Clerk of Arbory and Rushen Commissioners retires to spend time on 'great passions'

The clerk of Arbory and Rushen Commissioners has announced his retirement after eight years in the role. 

Phil Gawne, who started in 2017, will retire from the position at the beginning of the next financial year saying he wants to spend more time on his 'great passions'.

Mr Gawne also served as a commissioner and MHK for Rushen for 13 years - which included being chosen as infrastructure as well as environment, food and agriculture minister.

He said:

"It has been a pleasure and a privilege to serve the people of Arbory and Rushen over the past few decades. I have many very happy memories of my time both as a politician and latterly as clerk, helping solve people's problems and making our parishes better places to live.

"I'm leaving so I can spend more time on my great passions - my family and 'the Manx Language' and I know that I'm a leaving the parishes in the very capable hands of the commissioners who are strongly committed to serving the best interests of the people of Arbory and Rushen.

"Local government is a great place to be if you care about your community and I'm sure there'll be several good candidates keen to replace me as clerk."

Mr Gawne is also Manx Radio's Political Correspondent and is a board member of educational charity Mooinjer Veggey.

Chair of the local authority Kirrie Jenkins said:

"Arbory and Rushen Commissioners would like to thank Mr Phil Gawne for his dedicated service. Due to his previous experience as an MHK and minister, Phil has been an invaluable part of the team over the last 10 years.

"He has worked diligently and has been prepared to turn his hand to any work required."

Commissioner Jane Glover said:

"Whether it be complex reviewing of legislation or putting up Christmas trees, Phil has assisted - always with some tales and witty remarks to keep us smiling. He has navigated us through some challenging times such as the Covid pandemic and helped the merger of the two parishes be achieved smoothly. 

"Although we will miss him, we of course wish him well in the future enjoying more time with his partner Annie and enjoying his other passions and interests, particularly Manx Language and heritage."

Details of the vacancy can be obtained by emailing the local authority and information will be posted to its Facebook page.