The Isle of Man branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) is inviting applications from young people from the Isle of Man to attend the CPA Headquarters Secretariat Observance of Commonwealth Day in London in 2014.
 
Two places are available for the event on Monday 10th March, the theme of which will be ‘Team Commonwealth’. In addition to discussions on the Commonwealth, the CPA and its contribution to parliamentary democracy, the day will include attendance at a ceremony of observance at Westminster Abbey in the presence of Her Majesty The Queen and at an evening reception, also to be attended by The Queen.
 
CPA Isle of Man branch chairman Hon Juan Watterson MHK said: ‘The Commonwealth Day Observance is a unique occasion where two young people from the Isle of Man will meet with contemporaries from across the Commonwealth. The introduction, this year, of a formal debate session during the day will provide the opportunity to experience parliamentary democracy in action. The evening reception concludes what will undoubtedly prove to be a memorable and educational experience for the successful applicants.’
 
Applicants should be between 18 and 25, have shown an interest in the Commonwealth and parliamentary democracy and displayed leadership qualities.  Reasonable travel and accommodation costs will be funded between the CPA at headquarters and branch level. Successful applicants will be required to submit a report about their experience to the IOM Branch following their attendance.

Interested parties are required to set out in no more than 100 words what they believe they would gain from the experience and how the Isle of Man would benefit from their attendance. Applications should be sent by e-mail by 12 noon on Friday 24th January 2014 to j.corkish@tynwald.org.im.