Minister apologises to Tynwald

Treasury Minister Eddie Teare has verbally apologised to Tynwald over Dependability Ltd, the company carrying out fitness to work tests in the Island.

It emerged last month an unqualified member of the company's staff carried out a number of assessments finding people capable of work.

As a result, 20 claimants had their benefits stopped.  

Mr Teare originally said all of the firm's staff were fully qualified to carry out the tests, and he later wrote to members apologising for the lapse.

This afternoon, he promised an update on the situation next month - and reiterated his regret over an error made 'in good faith':