A Christmas message for isleofman.com readers from Health Minister David Anderson MHK.
"This is now my second Christmas as Minister for Health, and at this time of year in particular the dedication and professionalism of everyone in the Department of Health really does shine through.
"Whilst many of us will be at home or with family on Christmas Day, it's easy to forget just how many will be working hard to keep the Island's health service running smoothly.
"There's our clinical and medical staff on hand, ready to deal with emergencies, as well as being there to provide the ongoing care for those who unfortunately find themselves in hospital during the festive period.
"But there's also a large contingent of support staff, all equally important in keeping the cogs well oiled and running smoothly; the fact that there are too many varied roles to mention in this short space in testament to the volume of people involved in keeping our services operating, and not just in our hospitals, but for other services too such as MEDS and the Emergency Dental Clinic.
"So I would like to extend my sincere and heartfelt thanks to everyone who finds themselves working over the festive period, ensuring that our patients receive the excellent standard of care they are accustomed to, no matter the hour, no matter the day.
"May I wish staff from the Department of Health, my constituents and everyone on the Island a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful and healthy New Year."