The Isle of Man Financial Services Authority has said it is taking steps to comply with a Decision Notice issued by the Information Commissioner’s Office.
The decision notice that was issued today (January 5) follows a complaint under the Freedom of Information Act.
In a statement, the FSA reaffirmed its commitment to openness and transparency, noting that it takes its responsibilities under the act seriously.
The FSA maintained that while it may be reasonable to release information relating to the CEO and Heads of Division due to their seniority, the disclosure of personal data relating to more junior roles is “absolutely exempt” under the legislation.
Reaffirms Commitment
A spokesperson for the FSA said: “The Isle of Man Financial Services Authority is committed to openness and transparency and takes its responsibilities in relation to the Freedom of Information Act 2015 (‘FOIA15’) seriously.
The Authority notes the conclusions of the Decision Notice issued by the Information Commissioner’s Office on 5 January 2026 and is taking the necessary steps to comply with the required actions.
The Decision Notice acknowledges that the Authority proactively contacted the applicant to help redefine their eight-part request and avoid a refusal. No response was provided by the applicant, and the request was processed as originally received.
The point regarding not following the Council of Ministers FOIA15 Code of Practice relates to paragraphs 4.4(a)(i) and 4.4(a)(ii), i.e. failing to inform the applicant they had 28 days to respond to the Authority’s request for clarification. The Authority has updated its procedures to ensure this element of the Code is complied with in future.
In response to the original request, the Authority provided the applicant with an organisation chart, all job titles, and the names and maximum salaries for senior executives, where this information is held. Further information about how the pay of the Authority’s Chief Executive Officer is determined was supplied to the applicant, along with the CEO job description and person specification.
The Authority believes that while it may be considered reasonable to release information about its CEO and Head of Division roles given their seniority, the personal data in relation to more junior roles is ‘absolutely exempt’ as per the legislation.“
