Tree felling, school laptops, town centre parking, coastal erosion and bank closures will be among the topics raised during House of Keys question time this week.

And later in the sitting, MHKs will debate proposed changes to work permit rules.

There are 17 questions for oral answer and a further 13 for written reply.

Bill Henderson (Douglas North) will quiz the Chief Minister over the recent announced by Britannia International that it is pull out of the island over the course of this year, with the closure of its three branches here and the loss of 31 jobs.

Howard Quayle (Middle) will question Environment Minister Phil Gawne on the decision to fell all larch trees in the island’s plantations in a bid to stop the spread of phytophthora ramorum disease.

Michael MHK Alfred Cannan will continue to press for action to tackle coastal erosion in Kirk Michael constituency and will call on Mr Gawne to convene a working group to ‘proactively seek solutions’.

Member for Douglas West Chris Thomas will ask Infrastructure Minister David Cretney to make a statement on his department’s policy for parking in Douglas town centre the recommendations in the recently published study and consultancy report.

Education Minister Tim Crookall will be pressed by John Houghton (Douglas North) to give details on how many new laptops have been issued to pupils and teachers recently, what is the cost of the replacement programme and whether the old laptops will be made available to charitable causes.

Mr Houghton has also tabled a question for Social Care Minister Chris Robertshaw about the need for child benefit claim forms.

A new Control of Employment Bill - which will make a number of changes to existing work permit controls – is due to go for its second reading. The bill will modernise the existing system but will tighten up controls in some areas such as rules on family members, criminal convictions and the ability to speak English.

A trek to the top of the highest peak in North Africa is this year’s big fundraising adventure challenge being organised by The Children’s Centre.

Every year the charity for families and children organises an overseas event designed to be a once in a lifetime experience for participants.

This year it’s a trip to Mount Toubkal in Morocco from October 14 to 20.

The top of the mountain stands at 4,167 metres (around 13,600 feet) above sea level and offers breathtaking views across the Atlas Mountains.

Two launch events are being held in February for anyone who wants to find out more about the trek.

Mark Eastham, fundraising co-ordinator at The Children’s Centre, said: ‘I took part in a recce for the trek last year and the views on the climb and at the summit of the surrounding peaks, hazy desert and of Marrakech, or most like a mirage in the far distance, are fantastic.

‘It’s a challenging adventure, but one that’s well within the capabilities of most people, and is a must for anyone considering trying Kilimanjaro in the future but who can’t afford the 12 days away from home.

‘No mountaineering experience is necessary and everyone who takes part will have the benefit of the wealth of experience we have at The Children’s Centre in organising this type of event.

‘Anyone who is interested is invited to attend the two launch evenings to speak to me and our adventure events team, and some participants who have taken part in our other adventure challenges in recent years.’

The two launch events are on Wednesday, February 5, at 6pm at the Noa Bakehouse, Fort Street, Douglas, and on Thursday, February 13, at 6pm at The Children’s Centre main offices, Woodbourne Road, Douglas.

Trekkers will fly from London Heathrow to Marrakech, with day one of the trip being a transfer by road to the tiny village of Imlil.

The walking begins on the following day with a four to five hour hike through the foothills and along the Ait Mizane Valley up to the Toubkal Refuge at a height of 3,206m.

Day three starts early as the trekkers make their attempt to reach the summit of Mount Toubkal via the South Col route. There will be plenty of time to admire the views at the top and for the team to take photos to record their achievement.

On day four the walkers head down the mountain to Imlil and then a transfer to Marrakech, where the group get the chance to marvel in the sights and sounds and explore the labyrinth of souks before relaxing with a well-earned celebratory meal.

The following morning the group will go to the airport to begin the journey home.

The trip costs £175 to register, with a commitment to raise a further £750 in sponsorship. All money raised from this charity challenge will go to supporting The Children’s Centre’s projects which help families and children across the Isle of Man.

For more information contact Mark on 631917 or email markeastham@thechildrenscentre.org.im or go to this link thechildrenscentre.org.im/events/trek-mt-toubkal-morocco/

The government this afternoon revealed its economic plan for the future.

‘Vision2020, was launched with an event organised by the Department of Economic Development for the local business community.

Chief Minister Allan Bell MHK opened the event.

He said: ‘We can be justifiably proud of our economic performance over the past 30 years. Government and the private sector have worked hard to build a strong, diverse economy with a growing international reputation for leadership on global issues.

‘However, this in itself is not a guarantee of future success.

‘The global environment is more challenging and competitive than it has ever been.

‘As a result, our economy will continue to change.

‘It is therefore vital that we have a clear economic vision for how our community can continue to prosper underpinned by specific strategies and actions to deliver that prosperity. Vision2020 is designed to fulfil this need. I and all in my government are committed to this vision as we work to grow our economy for the good of all.’

The Vision2020 strategy document can be viewed {http://www.whereyoucan.com/vision2020|here}.

More on this story in the Manx Independent on Thursday, with more analysis in next Tuesday’s Examiner.

Isle of Man Newspapers has announced that it is to change the day of publication for the island’s oldest newspaper.

From next week (February 4), the Isle of Man Examiner will be in the shops from TUESDAY mornings rather than Monday mornings.

The company made the decision to change after it evaluated its news and sports coverage and undertook market research.

Currently, to be in the shops first thing on Monday morning means the deadline is on a Sunday night.

Editor Richard Butt said: ‘The problem with a Sunday deadline is that many of sources of news or comments on news – be they companies, charities, police officers, civil servants or politicians – are simply much harder to get hold of on a Sunday, so occasionally the news we’ve been able to report in the Examiner has been less complete than we’d like.

‘Many services and organisations have bent over backwards to help us and we would like to thank them for that and acknowledge their help now.

‘Nevertheless, we calculated that we’d produce a much more comprehensive news service on a Tuesday than a Monday.

‘For sports coverage, we are like all community papers. We rely on the goodwill of enthusiasts to help us provide reports and results. They have done a fantastic job in meeting Sunday deadlines. But having an extra day will make it a little easier.

‘In the summer especially, some sports are still taking place as the Examiner’s Sunday deadline approaches and it’s impossible to get the reports into the paper.’

The Examiner, which was first published in 1880, was a Friday paper until the 1980s.

Mr Butt said he was confident that readers would like our changes and be happy to go into the shops on a Tuesday rather than a Monday.

‘We appreciate that the Examiner has been part of thousands of readers’ lives every Monday for a long time so we have not taken the decision lightly and would not make the change unless we believed we could improve the paper,’ he said.

‘Our readers have told our market researchers that they’d prefer a better, fresher paper on a Tuesday.’

Among the changes readers will notice from next week is that business coverage is going to be expanded, giving more coverage to the eight hours (or more) that dominate many people’s lives – the working day.

Business News has never just been about Athol Street. It’s about how everyone in the island makes a living and, to some extent, how they choose to spend their money.

Among the other changes planned, sports coverage is to move to an eight-page centre section, giving readers better and more up to date coverage of all the weekend’s action.

‘We have taken this opportunity to refresh the Examiner and believe that the paper will be an even better package of news, views, features and sports coverage from next week,’ said Mr Butt.

The price of the Examiner will rise to 90p next week.

It is the first time the price of the paper has risen since October 2012.

At 90p, it will be just 5p more than a can of Coke from the Milestone garage in Douglas and other shops in the island.

You can save money by subscribing to the paper. {http://www.localsubsplus.co.uk/IME|Click here for details.}

Parents are being urged to fill in their claims for Child Benefit - and are warned their payments will stop if they fail to do so.

Social Care Minister Chris Robertshaw said he was concerned about the return rate of forms sent out so far, with only about a third being completed.

From April 7, Child Benefit will be means-tested and parents have to claim to continue getting the payment.

The Department of Social Care began issuing new Child Benefit claim forms last month in batches based alphabetically by surname.

But concerned about the disappointing return rate of the first batch for surnames A to C, the department has now decided to send out all the remaining forms.

Mr Robertshaw: ‘Everyone should have received their forms by Tuesday. If you haven’t please get in touch. The number of forms coming back is less than we would expect.’

Some £0.5m of savings made by means-testing of Child Benefit are being used to double the amount of money available for pre-school vouchers. Mr Robertshaw said the findings of a report published last week has vindicated the decision to privatise the pre-schools. Data on those children who entered reception class last September highlights improved development in those who completed early years foundation.

The Isle of Man Chinese Association is inviting residents to celebrate Chinese New Year with them.

It is holding a celebratory three-course banquet at the Majestic Restaurant, in Onchan, on February 9. Chinese New Year is celebrated on Friday (January 31).

It’s the first time the association will celebrate their New Year together – it was only set up last year.

Chairman Jenny Zhou said: ‘Chinese New Year celebration is centuries old and the most important of traditional Chinese holidays.

‘Moreover, Chinese New Year is a time to bring family together, for feasting and celebration.

The Isle of Man Chinese Association will highlight this with authentic cuisine as well as various Asian ancient and modern customs.

‘Please don’t miss this great opportunity to celebrate the Year of the Horse and gain perspective on Chinese art, cuisine and culture.’

The lunch will take place at 1pm, and proceeds from the event will go to the association, a non-profit community group dedicated to introducing Chinese culture and Isle of Man – Chinese cultural exchange.

To book, email littlechina@manx.net or text 266888.

The lunch costs £25 per head for non-members, £18 for members, and £10 for children under 12 and residents aged over 65.

After two very successful league campaigns, both Ballakermeen and Castle Rushen met at the NSC to battle for the Junior Schools basketball title last week.

With only five points separating the two teams in their previous encounter, this contest was anyone’s for the taking.

The first quarter saw the Balla players make a tentative start to the final to which CRHS took full advantage. Early baskets from captain Izzy Dato and Devin Glassy helped settle their nerves and find their form.

However, it was not long until BHS managed to compose themselves and find themselves right back in the thick of it. Eddie Beard led the charge with some signature moves, backed by Carrick Thompson and Jay Skelcher-Maxwell.

A well contested first quarter ended 10-8 to CRHS.

Colm Garrity and Kieran Dunn provided energy for the team coming off the bench as they buoyed the team’s hopes leading into the second period. However, fluent scoring from the CRHS offence saw BHS fall off the pace in the early part of the second quarter thanks to impressive displays from guards Oliver Shearer and Izzy Dato.

The Douglas side had centre Rhys Roberts to thank for keeping them in touch as he put in some fine work on the boards at both ends.

With the game poised at 22-15 at the half a storming CRHS full court press put the Balla ball carriers under pressure.

Some brilliant scores off the dribble from Jacob Chadwick and Rubin Harris saw them open up a seemingly unsurmountable lead.

Balla captain Skelcher-Maxwell led the team through the difficult third quarter, taking control on both ends of the floor. He scored 12 points in the second half alone and, along with the vital contribution of fellow guard Lewis Bridson, the team rallied deep into the fourth.

Rushen, having been comfortably in control of the game and up by 16 points, now found themselves under real pressure from a well-drilled BHS team. Max Walker found his scoring touch and some fine rebounds from both Joel Avery and Nathan Evans allowed BHS to challenge once more for the lead.

Despite a valiant late charge, Skelcher-Maxwell and his team were forced to concede the final to a fine under-13 CRHS team that is laced with some outstanding prospects. CRHS 43, BHS 34.

Thanks to Martin Dunne and Graham Bassett for refereeing the match and to the NSC for hosting the fixture.

BHS M.V.P: Jay Skelcher-Maxwell

CRHS M.V.P: Izzy Dato

Mark Cavendish has spoken of his excitement and motivation to represent the Isle of Man at this year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

The Manx Missile announced himself on the big stage when he clinched gold on the track in the scratch race at the Melbourne Commonwealth Games in 2006 as his meteoric rise to stardom gathered momentum.

And the 28-year-old sprinter has set his sights on topping the podium in the road race this summer.

One big advantage that the Omega-Pharma Quick-Step rider has is that, only last year, he claimed the British National Road Race title on the same Glasgow course.

Speaking to The Independent, Cavendish said: ‘I’m super-motivated for that. It is on the course where I won the British national championships in 2013, and the Isle of Man has an incredibly strong team.’

On riding with his Manx compatriots: ‘I love doing it because it is with all my mates, the guys I grew up with. We have been bashing around since we were juniors.

‘There is me, Pete Kennaugh, Mark Christian, who was with Sean Kelly’s team and now is with Raleigh, Andrew Roche who rode the Commonwealth Games in India, and Joe Kelly too.

‘It is not that often you can get to represent the Isle of Man.

‘I’m British and proud to be, but it is nice because I get to be racing with guys I have raced with my whole life.’

The men’s road race is scheduled to take place on Sunday, August 3 and will be one of the final events of the 2014 Commonwealth Games before the closing ceremony later that evening.

The pending merger of the MEA and Water Authorities will avoid the need to raise electricity prices by 7 per cent each year for the next three years.

But with the three year freeze on tariffs ending this year, bills will go up from April, by about 3 per cent.

And a fuel cost adjustment could be reintroduced to bills if there are further hikes in the price of gas to fuel Pulrose power station.

Tynwald last week voted overwhelmingly to support a radical streamlining of government which will see one department scrapped and two others merged.

Under the reforms the debt-ridden Manx Electricity Authority will be merged with the Water and Sewerage Authority to create a single Manx Utilities Authority, a move which Chief Minister Allan Bell said will save more than £1 million a year after five years.

Using the Water Authority’s £65m cash surplus will help tackle the MEA’s massive debts, he said, allowing the merged authority to be in profit by the end of the decade, removing the need for government subsidy and enabled combined external debts totalling £260m to be repaid in full by 2034.

MEA chairman Howard Quayle told Tynwald that the three year tariff freeze had resulted in a cash flow issue - and the board had drawn up plans to increase bills by 7 per cent a year over the next three years.

This was ready to be implemented from April 1 - until the government’s Business Change Support Group came forward with the idea for the merger.

But he said the idea of merging the MEA and WSA would allow tariffs to be pegged to inflation.

He told the court: ‘This solution will rely on a cross subsidy from the WSA’s cash surpluses but will ensure WSA’s sinking fund remains intact, and that indeed there is sufficient funds to pay off both bonds, WSA’s of £75m in 2030 and MEA’s of £185m in 2034, as well as fund any new water infrastructure.’

Mr Quayle said the MEA had absorbed energy cost increases totalling £5m but if there were additional hikes in costs, a fuel cost adjustment would have to be reintroduced in bills. He said a 10 per cent increase in gas costs equates to £2.3m which would require a 4 per cent increase in the price to customers.

Treasury Minister Eddie Teare said that the merger would allow the combined authority to pay off the external debts of £260m and still be left with £121m cash in hand.

Tynwald was told that the MEA had a deficit of about £11m in its 2012/13 accounts and has a negative position of £70m overall. On top of that its internal and external debts falling due between now and 2034 amount to some £400m. WSA’s internal and external debts total about £200m.

Of the combined debts of £600m, half is external and owed by government.

Mr Bell said the merger ‘will remove the requirement for Treasury subvention and. subject to fuel cost adjustments, enable tariff increases to be no higher than inflation.’

He said the introduction of a £50 per property sewerage charge would have been introduced with or without the merger.

Some £50 million has been saved by freezing the government’s salary budget, Chief Minister Allan Bell said during his ‘State of the Nation’ speech.

At the annual conference organised by the Alliance of Isle of Man Compliance Professionals, Mr Bell outlined his vision to ensure the island’s long-term future.

A capacity audience at Mount Murray Hotel and Country Club heard that while this year’s Budget will confirm government remains on target to rebalance its books by 2015-16, the continued pressure on public finances demanded a bold and innovative response.

Mr Bell said: ‘I know the private sector has looked to government to lead by example and accept some of the pain that has been felt elsewhere.

‘I can assure you we have been working towards creating a leaner, more efficient and more customer-focused government for some time. Over the past five years we have cut the number of public sector posts by more than 500. And we continue to target further reductions of at least 100 per year.

‘We have also sought to reduce government expenditure by containing our salary budget. Our overall employee costs peaked at £316m in 2010-11. This figure fell to £312m in 2013-14, and it will be lower again in 2014-15. Had salaries kept pace with inflation during this period we would now be looking at a bill of £361m in 2013-14, or £371m in 2014-15. That’s a difference of £50m in the current financial year, or at least £60m by next year.’

Mr Bell said radical government reforms, unanimously approved by Tynwald last week, would cut bureaucracy even further and provide a more joined-up approach to policy.

Environment Minister Phil Gawne MHK has set up a group to try to find ways to slow the rate of coastal erosion in the Glen Wyllin area of Michael.

He said: ‘I share people’s concerns over the continued erosion on the north western coastline and following discussions with Michael MHK Alfred Cannan I am pleased to be able to form a working group to seek cost effective solutions to slow the erosion in the area.

‘Coastal erosion is a difficult problem to resolve and we must be careful that we don’t simply move the problem further up the coast. I have written to Michael Commissioners to ask them to work with us in the group and also to suggest further local community representation.’

Local MHK Alfred Cannan said: ‘I have been campaigning for action on this matter since I was elected and I am pleased and grateful that the minister has recognised this worsening problem on the Kirk Michael coastline.

‘I hope that the working group are able to find and implement some positive solutions in the year ahead.’

Strand Group has appointed Dave Rourke as operations director of Strand Facilities Services commencing this month.

Mr Rourke, aged 51, joined Strand Group in 2008 and most recently was deputy operations director of the facilities management arm of the Group where services include building maintenance, caretaking, cleaning, fire safety routines, key holding and special projects such as relocation or renovation.

He said: ‘It’s a good way to start the new year.

‘I’m lucky to work with a great team.

‘We set ourselves very high standards and we’re always striving to exceed our customers’ expectations. The year 2014 is set to be a particularly exciting year for the Group.’

Strand Facilities Services operates to ISO 27001 quality standards that are primarily concerned with security and confidentiality.

Mr Rourke said, ‘Working to these standards is essential to our many corporate clients including several banks.

‘As you’d expect security is of the upmost importance to them and every one of our customers benefits from the same high standards.’

The company has held the quality standard for five years and is understood to be the only island company in its sector to achieve it.

Prior to joining the Strand Group, Mr Rourke was with Abbey National Offshore where he managed the company’s property portfolio in both the Isle of Man and Jersey.

He was previously with Barclays Bank and has more than 12 years’ experience in facilities management.

Mr Rourke takes over from Pam Kelly who retired from the role at the end of 2013.

Mrs Kelly, who has 19 years of service, remains on the board as a non-executive director.

Strand Group is one of the largest independent employers on the Island and celebrated 25 years in business last year.

Owners of the Glen Helen Inn have closed its doors to customers, saying it’s not economical to continue.

Brothers Graham and Mike Priest have been forced to make the decision at their restaurant and hotel, blaming the economic conditions, and high energy costs.

All functions and weddings that have been booked will be honoured – and it will be open for this year’s TT and MGP.

Graham said: ‘I feel very sad really. We had six years of looking forward to a successful place and having had a good reputation.

‘It’s sad for the staff as well. There’s not a lot of catering jobs around, and at this time of year there’s even less.

‘But sometimes you have to make hard decisions and not be governed by your heart.’

He said: ‘In the end because we are not coming out of recession as far as food, beverages and social nights go, we decided it would be better to just look after our customers that have booked with us. We will look after them well.’

He said people and businesses were acting differently in the current economic climate, saying: ‘December used to be the month for big Christmas parties. The Christmas parties are gone.’

And he said that whereas people used to go out and enjoy a meal and bottle of wine, they now go out less frequently, and spend less.

‘The spend isn’t there at the moment,’ Graham said.

‘I can’t keep picking it up.

‘My brother and I have ridden the costs for a year or two thinking we will come out the other end.’

One of the major costs was heating and electric – which was high because it’s an old building.

Graham said that other factors that had made the business not viable included new restaurants in St John’s that drew some customers away, and offers at venues in the capital that the Glen Helen Inn could not compete with.

‘It got to the stage the niggles were stacking up,’ Graham said.

The decision to close was even more difficult to make as they have invested money into improving the facilities over the years. It includes a new conservatory on the front of the building, two new kitchens, installing a sewerage system, and converting a flat to increase the number of bedrooms at the hotel from 14 to 17.

The Glen Helen Inn employed about 10 people.

The Isle of Man have been drawn to play the Humber Premier League away in the semi-finals of the FA Inter-League Cup.

Steve Burns’s side beat the West Riding County League 3-1 at the Bowl on Saturday to tee up the last-four tie that will likely be played at Conference North outfit North Ferriby United’s Grange Lane ground near Hull.

If the Manx beat the Yorkshire side in the semi that has to be played by March 22, they will advance to the final where they will face either the Hertfordshire Senior County League, the Worthing and District League or the Dorset Premier League.

Herts and Worthing still have to play the competition’s outstanding quarter-final on February 8, the victor then facing a Dorset side that beat holders Jersey 1-0.

The winner of the island’s semi with Humber will host the final which is scheduled to be played on Saturday, April 26.

Braddan’s ratepayers will be paying less next year.

At a commissioners’ meeting, chairman Andrew Jessopp announced that the rate for 2014/15 would be set at 219p in the pound, a cut of 6p from the previous year.

Douglas’s rates are going to be set tomorrow (Wednesday).

There is no change to the rate in Castletown and it remains at 320p in the pound for the fourth year in a row.

Onchan rates will increase by 5.45 per cent for 2014/15. The commissioners agreed on a 15p rise to 290p in the pound.

Peel rates will increase by 4p in the pound to 246p in the pound.

The separate annual refuse charge for domestic properties, which covers the cost of the waste disposal charge, bin collection contract and Peel’s contribution to the running costs of the Western Civic Amenity Site, will increase from £152 to £169.

Port St Mary rates will have no increase and will remain at 306p in the pound for 2014/2015 financial year.

More details in Thursday’s Manx Independent.

The Infrastructure Minister has told MHKs details of his department’s negotiations with Ellan Vannin Line, the company that once proposed to offer a rival ferry service to the Steam Packet.

David Cretney was speaking today (Tuesday) in response to a question from David Quirk (Onchan).

Mr Quirk asked whether the Ellan Vannin Line had presented the Government with an ultimatum, and if so, what the terms of the ultimatum were.

We reported that the plan had been ditched last week. {http://www.iomtoday.co.im/news/isle-of-man-news/rival-isle-of-man-ferry-service-dead-in-the-water-1-6395463|Click here for a reminder of that story.}

The Isle of Man Examiner last week reported that the company had issued an ultimatum. {http://www.iomtoday.co.im/news/isle-of-man-news/steam-packet-rival-issues-ultimatum-to-isle-of-man-government-1-6386883|Click here to read that story.}

Mr Cretney’s answer is repeated in full here:

My department has made sustained efforts to accommodate the various changing plans of Ellan Vannin Lines with the aim of them starting a service from Douglas.

It might help if I first made it clear that the company has never at any time been denied access to Douglas harbour.

The legal position in the Harbours Act is that this is a publically owned and operated harbour that is available for use by all. Members will know that my department owns one linkspan. That is subject to a long term commercial agreement, often known as the User Agreement.

The linkspan agreement is with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company on a commercial basis and ensures all year round lifeline services.

The agreement is publically available and can be found in the Tynwald library. Indeed, a copy has been placed on the website of a company that has links to EVL, so the company is fully aware of the terms of the agreement.

I referred to the company’s changing plans. I will provide a brief summary of some of these.

In early 2013, the first proposal from EVL was to operate an ‘every other day’ lift on/lift off freight service. By July 2013, when the company first met with the director of ports, the proposal had changed to a daily lift on/lift off service, with a side ramp capability.

EVL announced that it was looking to buy a suitable ship. Following detailed discussions with my officers, it was subsequently decided that the preferred berth for the service would normally be berth 6. The timings of the service were to be arriving overnight, depending on the tides.

In early October 2013, the company informed the department of a delay in starting the freight service and that they were interested in obtaining the MV Cometa for operation from March 2014. My officers were told that the company had quote ‘carefully selected this vessel for its manoeuvring abilities in the limited space of Douglas and Heysham harbour’ unquote but that quote ‘the owners required use of their ship until the end of the year, and that this ship was worth waiting a few months longer’ unquote.

In October, Ellan Vannin Lines changed its proposal again. The company now wished to operate two ferries. This proposal involved the somewhat surprising plan to unload a roll on/roll off cargo vessel through the stern ramp onto a double-ended ferry. Both ships were to be moored behind each other.

In late October 2013, whilst still discussing the freight service, EVL asked to meet and discuss an application for the direct use of the government link span during TT 2014 and the summer season. The company sought to access the reserved use of the linkspan as part of the annual 24 ‘en-route’ visits allowed under the terms of the User Agreement.

The company also advised that it wished to make an application for the use of the government link span on a daily basis from March 2014, for a roll on/roll off ferry carrying both passengers and freight.

Earlier this month the department became concerned about comments on the EVL website that suggested that the company was ready to operate but saw the department as a delay.

The lack of availability of the linkspan was again made clear and a meeting was arranged for the 14th to discuss the operation of the MV Cometa and its side loading facility. The aim at this stage was to study drawings and agreed operational procedures for harbour staff.

However at that meeting the company advised that it would not be proceeding with the side-loading proposal due to the impact of tides on services and a delay on the availability of the Cometa.

This left only the proposals to use the linkspan, at this time for a freight vessel. However, on January 15, two emails were received from EVL. The first email was in their own name to apply for use of the government link span for a daily service with a suitable roll on/roll off passenger vessel with additional reference to a TT service between Holyhead and Dublin calling en-route to Douglas.

The second email was in the name of the UK company CB Marine Ltd, London, a ship management company, for whom EVL were acting as agent. CB Marine Ltd is a company unknown to the Department that appears to manage cargo vessels. This second email was an application to operate a service between Heysham and the IOM using a roll on/roll off vessel with a stern ramp using the link span.

When asked if EVL was not now going to operate the IOM/Heysham freight service, using Berth 6 routinely, a non-linkspan berth, EVL replied quote “We still intend to use the non linkspan berths and we understand that there is no problem ” unquote EVL also confirmed that they would give two months’ notice for this service to begin.

In response to the EVL applications the department advised that there is not the opportunity to operate a daily service using the department’s linkspan unless it is outside the port range (a defined ‘catchment’ area) for passengers and passenger accompanied vehicles but that the Department may permit use of the linkspan for May 2014, 2015 and 2016, but not more than twice a week, if an operator wishes to call in to Douglas as part of a service operated between two ports outside the Isle of Man.

In response to the CB Marine application, the department advised any daily service using the linkspan, would need to come from outside the port range defined in the User Agreement and would be in respect of passengers and passenger accompanied vehicles only. As Heysham does not qualify the application was refused, though a passenger and passenger accompanied vehicle service from a more distant port outside of the port range remains potentially acceptable.

On January 24, EVL posted on their website that quote ‘following rejection to their application for the use of the linkspan bridges in Douglas by the director of harbour and airports’ unquote they quote ‘cannot keep the March start date and cannot give a definitive new start date at the moment for any operation to and from Douglas. This applies to both, the freight and the planned TT passenger /RoRo service.’ unquote.

The department would like to state that it has not prevented access to EVL to Douglas harbour but has advised EVL on the options that are available. With seemingly no intention to operate a freight service of any sort despite the many proposed variations of service and a clear statement about the user agreement, I can only ask Honourable Members to draw their own conclusion.

Whatever the views of Members, recent years have seen both the Mezeron freight service introduced and subsequently closed and a legal challenge to the User Agreement subsequently settled.

I confirm that there is no reason why EVL cannot operate a ferry service from Douglas using a non-linkspan berth – as my department had expected for many months.

An investigation into a plane crash in Cork in which six people died has found that Spain’s aviation regulator contributed to the crash through inadequate oversight of the Spanish company which operated the fatal flight.

The final report into Ireland’s worst aviation crash in almost 50 years also found deficiencies on the part of the operating company, Flightline.

The Manx2 flight from Belfast to Cork crashed in dense fog at Cork Airport in February 2011.

The flight’s captain, co-pilot and four passengers died. Six other passengers survived.

A preliminary report and two interim statements from the Department of Transport’s Air Accident Investigation Unit told how bad decisions by the crew led directly to the crash.

The report states the crew did not give adequate consideration to the weather conditions in Cork. They breached minimum weather standards during each of three attempts to land the plane and the captain performed a manoeuvre reversing engine thrust which is prohibited in flight.

The report found that both the captain and the co-pilot had insufficient rest before starting duty on the day of the accident, and were likely to have been suffering from tiredness and fatigue at the time of the accident.

The captain of the flight, 31-year-old Jordi Sola Lopez from Barcelona, had only been promoted four days prior to the crash.

His co-pilot, Andrew Cantle, from Sunderland in England, joined the airline only three weeks before the crash.

The report finds their pairing together on the flight was ‘inappropriate’.

{http://www.iomtoday.co.im/news/manx2-air-crash-in-cork-deaths-confirmed-1-3065814|Click here to read how we reported the crash on the day it happened.}

The report also examines the relationship between the Spanish company which owned the Metroliner plane, Air Lada, the operator, Flightline, and the ticket seller, Manx2.com.

It describes as inadequate Flightline’s supervision of the service as well as the oversight of Flightline by Spanish aviation regulator AESA. It says both of these were a contributory cause of the crash.

The report says the flight captain was inadequately trained in the command role, and was ill-prepared for the situation he found himself in on the day of the accident.

The co-pilot’s training was not completed; some of Fleetline’s operational responsibilities were being inappropriately exercised by Air Lada and Manx2.com.

In relation to AESA, the report says there was no oversight of Flightline’s service in Ireland and that AESA said it was ‘unaware’ that Flightline was operating in Ireland, in spite of having regulatory responsibility for the company.

The report recommends that AESA reviews its policy regarding oversight of the carriers for which it has regulatory responsibility, particularly those conducting “remote” operations in other countries.

The report addresses four of its 11 safety regulations to the European Commission directorate responsible for commercial air transport. It is believed to be the first time an air accident investigating team has done this.

The report was sent to the six survivors and to the families of those who died over a week ago.

Manx2.com is now in liquidation.

Most of its operations have since been taken over by CityWing.

A statement from Manx2.com reads: ‘We welcome the final report published today by the Air Accident Investigation Unit of the Irish Department of Transport (AAIU) which conducted a full and very detailed investigation into the crash in February 2011 of flight NM 7100 from Belfast to Cork, which was operated by Flightline BCN.

‘The devastating impact of the tragic accident at Cork three years ago is not something that the passing of time has diminished and the thoughts and sympathies of all those involved are first and foremost with the families of those who lost their lives and those who were injured.

‘Manx2 ceased trading in December 2012 but the former directors and employees of Manx2 continued to give the AAIB and the AAIU their fullest co-operation throughout the three years of the investigation to ensure that the full facts could be determined and any lessons learned to improve future air safety.

‘Manx2 contracted all the flying to EU airlines licensed and required, as was the operator [Flightline BCN], to operate in compliance with the stringent standards and controls of the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), recognised to be among the most stringent in the world, under the oversight of their national aviation safety authorities.

‘Unfortunately, the report is clear that the prime causes of the accident were decisions made by the Flightline crew in adverse weather conditions, compounded by inappropriate crew rostering by the operator and a significant lack of oversight by the Spanish air safety authority.’

A former pupil has been taken over as head of the Buchan School.

Jane Corlett is the first head of the private school to have been educated there.

She began her school career at Peel Clothworkers’ School during which, inspired by her older brother who was already an academic scholarship recipient at King William’s College, she and a friend sat the scholarship exam for what was then the island’s only all-girl joint junior and senior school.

She was awarded one of only two full boarding scholarships for academic achievement and soon found herself absorbed in dormitory life along with just 11 other girls in her year at the Buchan’s Westhill boarding premises in Castletown.

‘Unlike today, we went to lessons in a housing terrace on Bowling Green Road,’ Miss Corlett said.

‘It was very dusty, it was very creaky and a little bit old in places, but the building itself and also the teachers within it opened us up to such a range of character that it really did help to form us as the resourceful and confident Buchan girls we were to become.’

Miss Corlett discovered a talent for sports such as swimming, netball, tennis, and hockey, a sport which, despite having never encountered before her time at Buchan, was to continue to play an important role in her life.

She continued in her studies at the Buchan, becoming school prefect at upper sixth level, as well as head of house and the school hockey captain.

‘All in all, I spent seven years living at Westhill, and I remember, during the holidays, that although I loved being at home with my family, I couldn’t wait to get back to school,’ she said. ‘There was always something to do.

‘It is a rare privilege to be part of an educational environment that breeds such sentiment in its students, and this is something that I’m keen to maintain as head.’

Miss Corlett went on to study French and Spanish at University in Manchester in 1975 in order to pursue a passion for travel and develop a talent for languages which, once having graduated, she put to use as the manager of a holiday complex, but in Portugal.

‘As a Buchan girl I simply wasn’t fazed by that at all,’ she said. ‘You simply roll up your sleeves and draw upon that “can do” attitude. I stayed there for a number of years but always missed home. I do believe the Isle of Man is the best place in the world to live.’

Miss Corlett returned to the island in 1983 where, while considering a career in accountancy, she was contacted by a former teacher from the Buchan with a request to assist a Portuguese-speaking student who wished to complete her ‘O’ level in the subject.

‘Again, it was just one of those things that grew from the smallest opportunity.

‘During that same academic year the chance arose to take over from the school’s full time teacher of Spanish and French, again a former teacher of mine, who was retiring – so, again, I rolled up my sleeves and accepted the challenge.

‘It was such a strange experience to be back amongst my former teachers, many of whom I absolutely worshipped, and indeed some of whom I have remained in contact with.

‘While teaching, however, this also meant that I needed to gain a formal teaching qualification, so I returned to university, this time in Liverpool, for a year. That was the beginning of my official term here, and I haven’t looked back.’

Miss Corlett’s career with the school has since seen her assume the role of head of languages at The Buchan School before moving to King William’s College where she held the position of housemistress then head of senior school, before ultimately being appointed vice principal, a position which she has held for the past 15 years.

Miss Corlett is also a motorcycle rider, licensed HGV and bus driver, a former street circuit kart racer (once British Women Racing Driver Club champion), community volunteer with the police and is a qualified independent schools inspector with a specialism in boarding. This role in particular, Miss Corlett said, allowed for great insight into the environment and culture of independent schools across the UK.

Martin Humphreys, principal at King William’s College, said: ‘The appointment of Jane is the natural progression in a career which has been deeply intertwined with the school and its founding principles.

‘Jane’s is a remarkable story which demonstrates her tenacity as an individual, her commitment to our pupils, and the breadth of her teaching experience. I look forward to seeing what the next chapter will bring.’

Miss Corlett added: “‘Overall, it is of course very strange to think of my journey to becoming Head of Buchan, but I’m absolutely certain that it was my time here that allowed me to take advantage of the opportunities that presented themselves.

‘We all learn to stand on our feet very quickly here: there is a common sense of resourcefulness, an inherent appreciation of character and confidence, and a climate of encouragement and freedom to develop which has encouraged Buchan and College pupils consistently to push the boundaries of their own education, regardless of ability.

‘Our vision for the future is to continue as such, to furnish our pupils with the means to meet the demands of the modern educational and professional world in what is increasingly a global market place.

‘Overall, it is a delight to be back at the Buchan and to offer our pupils the wonderful experiences and opportunities which I continue to appreciate.’

Ramsey’s ratepayers will pay no more in the coming year.

The board has set the 2014-2015 rate levy at an unchanged 348p in the pound.

In Michael, the rates are rising by 2p in the pound. They will pay 131p in the pound.

Earlier today, Braddan Commissioners announced their rate.

{http://www.iomtoday.co.im/news/isle-of-man-news/braddan-rates-to-fall-by-6p-in-the-pound-1-6401351|Click here to read our story about that. It includes the rate rises for a number of other authorities.}

It’s all change at Abacus.

Following a strategic restructure, the leading fiduciary and fund services specialist has announced the formation of the Abacus Financial Services Group.

The new group structure will include Abacus Financial Services Limited (AFSL) in the Isle of Man, and Abacus’ two entities in Malta, Abacus Financial Services (Malta) Limited (AFSML) and Abacus Corporate Services Limited (ACSL).

Former managing director of AFSL and AFSML, Paul Kneen, will head the new group as chief executive officer and Martin Heaney has been promoted to managing director of Abacus Financial Services Limited.

Mr Kneen said: ‘The formation of the Abacus Financial Services Group aims to advance the growth of business across the full range of solutions provided by its respective companies and to consolidate management and responsibility of group resources in order to create synergies that support our focus of new business acquisition and growth.

‘Having established fiduciary and fund entities in Malta to complement our service offering already available in the Isle of Man, we have positioned ourselves in two key financial centres to allow us to service both the offshore and onshore financial markets.

‘As Abacus Financial Services Group, we will continue to develop our range of products and services within the Pensions, Funds, Fiduciary, Yachts and Aircraft industries offered from our offices in Malta and the Isle of Man.’ Mr Kneen joined Abacus in 2007, prior to which he held senior management and executive board roles, overseeing banking, custodial, trust and fund services operations.

Mr Kneen also currently sits on the board of a number of fund and holding company structures across a diverse range of financial investment strategies.

He added: ‘As part of our new structure, I am delighted to announce the appointment of Martin Heaney as new managing director of Abacus Financial Services Limited. His appointment is well deserved and reflective of his many years of hard work and commitment to the Abacus group’.

Mr Heaney has been with Abacus for 16 years, prior to which he worked 10 years in banking in the Isle of Man with responsibilities across investments, global settlements, lending and corporate structuring.

Mr Heaney has extensive knowledge of the offshore market and vast experience and understanding of Abacus’ business and the range of services offered to its international clients. He said: ‘I am honoured to have been appointed as the new managing director of AFSL.

‘I am looking forward to my new role as we drive the business forward into new markets across our growing client base.’