A minister has defended the way that people are appointed to the agencies in his department after questions were raised in Tynwald over due diligence checks.
This follows concerns raised after the departure of the former chair of Visit Isle of Man.
Enterprise Minister Tim Johnston outlined the recruitment process: “Candidates are evaluated for their experience and capability to support the agency’s strategic priorities. Potential board members are reviewed by the CEO, political member, and chair, with a recommendation sent to the chief officer and minister.”
Challenged
Rob Callister, Chair of the Public Service Commission (PSC), challenged the Minister’s account, stating: “I did email the minister and the department that the appointment relating to the chair was not made via the PSC. A quick five-minute Google clearly shows something was not quite right.”
Minister Johnston maintained that proper procedures were followed: “The chair is a paid role, classified as an employee, and went through the proper recruitment process with checks like other public service appointments.”
Julie Edge pressed for further clarity: “Can the Minister confirm if agency chairs are full employees with pensions?” Johnston responded: “A chair is employed and receives remuneration, unlike volunteer members.”
Lawrie Hooper questioned the need for an internal investigation if no process failure occurred: “If there’s no failure in the process, why is there an investigation?” The Minister replied: “It was triggered by concerns over an individual’s actions, not a process failure. Internal audit is reviewing it.”
Callister expressed frustration, saying: “The Minister is blaming OHR. A two-minute Google search raised red flags. We need stronger checks for agencies.” Johnston countered: “This is not about blaming OHR. Proper processes were followed, but we’re reviewing to improve.”
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