The Council of Ministers has launched a public consultation seeking views on the introduction of an Armed Forces Community Covenant in the Isle of Man.
 
The Covenant would be an official declaration of the Island’s recognition and support for those residents who serve, or have served, in the British Armed Forces. Similar Covenants have been developed throughout the United Kingdom as local expressions of the national Armed Forces Covenant which was formalised by the UK Government in 2011.
 
Armed Forces Community Covenants are voluntary statements of mutual support between civilian populations and their Armed Forces communities. They provide a framework within which communities can work together to ensure that there is recognition for the contribution made by serving and retired members of the Armed Forces, and that they and their families are not disadvantaged by their service. 
 
Juan Watterson MHK, Minister for Home Affairs, who is leading the consultation on behalf of the Government, commented: ‘An Armed Forces Community Covenant for the Isle of Man would reflect the close and enduring links that exist between the Island and the British Armed Forces. It would demonstrate the respect and support of the community for those Island residents who served and those who continue to serve, often in very challenging and dangerous situations.’
 
Mr Watterson added that although the Covenant concept came from the UK, the content of a Manx version would be for the Island to decide and would take into account responses to the consultation.
 
‘The Government is sympathetic to the idea of an Armed Forces Community Covenant but would like to gather views from the public before developing the proposal further’, said the Minister.
 
The consultation which will run until the 12 October can be found at http://www.gov.im/consultations.gov and responses should be sent to Philippa Hull, Chief Secretary’s Office, Third Floor, Government Office, Bucks Road, Douglas, IM1 3PN. Email Philippa.Hull@cso.gov.im.