The policy of the Department of Health to stop long-term admissions to three of its care homes has been rejected by Tynwald, despite the fact the DHSS had already withdrawn it.

A motion from North Douglas MHK Bill Henderson called for the department to postpone implementation of such a policy until there had been full consultation with staff and a report to Tynwald about the full impact on the Island's elderly people.

During the debate, which lasted for more than three hours, Mr Henderson (pictured) said even though there had been a U-turn over the decision, it was important to for Tynwald to consider its potential effects.

He also expressed concerns about the way Health Minister Eddie Teare had handled the situation (audio file attached):

Two amendments were rejected and Tynwald unanimously supported Mr Henderson's motion.

However criticism was raised about comments made by him and his constituency colleague John Houghton.

Mr Houghton was accused of discrediting the court after he suggested that many members couldn't care less about 'Joe Public'.