer reduced by more than two thirds in the years ahead, as those girls who have been vaccinated enter adulthood.’

Around 1,000 women lose their life to cervical cancer every year in the UK.

Isle of Man health protection nurse Jacqui Dunn said: ‘The peak incidence of cervical cancer is between the ages of 40 to 55. The importance of screening regularly from age 25 cannot be over emphasised.’

Dr Parameswaran Kishore, Isle of Man director of public health, said: ‘This awareness week highlights the importance of all girls in the eligible age group receiving all three doses of the HPV vaccination, as well as encouraging eligible women to accept the invitation for cervical screening and follow up.

‘The majority of those who do not take up either the vaccine or the invitation for screening often do not fully realise the implications of their decision, as they may not be aware of all the facts on cervical cancer. Some 20 per cent of women don’t attend each year for this important test.’

For Staywell Clinic cervical screening appointments, phone 642638. For HPV vaccination in schools, call 642688.

THE Southern Swimming Pool in Castletown was closed last Friday and is again closed today (Monday) for technical reasons.

Manager Debbie Barron explained when there is a chemical imbalance in the water, they have to close the pool.

She said: ‘We could not allow people to get in the water. It has happened many times before, now we have better PR, we do want to let people know as soon as possible, particularly if people have babies or children we want to let them know not to make the journey.’

She added she hoped the pool would reopen at some point later on Monday.

KEVIN Loundes won the men’s Medis-sponsored Isle of Man Cross-Country Championship title at Ballannette, Lonan on Sunday afternoon.

He beat top fell runner Lloyd Taggart by the best part of a minute in the four-lap 10,390 metre race.

Jackie Lee took the women’s title from Gail Griffiths and Rebecca Wallace over a shorter 6,000m distance.

A full report and pictures from the Manx Harriers event will appear in Friday’s edition of the Manx Independent.

The Isle of Man Examiner is in shops now.

In today’s Examiner, Chief Minister Allan Bell warns that public sector job cuts will be inevitable.

The Examiner contains the full statement issued by Mr Bell about the challenges the island faces ahead of next month’s budget.

Meanwhile, a union boss is warning of industrial unrest, we report.

The function room and kitchen at Callow’s Yard in Castletown have been closed, leading to job losses, we reveal.

Could government be about to introduce tuition fees for university students? The Examiner takes a look at the issue.

A Rock Choir is looking for new members, we report.

Businesses voice their concerns over regeneration works in Douglas town centre.

Sport reports on Manx woman Zoe Gillings performance in the Snowboard Cross World Cup on Sunday. There are reports on the football and hockey games.

Sport News reports on the concerns over work at The Underway in Port St Mary.

North News reports on the progress of the recently opened Northern Lights Commuity Centre in Ramsey.

West News reports on the swim challenge to cover in lengths the equivalent distance of the TT Course at the Western Swimming Pool.

The Isle of Man Examiner is out now.

CU-PLAS FA Cup holders Rushen are through to the first round proper of the competition after they overcame Laxey 1-2 in Saturday’s rearranged prelim tie at Glen Road.

A strong wind dominated proceedings from the off, helping the Spaniards to pin the hosts in their own half for the majority of the opening 45 minutes.

However, despite a host of chances Mark Heywood’s men could only land one telling blow through Steve Riding in the 25th minute.

The Croit Lowey outfit’s single-goal lead looked a slender one at the break as the Miners turned around with the conditions at their backs, but the fierce wind didn’t deter the southerners as they doubled their lead five minutes into the second half through the irrepressible Josh Kelly.

Laxey dragged themselves back into the tie when Ashley Webster struck from the penalty spot after Ted Pepper was adjudged to have impeded Johnny Callow in the Rushen box. Steve Falconer’s hosts pushed for a second, but some stout Rushen defending, inspired goalkeeping and a contentious offside decision that ruled out a second Webster goal meant it was United who advance to take on Peel next month.

A wind-propelled Rushen made a flying start to the repeat of last year’s final and thought they had taken the lead as early as the first minute when Adam Cregeen slotted home. However, the island defender was prevented from adding to his remarkable goalscoring record in the competition by assistant referee Mark Thomas’s offside flag.

Rushen continued to push driven forward by the wind and they enjoyed a number of chances to take the lead.

Alex Guy’s whipped cross from the left was turned over his own bar by Laxey keeper Danny Mead, before Kelly hit the post after beating the former DHSOB stopper to a long ball.

The mounting pressure on the Laxey goal eventually took its toll midway through the opening 45 when Riding showed quick feet before slotting home from the edge of the area.

Heywood’s charges tried to press home their advantage, but as was to become a reoccurring theme they were to be denied by the Laxey woodwork when Cregeen hit the post after a corner from the left wasn’t dealt with by the hosts.

Guy and Andy Bunce then sent speculative efforts wide from distance as Rushen continued to pile forward. The visiting side were nearly made to pay for their profligacy two minutes from the break when on a rare sortie forward, Laxey midfielder Danny Foulis turned Callow’s deep free kick onto the Rushen bar.

Foulis’s feat was matched at the other end of the pitch on the stroke of half-time when Rushen forward Aaron Hawley headed Jack Saxon’s cross from the right onto the bar.

Despite playing into the wind, Rushen made an encouraging start to the second period and doubled their lead in the 50th minute when Kelly neatly tucked home Saxon’s measured cross from the right.

The second goal jolted Laxey into life and the Rushen rearguard was soon called into action as the home side tried to find a way back into the tie. Miners striker Lee Cowley thought he’d found this when he flicked Dave Thomas’s long throw goalwards only to be denied by a fantastic save by Rushen keeper Christian Steriopulos.

The Spaniards were adapting to the conditions the better of the two sides and perhaps should have had a spot-kick when Dave Thomas brought down Kelly. However, referee Tommy Crowe awarded a corner instead which Saxon struck the near post with.

Rushen hit the woodwork for a fourth time when Mead tipped Riding’s stinging drive onto his near post.

Laxey then found themselves back in the tie when they were awarded a penalty. Webster confidently found the top-right corner of the net, to bring his side back into contention.

Rushen nearly restored their two-goal lead midway through the period, but again the woodwork came to Laxey’s rescue when Saxon’s diving header found the base of Mead’s right upright.

A good Miners spell followed and the fit again Cowley nearly landed a goal of the season contender after a driving run from midfield. However, Steriopulos got a faint touch on the Laxey number 10’s resulting shot, tipping it onto the bar.

Steriopulos then acrobatically turned away a Foulis effort as the late Laxey onslaught continued.

This looked to have bore fruit in injury time when Webster headed home a late, late equaliser only for it to be ruled out by assistant Peter Beighton.

Laxey: Danny Mead, Gary Williams (c), Daryl Haslett, Dave Thomas, Dave Corlett, Antony Leech (Darren Hudgeon 56m), Johnny Callow, Danny Foulis, Danny Rose (Nigel Beattie 79m), Ashley Webster, Lee Cowley. Sub not used: Josh Thomas.

Rushen: Christian Steriopulos, Ted Pepper, Alex Guy, Adam Cregeen, Michael Baker (c), Chris Shimmin, Jack Saxon, Andy Bunce, Ste Riding, Aaron Hawley, Josh Kelly. Subs not used: Neil Curphey, Ashley Sansbury and Ciaran Brown.

Referee: Tommy Crowe. Assistants: Mark Thomas and Peter Beighton.

Booked: Cregeen (Rushen

Man of the Match: Cregeen

Match rating: 3*

DOUGLAS B and Vagabonds B will meet in the first final of the domestic season after both eased through their respective Manx Plate semi-finals on Saturday.

Douglas glided past Castletown 34-5 at Poulsom Park as they bid to become the first side to win the Plate and the Manx Shield in the same season. Town fly half Sam Peel grabbing the southerners’ sole try.

In the other semi, which had been switched from King William’s College to Ballafletcher because of a waterlogged pitch, Vagabonds B ended Emerging Nomads’ four-game winning streak with a 23-5 win.

The final is due to be played on February 4 and will be the third match up between Douglas B and Vagabonds B in just four weeks with the two going head-to-head this weekend in the last game of the Shimmin Wilson Manx Shield season.

NONE or few of the players from Ronaldsway and Malew would have remembered or were even born when their respective clubs last won the GH Corlett Woods Cup.

Ronaldsway last won this competition in 1994, while you have to go back further to 1967 for Malew. With both teams positioned around the lower end of Manx football’s food-chain and southern bragging rights at stake, for them this preliminary round tie was a cup final.

Ultimately Ronaldsway emerged victorious 3-2 to advance to a first round proper encounter with Pulrose.

This match was never going to be classic with a strong wind blowing over the exposed Factory Fields pitch.

The first chance came the visitors way, Ben Gregson’s long-range free-kick was Will Gavin punched over the crossbar.

However, the Rockets acclimatised to the conditions better from the opening throes and, after being put clear, Jay Turton fired his shot wide.

With the hosts maintaining the upper hand, they took the lead with 14 minutes played. Capitalising on a dithering visiting backline, the Rockets recaptured possession, Andy Blake slipped a through-ball to Jordan Edge who curled his effort past goalkeeper Dean Kinley for the opening goal.

Malew tried to hit back, but John Mitchell had an effort saved from point blank and Craig Howard found the side-netting as the Rockets held onto their single-goal lead at the oranges.

This lead, however, was cancelled out three minutes after the restart.

Following a handball, the Ballasalla outfit were awarded a penalty, which Malew capatain Adam Drewett coolly slotted home.

Both sides had shots straight at the opposing keeper - Ronaldsway’s Jamie Cahill had an effort that was denied by a full-stretch Kinley.

It was the hosts who restored their lead in the closing stages. Ronaldsway were awarded a free-kick following another handball incident.

Malew had assembled a defensive wall, Simon Lee guided his set-piece passed it and into the bottom left as the hosts regained their goal advantage.

Lee put the cup-tie further out of the visitors’ reach when his long-range effort caught Kinley off-guard and flew into the goal for Ronaldsway’s third.

Things weren’t done quite yet. Malew were awarded a free-kick on the halfway line which saw the Ballasalla outfit commit bodies forward. Kinley was about to take the kick when the net-minder saw red-mist and a bout of handbags followed. Order was soon restored after referee Michael Crabtree had offered a few calming words. Gregson pumped his kick forward, falling into Drewett’s path, who drove home Malew’s second.

The visitors hardly had time to push for an equaliser and the whistle blew for full-time. Ronaldsway had gained a rare victory.

TEAM CHECK

Ronaldsway: Will Gavin, Mark Wareing, Paul Gavin, Martin Hall, Dwayne Dawson, James Cahill, Jordan Edge (Mark Quirk 88m), Jay Turton, Kevin Murphy, Simon Lee, Andy Blake (Jimmy Hilton 86m). Sub not used: Sean Ridings

Malew: Dean Kinley, Kevin Brown, Sam Cain (Ashley Egan 77m), Tom Gregory, Ben Gregson, Mickey McKenna (Ashley Egan 86m), James Leadbeatter, Adam Drewett, Daniel Thirwell, John Mitchell, Craig Howard. Sub not used: Andy McLarney

Referee: Michael Crabtree

Man of the Match: Lee (Ronaldsway)

Match rating: HHIIII

l Onchan booked their place in the first round proper thanks to an extra-time goal by Fletcher Craine at home to Douglas and District on Saturday.

The Noble’s Park outfit twice led the in-form O’s thanks to a brace from Konrad Kumor but goals from Rob Byrne and Joe Hughes, the latter a late equaliser, forced the additional 30 minutes of play and Craine’s strike was enough to earn the Nivison Stadium side a hard-fought 3-2 victoty.

Foxdale also needed extra time to overcome the stubborn resistance of Police at Springfield Road by the same scoreline. Liam Leece, Scott Kermeen and Stuart Morrison grabbed the goals for the visitors while no details of Police’s scorers were received.

The Billy Goat Park side will travel to Douglas Royal in the next round after the Ballafletcher outfit got the better of Braddan 3-1 courtesy of goals from Daniel Beattie, James Halliday and a rare strike from player-manager Nicky Gerrard.

Michael safely secured their passage into the next round with a 3-0 victory over Colby at Balleira Road, with the goals coming from Pete Lewis, Anthony Corkill and Danny Chalk.

GH Corlett Woods Cup quarter-final draw:

Marown v Onchan

Douglas Royal v Foxdale

Ronaldsway v Pulrose

Union Mills v Michael

Ties to be played Saturday, February 18

RYCOB struck a dramatic 89th minute equaliser against Ramsey at Ballacloan on Saturday afternoon to claim what could prove to be a vital point in their bid for Canada Life Premier League survival.

Jamie Brew was the hero for Youthie as he netted a second half brace for his side who twice recovered from a two-goal deficit to claim a share of the spoils with Ramsey who ended the game with 10 men after John Roberts was sent off late on.

As well as boosting Youthie’s survival hopes, the result also means Ramsey remain perilously close to the drop zone with two thirds of the season gone. The hosts almost got off to the perfect start when a low free-kick deflected into the path of Matthew Montgomery inside the box but the midfielder’s fierce, angled drive was well repelled by visiting shot-stopper Stuart Fayle and the danger passed.

The latter was on hand to deny Montgomery again soon after but there was no such let off for the Schoil ree Gorree side in the 12th minute when Chris Duggan was fouled on the edge of the area by George Rawlinson. Up stepped island cap Kris Halsall to curl an effort around the wall and into the bottom left corner to open the scoring.

Youthie nearly hit back five minutes later when Shaun Kelly’s cross almost deceived everyone but hit the top of Andy Perry’s crossbar, but they were very nearly punished less than 60 seconds later after Duggan’s low cross reached Halsall but his effort flew into the side netting.

Visiting skipper Tony Corlett came close to restoring parity soon after when he tried his luck from distance but Perry was able to scramble across his goal line to divert the danger.

The hosts doubled their advantage just shy of the half-hour mark thanks to some neat play after Duggan latched onto a long ball down field before deftly passing the ball behind the Youthie defence for Montgomery to chase and the midfielder beat Fayle to the ball to poke home and give his side a 2-0 half-time lead.

After the restart Halsall almost netted again in similar circumstances to his first but this time Fayle was able to parry his free-kick wide. The visitors then wasted a golden chance to get back into the match when Steven Jordan’s superb cross was met by substitute Daniel Sherry but he couldn’t guide his header on target from close range.

However, the visitors clawed their way back into the contest in the 59th minute when Kelly’s long throw-in from the left allowed Daniel Tate to bundle the ball home in a crowded six-yard box.

Ramsey very nearly restored their tw-goal advantage immediately after the restart when Fernandes flicked the ball on to Duggan who forced a fine save from Fayle before Lewis Qualtrough fired home the rebound, but his celebrations were cut short by the linesman’s flag for offside.

Qualtrough was then called into action at the other end of the pitch when another long Kelly throw caused the home defence problems, but Montgomery’s effort from outside the box was blocked well by the centre-back and Perry was able to smother the danger.

With 18 minutes remaining the hosts made it 3-1 when Duggan’s low cross was turned home on the slide by substitute Liam Parker from close range only seconds after entering the fray. But the deficit was cut again less than three minutes later as Brew hauled his side back into the game. A weak header from Arneil back to his goalkeeper allowed former Ramsey striker Jason Craine to put Perry under pressure and Brew took advantage to slot home, despite the best efforts of Qualtrough on the line.

Then, with 10 minutes left, the game’s main talking point arrived. Sherry’s goal-bound header was handled on the line by Roberts and a penalty was awarded to hand the visitors a lifeline. Roberts then made matters worse by remonstrating with assistant referee Huw Matthews and was subsequently given his marching orders for using foul and abusive language.

However, the hosts were given a reprieve when Perry guessed the right way and was able to keep out Kelly’s low spot kick.

But, just when it looked like Ramsey had done enough to secure all three points, Youthie struck a minute from time. Brew received the ball inside the box, sent a defender the wrong way before curling a shot at goal which squirmed through Perry’s grasp and trickled over the line for 3-3 to give RYCOB a valuable point.

TEAM CHECK

Ramsey: Andy Perry, Robbie Collister, Jamie Arneil, Lewis Qualtrough, John Roberts, Robbie Campbell, Jabrane Moutiq (Liam Parker 67m), Matthew Montgomery, Michael Fernandes, Chris Duggan (Harry Weatherill 82m), Kris Halsall. Sub not used: Barry Gaffney

RYCOB: Stuart Fayle, Daniel Tate, Oliver Blacker, George Rawlinson, Andrew Walton, Matt Boyde (Daniel Sherry 45m), Tony Corlett (c) (Martyn Murphy 64m), Ste Jordan, Shaun Kelly, Jason Craine, Jamie Brew. Sub not used: Kris Murdoch

Referee: Alan Cowin

Assistants: Huw Matthews and Kevin Giles

Sent off: Roberts (Ramsey)

Man of the Match: Brew - impressive second half showing galvanised Youthie into earning a point

Match rating: HHHHI

St Mary’s staged a remarkable comeback at the Bowl on Saturday to remain firmly in this season’s title race after sending Old Boys crashing to their fourth defeat in the Canada Life Premier League.

Veteran striker Martin Reilly turned out to be the Saints star of the show by not only scoring twice but also setting up a goal for highly promising midfielder Connor Gorman. It was the Blackberry Lane side, however, that adapted quicker to the difficult conditions as they took a deserved early lead when Craig Stewart slammed home the opener.

Then, within five minutes, it was two when the Saints defence failed to clear Robbie Ward’s free-kick, allowing Liam Buckley to score from close range.

Gradually Peter Langridge’s side worked their way into the contest with busy mid-fielder James Murphy catching the eye.They were rewarded 10 minutes from the break when Reilly pulled one back with a well-placed effort.

Colin Purvis’ side, though, remained a threat and John Quirk was slightly unfortunate not to restore their two-goal cushion with a smart strike on the turn.

After the break the Saints were soon level when Reilly produced a superb run and cross which presented Gorman with the chance to score with ease.

Old Boys then suffered another serious set back when Drew Ward sustained a broken leg during a challenge in the centre of the field.The tragic incident, though, appeared to inspire the Blues and two fine efforts from Robbie Ward required smart reaction saves from island keeper Max Thomas.

The game appeared to be heading for a draw, when suddenly in the closing minutes there was a sting in the tail. The combination of Steven and Marc Priestnal cut through the Old Boys defence like a knife through butter, with Marc putting the Saints in front for the first time in the game.

Then after Craig Stewart saw another fine effort well saved by Thomas, the Saints wrapped up the game. Steven Priestnal delivered a testing cross which deceived keeper Sam Holliday before dropping for Reilly who made no mistake.

TEAM CHECK

DHSOB: Sam Holliday, Martin King, Liam Buckley, Drew Ward (David Quirk) Iain Ramsay, Callum Stewart, Craig Stewart, John Quirk, Sean Gavin, Robbie Ward (Mark Burman), Dean France

St Mary’s: Max Thomas, Paul Doyle (Jonny Holland), Adam Pate, Dominic McGreevey, Liam Doyle, Tom Weir (Dave Skillen), Connor Gorman, James Murphy, Steven Priestnal, Martin Reilly, Brian Crellin (Marc Priestnal)

Referee: Chris Taggart

Assistants: Tony McMeiken and Ian Fisher

Man of the Match: Martin Reilly - rolled back the years with a significant part in three of the goals

Match rating: 4* (given the conditions)

Attendance: 69

CERTAIN pet and plant owners may find travelling a lot easier following an amendment to the former Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act 1981 that has been brought in this month.

The new Endangered Species Act 2010 states that when moving endangered plants and animals, separate importing and exporting licenses may no longer be needed.

Instead, owners can obtain a certificate that will last three-years when moving between the island and the UK.

This legislation has updated the enactment of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES), which is aimed at ensuring international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival.

Senior biodiversity officer for the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) Dr Richard Selman said: ‘This updated version should make it more clear to people. Owners used to have to get importing and exporting licences, but now they just have to get one certificate.

‘But if someone is moving elsewhere they will also need to check the requirements at the other end, as well as obtaining a certificate from the island to cover the export of the species.’

If you are not aware of what specimens are regulated, seek advice before travelling.

The DEFA is also warning consumers to check certain species are legally obtained before purchasing them.

Examples of the kinds of specimens that are controlled include certain species of parrots, tiger skins, elephant ivory, timber from neotropical big-leaf mahogany, hoodia extract, some tree ferns, euphorbias and cacti, and tortoises.

Native restricted fauna and flora includes falcons, harriers and owls, orchids, basking sharks, whales and dolphins, and the European eel.

COULD a review of higher education funding lead to university tuition fees being introduced in the future?

Education Minister Peter Karran hinted that such a move could be considered by the Council of Ministers when he told Tynwald that he could only give a commitment to funding support for the current intake of students and those enrolling on courses this September.

The Liberal Vannin leader told the Examiner that he did not support the introduction of tuition fees.

‘I don’t believe it is the right way forward. But at the end of the day it is a matter for the Chief Minister and CoMin to decide,’ he said.

In Tynwald he was quizzed by Alf Cannan MHK (Michael) over what changes, if any, his department was proposing to make to financial support currently given to university and higher education students.

Mr Karran (Onchan) replied: ‘I believe it would be wrong of me to give any future financial commitments, as far as support given to universities or higher education students, before the Budget.

‘But as Education Minister, I believe that successive UK governments have used university places as a way of soaking up youth unemployment figures. This Education Minister believes that the access to university should be on the academic ability, and not on the depths of pockets of young people’s parents. I hope that this will be the policy of the Council of Ministers when dealing with the financial priorities, as far as the difficult times that we find ourselves in.’

He added: ‘Students already in higher education will not see any changes whilst they are on their current courses. That will include those who are going in September.’

Mr Cannan said any changes to university or higher education funding should, ideally, be made public at least 12 to 18 months before implementation, so that parents and students can fully understand the implications and plan accordingly.

Brenda Cannell MHK (Douglas East) said the minister had given her a lot of concern, because ‘he has not given any assurances whatsoever’ that opportunities for students to attain further education in the UK or elsewhere was going to continue post-September. ‘Could he clarify this situation?’ she demanded.

Mr Karran replied: ‘I do not need any lectures from this Court.

‘The fact is we are in unprecedented times. I am disappointed with certain things as a minister, but as part of this “Government of National Unity”, I hope we will see some support on the principles that I have said.

‘There are no changes – I repeat – as far as the status of what is being promised at the moment; but as far as the future is concerned, I hope that we will have a sensible debate about that in the Council of Ministers, and that agreement will have to come back to this Court at a later date.’

The Department of Education and Children currently supports students by meeting their tuition fees, subject to certain conditions, plus providing means-tested maintenance grants, subject to parental income.

In the current financial year it is funding 1,415 students to study for higher education qualifications in the UK, at the Isle of Man College and the International Business School and via distance learning. Just under a third of students also qualify for maintenance grants.

The annual budget for this support is currently £11.5m.

Replying to a separate question from Mr Cannan, the Education Minister said the merger of the International Business School and Isle of Man College was expected to make savings of between £180,000 to £200,000 a year.

But he insisted the reason for the merger was not primarily driven by cost savings, but rather to ‘encourage and support a better student experience by being part of a larger social and academic group’.

ONCHAN rates will rise by 5p in the pound this year, it’s been decided.

Onchan Commissioners met on Monday and Ernie Thorn, lead member for finance and general purposes, successfully proposed Onchan’s first rate increase for three years. Rates will rise to 271p in the pound, a 1.8 per cent inrease on last year.

In his report, Mr Thorn said: ‘The rate has been set in the knowledge of some increased charges that will be payable in 2012-13.’ He said these would include an increase in government’s charge for the disposal of domestic refuse from £30.74 to £35 per tonne as of April 1.

‘Also we have regretfully lost the contract to provide the refuse collection services to Braddan Parish Commissioners; this will result in an increase in our net expenditure for our refuse service,’ he said, adding Onchan had decided to opt out of the kerbside recycling scheme.

He warned of the possibility of further increased costs from government in future.

Mr Thorn said due to prudent financial management public services had been provided for less than budgeted. This, he said, meant some of the underspend could be used to make capital improvements to some of the authority’s facilities. These will include going ahead with the delayed refurbishments to Onchan Youth and Community Centre, the creation of a sensory garden next to Onchan Park, a number of improvements to facilities in Onchan Park, including the provision of outdoor gym equipment, improvements to Onchan Library and to commissioners’ properties, including some of the garages rented out to tenants and others.

He noted: ‘This has been a difficult year for the commissioners with the passing of Ray Kniveton and resignation of Brian Stowell, both of whom we thank for their service to the district. This necessitated a by-election and I am happy to have welcomed John Quaye and Robin Turton to our ranks.’

Douglas Council is due to set its rate today (Friday).

Other local authority rates decided so far include: Malew - remains unchanged at 152 pence in the pound; Arbory - remains unchanged at 88 pence in the pound; Castletown - remains unchanged at 320 pence in the pound.

NO statistics are available for the number or percentage of staff with disabilities employed by the government, the House of Keys was told.

Replying to a question from Kate Beecroft (Lib Van, Douglas South), Chief Minister Allan Bell MHK said such statistics were not generally collected by the government. He said it was not unknown for individuals who may have a disability or impairment to be reluctant to identify themselves as such and this severely limited to usefulness of any statistics produced.

‘I don’t see the point in collecting figures if they are going to be inaccurate,’ he told MHKs.

NO island breast cancer patients who had reconstruction procedures carried out on the NHS were fitted with PIP implants, the House of Keys was told

Questions about whether island-based breast cancer patients have been caught up in the PIP breast implant scandal were raised in the Keys by Brenda Cannell (Douglas East).

Health Minister David Anderson replied: ‘Both the Linda McCartney Centre and the plastic surgery unit at Whiston Hospital had confirmed that they never used PIP implants on any of our patients.’

But Mrs Cannell asked about those NHS patients who had undergone a mastectomy but whose breast reconstruction had been delayed.

She said she had been made aware of two such patients who had chosen to take out loans and have the surgery done privately rather than wait for two or three years to have it done on the NHS.

Mrs Cannell asked whether the Department of Health had a ‘moral obligation’ to give these patients help and support.

Mr Anderson replied: ‘Certain patients have gone down the private route and they should seek advice. I suggest they should contact the department to see what their individual position is.’

Controversy has surrounded French-based PIP following revelations that from 2001 it was using industrial-grade silicone instead of the more expensive medical-grade silicone.

The news was followed with concerns that the affected implants may be more prone to rupturing, and the health implications of industrial-grade silicone leaking into the body.

After the scandal broke the island’s Department of Health released a statement saying it was not aware of any women in the Isle of Man who had received the implants, either privately or through the NHS.

Subsequently, however, Isle of Man Newspapers have been approached by four women who had PIP implants – and there may be more.

One of them is Lori Corlett who received PIP implants in February 2007 from the Harley Medical Group in the UK. She has joined the PIP Implant Protest Group on Facebook and asked anyone who wants to talk to her about the issue to join the group or contact her through Isle of Man Newspapers.

A MANX-funded film has been nominated for an Oscar.

Chico and Rita has nominated for the Best Animated Film Award at the 84th Academy Awards.

CinemaNX co-financed Chico & Rita and distributed the film in the UK in November 2010 to outstanding critical acclaim.

The nomination marks the culmination of the film’s award success, following a number of accolades including the Best Animated Film at the 2011 European Film Awards and a nomination for Best Animated Feature at the 2011 Annie Awards (ASIFA – Hollywood).

Chico & Rita is directed by Oscar®-winning director Fernando Trueba (La Belle Epoque) and world famous designer Javier Mariscal, alongside Tono Errando.

Steve Christian, Chairman of CinemaNX said: ‘We’re absolutely thrilled that this labour of love has been recognised and congratulate the directors Fernando Trueba, Javier Mariscal and Tono Errando as well as the producers Martin Pope and Michael Rose.’

Economic Devlopment Minister John Shimmin MHK said: ‘This project has been a labour of love for Isle of Man Film and CinemaNX for some considerable time. Over a period of 16 months, 10 young Manx artists were fully trained in the art of colouring the feature so the Isle of Man contribution to the overall project is considerable.

‘It has certainly enhanced the Island’s position in the overall global film industry.”

The Oscars ceremony is on February 26.

ALTHOUGH signs may state ‘businesses are open as usual’, shop owners in Wellington Street hope that the message is heeded.

Chris Pycroft, development manager from Douglas Development Partnership, has formally written and consulted with businesses in Wellington Street. In his letter he says: ‘During the first phase of the work there will be no pedestrian or vehicular access between the Slug and Lettuce and Thomas Street.’

The first phase proposes to resurface this section of the street with work beginning on January 30 and scheduled to take approximately 12-weeks.

The second phase will ensure the rest of the street’s paving is complete, where work will be carried out between the Slug and Lettuce and Duke Street. This will take place between July and September.

He added: ‘During that phase it is hoped to maintain pedestrian access during business hours. However, I shall contact you again with more details for that phase once they are known.’

When speaking to proprietors and shop assistants in Wellington Street there seemed to be a general consensus that the regeneration work overall was welcomed, but what they couldn’t understand was why it would take six-months – if work goes to schedule.

It was also noted that this is not the first time the street has had work done to it – just a few months ago the MEA dug it up due to a fault. However, they managed to dig up and relay half of what is proposed in the regeneration in just one week.

Trade was also disrupted by the demolition of the old building where Pickwicks was formerly.

Above these worries, is the uncertainty surrounding pedestrian and vehicular access and a possibility of absolutely no access whatsoever throughout both phases.

NATASHA CARTER spoke to five businesses in the street to get their views.

Owner of Abode Mary Mason said: ‘We welcome the regeneration as a whole, and I agree it needs to be done but we don’t understand why they have picked such a complicated design that takes so long to do.

‘Business hasn’t been great, although it’s been better in the January sales, but in an already difficult time this could finish businesses.

‘It would help if they could do things a little quicker.’

Deputy manager of Slug and Lettuce, Phil Holdcroft said: ‘The length of time will put us in turmoil. You can’t close it off to pedestrians completely because if they have to walk all the way round, they will walk past about six other food retailers before they get to us.

‘I agree with the regeneration – it’s great what they have done – but consideration needs to be given to businesses here at the moment.’

Piercer Paula Keenan, at Manx Tattoo, said: ‘People are going to have to walk the long way around to get here and there are other tattoo parlours in the island they can get to more easily.

‘If people have pre-booked to have a tattoo it will be okay, but for piercings and the shop I don’t think it will. This is something we could do without.’

Shop manager at Manx Tattoo, Rachel Fox added: ‘In the summer it is our peak season as it’s holiday season, and holidaymakers might not even know we’re here if the street is closed off.’

Philomena Kenna, owner of Chique said: ‘This street has been dug up quite a few times now and I sincerely hope this isn’t going to affect business.’

ISLE of Man Tourism is asking residents to register their homes for the Homestay Scheme following the success of the TT3D film Closer to the Edge last year.

The department believe the film has increased the demand of this year’s TT festival, as numbers are already showing a 10 per cent rise.

Economic Development’s member with responsibility for tourism, Geoff Corkish MHK said: ‘The Department’s Tourism Quality and Service team would like to hear from more Isle of Man residents who are willing to be ambassadors for the island and host our TT visitors.

‘Homestay is a great opportunity for guests from all over the world to learn more about the culture of our island and share our way of life.’

Last year the department registered more than 700 properties, those who have previously registered have been invited to do so again this year.

‘I’d like to thank everybody who has opened their homes in previous years and ask them to consider continuing their support this year,’ Mr Corkish added.

Registration is £15 and householders are exempt from tax on up to £1,500 of earnings from paying visitors. For more information call the Homestay team on 686802 or email {mailto:homestay@gov.im|homestay(at)gov.im}.

BY-LAWS which will act as the framework for the island’s first marine nature reserve were approved by Tynwald last week.

The Ramsey Bay (Marine Nature Reserve) by-laws were drawn up following extensive public consultation and input from a wide range of marine users, scientists and other stakeholders.

Environment, Food and Agriculture Minister Phil Gawne MHK said there had been a delay in bringing forward the by-laws because of an ongoing discussion with anglers over the banning of bait collection in the eel grass zone off Port Lewaigue.

More than 200 people responded to the consultation process.

The reserve’s zoning plan will protect vulnerable habitats including eelgrass meadows, horse mussel reefs and maerl beds.

The Conservation Zone (inner Ramsey Bay) will be protected from all trawling and dredging and all extraction of scallops and queenies. Potting, recreational angling and bait collection will be permitted.

The Horse Mussel Zone (off the Point of Ayre and Ballacash Channel) will be protected from all trawling and dredging and all extraction of scallops and queenies.

The site will also be protected from potting. Recreational angling and bait collection will be permitted.

The Fisheries Management Zone (the outer area of Ramsey Bay) will be leased to the Manx Fish Producers’ Organisation by the Department of Infrastructure and managed to support sustainable fisheries. Conditions to the lease will ensure that the area is protected from overfishing and that habitat damage is minimised. Trawling and dredging will be permitted to a level set by the Marine Fisheries Protection Officer and licensed by DEFA. Potting and recreational fishing will be permitted.

The Eelgrass Zone will be protected from all extraction of living resources. Catch and release angling will be permitted but bait collection will not be allowed.

The Rocky Shore Zone, a narrow strip of coastal waters between Gob ny Rona and Maughold Head, will be protected from all trawling and dredging and all extraction of scallops and queenies by other means. Mr Gawne said he was pleased that, during discussions, representatives from the angling associations had offered their own concession that angling should not be carried out in the eelgrass zone.

Keen angler Alex Downie MLC said he thought government’s experts would have had better things to do than come up with schemes such as this which, he said, prevented the public from angling in areas they had been allowed to access for generations. He said signing up to environmental conventions such as the Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the North-East Atlantic (OSPAR Convention) meant boxes had to be ticked for the sake of it.

Former fisheries member Juan Turner MLC also raised concerns, which he said he’d also raised with the department during discussions over the by-laws when he was a member of the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture. He said he had given fishermen assurances they would be able to continue certain practices in the reserve zones but these had been rescinded since his departure from the department, leaving him ‘compromised’. He also expressed concern about the practice of signing up to environmental conventions for the sake of it.

Mr Gawne pointed out that the ban on angling in the eelgrass zone had been brought to the table by the anglers themselves, and not DEFA.

FIVE MHKs will be hoping they don’t fall flat on their faces this weekend as they abseil down a 60-foot drop for charity.

The politicians will tackle the island’s highest indoor abseil on Saturday from the top of The Strand Shopping Centre in Douglas in a bid to raise money for The Children’s Centre.

Community, Culture and Leisure Minister Tim Crookall MHK, Environment, Food and Agriculture Minister Phil Gawne MHK and Treasury Minister Eddie Teare MHK will take the plunge alongside MHKs Laurence Skelly and Kate Beecroft.

Mr Skelly said: ‘We are all greatly looking forward to the sponsored abseil at The Strand Centre.

‘It should be an exciting, if slightly scary, experience for us, but for a worthy cause.’

This will be the second charity abseil the centre has held at the shopping centre.

Only a few months ago, in November, they raised more than £1,500.’

The charity’s Mobex team believe that young people can learn more about themselves and their behaviour through outdoor eduction and activities and last time members of the team were on hand to ensure everyone’s safety was paramount.

They will also be available this year to instruct the politicians at their fundraising event.

The Children’s Centre works directly with more than 1,000 children, young people and families every week as they endeavour to make it their priority to enable each person they work with to discover their full potential.

It is the island’s leading children’s charity and runs 15 vital services, including nursery care and after school clubs.

The abseil will take place at 11am on Saturday (January 28) and all shoppers are urged to go along and support their fundraising efforts. Fundraising co-ordinator for the centre Mark Eastham thanked each politician for taking part and said he hoped everyone would go along to support them.

‘On behalf of the MHKs and The Strand Centre, please come along and support the event,’ Mr Skelly said.

{http://www.thechildrenscentre.org.im.thechildrenscentre.org.im}.