John Shimmin has announced his intention to stand as a candidate for Douglas West in the House of Keys General Election on 29th September 2011. ‘I have delayed my announcement until the financial situation regarding the VAT agreement has been made available to the public. I believe that it is essential that all candidates and voters are aware of the seriousness of the situation so that the public have the opportunity of expressing their views on how we are to move forward together. I have spent recent months discussing my potential candidacy with a wide range of individuals and representatives of the community and feel reassured that they consider my nomination worthy of support. I am intending to visit people in their homes, distribute my manifesto in September and hold three public meetings where I shall be available to answer people’s concerns and discuss my vision for the future success of our Island. I believe that my ten years of experience in the Council of Ministers give me the ability to be of value to Government in some capacity, as we strive to deal with the significant challenges which lie ahead’. Background: Formerly a teacher, John was first elected in 1996. Married with two sons Significant posts: Chair of IOM Post, Minister of Transport, Minister of Home Affairs, Minister of Local Government and the Environment, currently Minister of Environment, Food and Agriculture. Contact: 15 Devonshire Crescent, Douglas. Tel: 661862 - Ends -