Tributes paid to Attorney General in Tynwald

John Quinn QC was appointed in 2013

Tynwald has paid tribute to the Island's Attorney General, John Quinn.

Mr Quinn has died at the age of 67 after a short period of illness.

President of Tynwald, Lawrence Skelly spoke at the start of this afternoon's sitting, before a period of silence:

Chief Minister Alfred Cannan has described Mr Quinn as a wise counsel and a friend who his role as Attorney General with dignity, skill and professionalism.

In a statement, the Isle of Man Law Society said he was greatly respected by all those who knew him and he will be greatly missed.  It said thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.

Alfred Cannan's statement in full:

The outpouring of tributes to John from across our Island community is testament to the high esteem in which he was held by all who knew him.

John undertook his role as Attorney General with dignity, skill and professionalism. He provided sage advice to the Council of Ministers and to Tynwald, which he always delivered with grace and integrity.

John played a major role in helping government to successfully manage the COVID-19 pandemic, and yet despite the pressures of his role – particularly over the past two years – John remained approachable and good humoured even in the most difficult of times. 

The Island has lost a wise counsel and a friend. He will be greatly missed and our thoughts are with his family.

The Isle of Man Law Society's statement in full:

The Isle of Man Law Society was deeply saddened to learn over the weekend of the untimely death of John Quinn. As Attorney General, John was the leader of the Bar and prior to taking up the role of AG he was in private practice for 30 years. He was greatly respected by all those who knew him and he will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.