The Ecclesiastical Committee of Tynwald has concluded that the Church legislation procedure remains fit for purpose, but says “the principle of reform is one worth progressing”.
The committee’s first report for the 2025-26 session follows an inquiry into the process for enacting Church Measures.
The Bishop of Sodor and Man, who sits on Legislative Council, told the committee that the current position “ensures that Church legislation is subject to democratic scrutiny by Tynwald while respecting the status of the Diocesan Synod”. She added that she would “be inclined to resist any that would result in a fundamental restructuring”.
However, the committee found that the procedure has drawbacks. The Legislative Committee of the Diocesan Synod noted “the inevitable delay between the presentation of a draft Measure to the Committee and the consideration of its report by Tynwald”.
The committee made three conclusions, including that there is “merit in further exploring the direct submission of draft Church Measures by the Diocesan Synod to Tynwald Court”.
It also concluded that the Isle of Man Church Legislation Procedures Manual should be updated and published publicly.
A memorandum of dissent from Clare Barber MHK said the current position presents “confusion as to the role of the Committee”.