Charles Flynn

I don't think it's really a shame. With a few notable exceptions (such as engineering and law) university is primarily about education, not vocational training. The basic 'skills' you happen to pick up along the way are common to the vast bulk of degree courses, namely the ability to analyse, reason and construct and present arguments for your conclusion at a high level are generic, and there's no real reason why someone should go into a degree course intending to enter their chosen subject in a professional capacity. A large number of university applicants' main aspiration is to secure graduate level employment. For this they require three or four years in higher education and it makes sense that they will choose to study a subject they enjoy (and perhaps is related to their preferred area of employment), without necessarily wanting to work in that exact discipline for the rest of their lives. I'm not sure what you mean by this. We don't live in a full on command economy where someone forcasts the number of graduates needed for a certain discipline and then allocates so many places at each university for that subject - the number of places available tends to be influenced primarly by the number of applicants and the amount of funding. If people aren't taking up STEM subjects, it's not because of wonky forecasts or what have you. The reason such subjects attract less applications is as decades old: the subjects simply don't appeal to the vast majority of people and aren't prerequisites for the bulk of graduate jobs. Many courses these days are vocational and certainly in my profession and from my personal experience of others regular surveys are done to decide the future needs for graduates. However it used to be the case that a university course was seen as intrinsically valuable but I believe - may be you know better - those days,with currently so many more universities and undergraduates, are long past in this competitive world,

Waste of life comments reminds me of all those people who you can see going to work from a city railway station - most rushing to get there on time, most looking completely drained. Perhaps we should be very thankful we live in the Isle of Man.

No one should think a so-called menial job is beneath them. There is much value is doing menial work - learning how to interact with others which is valuable experience in any work situation. No matter what life brings we should never think we are too good to do the most boring jobs. My first job as a pharmacist graduate was dusting the counter. I feel privileged to have been trusted with the task.

It is a shame so many students study courses and then abandon the subject. Hopefully there is some residual benefit in knowing about say engineering and becoming a banker. The responsibility to some extent must lie with those who forecast the projected need for graduates. I wonder whether in four years time many of those who have commenced business, marketing and related degrees will still be needed. I hope the forecasts are accurate.

Well all of us know we are in an untenable position. Our aspirations of upward growth and perpetual prosperity have taken quite a knock. There is a worldwide economic downturn which has been dramatically worsened here because of the need for the UK government to look after its immediate concerns. Students have been rushing like leemings into studies which are not really needed in such huge numbers. Engineers, mathematicians,scientists, economists are but sadly these courses have been sidelined. So many have degrees which have little value in the jobs market - only the exceptional or the lucky are guaranteed employment in their speciality. So what does our future hold? Has anyone in Government really got any idea? Has anyone produced a comprehensive study of all the options? Possibly we can no longer afford the consultants! Even if such a study was completed would our Government have the courage to tell us the findings. The present policy seems to be 'steady as she goes'.... down!

Your reasons are sound. Obviously few will be attracted to a group who have not thought out their policies and what would happen if they are implemented. Most people usually go for evolution not revolution. But what will it be this time? To change the Isle of Man so that long standing ties are almost completely severed would indeed be revolutionary. However there is no doubt that our relationship to the UK is changing in a way which would appear to be very unfair, indeed brutal from the island's point of view. A 25% reduction of income could be catastrophic. The ending of the reciprocal health agreement will be very distressing to individuals who are less well off and those with serious medical conditions as well as to the population at large living on this island and those who wish to visit us for whatever reason. The effect on what some see as an alternative to the finance sector i.e. the tourist industry could be ruinous. The main point I would wish to make is that the young people who are passionate about the island and who want to see it standing more on its three legs do need to be cherished and should be aware of all the arguments so that their enthusiasm and efforts will be for the good of our people whom I regard as all the residents not just a small sector with vested interests. Let them talk to a wide assortment of people and then they can make their minds up on what is possible as we stand at the cross roads of where we should go for justice, fairness and the general well being of our small island nation.

Thank you for this.... There must be balance between passion and reason but politics is not an exact science. We do not want the whole fabric of society being ripped up but now and again anger at what is going on - incompetence, unfairness etc causes new groupings and individuals to initiate changes and policies which can be beneficial. It seems to me that we are at a time when some of our long cherished ideas on this island will need to be amended. Perhaps the young people can see this more clearly than the establishment can even if as yet they have not formulated precise policies.

It's a pity then that all we've seen so far is bluster and empty sloganeering. I'd applaud it if there were some sign that this had been thought through and their beliefs reasoned, but so far it all smacks of attention seeking and setting up a mildly provocative bandwagon. I suggest that to be an aspiring politician you should have passion. Reasoned arguments and policies come in the course of time for some - unfortunately not for all.

I thought her Courier interview showed her to be a young lady of some character. She has a sense of humour and has a down to earth attitude. I applaud the guts of the young people for standing up for what they believe even if they upset others. Hopefully they will not be influenced too much by those who accept the status quo and see no reason why it should change.

Hi Charles, i have had some advice from the nurse who comes around. It has been caused by the chemotherapy which stops rapidly dividing cells from mulitiplying. Although this affects the cancer, it also affects the skin, blood etc but they recover quickly and the cancer doesn't. That is why the blood may be back to normal levels next week, but I'm just trying to give them an extra boost with food. He is having a prescribed supplemental drink which tastes not exactly great. He has been having tomato soup whichI didn't think had much in it, so I'm grateful for you putting me right on that. I have to increase his protein as well. Fillet steak for tea, black pudding and liver for breakfast and it will depend on Toms appetite after that. Best Wishes Barbara Sounds good!

Barbara, This needs expert professional help. I do not believe you can do much without it as there are so many different causes. Obviously tomatoes is an example of an iron rich food. There are many more but it will take time to improve the haemoglobin levels. Best wishes to you and Tom

Like millions throughout the world I worshipped the Birth of Christ at Christ-mass last evening. The number of families of ordinary people joining in the celebrations over Advent and Christmas reveals that on this island those who deny Christ's message and portray people of faith as deluded are portraying a picture of island life which does not reflect the true picture. Christ is Alive! More than ever His message of love is needed. We should not live for ourselves but for others, sharing with our neighbours the gifts we have been given. Be thankful for your gifts and for those given to others. We can give thanks in the words of ’A Christmas Prayer’ by Robert Louis Stevenson: Loving Father, Help us remember the birth of Jesus, That we may share in the song of the angels, The gladness of the shepherds, And worship of the wise men. Close the door of hate and open the door of love all over the world. Let kindness come with every gift and good desires with every greeting. Deliver us from evil by the blessing which Christ brings, and teach us to be merry with clear hearts. May the Christmas morning make us happy to be thy children, and Christmas evening bring us to our beds with grateful thoughts, forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus’ sake. Amen. May you and yours enjoy a Joyful and Blessed Christmas.

Like millions throughout the world I worshipped the Birth of Christ at Christ-mass last evening. The number of families of ordinary people joining in the celebrations over Advent and Christmas reveals that on this island those who deny Christ's message and portray people of faith as deluded are portraying a picture of island life which does not reflect the true picture. Christ is Alive! More than ever His message of love is needed. We should not live for ourselves but for others, sharing with our neighbours the gifts we have been given. Be thankful for your gifts and for those given to others. We can give thanks in the words of ’A Christmas Prayer’ by Robert Louis Stevenson: Loving Father, Help us remember the birth of Jesus, That we may share in the song of the angels, The gladness of the shepherds, And worship of the wise men. Close the door of hate and open the door of love all over the world. Let kindness come with every gift and good desires with every greeting. Deliver us from evil by the blessing which Christ brings, and teach us to be merry with clear hearts. May the Christmas morning make us happy to be thy children, and Christmas evening bring us to our beds with grateful thoughts, forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus’ sake. Amen. May you and yours enjoy a Joyful and Blessed Christmas.

Generally this would be welcomed by the profession as really it is just another extension of our present role. Pharmacists are experts in medicines and have a track record of supplying medicines such as emergency hormonal oral contraception over-the-counter and via Patient Group Directions. They already have the clinical skills and expertise that will help them provide information and advice to women to ensure the appropriate use of oral contraception. Supplying the oral contraceptive via a Patient Group Direction will widen and improve patient choice, access and convenience. Community pharmacies are easily accessible with no need for an appointment and located in places where people live, work and shop. Pharmacies also have convenient opening hours, often including the evenings and weekends when GP surgeries are closed. Regarding the necessary health checks, such as blood pressure testing and healthy lifestyle checks, these are already a part of pharmacist’s extended role. There is a pilot study in London ready to start next year so if this is successful it is likely at some stage it will happen on the island.

MEN’S MACHO ATTITUDE COULD COST 40,000 LIVES PER YEAR Community pharmacy could hold the key to saving the lives of 40,000 men every year*. New research from the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain (RPSGB) could shed light on the reasons behind the poor state of men’s health in Britain. The RPSGB commissioned study, designed to discover how men’s attitudes might affect their healthcare, revealed that 59% of men are reluctant to ask for help and only seek medical advice if they are ‘very ill or in great pain’. This factor is compounded by their commitment to looking macho and could contribute towards reducing their life expectancy by up to five years*. The research showed that almost two in five men (39%) believe that crying during films is not a manly trait, and one in six claimed that revealing a vulnerable side to their partner was a not anoption for them. Under general circumstances, asking for help is considered not to be a macho characteristic, particularly when changing a tyre (33%), requiring directions (13%) or needing medical advice (7%). One in seventeen men (6%) revealed that they believe they will beconsidered ‘soft’ if seeking medical help and one in seven (14%) were afraid of what they might be told. Despite men’s life expectancy in comparison to women’s improving over the last 20 years, the gap decreasing from 5.8 years to 4.3 years**, there is still a significant difference between the sexes. If men looked after themselves better and their life expectancy was as high aswomen’s, it is estimated that 40,000 less men would die each year. David Pruce, the RPSGB’s Director of Policy, said: “Men’s health has been improving over the last 20 years and this is very much down to a change in habits – men are smoking less and paying much better attention to their diets. What we need now is a change in attitude. Men need to snap out of the ‘big boys don’t cry’ mind-set and start taking health problems seriously. “The statistics show that the greatest threat to a man’s health is still himself! We really need to get men into the habit of getting themselves checked out by a health professional moreregularly. Men are at much greater risk than women of developing chronic illnesses like heart and respiratory disease – partly due to not being diagnosed early enough. “Men are often reluctant to visit their GP but visit a pharmacy quite regularly to pick up everyday essentials like aftershave, condoms and vitamins. While they are there, guys should speak to their pharmacist and ask them for advice or a health check – it’s so easy. There is no need for an appointment and most have private consultation rooms for discreet assessments. “The pharmacy is a great place to start. It’s free and they will always refer people to a GP if necessary. Charles Flynn, Secretary of the IOM Branch of The Royal Pharmaceuticl Society says:"It is a very important message affecting men and their families. The pharmacy is easy and convenient to go to and the pharmacist and his/her staff are keen to help and improve the health and the life expectancy of men. All advice is professional and freely available. It is confidential. Please men, take advantage of your local pharmacy. I promise it will be time well spent on the most important person in your life -YOU". Men’s health – the facts**: • Five thousand people are severely injured in accidents every year in the UK, 75% of them men. Males also score heavily in other indicators of aggression and rebellion - four times as many take their own lives compared to women and men make up 88% ofall drug offenders • Men are more likely than women to be overweight and the majority of men are tooheavy: 45% are medically defined as overweight and an additional 17% as obese • 28% of men still smoke • 27% of men drink alcohol at a level that could be harmful to their health • The suicide rate among men is increasing. The rate has doubled among 15–24 year olds in the past 25 years• Men are more likely than women to be mentally ill • Compared to the wider population, Indian, Bangladeshi, Black, Caribbean and Irishmen are at greater risk of heart disease and stroke Men’s health case studyA case study, Pharmacists convince men to take health seriously, is available via http://www.rpsgb.org/pdfs/pharmcasestudymenshealth.pdf, outlining the work of pharmacy in men’s health at Knowlsey Primary Care Trust, Merseyside. About the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain (RPSGB) The RPSGB is the professional and regulatory body for pharmacists in England, Scotland and Wales. It also regulates pharmacy technicians on a voluntary basis, which is expected to become statutory under anticipated legislation. The primary objectives of the RPSGB are to lead, regulate, develop and represent the profession of pharmacy.The RPSGB leads and supports the development of the profession within the context of the public benefit. This includes the advancement of science, practice, education and knowledge in pharmacy. In addition, it promotes the profession’s policies and views to a range of external stakeholders in a number of different forums. Following the publication in 2007 of the Government White Paper Trust, Assurance and Safety - The Regulation of Health Professionals in the 21st Century, the RPSGB is working towards the demerger of its regulatory and professional roles. This will see the establishment of a new General Pharmaceutical Council and a new professional body for pharmacy in 2010. Website: www.rpsgb.orgRPSGB research Original RPSGB research carried out by YouGov between 10 – 13 October, interviewing 1981 UK adults (951 men and 1030 women). Raw data available on request. References*Office for National Statistics. 2005 figures show by age 80 there are 143,238 male deaths and 104,539 female deaths (male excess 38699) **Sources: NHS Direct, www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk; Men’s Health Forum, www.menshealthforum.org.uk

CHLAMYDIA TREATMENT IN PHARMACIES WILL DELIVER CONVENIENT CARE FOR PATIENTS The decision by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) to approve the reclassification of azithromycin for the treatment of chlamydia infection will mean convenient and effective care for patients, said the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain (RPSGB). Azithromycin, currently licensed as a prescription-only medicine, is expected to be available for sale from pharmacies without a prescription later this year. Azithromycin is the first oral antibiotic to be approved for reclassification. It will be available for people 16 years and over if they have tested positive for the infection through an approved standard test and have no symptoms. It will also be available for their sexual partners. Charles Flynn, Secretary of the Isle of Man Branch of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, said: "Local pharmacists do a tremendous professional job in advising about the provision of sexual health services. These days it is more important than ever for people to be able to access prompt and confidential advice when a problem occurs. Reclassifying azithromycin will expand on existing services and improve access to chlamydia screening and treatment for patients. "Chlamydia infection rates are increasing, particularly in those under 25 years of age. The development of appropriate sexual health services for this group should result in higher rates of detection of sexually transmitted infections and improved awareness of the importance of practising safe sex." p.s. Extra information: Some people do not want to go to their doctor or the GUM clinic. In this case they will be able to buy a Chlamydia testing kit - Clamelle is the name of it - from the pharmacy and with a sample of urine obtain the result from a lab. The cost of this will be £25. Then if the the result for chlamydia is positive, and the pharmacist can confirm it from the suppliers computer data base, they can purchase Clamelle tablets from the pharmacy(not necessarily the same one) provided they are over 16 and the pharmacist is satisfied it is appropriate and safe for them, and take the single dose course for treatment. The cost of this is expected to be £20. I hope that the DHSS will put some money into the service, so reducing this cost or even eliminationg it all together.

THOUSANDS RISKING HOLIDAY HEALTH HELL NEW RESEARCH SHOWS New research released by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain (RPSGB) today reveals 81% of Brits fall ill while on holiday – and many of them risk taking overseas medications without understanding the instructions, possible side-effects or dosage. The majority of holiday-makers have experienced common ailments like sunburn, insect bites, headache, upset stomach or diarrhoea while abroad. Despite this, most spend about £95 on new swimming costumes, clothes and make-up in preparation for their trip, but less than £20 on basic healthcare items like pain killers, sun cream, insect repellent and condoms – products all readily available in pharmacies. Topping the list of holiday spoilers is sunburn, with half of all holiday-makers (49% of women and 57% men) suffering the easily prevented discomfort. A third (31%) have experienced diarrhoea and 43% suffered with an upset stomach. Almost one in five (17%) have experienced cold and flu symptoms and motion sickness. The irritation of insect bites affected more than half, and 18% were struck down with a bout of vomiting. One in 20 have had infected wounds while abroad. David Pruce, RPSGB Director of Practice and Quality Improvement, said: “It’s understandable that people going on holiday don’t think about their healthcare needs, but travelling abroad can expose you to health risks that don’t pose the same threat at home. By going away unprepared, you risk your family ending up in holiday hell “Pharmacists can advise you of the dangers and provide useful tips on how to keep your family healthy on holiday. They are a fantastic one-stop-shop resource – aside from being able to buy your holiday healthcare items, you can also access free, expert advice, without the need to make an appointment. “Making a quick trip to the pharmacy to organise your holiday health needs can make a big difference to what kind of holiday you have – helping ensure you and your family stay well. Pharmacies often operate outside normal opening hours and are located on the high streets, so you could easily pop in and sort out a healthcare kit while shopping for a new swimming costume. Survey Research was carried out online by YouGov from 29 May – 2 June 2008. The total sample size was 2,197 adults. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all GB adults (aged 18+). The survey shows that 53% of Brits abroad have suffered from sunburn (49% women versus 57% men), a third (31%) experienced a bout of diarrhoea, 43% have suffered with an upset stomach, and almost one in five (17%) have experienced cold and flu symptoms and motion sickness. Over half have endured the irritation of insect bites, whilst a poorly 18% have experienced a vomiting bug and one in 20 have had infected wounds while abroad. The research reveals that seven out of 10 people have bought medication abroad to treat their condition or illness, and: • One in 10 18–25 year olds claim to have guessed the dosage • One in 10 said they did not fully understand the healthcare professional they spoke to • 20% of people bought medication off the shelf without seeking professional advice • 28% bought medication abroad as they thought they recognised the packaging • One in 20 bought medication without professional advice as they were in a hurry • Almost one in 10 (8%) admitted that they were unaware of the possible side-effects of the medication they bought • One in 12 people took medication without understanding the possible side-effects • One in 20 didn’t finish the course of medication once they returned home So please contact your local pharmacist.

CHRISTIAN AID WEEK Between May 11 - 17 are seven days of fundraising that make a real difference to the lives of millions of people in developing countries as we help them help themselves out of poverty. Last year we raised an amazing £40,000 on the Island matched £1 for £1 by the Government, and this year we need your help to do even better. This year we are aiming to raise £42,564 from the Isle of Man public to help 7,500 in 10 remote villages in a neglected region east of Mavinga in Southern Angola. We are hoping the IOM Government’s Overseas Aid Committee will again generously approve a matching grant bringing the total to £85,000. This will be spent to improve food supplies (seed banks, new crops) as well as improving health by cleaner water (digging a well in each of the villages) and by training midwives. The project also includes mine awareness training and adult literacy. Almost half of Angola's population is under the age of 15 and life expectancy is only 41 years. It has the third highest child mortality rate in the world with one in four children dying before their fifth birthday. This year Angola celebrates five years of peace but the road to full recovery will take much longer. It will need international assistance for many years to come. Christian Aid has supported local organisations in Angola since 1985. It has classified Angola as a priority country as so much of its infrastructure has been destroyed. The work focuses on ensuring the government deliver on its promises to invest in infrastructure and development, the prevention of the spread of HIV and helping poor communities to improve their standard of living. So give Christian Aid a hand and donate what you can. Your valuable contribution to Christian Aid Week really will make a difference where the need is greatest.

Green Mann Directory Launch at Neb Café The Green Mann directory was launched at a function this evening . 10,000 copies have been printed and will be on sale for £1.50 at newsagents from Friday. Charles Flynn, Chairman of Island21 said: Ladies and Gentlemen, It is a great pleasure to see all of you here this evening for the launch of the Green Mann Directory for low impact living. Currently in this country we need three planets to maintain our current lifestyles. There are urgent issues to sort out for future generations. It was about two years ago that I first met Waveney Jenkins. She came to one of our regular Island21 meetings held in the DOLGE offices as she sees issues around sustainability - the protection of our environment, the maintenance of biodiversity, recycling and all the other countless issues such as climate change together with their economic and social implications are global issues which must be addressed to a large extent by local communities. Waveney and a wonderful group of people striving to do their bit on environmental concerns had met at the Neb café and had decided that a Green Directory would be a most helpful step in encouraging our island to do their part. Since then other people have got involved - some of them are well known to most of us, others have quietly given their time and talents to accomplish what we are here to launch today. On your behalf I thank all of them - those who have put together the Directory,Dympna Connolly, Muriel Garland, Tony Garland, Alice Quayle, Ffinlo Costain, Phillippa Williams, Frank Schuengel and others who have sent in ideas and made suggestions, those of you who have worked significantly on green issues and are mentioned in the directory - individuals, organisations, government.. I should particularly like to thank all our hardworking team at Island21 who have faithfully supported our work on sustainability. I must mention especially two people amongst so many. Our good friend Martin Hall at DOLGE who has provided a door to Government and once again Muriel Garland who has for many years done so much to keep the show on the road with all her efficiency and conscientiousness. I do not know what would have happened without this support. I have appreciated it for the seven years in which I have been involved and especially for my five years as Chair. There is still much to do - in fact as long as we humans inhabit the planet there will be work to do - going forward for countless generations. I hope some of you here this evening will sign up to help with Island21 or if you are not already a member with at least one of the brilliant organisations which work to make this island a better place. Finally but not least I should like to thank our sponsors, The Royal Society for the encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce who provided the initial funding for the Directory, DOLGE and DAFF who have come up with a significant sum to fund the booklet and also our anonymous donors. Moreover this evening we have had some wonderful help from Cath Foley and her team at the Neb Café here who have laid on the hospitality and also Shoprite who have freely supplied the organic wine. It only now remains for me to ask Valerie Fowler, Marketing Manager of DAFF and John Shimmin on behalf of DAFF and DOLGE to step forward and help Waveney untie these parcels of the catalogues so that they can be circulated throughout the island from Friday. I suggest we raise our glasses for a job well done and for further success in the years ahead. The Green Mann!

I have had an email from Roger Tomlinson about the Positive Action Group forthcoming talk. Roger says: For our next event P A G is indeed fortunate in the choice of speaker. It is one of the U K's foremost political thinkers, Prof. Colin Hay of the University of Sheffield, where he is Professor of Political Analysis. His most recent book "Why We Hate Politics" forms the basis of the talk. Last month Colin shared a platform at a packed meeting with Nick Clegg, Leader of the Liberal Democrats. Colin enthuses about coming over here and learning about our system of government so please do try and make him feel welcome by coming along Monday 21st April 2008, 7.30 p.m., Sefton Hotel, Douglas. It is the week of our Local Elections so it is apposite to consider what we feel about politics and why there seems to be disaffection with the political process generally. If you are interested please contact: W Roger Tomlinson - Chair www.positiveactiongroup.org Monday, April 21st 2008 7.30 p.m. Sefton Hotel, Douglas "Why We Hate Politics" A talk by Professor Colin Hay

Over five million hay fever sufferers across Britain are putting their health at risk by taking inappropriate medicines for their condition. The Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain (RPSGB) is encouraging sufferers to visit their community pharmacist after new research revealed that the public often misdiagnose their own symptoms and fail to get the correct treatment. Some experts are predicting that this year’s hay fever season will be one of the worst ever with birch and grass pollen seasons overlapping, leading to ore people suffering from symptoms earlier in the year. Hay Fever Allergic rhinitis, known as hay fever, is a condition which is caused by the pollen of specific seasonal plants, airborne chemicals and dust particles, which only occur at certain times of the year, in people who are allergic to these substances. Cells on the lining of the nose and eyes release histamine and other chemicals when they come in contact with pollen. This causes inflammation in the nose (rhinitis) and eyes (conjunctivitis). It is commonly characterised by sneezing, runny nose and itching eyes. Research Research was carried out by YouGov between 02-04 April 2008, interviewing 1981 people including 547 hay fever sufferers. The GB population of adults 18+ is (according to ONS) 46,158,100. Therefore the number of hay fever sufferers in Great Britain aged 18 years of age and above (27.59%) is 12,735,019. Of these, 41.95% agreed that they may have been misdiagnosed, which equates to 5,342,340. Full research results are available on request. Pharmacy role in treatment Community Pharmacists currently provide a wide range of services and support to patients with allergic conditions and associated conditions e.g. allergic asthma. Their main role at present is the over the counter diagnosis and supply of medicines to manage mild allergic reactions and skin conditions but recent changes in Government policy is set to extend the role of the local pharmacist to increase the role of pharmacists in the management of allergic conditions. With over a third (35%) of hay fever sufferers saying that they go to their doctor to treat their symptoms, the new role of the pharmacy is expected to help improve the health of thousands of people as new services are introduced. General • Hay fever can aggravate other conditions, such as asthma, and cause serious health risks. • Many people may be suffering unnecessarily. • Hay fever (also called seasonal allergic rhinitis) is caused by an allergy to plant pollens. • Grass pollen is the most common cause (May to July). • The term is sometimes used when allergies are caused by other pollens such as from tree pollens (March to May). • Symptoms are due to the immune system reacting to the pollen. • Cells on the lining of the nose and eyes release histamine and other chemicals when they come in contact with pollen. This causes inflammation in the nose (rhinitis) and eyes (conjunctivitis). Statistics • There are almost 13 Million people suffering with hay fever in Great Britain. • Over 5 Million hay fever sufferers could be taking inappropriate medication for their condition - putting their health at risk – after misdiagnosing themselves. • 2 in 5 people suffer with irritability. • 29% have difficultly concentrating. • 1 in 3 have difficultly sleeping due to their symptoms. • 1 in 10 are embarrassed about their appearance and avoid socialising. • 14% have problems reading (implications for school children in particular). • 4% said their symptoms affected their sex life. • 73% of people who experience these symptoms fail to seek medical advice before selecting a treatment. • 1 in 20 avoid leaving their home because of the condition. • £87.6million spent on OTC medications in 2006 – a rise of 17% from the previous year. • The proportion of children diagnosed with hay fever or allergic rhinitis tripled between the early 1970s and early 1990s. Pharmacy Messages: • Pharmacists are highly trained health care professionals and experts in medicines. They can play a significant role in symptom management. Advice for sufferers: • Keep windows and doors shut if it gets too warm and try drawing the curtains to keep out the sun and keep the temperature down. • Avoid cutting grass, playing or walking in grassy areas and camping. • Change clothes and take a shower after being outdoors to remove the pollen on your body. • Wear wrap-around sunglasses to stop pollen getting in your eyes. • Keep car windows closed and consider buying a pollen filter for air vents. • Vacuum and dust regularly and avoid fresh flowers. • Keep pets out of the house during hay fever season and make sure any pollen on their coats is removed. • Do not smoke as it irritates the lining of your nose, eyes, throat and airways – which can make symptoms worse. Treatments • Antihistamines – inhibit the release of histamines, which are released during an allergic reaction and cause symptoms. • Steroids – reduce inflammation in the nose of eyes. • Sodium Cromoglycate – prevents allergic reactions in nose and eyes. • Decongestants – can unblock the nose. • Desensitisation – a form of vaccine against pollen.

HAY FEVER SUFFERERS PUTTING HEALTH AT RISK Thousands of Isle of Man hay fever sufferers could be taking inappropriate medicines, putting their health at risk. The Isle of Man branch of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain (RPSGB) is encouraging people experiencing the symptoms of hay fever to visit their community pharmacist after new research revealed that the public often misdiagnose the condition and fail to get the correct treatment. Allergic rhinitis, known as hay fever, is a condition which is caused by the pollen of specific seasonal plants, airborne chemicals and dust particles. It is commonly characterised by the symptoms of sneezing, runny nose and itching eyes. A survey, commissioned by the RPSGB, found that a staggering 73% of people who experience these symptoms fail to seek medical advice before selecting a treatment. Moreover, the research reveals the damaging effects hay fever can have on sufferers’ quality of life. The research finds that almost 40% of hay fever sufferers become irritable, and a third experience difficultly sleeping. Worryingly, 29% have difficultly concentrating and 14% said their symptoms affected their ability to read – findings which could have significant implications for school children and students, particularly as the hay fever season clashes with exam time. More than one in 10 said they are embarrassed about their appearance and avoid socialising, while one in 20 hay fever sufferers say they avoid leaving the home because of their condition. Thousands of Island residents are suffering unnecessarily. Pharmacists are trained to advise on the best treatment with the local pharmacy having a large choice of anti-allergy products available. Your local pharmacist will help you to recognise symptoms, identify triggers and select appropriate products. They may suggest some life-style changes to bring relief from hay fever and of course advise about potential side-effects of the medicines you may be taking.

Minutes of Amenity and Leisure Committee concerning Horse Trams 12th March 2008 *18. Increasing Revenue for the Tramways Mr Richard Falk from Island 21 joined the meeting at 12.00pm. By way of introduction, he explained that Island 21 is a local sustainability group. He is a marketing expert now living on the Island, and is a regular user of the horse trams. Mr Falk gave a presentation setting out a number of ideas for increasing revenue for the Tramways: • Advertising is not required. The service does not have an awareness problem. All the Island’s residents know about it and most tourists will either already be aware of it or will not fail to notice it on arrival. However, more work could be undertaken with the Department of Tourism and Leisure to promote the service to tourists, who Mr Falk believes make up the vast majority of service users. • The service is not price sensitive. It is not a practical means of transport but an experience. People want to have that experience and so will pay for it. Mr Falk cited the Santa steam trains as an example. He suggested a pricing structure of £2.00 for a single journey and £3.00 return, with children’s tickets being half those prices. • Horse trams on demand. Mr Falk stated that many people are unaware that there are specific tram stops and the trams should stop anywhere that it is safe to do so, with passengers just flagging the trams down. Similarly, the trams should allow passengers to alight anywhere that it is safe to do so. Linking departures from the Sea Terminal to coincide with the scheduled arrival of the passenger ferry services would further enhance demand for the service. • Utilise assets to the full. Mr Falk stated that stable visits, for example, are not promoted. This could be remedied by the conductors giving out flyers to passengers. In addition, transport enthusiasts would welcome the chance to visit the tram sheds and view the different vehicles and would pay for the privilege. • Use the double decker tram more. Mr Falk suggested the sale of special tickets at a higher price for a non-stop return trip on the double decker tram at specific times. • The sale of inexpensive souvenirs, such as the sale of certificates signed by the Mayor to show that a person has been on the horse trams. These could be sold by the conductors. Another suggestion is the sale of stuffed toy horses with different name tags to reflect the names of each of the horses. These could be sold in the Welcome Centre in the Sea Terminal. • End bad working practices. Mr Falk claimed that some tram drivers are deliberately setting off from Derby Castle before the arrival of the MER tram so as to avoid having to deal with lots of passengers. The Tramways Operations Supervisor refuted this allegation. • Run the trams when people want to use them. Mr Falk stated that the first couple of trams in the morning are barely used, whilst the evening trams are often full. It would be better to start the trams later and finish later. • A supporters’ club. For £100.00 each season a club member could receive a season ticket, a ride on the first tram of the season with the Mayor, a visit to the stables, a trip on the double decker tram and a newsletter, for example. For children, the price would be lower, and they could receive stickers, badges and letters from the horses. • Special events, such as Santa trams at Christmas and illuminated trams. • Mr Falk’s final suggestion is, if all else fails, to attract individual sponsorship from wealthy local residents and/or corporate sponsorship by businesses. At the end of Mr Falk’s presentation, there was general discussion of some of his ideas, and those already agreed by the Council. Mr Falk disagreed with the Council’s decision to only run two trams per hour instead of three as, for example, people who have just missed one will not want to wait half an hour for the next one. He believes it will also lead to a reduction in revenue. Mr Falk was informed that 359 12th March 2008 the Council has already agreed to increase ticket prices to £2.00 for a single journey, but he does not agree that a reduction should be given to senior citizens, particularly as most of the adult tickets sold are to senior citizens. This current practice automatically reduces income levels. Mr Falk was asked his opinion of nappies for the horses. Whilst he accepts that he is not an expert in this area, it is his view that horses do not like to have anything touching their hindquarters, and if a horse were to bolt as a result it could lead to a perception that the service is dangerous. Members agreed that Mr Falk’s presentation had given them a great deal to think about and suggested that he repeat it to the full Council. Mr Falk indicated that he would be happy to do so. In the meantime, he will e-mail his presentation notes to all Councillors. Mr Falk was thanked for his attendance and left the meeting at 12.34pm. Members briefly considered Mr Falk’s ideas. The Assistant Chief Executive advised that it would be wise to undertake feasibility and costing exercises before deciding whether to implement any of them. Resolved, “That particulars of the presentation and ensuing discussion be noted on the minutes and the Worshipful the Mayor consult the Town Clerk with a view to arranging a special Council meeting at which Mr Falk can repeat his presentation to all Members.” The Tramways Operations Supervisor was thanked for his attendance and left the meeting at 12.50pm.

GREEN MANN DIRECTORY Watch out for the Green Mann. Island 21 is launching its Green Mann Directory in spring 2008. This is a first attempt to help people find sources of local food and Fair-trade items. It also has information about recycling and renewable energy including solar and wind turbines. In fact it is a mine of information for low-impact living and ‘going green.’ The Green Mann Directory has been produced with help from the Royal Society for the encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (RSA), the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) and the Department of Local Government and the Environment (DLGE) It will be available at bookshops and newsagents around the island and also through the Green Centre in Douglas.

If patients want to purchase medicines over the internet, it is recommended by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society that they only purchase from GB registered pharmacies (not Isle of Man as we have our own register)where they will be dealing with a registered pharmacist. Patients should look for the Society’s Internet Pharmacy Logo (see www.internetpharmacylogo.org and check that the site is a GB registered pharmacy). “Anyone who has concerns about the safety or appropriateness of their medicines should speak to their community pharmacist for advice”. Checking a website for the Internet Pharmacy Logo is one of a number of checks a patient should make before purchasing medicines over the internet. Other things a patient should do include: • Locating the name and address of the pharmacy operating the website • Checking that the pharmacist and pharmacy are registered (to check a pharmacist's registration, see www.internetpharmacylogo.org • Avoiding websites that offer to supply prescription-only medicines without a prescription • Checking that he/she is asked questions before purchasing the medicine (registered pharmacies are required to check that a medicine is suitable for a patient to use before selling it)