A CODE of practice has been issued which outlines the duty of public authorities in the Island to promote positive race relations while carrying out their functions.

It is aimed at helping those who provide services on behalf of government or local authorities to meet the requirements of the Race Relations Act 2004.

A draft copy of the code was issued for public consultation earlier this year and then laid before Tynwald in October.

The code has been issued by the Department of Home Affairs.

Home Affairs Minister Adrian Earnshaw MHK said: "I believe that public sector employees are already working very hard to provide quality services to all Island residents without fear or favour.

"This Code of Practice is designed to assist those working in areas such as the Civil Service, the emergency services, other public services such as the MEA and the Water and Sewerage Authority and local authorities by setting out what is expected of them in terms of fostering good race relations in the exercise of their functions and in the provision of services.

"Whilst I do not believe that discrimination is widespread or endemic on the Island, unfair treatment can have a major impact on individuals and society.

"Put simply, treating a person less favourably on the grounds of race should not be tolerated."

Mr Earnshaw added: "This is an integral part of an important piece of legislation for the Island as we need to have a clear, shared understanding of expected standards."

The Statutory Code of Practice on the duty of public authorities to promote good race relations is issued under the Isle of Man's Race Relations Act.

Tynwald, the Legislative Council and the House of Keys are exempt from the act, however it does apply to government departments, statutory boards and offices, the Council of Ministers and any committees or working groups of CoMIN.