A TOTAL restructure of government was announced on April Fool's Day this year.
But this was no joke – April 1 marked the beginning of a new era for the Manx Government in the most comprehensive overhaul of the Island's government since 1986.
The changes have resulted in the creation of six new departments – Economic Development, Social Care, Health, Community, Culture and Leisure, Environment, Food and Agriculture, and Infrastructure.
The Department of Economic Development, spearheaded by Allan Bell MHK, took responsibility for promoting the Island as an international business centre.
Chief Minister Tony Brown said: "Restructuring will not affect the level of services provided to the public. What it will do is drive greater efficiencies within Government through a more coordinated and effected framework of departments.
"The changes have been carefully and properly considered and are aimed at helping the Island to emerge leaner, fitter and even better equipped to face the future.
"Re-organising government is a major task and one that will continue in the weeks and months ahead. However every care will be taken to minimise disruption to the provision of our services."
