Call for multiple resignations off back of Ranson report

CoMin needs 'clean sheet' says MHK Tim Glover

An MHK says that Treasury Minister and former Health Minister, David Ashford should resign, off the back of the findings of the Ranson Tribunal.

The Chief Minister has announced a major examination of civil service culture as a result of the Former Medical Director's unfair dismissal.

But Tim Glover says others should consider resigning as well:

'Essentially it's just more talk. There are people who have lost their careers because they've made protected disclosures about dangerous situations in the hospital.'

Douglas Central MHK Chris Thomas, who previously said Mr Ashford should offer his resignation, believes government has missed an opportunity to do more to tackle a culture of bullying in the public sector.

Alfred Cannan said he was unable to discuss aspects of the tribunal's findings in detail yesterday due to the tribunal being sub judice, something Mr Thomas questions.

He says yesterday's announcements fell short of what's needed in terms of protecting whistleblowers like Dr Ranson:

'I think that Mr Ashford should consider the circumstances that happened over that period of time.'

Douglas South MHK Claire Christian wouldn't say whether she felt the treasury minister should resign.

However, she says government should use the outcome of the tribunal to make 'real change'.

Mrs Christian was among those to react to Chief Minister Alfred Cannan's statement in Tynwald yesterday, urging government to get rid of 'bad apples' within the civil service.

She told Manx Radio she believes something positive can come from this situation:

After Mr Cannan's statement, the court was invited to ask questions.

Douglas East MHK Joney Faragher wanted to know what action was going to be taken in the 'short term'.

Meanwhile, Garff MHK Daphne Caine said: "Although there is clear undertaking to have a reset of organisational culture, there is no real hint of regret or apology."

You can listen back to the chief minister's statement here.