Too Late, Too Vague? School Closure Decision Under Fire

Education Minister Daphne Caine has apologised for confusion and delays around the decision to keep Isle of Man schools closed on Monday 5 January, following sharp questioning in the House of Keys.

The issue dominated the first sitting of the Keys in 2026, with MHKs criticising late communication, mixed messaging over a possible half-day opening, and uncertainty for parents, staff and employers.

Schools were initially announced as closed for the morning due to icy conditions, with a review planned mid-morning to assess whether they could reopen later.

However, following further assessments, the decision was taken to keep schools closed for the full day.

Mrs Caine told members the decision followed established emergency procedures triggered by an amber weather warning, involving the Government’s Strategic and Tactical Co-ordinating Groups.

She said unexpected overnight snowfall had worsened conditions, leaving widespread ice on roads, pavements and school sites, while Bus Vannin suspended all services.

The Minister acknowledged the announcement, due at 7am, was delayed until around 7.21am, apologising for the lateness and saying extra time was needed to assess new information. She said lessons had been learned, with the following day’s announcements issued earlier.

However, MHKs were critical of the decision to even consider a delayed opening.

Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Tim Glover said it left families with ‘no certainty whatsoever’, while Ramsey MHK Lawrie Hooper questioned whether a half-day closure caused more disruption than a full-day decision made upfront.

Mrs Caine said the option was explored due to the impact closures have on families and essential workers, but worsening conditions later ruled out reopening safely.

She confirmed that while the Strategic Co-ordinating Group makes recommendations, the final decision rests with the Education, Sport and Culture Minister.

A major flashpoint was uncertainty over staff pay, with members saying teachers and support workers were still unclear more than a week later whether they would be paid. Mrs Caine said her department was working with central HR to clarify the position, but offered no firm assurances in the chamber.

The Minister rejected claims she had simply ‘rubber-stamped’ advice, saying the decision was taken in good faith, and confirmed schools reopened safely the following day.

She added a post-incident review would take place in response to public concern.