The Isle of Man Examiner is in the shops this morning.

It includes the latest on the Houghton and Hall affair.

Eddie Lowey explains why the MEA showrooms are going to shut.

Meanwhile, if you saw a tall ship in Douglas harbour, you might be wondering why it was there. The Examiner has the details with a picture on the front page.

There’s reaction to the news that EasyJet plans to fly from Ronaldsway to Gatwick.

If you’re driving between Douglas and Peel, you might like to know that CCTV is monitoring you for part of your journey. The details are inside.

PLUS: You can save more than £3 on a shop in Tesco with cutout vouchers inside.

DAVID Harris is a strategic sales and marketing consultant who vehemently believes in metaphorically getting his hands dirty when companies in the island ask him to use his 38 years of business nous to their advantage.

‘I don’t just go into a business and carry out an initial audit, prepare a report and then walk away,’ said David, who has just launched Laxey-based David Harris Consulting Ltd.

‘For me, it’s all about accountability and commitment, which means working within the company and alongside management to ensure my recommendations are successfully implemented.’

David, whose career has seen him work for major financial institutions in mainland Europe, Scotland, Leeds and London, moved to the island in 2009 when he became sales and marketing director with corporate service provider Equiom Trust.

‘Setting up my own business as a launch pad for others to achieve future success has already proved to be very successful, with work coming from a diverse range of clients, including some of the biggest companies and financial institutions on the island,’ he said.

‘My aim is to work for high quality clients, helping with their strategic direction and using my strong financial services background and experience to nurture growth and cross-selling opportunities.’

He added: ‘I’m definitely very encouraged by the business opportunities which the Isle of Man offers.’

MANX Telecom is hosting a second presentation about its Intelligent Cloud product afer a ‘fantastic’ response at the launch.

The event will be held at Manx Telecom Headquarters, Isle of Man Business Park, on Wednesday (April 25).

The presentation will last around an hour with Fergal McKenna, Manx Telecom sales director, and Stephen Trimble, Manx Telecom enterprise hosting and solutions manager, demonstrating the product and answering questions from guests.

Stephen Trimble said the second Intelligent Cloud event was aimed at those businesses representatives who were unable to attend the launch at The Claremont which was packed with more than 80 representatives from a wide range of business sectors..

He said: ‘We had a fantastic response to the Intelligent Cloud launch, but wanted to provide another opportunity to explain the technology behind the product and demonstrate how easy it is for businesses of all sizes, and in all sectors, to benefit from cloud computing.’

Intelligent Cloud was developed by Manx Telecom in partnership with market leading hosting technology firm VMWare. Intelligent Cloud is the only Isle of Man-based VMWare-powered solution with free bandwidth.

In layman’s terms, Intelligent Cloud allows a business to buy IT services from Manx Telecom in the same way as it would buy power from an electricity supplier.

If required, Intelligent Cloud allows a business to host all of its IT needs with Manx Telecom in a secure and resilient environment, removing the need to own and manage in-house networks and servers.

For larger businesses that wish to use existing in-house networks and servers, Intelligent Cloud can provide extra capacity as and when required, therefore removing the need for further capital investment in additional IT hardware.

Manx Telecom claim Cloud is ideal for a business that needs to flex its IT capacity up and down or for those needing a joined up business continuity plan.

At the heart of Intelligent Cloud is Manx Telecom’s purpose built Douglas North Data Centre which is used and trusted by Isle of Man Government and many world leading private sector brands.

Guests are invited to arrive at 3.30pm for a 4pm start and if you wish to attend email business.events@manx-telecom.com or phone Manx Telecom corporate sales on 624624.

For more information about Intelligent Cloud go to www.manxtelecom.com/cloud

Monday, April 23

Aries (March 21 - April 20)

Even a few days ago there may have been doubts in your mind as to whether a plan could succeed. As this week begins, however, a breakthrough is possible. Pacing yourself seems impossible as things around you are moving so quickly. When it comes to business, fantasy may be your chosen path. You try to believe in the impossible. Don’t waste time daydreaming. In any case, practical matters will soon spike any unrealistic dreams.

Taurus (April 21 - May 21)

Romance and passion fly in a crazy way through this week. Venus and Mars spark off each other to form an emotional vortex. Be your charming best and by midweek relationships will have been strengthened. There is no need, however, to make a commitment where none is asked for. People come and go and the atmosphere is very flirtatious. Pluto is on hand at the weekend to bring your ideas down to earth.

Gemini (May 22 - June 21)

This is a great time socially, especially if you seek to be, or are, romantically involved. Gemini, being the ultimate lover, can be capitulated into a week of flirtatiousness initiated by the power surge that is Venus and Mars. Some confused thoughts are likely, so be prepared to seek advice. Use any excess energy on something both creative and physical. This would certainly take in spending time with your paramour.

Cancer (June 22 - July 23)

Be prepared for a hectic time as this week begins. The first few days may start slowly but the pace will soon pick up. Venus and Mars urge you to listen to your heart. Instincts are sharp and creative thoughts come flooding in. Changes at work are considered as you realise your worth. You may have felt unappreciated. Stretching yourself and increasing your experience seems the obvious way forward.

Leo (July 24 - August 23)

There is not so much a clash of planets this week as an explosion. You will have energy, charisma and creativity in abundance. Thinking big both at home and work seems inevitable. Why would you want to avoid it anyway, when there is so much to gain and so little to lose? Have confidence in your own abilities. At the weekend you will remind yourself of past success and realise that you still have what it takes.

Virgo (August 24 - September 23)

Achieving a balance between the need for adventure and the realities of everyday life is difficult sometimes. At the moment there may be a tendency to over-emphasise the urgency of a new venture to make progress. Keep everything on a practical and realistic level at work. On the other hand, romance gives the scope to use both imagination and creativity. Enjoy all the possibilities that this brings.

Libra (September 24 - October 23)

With the emphasis strongly on relationships, particularly intimate ones, you may be looking for a perfect partner. Perhaps you are asking yourself how perfect your current relationship is? With both Venus and Mars working away in your corner this week, a sharp mind brings everything into focus. However, don’t forget that imperfections can make someone more loveable. Don’t you like to have times when you feel superior?

Scorpio (October 24 - November 22)

An incredibly romantic week ahead brings out the lighter and more entertaining side of your personality. Rarely have you been more attractive and loveable. With both Venus and Mars on your side, take these advantages and run with them! Midweek can bring boredom at work, but consider all changes before making them. Judgment may be clouded at times. The weekend brings the need to make a long-overdue decision.

Sagittarius (November 23 - December 21)

Your playful side comes out as this week begins. Light-hearted thoughts and flirtatiousness bring you into contact with new people and situations. Emotions rise to the surface, but midweek confidence soars. Now it is possible to say or do something that you have long wanted to. Abundant charm at the weekend brings you even closer to a loved one. The response that you get depends on the attention you give.

Capricorn (December 22 - January 20)

With extra energy and a sense of purpose, it is possible to get much more done than expected. Stretching yourself now fires up confidence and allows you to hope for more. Although visions may be magical, hard work is still needed, if only in spurts. Avoid those who would delay your progress by causing disruption. You will see them coming if you stay sharp. Don’t rise to their bait!

Aquarius (January 21 - February 19)

Get out and about, with or without a partner, to make the most of this romantic time. With both Mars and Venus firing passions and heightening attraction, it is not a time for wishful thinking, but for action! Showing to a paramour that you can be exciting and unpredictable (even if it isn’t generally true) only serves to increase their longing to be with you. Do your best to increase an air of mystery.

Pisces (February 20 - March 20) Powerful planets make you both adventurous and imaginative this week. Spring is bringing you closer to loved ones and new relationships get off to a good start because of charm and determination. Others take your willingness to consider their needs and feelings as a great compliment and respond accordingly. Keep your feet on the ground at the weekend, however, for rash promises can be hard to change.

MOBILE CCTV cameras are to be placed at roadworks on the main Douglas to Peel road this week to deter motorists from driving through red lights and endangering highways staff working on the site.

They will be located as a pilot scheme at the roadworks at Glen Lough Dip, which began at the start of April. Cameras will be positioned at each end of the site, focusing on the traffic signals to monitor those drivers who choose to ignore red lights.

Infrastructure Minister David Cretney MHK said: ‘Despite numerous articles in the media, and road safety campaigns over the last few years, it seems some motorists continue to ignore red lights on temporary traffic signals. Last year, several motorists were prosecuted for this during works undertaken in Victoria Road in Castletown.

‘As this pattern shows no sign of changing, the department is taking the next step to try and deter motorists and improve safety, both for our works teams and the general public.’

CCTV evidence of vehicles running red lights may be used by the police in prosecutions against drivers.

However, it is hoped that the CCTV will act as a deterrent to drivers.

Warning signs will be positioned in advance of the works to advise motorists that CCTV will be in operation.

If the pilot scheme is successful, the department intends to install CCTV on all future roadworks with temporary lights.

Mr Cretney added: ‘While I understand the frustration and inconvenience of roadworks to the travelling public, it is a requirement of all road uses to adhere to the appropriate traffic controls. I welcome this initiative to monitor temporary traffic signals in an attempt to improve safety for the public in general and for the department’s staff.’

Sergeant Pete Dyer of the roads policing unit said: ‘The police are prepared to use any evidence obtained from CCTV in order to identify and prosecute motorists who blatantly ignore traffic lights, which are situated at road works. This manner of driving is antisocial and unacceptable. These lights are positioned for safety purposes.’

THE Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) has triumphed in becoming the Department of Health’s top team for 2011-12.

HART is specifically designed to maintain patient care in hazardous conditions, such as a cliff fall or aiding a search and rescue mission.

This project insured that paramedics were able to attend the site of the accident and see to the casualty, in the past they have only received basic first aid.

Before this initiative, paramedics had to wait for the patient to be rescued from the hazardous area before treating them.

Mark Kelly, ambulance training supervisor and team leader of HART, said: ‘The team was delighted to win this year’s Top Team Award considering the strength of all other entrants. We feel that everyone concerned deserves a big pat on the back for jobs well done.

‘It has been a hard slog for all our team to progress the programme this far and we would like to extend our thanks to all who have assisted us, in particular our sponsor, Microgaming Health and Care Trust, the Isle of Man’s Fire and Rescue Service for providing us with such thorough and professional training and the A&E department for assisting with the reciprocal training initiative. The programme will continue to grow upon our already strong foundations with our focus being to provide patients in hazardous areas with the best standards of care possible.’

The awards consisted of four shortlisted teams. Each team made a 10-minute presentation to show why their project should win.

Minister for Health David Anderson MHK opened the ceremony. He said: ‘My congratulations go to all the teams that submitted an entry, those who were shortlisted and of course, the team at the Ambulance Service who succeeded in becoming the Department’s Top Team for 2011/2012 with their HART project. The quality of the entrants just goes to show the array of talented teams we have in the department and I hope that this is an incentive for all teams to put an entry in for next year’s award.

‘The Top Team Award showcases the Departments of Health’s dedication to provide the highest standard of care for the Isle of Man. Every project, initiative or scheme, which is devised by the department, has a direct impact on the Manx public and awards like this recognise the hard work that teams endure to provide the island with the best possible care.’

HART was formed by a small group of dedicated paramedics. The Isle of Man’s HART has gone through extensive and intense training alongside the Isle of Man’s Fire and Rescue Service to ensure that the best skills from all areas are taken advantage of.

EDUCATION Minister Peter Karran has been badly advised over controversial cuts.

That’s the view of the two members sacked from his department last week after they absented themselves from a crunch vote on the nursery reforms.

A bitter row has broken out after MHKs Zac Hall and John Houghton, both members of the department, failed to take part in the debate on Steve Rodan’s motion to try to scupper the department’s plan to privatise nurseries in the island in a bid to save money.

Both were roundly criticised and they were subsequently sacked. Mr Hall has also been ‘suspended’ from Liberal Vannin.

Mr Hall and Mr Houghton have issued a lengthy statement.

In it they say of education cuts: ‘Despite recording our objection to the proposals, we were horrified that the minister was adamant to take a course of action without the support of any of the departmental members.

‘The minister appeared to show a lack of understanding of the subject matter and the real value of teacher led nursery opportunities for children and that its withdrawal would result in lower standards. We believed it was a short-sighted, regressive step that will be very hard to reverse in the future and will have a detrimental effect on the progress and attainment of pupils in the long term.’

They add: ‘As we were largely removed from the decision making process, did the civil service leadership support the Minister of Education & Children sufficiently as they tried to develop options?

‘We do not believe the minister received good advice or support from them. The bureaucratic response to budget reduction was simply to cut non-statutory provision.

‘In fact, informed analytical consideration, not rushed decision, was needed. We were concerned that this decision was being made without first consulting and fully discussing the proposals with teachers and head teachers who would be affected by the changes.

‘They were left largely on their own to shoulder the burden of parents’ anger and concerns about a policy decision that was not of their own making and about which they knew nothing until it was too late to prepare an adequate response which they were confronted with at very short notice.’

But they admit they may have got it wrong by not taking part in last week’s debate.

‘We did not want to be dishonest to Tynwald by supporting a policy we couldn’t endorse in the form being proposed but with consideration for the minister, we decided at the time it was appropriate to remove ourselves from the debate and abstain from the vote,’ the statement says.

‘However, with the benefit of hindsight, we regret that we were not present in the court in order to be able to vote in support of Mr Speaker’s motion. We have been taught a lesson which we have learned. We recognise that it would not have made a difference to the outcome or our own positions in government.’

ISLE of of Man Bank Limited has appointed former Appleby senior partner Paul Morris to its board as a non-executive director.

Mr Morris, who was born and educated in the island, has a law degree from the University of Sheffield.

He qualified as an Isle of Man advocate in 1981 and was a partner at a number of law firms before joining Dickinson Cruickshank where he was partner from 1999 until his retirement in 2011.

A former president of the Isle of Man Law Society, he continues to work as a consultant for Appleby which merged with Dickinson Cruickshank in 2009.

Bill Shimmins, managing director of Isle of Man Bank, said: ‘It is a pleasure to welcome someone of Paul Morris’ stature and experience to the board. I am confident the board will benefit from his wealth of experience and intricate knowledge of the island’s commercial landscape.’

Mr Morris said: ‘I am honoured to be invited to the board of Isle of Man Bank which, as company number one on the island’s Companies Registry, is something of a local institution.’

Mr Morris has been a bank customer since 1974 and is married to Joy, who used to work for Isle of Man Bank. He enjoys cricket and golf in his spare time and is a member of the MCC and a former captain and president of Ramsey Golf Club

AN illuminated address has been commissioned by Tynwald to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Tynwald president Clare Christian MLC told the court that well-known Manx artist Colleen Corlett had been commissioned by the Tynwald Management Committee to produce the work, which she said will reflect island themes and will feature the names of all the Tynwald members on its reverse.

She said the address would be presented to Lieutenant Governor Adam Wood to give to the Queen – the Lord of Mann – at a special sitting of Tynwald on May 22.

CONFUSION has arisen over a practice note issued by Treasury led tax professionals warning clients there may be plans to introduce capital gains tax (CGT) in the island.

In Tynwald, Treasury Minister Eddie Teare MHK denied claims he was trying to push through legislation by the back door.

The claim was made by Michael MHK Alfred Cannan, who called on Mr Teare to withdraw the practice note PN174/12, which he described as ‘flawed’.

Mr Cannan said: ‘Why did the Treasury see fit to issue practice note PN174/12 on February 21, which states that all distributions made by a corporate taxpayer will be taxable in accordance with primary law, which led KPMG and other tax experts to warn clients of a potential capital gains tax regime in the Isle of Man?’

Mr Teare replied that Treasury had moved quickly to close a loophole after having indications there was ‘some very aggressive tax planning going on in, unfortunately, one particular section of the community, which might have caused the Exchequer some problems’.

He told Tynwald: ‘I feel that we have acted responsibly in that regard.’

Mr Cannan said: ‘Will the Treasury Minister accept that PN174/12 has caused great consternation amongst professional tax advisers, is fundamentally flawed and should be withdrawn immediately, in order to ensure that we can maintain continuity of business?’

The Minister replied with a simple ‘no’.

Mr Cannan suggested that PN174/12 had been brought in to protect the Treasury from losses of revenue far in excess of the £2 million predicted from the withdrawal of the anti-avoidance measure ARI – whose abolition was announced in last year’s Budget in a move designed to safeguard the zero/10 tax policy against attacks from Europe.

‘Will the Treasury Minister further accept that PN174/12 was, in fact, an attempt at bringing legislation under the radar and was not fulfilling the potential, or the realities, of a practice note, which is simply to enhance current legislation?’ he added.

Mr Teare replied: ‘No, I do not. It was not an attempt to bring in legislation by the back door – I think that is the inference of the supplementary question. It was just a reminder of the legal position, as it stands.’

The Minister said he would issue clarification and added: ‘I have to say that I am very disappointed that some of the tax practitioners on the island jump to conclusions without picking up the phone and calling Treasury.’

SOUNDCHECK, the project for up and coming bands run by the Department of Education and Children’s (DEC) Youth Service, will be at Mannifest again this summer and will be joined by visiting musicians from Ireland.

Soundcheck provides rehearsal space and tuition for young musicians and stages gigs at the Villa Marina and other venues.

Last year, Soundcheck bands including Savage Tim and This Year’s Winner Is… took part in the three-day Mannifest festival at Glen Lough, appearing on a small stage.

During this year’s festival, which runs from August 3 to 5, that space will be used for dance and drama performances by young people from the DEC’s Youth Arts Centre and will host an arts and crafts area where visitors can get their hair braided and their faces painted, have tattoos done and buy glow sticks.

The music will be on a much larger, covered stage and special guests will play with Soundcheck bands.

The popular Panicland, rockers The Same, who are from Castle Rushen High School, and To Many Words, from Peel, will be among the participants. Douglas bands Naked and Remember Yesterday will also appear.

The Soundcheck band Full Moon Fallout, who have just released their homage to the TT, will also appear. The single, which will be available to download and purchase shortly, has been chosen as this year’s TT soundtrack.

Exhibition

It features the two Soundcheck staff, Paul Cooper and Jenni Smith, plus Paul’s daughter Georgia.

Other special guests include ex Savage Tim front man Jake Orritt playing a solo set and appearing with the band he is in at university, Trails.

Dave Hattersley, youth officer, said: ‘We also have special guests from a youth music programme in Belfast called West Belfast Rock and Contemporary Music Forum, which is based at Gort na Mona Gaelic Sports Club in Belfast, and they will bring solo acts and bands.

‘All in all, 16 visitors will be in the island for 10 days and will be playing at venues around the island. If you would like them to play at your venue, please contact the Youth Office on 686054.’

It is planned to make a photo and video documentary during Mannifest and display it at an exhibition and concert at the Youth Arts Centre in Kensington Road, Douglas, in September.

‘We are hoping that the exhibition will be sponsored and will be on display for the full weekend, with exhibits for sale,’ Dave said.

Soundcheck thanked Britannia International, Absolute Scaffold (staging), Peter Young from Mannifest, the Civil Defence (for the marquee) and staff and volunteers from the Youth Service for their help in making a Soundcheck stage possible at Mannifest.

THE two MHKs who were sacked from the Department of Education and Children for failing to support their Minister on pre-school education changes in Tynwald have released a joint statement.

Following a Council of Ministers meeting, it was announced on Friday that Liberal Vannin MHK Zac Hall (Onchan) and John Houghton (Douglas North) had been removed from the DEC with immediate effect after absenting themselves for the vote on privatising government-run nurseries.

The Isle of Man Examiner has made a number of attempts to contact Mr Hall and Mr Houghton but have had no response.

But in a joint statement they said: ‘In light of recent events we accept our departure from the Department of Education and Children. We will be making a full statement early next week.

You can now read about that statement in the following related article: {http://www.iomtoday.co.im/news/education/hall-and-houghton-karran-was-badly-advised-1-4476795|Hall and Houghton: Karran was badly advised}

‘We believe it was right to fight for the people from within the department and are disappointed that despite much hard work, we have been unable to divert the department from its current path.’

Chief Minister Allan Bell MHK said the two MHKs had broken Tynwald rules and the rules of engagement for department members by not supporting their minister, Peter Karran.

When members of Tynwald join a government department they are expected to accept collective responsibility - that they will agree to the department’s policies and vote with it. If they strongly disagree, the normal course of action is to resign.

Both Mr Hall and Mr Houghton told the President of Tynwald, Clare Christian, that they would be absent from the vote. But neither sought her permission.

Mr Bell said: ‘It’s a very disappointing position I find myself in but we have to make it very clear the process for policy development in any department is members and the minister can argue their case as bitterly and fiercely as they feel appropriate behind closed doors. But once the decision has been made as to what the policy might be and bearing in mind the minister of the department has the final say, department members are expected to support that policy in Tynwald and in the House of Keys.’

He added: ‘I am aware there have been fierce debates in education in developing this policy but there is an honourable way for members who still can’t agree for that decision, and that is to resign from the department altogether, like Dudley Butt did.’

Earlier this month Mr Houghton voted against the DEC in the House of Keys, supporting Douglas East MHK Brenda Cannell’s motion – which narrowly failed – for the proposed policy changes to require Tynwald approval.

Mr Hall absented himself shortly before the vote.

They have been replaced by MLCs Tony Wild, who himself voted against the DEC’s plans last week, and Juan Turner.

Mr Houghton retains his position as vice-chairman of the Manx Electricity Authority. Mr Hall has no other department membership.

Mr Butt MLC said: ‘Mr Hall and Mr Houghton obviously had a very difficult decision. They fought against the decision and obviously felt they could not support it in any vote in Tynwald.’

He said he hoped the government and Council of Ministers would reassess its priorities, adding: ‘Education is a long term commitment for children and Government and it is very short-sighted to make important policy decisions based on the finances of one year alone.’

The betrayal of Mr Hall is likely to have been painful for Mr Karran. Mr Hall won his seat in September’s general election. He stood on a Liberal Vannin ticket and Mr Karran campaigned extensively in Onchan with him.

It has been suggested that the main reason Mr Hall, a candidate with little political experience, won a seat was on the coattails of Mr Karran, who has topped the poll in the district for several general elections.

POLICE are investigating an alleged assault on a young woman in Douglas.

The incident took place at about 10.45pm last Friday (April 20) as the alleged victim was walking from the Tuck Inn Takeaway in Lower Dukes Road up onto Woodbourne Road.

Near Africa House there was an altercation with a white man who grabbed her, causing her to panic and flee the scene.

She has described him as aged 18-19 years with short blond hair. He was wearing a light coloured hooded top.

Constable Damon Carberry, of the Central Neighbourhood Policing Team, said he would like to speak to anyone who may be able to assist in identifying this man or have any information which could help in the on-going investigation.

You can contact him at police headquarters on 631212 or alternatively you can ring the free Crimestoppers number 0800 555 111.

THE next stage of Douglas town centre regeneration is to begin at the end of this month.

Approval has been given by the Chief Minister’s steering committee for work to start on the lower section of Nelson Street to link up the newly revitalised areas of upper Nelson Street and Wellington Street.

The project, which is to begin on Sunday, April 29, will see the laying of new granite paving identical to that used for the earlier schemes, together with improvements to Nelson Street at its junctions with Market Street and Prospect Hill. It will take approximately 14 weeks to complete, including a two week break for TT.

While works are being carried out the downhill carriageway in Prospect Hill between Athol Street and Victoria Street will be closed to traffic from April 29 to May 25 and a one-way uphill system introduced. Affected bus routes will be diverted via Athol Street and Ridgeway Street.

Infrastructure Minister and chairman of the Douglas Regeneration Committee David Cretney MHK said: ‘I welcome the start of this next stage to revitalise the town centre which will unite the newly regenerated areas of Nelson Street and Wellington Street and contribute greatly to the overall appearance of these key gateways into Douglas. Work on the remainder of Wellington Street then Duke Street and Strand Street is to follow, which once completed, will show to great effect the large-scale transformation taking place.

‘The Department of Infrastructure welcomes and shares the deep commitment of Douglas Council to progress the Douglas town centre regeneration. Only through creating a high-quality visually appealing environment can we retain existing businesses and attract new ones to stimulate investment and, in so doing, help secure a sound economic future for the Isle of Man.’

A NEW race, a new venue for the launch and new spectating points around the course marked the start of this year’s TT races.

As the Manx Independent reported last week, TT stars helped to launch the 2012 festival at Milntown.

Among the details to be revealed was the fact that around the course, grandstands are to be erected at five new viewing spots at Ballacrye, Rhencullen, Crosby, Ginger Hall and Creg-ny-Baa.

Fresh from a nocturnal drive back from the Bol d’Or via EuroDisney and his 40th birthday celebrations on Monday, 17-times winner John McGuinness was upbeat.

Again riding the Honda TT Legends Superbike and Pagett’s supersport and superstock machines, he will also be riding one of the electric bikes for the team Mugen.

‘I’ve had most success on the big bikes. I’ve been racing here 16 years, but I’ve not won a superstock title yet so I’d like to do that,’ he said.

Going one better than McGuinness, Leicestershire rider Michael Rutter was celebrating his 40th birthday that day. As well as riding Kawasakis for Bathams, he is riding one of the electric bikes sponsored by Segway. ‘I was really shocked,’ he said, employing slightly unfortunate terminology.

‘John McGuinness was taking the mickey out of me last year, but the power was incredible: it was like a really good 600 with so much drive. No engine noise, but the wind noise was horrific. Completely different and so fast. John was watching last year and I think it has inspired him.’

Completing the trio, Ian Lougher was there for the launch of his 28th TT.

‘I think it’s 115 starts at the TT...or is it 114? I can’t remember – but the first was in 1984 and I’ve been coming every year since. I still look forward to it,’ he said.

Teamed up this year with Tyco Suzuki alongside team mate Guy Martin, Manx star Conor Cummins has put the trials and tribulations of 2010 behind him.

‘Last year was a rebuild year. I’ve got the mileage under my belt now and I’m full of self-confidence.

‘The outings in the British championship have done wonders – it’s all about getting track time and bashing fairings with people. Come the North West 200 [just before the TT] I should be well in the groove and I’m well happy with Tyco Suzuki,’ he said.

Fans’ favourite and reluctant TV star Guy Martin advanced holding a book entitled ‘Mind Management’.

‘When is the win going to come?...yes it’s the question everyone is asking,’ he said.

‘It’ll come when it comes and no sooner. I had four podiums last year so it’s got to be knocking on the door.

‘The TV series has made a big difference – more so than the film – because it’s not just people who watch the bikes now.’

Commenting on team mate Conor, and possibly saving his best line until last, he added: ‘Conor – he’s a legend. After what he’s been through it’s the greatest comeback since Easter!’

THERE was no choice but to close the five Manx Electricity Authority shops because they were ‘haemorrhaging’ money, its chairman Eddie Lowey MLC has admitted.

The Castletown and Peel showrooms will close at the end of May while the Douglas, Ramsey and Port Erin showrooms will be closed by the end of September.

Mr Lowey said redundancies among the 24 retail staff members were inevitable – but added he hoped as many as possible would be redeployed within the state-owned MEA and across government.

‘This is sadly the end of an era,’ he said.

Related article: {http://www.iomtoday.co.im/news/isle-of-man-news/mea-shops-to-close-1-4467414|MEA shops to close}.

‘However, MEA Retail is not alone in struggling on the high street. Many of the larger names in retail are also closing shops due to declining sales.’

There have been repeated calls for the loss-making retail operation to be closed. In January, the Liberal Vannin MHK for Douglas South Kate Beecroft tabled a Tynwald motion calling for the showrooms to be closed ‘as soon as practical’.

Former chief minister Tony Brown was opposed to the closure of the showrooms, insisting they provided an important community service in the island’s towns.

An independent review was carried out in 2008 which led to a three-year plan, which saw a number of changes.

The Douglas showroom was relocated to Strand Street, the shops stocked a wider range of products, savings were made in the warehousing and delivery facility and the number of staff was reduced.

Mr Lowey said the MEA was ‘instructed by Tony Brown the shops had to be open for social reasons’.

He said: ‘When the new administration started the first thing we asked was “Are we still bound to keep the shops open?”.’

A review was launched, and Mr Lowey said the decision was made that it was not possible to turn the business around from its loss-making position.

Mr Lowey said he thought Mr Brown was right not to allow the shops to close under his administration.

But he added that it would be ‘irresponsible’ not to take that decision now, saying: ‘We gave it our best shot. We are still haemorrhaging money and that can’t continue.’

The MEA has seen reduced turnover and higher losses in its showrooms.

In 2009/10, turnover was £3.6m and losses were £414,000. The following year, turnover was £3m and losses increased to £592,000. In 2011/12, turnover is expected to be £2.5m and losses higher.

The MEA owns all of the sites except the Douglas showroom, in Strand Street. The properties will be put on the market following consultation with government departments.

Mr Lowey said that warranty work on electrical appliances will be honoured.

And he said that customers will be informed on alternative methods of paying their bills and prepaid meters.

Chief Minister Allan Bell MHK said that the Council of Ministers had agreed with the MEA’s decision.

‘This is a vey disappointing decision, for me personally, to have to make. I have grown up with the MEA showrooms almost my whole life and they have been a very important part of the retail proposition on the island.

‘I am sure they will be sadly missed by many people.’

When asked if he thought the shops should have closed sooner, he said: ‘Certainly there have been strong arguments put forward over the last couple of years that we should have bitten the bullet and closed these down before now.

‘The previous chief minister and Council of Ministers had a certain view on that.

‘I think the time has come, difficult though it might be, that we have to let our heads rule our hearts.’

THE Steam Packet Company is warning customers due to travel tomorrow (Wednesday) that sailings may be disrupted or cancelled.

On the Steam Packet website it says that ‘current weather forecasts indicate possible disruption/cancellation’ to both return sailings on the fastcraft Manannan.

The vessel is due to depart the island for Heysham at 8.45am and leave Douglas for Liverpool at 3pm.

A final decision will be made on whether the Heysham sailing will take place at 7am tomorrow. And there will be an update on the Liverpool sailing at 10.30am.

The Met Office, based at Ronaldsway, has issued a gale warning in operation tomorrow for the Irish Sea.

The state of sea is expected to be ‘occasionally rough’.

Steam Packet vessel the Ben-my-Chree is in dry dock for its biennial statutory overhaul until May 5.

A large capacity freighter has been chartered from Northlink Ferries for the dry dock period, while Manannan covers passenger and car services, as she did during the Ben’s last overhaul in 2010.

AN officer who was driving a police car which hit and killed a Manx student has been found not guilty of causing his death.

Jamie Haslett, 19, from Onchan, who was studying his second year of a sport and business degree at Sheffield Hallan University, died when he was hit by a South Yorkshire Police car in October 2008.

During the trial the court heard that Constable Rodney Mills was travelling at 58mph in a 30mph zone without lights or sirens. At the time of the collision, 3.54am, the victim was crossing the road on his way to his student accommodation following a night out.

The court heard that after the crash Constable Mills stopped and attended to Mr Haslett, but there was nothing he could do.

Constable Mills was found not guilty of causing death by careless driving.

WEEKLY sales of livestock have resumed after a temporary venue was found at the old abattoir in Tromode.

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture pulled the plug on the old auction site in St John’s at the end of last year after ruling it didn’t comply with modern day regulations.

Building work on a new mart at Knockaloe has begun but it will be summer before the facility will be up and running.

Many in the farming industry believe the lack of a regular livestock sale has contributed to an increase in the export of animals off-island.

But now Central Marts has been offered the use of the old abattoir site at Tromode to stage weekly livestock sales. Two auctions have been held so far.

Auctioneer Peter Quayle said: ‘The initial sales have had small numbers of stock but have been well supported – this has provided us with a useful opportunity to iron out any teething problems with staging the sales, and we are now looking forward to our next auctions with increased numbers of stock and bidders.

‘The old Lairage is a useful venue with suitable access, cattle handling facilities and importantly provides the opportunity for a regular mart due to the compliance with animal health and welfare legislation.’

THE TIMINGS of Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall Camilla visit to the island on Thursday (April 26) have been confirmed.

Their Royal Highnesses are visiting the Isle of Man as part of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee tour, to mark her 60 anniversary of Her Majesty’s reign.

The Prince of Wales and his wife Camilla will be visiting the following venues at the approximate times. They are:

National Sports Centre, Douglas at 12.30pm

House of Manannan, Peel at 1.30pm

Boat Park by the House of Manannan at 2.15pm

Peel lifeboat Station at 2.50pm

After visiting the National Sports Centre in Douglas, the Royals will spend most of their visit in Peel.

Charles and Camilla will watch young people take part in an outdoor cycle race, before meeting World Champion cyclist Peter Kennaugh and members of the Team Royal London 360 Isle of Man Cycling Club and their parents.

In Peel Their Royal Highnesses will meet food producers and view some of their produce at the House of Manannan in Peel. They will also be introduced to young farmers, representatives from charities and politicians.

They will also be introduced to the crew of the ‘Vital Spark’, a replica Viking longship that will be taking part in the Thames diamond jubilee pageant.

Charles and Camilla will then meet local fishermen on the quayside in Peel, before attending the launch of the regeneration of the Isle of Man Food Park in Peel, touring a sustainable scallop processing facility and unveiling a plaque to mark the start of the redevelopment.

They will finish their visit by meeting the RNLI volunteers, coastguards and members of the emergency services at Peel Lifeboat Station.