Criticism of 'late' snow school closure decision

The education minister has faced criticism in the House of Keys over the "late" decision to close schools across the Isle of Man on 5 January.

Schools and University College Isle of Man were shut on what was due to be the first day back after the Christmas break, due to widespread ice causing "hazardous conditions" and disruption to bus travel.

Although the schools were ultimately closed all day, the Department of Education, Sport and Culture initially announced a morning closure, with a review by lunchtime - something several MHKs criticised for leaving parents in "limbo".

Minister Daphne Caine said that decision had been based on the earlier forecast suggesting a "thaw" later in the day.

However, Caine said when that changed, the decision was then taken to close for the entire day.

She told MHKs that a tactical group had met at 06:00 GMT that morning, which then fed information to the strategic coordinating group, which met 30 minutes later.

Several MHKs criticised the process, arguing people wanted a "yes or no" decision as early as possible, instead of staggered information.

Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Tim Glover said live weather reports had contradicted suggestions of a temporary thaw, while Onchan member Julie Edge said it was "ridiculous" to expect people to attend from lunchtime.

There was also criticism of uncertainty over pay for education workers, with Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK - and former teacher - Jason Moorhouse stating they needed clarity "as quickly as possible".

Caine said she would "confirm the position once known", following a meeting of headteachers last week.

She said a "wealth of information" was considered before the recommendations were made and closing schools was a "significant step".

"I think we should applaud and thank everybody" for their efforts, she said, adding that "decisions were made with the best of intentions and the best of information" available on the day.

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