A NEW police complaints process for the Isle of Man has gone out to public consultation.

The Department of Home Affairs is seeking the public's views on the draft Police (Amendment) Bill 2010.

Home Affairs Minister Adrian Earnshaw MHK said: "The DHA has listened to concerns expressed in Tynwald and in the community and has drafted primary legislation to enable changes to be made to the present system.

"Altering primary legislation is a lengthy process and that is the reason for drafting a Bill that will enable regulations to be drawn up to cover the operation of the new complaints process. They can be altered more easily in the future should the need arise."

The Bill, if approved, would enable a new complaints process to be established. A Police Ombudsman would be appointed to supervise investigations into complaints against officers.

Additionally it would allow complainants or officers to appeal against the decision of the Ombudsman to a new Police Complaints Appeals Tribunal – appointed by the Appointments Commission.

Following the public consultation and any amendments which are required the Minister intends to take the Bill to the House of Keys for first reading as soon as practical.

The current police complaints process involves an independent Police Complaints Commissioner supervising the investigation of complaints which are assigned to an investigating police officer within the Isle of Man Constabulary -unless the Commissioner decides to call in an outside police force to investigate.

Members of the public have until Friday, December 3, to give feedback on the Bill. It can be viewed here.

Alternatively printed copies can be obtained by contacting Tom Bateman, legislation manager, at the Department of Home Affairs, on 01624 694305.