Friday, September 16, 2011

Linking Hands Across the World


The Isle of Man and Norfolk Isle are linked by history through the Mutiny on the Bounty and in 2011 renewed that link through a Cultural Agreement signed in the Isle of Man on Tynwald Day – the 5th of July. Learning about each other’s Island, along with our similarities and our differences strengthens the link we have forged. This weekly column is established initially for that purpose. The key facts published here and in the coming weeks are taken from the June 2009 Isle of Man Guide produced by the Isle of Man Government. Our photo on the right is the Hon Tony Brown MHK Chief Minister Isle of Man Government. Chief Minister Brown is not seeking re-election in the current elections.
“The Isle of Man has a distinct cultural and political identity.  It is a land of possibility where people and business can reach their full potential.  Government policy is to be both economically competitive and internationally responsible in supporting the interests of its people.

Location:  In the Irish Sea at the heart of the British Isles; Size: 33 miles long by 13 miles wide (221 sq.miles); Population: 80,000 (2006); Capital: Douglas)

In the words of Chief Minister Hon Tony Brown MHK in 2009–

“The Isle of Man is a small, self-reliant country that believes in working hard and playing by the rules.  The Island’s independent spirit, enterprise and innovation have made it a successful centre for quality international business.  A thriving, diverse economy provides jobs for our people and revenue for our public services – the foundations for a high quality of life. We are also a democratic, responsible country with a reputation for supporting international action against financial crime and tax evasion. We are keen to play a positive role in the global economy”

“Giving you Freedom to Flourish”
The Isle of Man is a land of possibility where people and business can reach their full potential
·   “People value their quality of life: our beautiful countryside, its suitability for family life and safe environment are cited among the best things about the Island.
·   “Loyal competitors and fans flock to the Isle of Man each year for the famous Tourist Trophy (TT) races – the oldest motorcycle event in the world; and in 2099, the Island hosted the world’s first competitive event for low-emission motorcycles.
·   “The Island was among the first countries to give women the vote in 1881 (we will have to tell them Pitcairn beat them to it!)
·   “The Isle of Man was also the first country in Western Europe to allow 16 and 17 year olds to vote in national elections. (Norfolk’s Youth Assembly was interested to hear this!)
·    “In 2011, our excellent sporting facilities will host the Commonwealth Youth Games (The Commonwealth Youth Games were hosted by the Isle of Man 7 – 13 September. Regrettably Norfolk was unable to field any competitors this time in the eligible age range – for full write up on the Games go to

From the Office of the Speaker on 16 September 2011
Fostering the 2011 Cultural Agreement between the Isle of Man and Norfolk Isle

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