Strong response to discrimination proposals

Strong response to discrimination proposals

The benefits of an equality bill to tackle discrimination in the Isle of Man would outweigh potential costs.

That’s the view of the majority of people who responded to a public consultation on the issue.

Business organisations, trade unions, third sector groups, local authorities and individuals are among those who have commented on proposals to ban discrimination in a range of areas – such as employment, on the grounds of age, disability, gender, race, religion and sexual orientation.

The majority of responses are generally supportive of both the principle of the Isle of Man having legislation to comprehensively deal with discrimination and of the Island’s Equality Bill being closely based on the UK’s Equality Act 2010.

Some respondents believe a bill would be unnecessary and disproportionate with excessive costs to business and government.

Others say a bill is essential, long overdue in the Island and that any benefits (social, reputational and also financial) would outweigh potential costs.

Also included in the proposals, regulations that Island schools will be banned from discriminating against pupils aged 16 and older on the grounds of marriage and civil partnership.

A 110-page report on the matter has been published by the Cabinet Office, including an overview of the comments received.

The views expressed in the consultation will now be taken into account and compiled into a bill to go before Tynwald.

You can see the response document on the government website: gov.im/ConsultationDetail