A full recount of ballots in Onchan from this year’s general election is set to be ordered.
Former Onchan MHK Julie Edge petitioned the high court after alleged “irregularities” in the election results.
Speaking to Manx.News, Ms Edge said she was “pleased with the outcome today, it protects our democracy and integrity of elections process and Manx constitution”.
Ms Edge and deputy returning officer Jeremy Callin appeared before the First Deemster Andrew Corlett today (October 29) at Douglas Courthouse.
Chief Registrar Dr Stuart Quayle was also present in the courtroom, alongside the First Deemster.
Recount Ordered
At the start of proceedings, Deemster Corlett described the circumstances as a “unprecedented situation”.
Kathryn Clough, representing Mr Callin, said that a “genuine questions had been asked” and that a “full audit and recount may be a sensible idea”, although it is not thought to change the election result.
Attorney General Walter Wannenburgh KC also addressed the court and said a recount would be “helpful” and called for the “matter be addressed sooner rather than later”.
Subject to the proper order being prepared, all parties agreed to a full recount at Douglas Courthouse, overseen by Chief Registrar Dr Stuart Quayle.
All candidates will be entitled to attend the recount, along with one count officer representing each candidate.
Next Steps
Ms Edge will pay £500 to cover the costs of the recount which will likely be held “out of working hours” at Douglas Courthouse.
Media presence has been accepted at the recount, although Mrs Clough and Mr Callin sought to prevent them being present.
Deemster Corlett and Ms Edge both had no objection to media being present, Deemster Corlett said he didn’t see a reason why press shouldn’t be there, and it “puts away any doubt that the system is transparent”.
Ms Edge must file her petition and a statement of truth by 4pm on Monday (November 2).
