The value of the TT to the Isle of Man’s economy and the Isle of Government’s stance on legalising cannabis are among issues featuring on the question paper for this year’s sitting of Junior Tynwald on Monday July 18. Organised by the Isle of Man branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) in association with the Department of Education and Children the Court will sit in the Tynwald Chamber with each of the Island’s five state secondary schools fielding a team of Year 12 students assuming the role of politicians. Chair of the Isle of Man branch of the CPA Clare Christian MLC said: ‘Each year at the sitting of Junior Tynwald it is encouraging to witness students’ comprehensive knowledge of current affairs and the accomplished and highly articulate manner in which they engage in lively debate. ‘Demonstrating the positive ideals of parliamentary democracy to young people is high on the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association’s agenda. Junior Tynwald serves not only to provide students with first-hand experience of the Manx parliamentary system but also offers Tynwald Members a valuable opportunity to learn more about the political issues of the day that are of concern to the Island’s young people.’ Education and Children Minister Eddie Teare MHK said: ‘For many people there is an air of mystique about Tynwald. The Chamber, procedure and the matters discussed may appear somewhat distant from most people’s everyday life. However its actions impact on us all and it is important that as many people as possible understand how the Island’s Parliament functions. When there is a good understanding it will encourage more people to participate, not only by casting their votes in general or by-elections, but as candidates. I do hope that the young people who are participating in this year’s Junior Tynwald will find the experience rewarding and perhaps it will stimulate a longer-term interest in our Parliament.’ On arrival the students will receive a tour of the Legislative Buildings followed by a pre-briefing session, after which the formal proceedings will take place. Each school will ask three questions to be answered by a Tynwald Member and two motions will be moved and voted upon. The sitting will not be open to the general public but observers from each participating school are invited to watch from the public gallery. Additionally a number of students will be acting as members of the local media under the supervision of reporters from Manx Radio and Isle of Man Newspapers. ENDS