Following the appointment of Clare Christian former MLC as President of Tynwald, the Minister for the Department of Economic Development, Allan Bell MHK, has announced a number of changes to the delegated responsibilities within his Department. Dudley Butt MLC will exercise the functions of the Department’s Employment and Skills Group. The Group’s responsibilities include areas such as training, the Job Centre, the Careers Service and work permits. Alex Downie OBE, MLC, who is an existing member of the Department, has taken on a number of new responsibilities including manufacturing, construction, energy policy, clean technology, properties and mines and minerals. At the same time Mr Downie retains his existing Departmental responsibilities which include e-business, e-gaming, space, the film industry and the ship and aircraft registers. Geoff Corkish MBE, MHK remains the member responsible for tourism. Juan Watterson, MHK remains the member responsible for financial services and the Companies Registry. Minister Bell commented: ‘It is important that the Department continues to build for the future and that we strive to achieve economic growth. I believe my political colleagues have the commitment, motivation, enthusiasm and experience to deliver outstanding services in their areas of responsibility, and would like to thank them for their past and ongoing contribution. I would also like to thank Clare Christian for the work she has undertaken within the Department and I wish her every success in her new role as the President of Tynwald. ENDS