A sunflower lanyard scheme - to help passengers with hidden illnesses or disabilities - is already in operation at the airport and is set to be introduced by the Steam Packet.

But the scheme is not widely publicised to avoid the system being abused.

The concept behind the scheme is that people who have a condition that is not immediately recognisable - such as deafness or autism - wear a sunflower lanyard that informs staff they may require assistance or greater understanding.

Infrastructure Minister Ray Harmer MHK told the House of Keys that such a scheme had begun at the airport, launched in conjunction with the Department of Health and Social Care and Manx Breast Cancer Support Group.

’Staff are aware that passengers wearing a sunflower lanyard may need extra support as well as prioritisation in respect of queuing,’ he said.

’When dealing with disabilities both hidden and invisible, airport staff are particularly aware of medical devices, medication and communicating with the requirement to search passengers.

’If passengers are wearing the lanyard then staff are more mindful when carrying out screenings and searches.’

He added that the Steam Packet had registered with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard Scheme and would be looking to roll it out soon.

Rob Callister (Onchan) asked what efforts were being made to publicise the scheme.

Mr Harmer said a number of charities were promoting the scheme among those people who would benefit from it.

At the airport, lanyards will be supplied, on request, without the user being required to provide any proof of the condition, so as to avoid any stress or embarrassment.

But he added: ’The scheme has not been widely publicised to the general travelling public in case it is misused by passengers who do not have hidden disabilities.’