Thursday April 18, 2019 at 3:00pm
The Auto-Cycle Union wish to announce some important changes which will take place following the Jones Inquiry which was commissioned by the ACU after an unfortunate incident at the TT on 30th May last year. Directors of both ACU Ltd and ACU Events Ltd who organise the TT in conjunction with the Isle of Man Government have read, digested the report and take the content very seriously. However, the report is not solely based on circumstances or practices within the IOM TT event. A lot of the content relates to the structure, management and operating methods of the ACU, which again, the Directors have implemented changes, but some content is very business sensitive. Therefore, it has been decided that this Press Release will be the final statement provided but by listing all of the relevant points it is hoped that all questions are answered and we can all look forward to the 2019 event. Ahead of listing the salient changes, both ACU Ltd and ACU Events Ltd are pleased that Steve Mercer is making progress and would point out that through our extensive insurance arrangements, assistance is being given with his rehabilitation process. Turning to the outcome of the report the following recommendations have been put in place – or will be ahead of TT 2019. Improved Training for all Senior Race Officials. A comprehensive Table Top exercise took place at the Grandstand on 3rd April. Improved and more structured Marshal Training. Emphasis on Competitors reading and understanding the rules and regulations for the event. More in depth Rider briefings TETRA radio training for all Officials. GPS Tracking devices to be fitted to all non-race vehicles. All Course Cars/Course Inspection Car and TTMA response cars to have warning lights fitted to the roof of the vehicle. Imposed speed limits on all Course Cars. A more comprehensive Event Safety Plan. The appointment of an Event Safety Officer. In addition to the above, both the ACU and ACU Events Ltd, have made structural changes to its staffing in ACU Head Office with Gary Thompson’s sole responsibility within ACU Events Ltd being that as TT Clerk of the Course.