PRESIDENT of Tynwald Noel Cringle paid tribute to staff of the Tynwald office at today’s sitting of Tynwald when he thanked them for their contribution towards the success of the recent meeting on the Isle of Man of politicians from around the Commonwealth.

Before today’s sitting, he said, “I very rarely get the opportunity to publicly say thank you to our staff. However, last week Mr Speaker and myself had pleasure of hosting politicians from the Commonwealth representing 500 million people.

“I can honestly say that the staff of Tynwald Office looked after them particularly well and on behalf of the Speaker Mr Rodan and myself I would like to say that our staff did an exceedingly good job on behalf of the Isle of Man.”

The sitting also gave the President to congratulate Rushen MHK Juan Watterson and his wife Helena on the birth of their daughter Sophie Grace Watterson. “It is a pleasure that we can welcome the safe arrival of their daughter. I’m told that Mr watterson is already first class at changing nappies!”

Congratulations were also expressed to Member of the Legislative Council Alex Downie on the honour of receiving an OBE in New Year’s Honours List. Thanks were also given to the Rev Chris Quine who addressed the traditional President’s breakfast for members of Tynwald before the first sitting of Tynwald every year. Welcomed to Tynwald Court by Noel.

In addition, Mr Cringle also took the opportunity to pay tribute to the former Head of the Civil Service, Ray Cannan, who passed away recently. Mr Cannan worked in government for many years and at one time was also clerk to the Legislative Council in the 1970s. “I am sorry to report the passing of Mr Cannan,” he said.