The first sitting of Tywnald of general election year is getting under way today (Tuesday).

Among several weighty reports the Court will be asked to receive, is one on the collapsed Kaupthing Bank in the Isle of Man.

There's a move to put in place a new system of Standing Committees to review the work of government, right across the board.

And Minister for Social Care Martyn Quayle is seeking almost ?3 million to boost government help for first-time buyers.

Marian Kenny reports (text, below, from attached audio file):

Mr Quayle is seeking capital funding of ?2.8 million for the department's House Purchase ssistance Scheme, which is said to be one of the most generous in Europe.

It offers grants, low cost loans and discounts, to help first-time buyers get on the property ladder.

A Select Committee on parliamentary scrutinty will report back to the Court.

It recommends replacing Tynwald Standing Committees with three new policy review committees.

They would cover three broad areas, namely economic, environment and infrastructure, and social issues. Between them they would scrutinise the work of all government departments, boards and offices. The proposed overhaul is said to be cost neutral.

This month's sitting will also be asked to grant ?300,000 for refurbishment of Murray House in Douglas for a new courtroom and tribunal office.

Tynwald sits from 10.30am today, and there is live coverage on Manx Radio's AM 1368 frequency.