Post Office defends storm closure policy amid fairness concerns

Chair says decisions during Storm Éowyn were in line with policy

The Chair of the Isle of Man Post Office has defended the organisation’s handling of staff arrangements during its closure on 24 January, when the Island was hit by Storm Éowyn and a red weather warning.

In Tynwald this week, Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Jason Moorhouse asked what contractual options were offered to employees on the day the Post Office shut its doors.

Chair Stu Peters said workers who could work from home were asked to do so, while those in operational roles were given a choice between taking annual leave, unpaid leave, or making up the time later.

He said the measures were taken in the interest of health and safety and aligned with government policy.

Mr Moorhouse questioned whether the policy had been applied fairly to all staff, raising concerns from postal workers who fear it could set a precedent for unpaid days in future disruptions. He asked whether the impact on employee relations had been assessed.

Mr Peters responded by saying the concern was unfounded and added that “extreme weather is not common despite the claims of climate alarmists.”

He said the Post Office operates a reactive business, especially dependent on sailings, and flexibility is vital but insists the Post Office maintains good relationships with staff and unions.

Normal operations resumed the following day.