Introducing ID checks on boats could help strengthen Island's borders

Minister keen to hear public's thoughts

People are being urged to have their say on the prospect of having to carry ID when travelling by sea.  

The Department of Home Affairs says it could help strengthen the Island’s borders.  

The idea is part of government’s ‘Securing Our Island Strategy’ which aims to protect the Island from evolving threats and ensure the ‘safety and wellbeing of our community’.  

Historically people travelling via the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company haven’t had to provide identification as a condition of carriage.  

But that could change as Justice and Home Affairs Minister Jane Poole-Wilson explains:  

A public consultation will run until June seeking feedback on the proposal.  

You can find it HERE.  

Feedback gained from the consultation will inform further policy work to look at how the change could be implemented.  

Government says the core elements centre around the possibility of ID at check-in which would be checked as part of a ‘proportionate approach’.  

That means it’s possible that not every passenger would be checked.  

Exemptions or special arrangements could also be considered for certain passenger groups - such as minors, individuals without accepted forms of ID, medical evacuation or emergency travel and assisted travel needs.  

The department says it would need to come up with a list of acceptable documents which could include photo ID and, where appropriate, a combination of alternative documents for those unable to provide it.  

It is not anticipated that the department would introduce new legislation to impose the requirement.  

The department adds it recognises that it needs to balance public protection with a positive travel experience.  

Minister Poole-Wilson is keen for everyone to share their thoughts: