Tynwald has forced the Education Department to pull back from closing the special needs unit at Jurby School.

Instead discussions will be held with all parties - including the minister, teachers and parents - and a statement will be put to Tynwald next month.

A long debate has been underway all day on a motion by Michael MHK David Cannan calling for the closure to be reversed.

Members voted in favour of an amendment by Chief Minister Donald Gelling, that the issue be explored further.

Pupils at the special needs unit were to be transferred elsewhere and Mr Gelling said that has happened in the past:

Picture: Pupils from Jurby school on a recent visit to Manx Radio