Former Onchan Commissioner was urged to 'consider' his position

Chair Anthony Allen matters were addressed to avoid 'disruption' local authority's business

The chair of Onchan Commissioners says a former board member was advised to consider their position.

John Hamilton resigned last night after a number of allegations regarding civil matters were made against him online.

Chair Anthony Allen says the matter is outside the 'viries' of local authority legislation, and it was addressed to avoid 'further disruption' to the commissioner's business.

It has also been confirmed that the process for holding a by-election to fill the seat will now begin. 

The statement From Mr Allen is in full below:

"Over the weekend allegations of civil matters relating to one of the Members of the Board were brought to the attention of the Authority.

"These matters are outside of the viries of the Authority, and the provisions of the relevant legislation, namely the Election (Keys and Local Authorities Elections) Act 2020. 

"As Chairman on behalf of the Board of Onchan District Commissioners, I wished to address these allegations to avoid further disruption to the Authority’s business.

"Following a meeting with the Chief Executive/Clerk a decision was made to advise the Member who has been called into disrepute to consider their position. 

"I met with Mr Hamilton who tendered his resignation.

"The Authority will begin to progress the necessary work to hold a by-election to fill the vacancy on the Board."