The Isle of Man Government Preservation of War Memorials, a committee established by Tynwald, continues to fulfil its remit to ensure the proper registration of memorials, encourage proper maintenance and, where possible, avoid the destruction of War Memorials around the Isle of Man.  With the help of Manx National Heritage a data base has been established which will eventually hold details of over 170 Manx War Memorials.
 
There is dismay surrounding the recent work undertaken on the German Parish War Memorial within the Peel Cathedral Grounds and the Committee has been in contact with the Venerable Andrew Brown, Archdeacon of Man who has apologised and acknowledged that there had been some communication problems in the past. However, it is intended that the Committee will meet with Church representatives to discuss shared interests and work projects which will be of mutual benefit going forward. The Archdeacon has a passion for war memorials and has in the past undertaken projects to find and restore church memorials.  The Committee is looking forward to working with the Church to ensure the protection of these important Manx War Memorials.

The Committee does not own any of the Island’s memorials, a duty of care still rests with local authorities in the main.  This allows the committee to encourage the custodians of these important treasures, stones, plaques, books and organs to ensure they are maintained to a good standard to honour the memory of those they are dedicated to. Custodians are encouraged to make contact with the Committee if they should have any concerns regarding the conditions of the memorial in their care. The Committee works closely with The War Memorial Trust, an English registered Charity, working for the protection and conservation of war memorials across the UK which also embraces the Isle of Man in its work.  Apart from being able to offer advice the Trust has a Grant Scheme and it may be that custodians can apply for assistance.  The contact details are: The War Memorial Trust, 42a Buckingham Palace Road, LONDON SW1W ORE - Conservation advice/grants: 020 7233 7356 -Email: conservation@warmemorials.org. The Trust also has a very informative website www.warmemorials.org.

For an Island of just 84,500 people, the Island has a long and proud record of supporting the British Armed Forces which is reflected each year in the amount raised for the Poppy Appeal. The Memorials give Manx people a sense of pride, and are a reminder of what such a large loss meant, and continues to mean, for a small Island community.

Chairman of the Committee, Home Affairs Minister Juan Watterson MHK added, “It is fair to say the Committee were disappointed at not being consulted on the changes when we have a mandate from Tynwald over war memorials.  However, we have made contact with the Church authorities and look forward to working with them to preserve and promote the surroundings of the war memorials on church property.”