Julie Edge has hit back at the Manx Government after being sacked as Minister for Education, Sport and Culture.
Ms Edge said she was disappointed to become the latest in an increasing list of Ministers who have been appointed and asked to stand down from the Cannan administration.
She was appointed to the role in October 2021 and fired on Wednesday.
The Onchan MHK said she was not surprised by the decision describing herself as the “difficult woman” who regularly challenges decisions.
Julie Edge Full Statement: ‘Naturally I am disappointed to become the latest in an increasing list of Ministers who have been appointed and then asked to stand down from the Cannan administration, although, to some extent, as the “difficult woman” who regularly challenges decisions and offers the public perspective, I am not surprised.
‘The fact I was informed of the news this afternoon (Wed), 24 hours after I told the Chief Minister of my intention to speak publicly about my pre-determined position on whistleblowing and the government’s management of the Dr Rosalind Ranson case and the Richard Wright KC report debated in Tynwald this week, speaks volumes to me.
‘So does the fact that Daphne Caine – who I wish well – has been appointed my successor a matter of weeks after she was appointed to the Department for Enterprise as Political Member, with specific responsibility for Visit Isle of Man and Motorsport, highlighting a lack of a clear plan or direction.
‘I wish to thank all my colleagues, officers and staff in the Department, along with those in schools, at UCM, and those who work in sports, arts and culture. I am proud of how much we have achieved together over a short space of time and their dedication to education and children, skills, development and life-long learning is exemplary.
‘My focus today is on a smooth transition. I stand by the number of initiatives we have delivered and continue to progress, many of which will shortly come to fruition, and the tough decisions we have had to take in the Department over the past two and a half years.
‘Like my colleague in Onchan who was removed as a Minister after a matter of weeks, I will stand up for what I believe in and always listen to and represent the people of Onchan and the wider Island.
‘I will, of course, continue to support the government in pursuit of policies which align with my own and I wish my successor well.’
Chief Minister Alfred Cannan has appointed Daphne Caine as Minister for Education, Sport and Culture and will take up the position with immediate effect.
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