New department memberships for Tynwald members unveiled

Changes come into effect today

Government has today (11 March) announced a number of changes to the political memberships of its departments.

The Council of Ministers has deemed the reshuffle a "refresh".

The changes take effect immediately.

Dr Michelle Haywood MHK has joined the Treasury, leaving her roles in the Department of Health and Social Care, the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture, and the Department for Enterprise. 

Sarah Maltby MHK joins the Department of Education, Sport and Culture and the Department for Enterprise, leaving her role in the Treasury.

Additionally, Chris Thomas MHK will become the Vice Chair of the Isle of Man Office of Fair Trading, subject to the approval of Tynwald.

Chief Minister Alfred Cannan said: "As we reach the halfway point of this administration, some Tynwald Members have expressed a desire to broaden their experience and contribute in other parts of Government. 

"The Council of Ministers has reflected on this and reviewed department memberships. Changes have been agreed, which will refresh the political line-up in departments and bring renewed energy as we continue our work to deliver Our Island Plan. 

"I believe it is important that Tynwald Members build a broad and rounded understanding of policy areas and public services.  Serving in departments and boards is a way for members to deepen their knowledge and make a valuable contribution to our Island community.  I am grateful to those who have stepped forward to serve."

The full breakdown of departmental memberships is as follows:

The Department for Enterprise has confirmed Mrs Maltby joins the department as political member with specific responsibility for Visit Isle of Man and Motorsport.

Tim Johnston MHK, Minister for Enterprise, said: "I am pleased to welcome Sarah to the Department for Enterprise. I am sure she will bring valuable input and insight to the work of both divisions, stemming not only from her own career, but also her personal interest in the Island’s natural beauty and heritage.

"Both the Visit Agency and Motorsport divisions have recorded positive indicators of growth in 2023, and have set even more ambitious targets for the year ahead. I have no doubt Sarah will make a trusted and valued Member of the Department and be welcomed by both teams and industry as their representative.

"I would also like to add my thanks to Dr Michelle Haywood MHK who through her work with the Business Agency served the Island’s export and domestic sectors passionately and diligently throughout her time at the Department for Enterprise."

Mrs Maltby added: "I am looking forward to working with both teams as they focus efforts on achieving their targets for 2024 and beyond. Visit Isle of Man has a solid long-term strategy in place, and as a proud Manx woman I want to play my part in achieving the goals of the division, ultimately leading to the betterment of our Island for both visitors and residents alike.

"Similarly I am looking forward to being involved in delivering against the TT Strategy to ensure we have the supporting infrastructure in place to continue to deliver the greatest motorcycle event in the world."