Commissioner accused of xenophobia in online row

A Ramsey commissioner has come in for criticism on social media after a foul-mouthed post about Sierra Leone - where almost 500 people died in mudslides last week.

Eric Corkish, who represents North Ward, took to Facebook at 10.45pm on Friday to criticise the Manx government's support for the country.

Thousands of men, women and children were affected after their homes were engulfed by devastating mudslides caused by heavy rain in the capital Freetown.

But in his post, he says not one penny should leave the Island to help the country deal with the disaster.

Facebook users were quick to criticise Mr Corkish - however, he defended his views.

After people pointed out the scale of the natural disaster, Mr Corkish replied: "no sympathy sort out the Island first ask a few islanders you will get the answer No No No".

His comments sparked a torrent of criticism from other Facebook users, who accused him of ignorance and xenophobia.

However, Mr Corkish defended his comments, saying "If you don't like what I say don't read it".