A school teacher from East Douglas has declared her intention to stand in the constituency in the House of Keys general elelction in September.

Geraldine O'Neill, 53, has taught at St Ninian's High School for the past ten years, and works with students who have English as an additional language.

She has a 16-year-old daughter, was a founding member of the Archibald Knox Society and is currently a director of the organisation.

Ms O'Neill previously worked in Ireland, where she traded with Turkish businesses and became chairman of the Irish-Turkish Business Association.

Announcing her candidacy, she says she believes education should be a priority for the next government, because young people are an investment in the future through the contribution they will make to the Island's economy.

Because of this, she says investment in education and health services must continue, despite the current fiscal constraints.

Ms O'Neill says the Isle of Man faces challenging times ahead, internationally and locally, but with the right leadership and guidance it is well placed to deal with them, and ensure continuing prosperity for generations to come.