The Chief Minister has warned that a decision by the House of Keys to remove the Bishop’s vote from Tynwald could have wider implications for the Isle of Man.
In a post to his social media, Alfred Cannan MHK said the island’s foundations were rooted in Christian values, ethics and morals, and argued that the continued presence of the Diocese and the Bishop played a key role in supporting those foundations.
He expressed concern that the decision could mark the beginning of a decline in the role of the Diocese.
Christian Values
Mr Cannan added that he hoped the island could move forward while retaining its faith and values, with the Bishop of Sodor and Mann continuing as a committed spiritual leader for the nation.
Mr Cannan’s full statement is as follows: “Fundamentally the Island’s foundations lie in its Christian values, its Christian ethics and Christian morals. Retaining the Diocese and the Bishop fundamentally supports those foundations.
“I sincerely hope now the Keys have not triggered the beginning of the end for the Diocese and we can move forward and retain our faith and values, as a nation, with a committed spiritual leader for all in the shape of the Bishop of Sodor and Man.”
