On-Air Now

Facebook

Isle of Man Police have stated the Pubwatch scheme will continue to operate following a review of practices.

 

It was carried out after concerns were raised about data protection rules, as new General Data Protection Regulations became law on the Island last year.

 

IOM Police said that there was a recognition that Pubwatch practices needed to be tightened to comply with existing laws, including data protection legislation, but the Information Commissioner assisted with the establishment of the Pubwatch scheme in 2004 and has always been of the view that, provided members and the Police adhere to procedures, Pubwatch can operate in compliance with data protection legislation.

 

A statement from IOM Police said: 'The Isle of Man Constabulary has been a partner to the Pubwatch scheme since its inception and shares information, including photographs, with licensees within the framework of existing law. Sharing this information has been instrumental to the success of the Pubwatch scheme.

 

'Recent reports stated that the Pubwatch scheme could not continue due to data protection legislation. This was incorrect.

 

'Instead the licensing trade and Police recently reviewed the Pubwatch scheme and there was a recognition that its practices needed to be tightened to comply with existing laws, including data protection legislation.  The Information Commissioner was not involved in the review.'

 

A spokesperson from the All Island Pubwatch/MENA Committee stated: 'The Licensing trade is very proud of the Pubwatch Scheme.  It provides a platform for a united stance with its members to ban people from our premises in the interest of protecting our staff, our customers and our livelihood.

 

'It is recognised that our guidance and procedures have to be followed strictly and must comply with any legal requirements. The Pubwatch Scheme is in a fortunate position whereby it has a good relationship with the Police, this works well towards creating a safe drinking environment and night time economy for the public.'

 

 

 

Subscribe to get Energy FM News direct to your mobile device

You can get Energy FM News delivered direct to your mobile device using one of the following methods.

• In the Apple News App on iOS search for Energy FM IOM and then just add it to your favourites
• In the Google News & Weather App just search for Energy FM and then add us as a customised section
• If you use an RSS Reader then just add our feed to your app, click here for our news RSS feed