The Chief Minister believes the Isle of Man has successfully managed to balance the risk of bringing key workers into the island during the pandemic.

In Tynwald this week Howard Quayle was asked what the findings and outcomes were from the review of the procedures for allowing key workers to travel here.

He responded by saying the requirement in the regulations not allowing a key worker into the island remains the process.

’There is a further need to clarify what a key worker is,’ he said.

’But there is a need for flexibility and that the island can continue to hire key workers.

’I believe that throughout the pandemic, we have successfully managed. We have had to learn as we have gone along. There is no rule book. I previously provided members of changes on how we manage key workers. I would like to reiterate the invitation to Honourable Members to visit the Covid response team to see for themselves the important role they perform in keeping our island safe and to get further insight into the day-to-day operations of the team.’

Legislative Council member Kate Lord-Brennan, who posed the question, also asked: ’Aside from reviewing the regulations and being happy with the risk, are there any particular changes to the process that can be highlighted by the Chief Minister?’

The Chief Minister responded by stating work was already under way, which included contact with the sponsor company on arrival to the island.

Also the provision of a separate lane and ensuring that they understand requirements of entry and announcements on ferries to self isolate on arrival.

He said: ’The Covid response team continues to review its processes to further refine them, working in close partnership with other parts of government as appropriate.’

Deputy President of Tynwald Juan Watterson asked: ’Will the Chief Minister confirm that checks will continue to take place over Christmas and over the New Year period to ensure that our island remains safe?’

The Chief Minister confirmed that the response team will work throughout the holiday period.

Chris Thomas (Douglas East) put to the Chief Minister a question regarding what key workers would be needed in a pandemic and if there was a plan in place, to which the Chief Minister answered: ’I am happy to circulate to all honourable members the previous plan.’