Some of the Covid test swabbing team have been ’reduced to tears’ following abuse from the public, says the government.

A member of Prospect Trade Union is now calling for tougher action over the behaviour.

A statement was put out by the Isle of Man Government last week on social media regarding ’vile and abusive behaviour’ during Covid-19 tests at the Grandstand.

Reminders have been released since.

The government explained ’aggressive or threatening behaviour’ towards health and social care staff ’will not be tolerated’.

Police will be called if necessary, they stated.

Mick Hewer, project negotations officer at Prospect, said: ’It simply isn’t good enough for government to say this type of behaviour is unacceptable and won’t be tolerated or that, if necessary, the police will be called.

’If the same behaviour were levelled at a police officer the perpetrator would be arrested, put before the courts and fined or jailed.

’This sort of behaviour is becoming the norm rather than the exception and it needs to stop now.’

Mr Hewer intends to write to the board of Manx Care to seek assurances that they will take robust action against any individual who abuses their staff.

He wants Manx Care prosecuting those who abuse members of staff to become the norm.

The statement said: ’This is completely unacceptable.

’Our swabbing team are working incredibly hard, often working very long hours to help test and protect our community from Covid-19.’

Mr Hewer added: ’I would ask that the public support all health care workers who face this sort of appalling behaviour.

’I am personally aware of the long arduous hours this group of staff work, irrespective of their grade or role.

’Please condemn this behaviour publicly, show your support for our health service workers.’

According to the government, the team is dealing with a large number of swabbing requests.