Caine is New Education Minister

Garff Daphne Caine has been appointed as Education Minister, replacing Onchan MHK Julie Edge.

Ms Edge had held the post since October 2021 when the administration was formed.

During her time in charge of DESC, Ms Edge has led the department through the difficulties at the end of the pandemic, negotiations with teaching unions and, more recently, the row over the southern swimming pool.

Mrs Caine said: ‘I am delighted to accept the Chief Minister’s invitation to join the Council of Ministers. I have a passionate interest in the delivery of education, and I look forward to making a positive contribution to developing and enhancing education, sport and culture across the Island.’

Chief Minister Alf Cannan said: ‘I’d like to place on record my sincere thanks to Julie for her dedication and hard work in representing the Department for Education, Sport and Culture for the past two and half years. While the brief has thrown up a number of challenges during this time, Julie has always conducted herself with diligence, dignity and a strong sense of duty.

‘I believe it is an appropriate time to make this change and to introduce a fresh perspective to the Council of Ministers. I need to balance the need for continuity with opportunities to allow for fresh thinking as the administration pursues its objectives around the Island Plan and Economic Strategy.’

Garff member Mrs Caine was first elected in 2016 and held the post of Children’s Champion 2016-18. She has served on a range of Tynwald and Council of Ministers committees and as a Member of the Department for Enterprise, and was appointed Chair of the Isle of Man Climate Change Transformation Board in 2021.