​The Presiding Officers of Tynwald, the President of Tynwald the Hon Steve Rodan MLC and the Speaker of the House of Keys the Hon Juan Watterson SHK, have said that every effort is being made to safeguard parliamentary democracy at a time of deep anxiety as the coronavirus pandemic continues to challenge the Manx nation’s familiar ways of living and working.

In a joint statement they said: ‘In this unprecedented situation we are all facing, Tynwald, like many other workplaces, is having to adapt to continue to serve the public. Remote working by Members and staff to minimise contact is underway. It is essential, however, that for the good governance of the Island sittings of Tynwald Court continue – all the while complying with social distancing requirements - in order to ensure parliamentary oversight and pass the emergency legislation Government is bringing forward to safeguard the public, support individuals and their families and ensure the survival of business and commercial life. This is important for our parliamentary democracy, our nation and the generations that follow us.

‘Tynwald Members and staff are ready and willing to play their part and we thank them along with the many people in the community who are rising to the challenges we all face. We are determined that Tynwald’s unbroken history of more than a thousand years will endure.’

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For further information contact:
Clerk of Tynwald’s Office
Telephone: 01624 685500
Email: enquiries@tynwald.org
Website: www.tynwald.org.im