Experienced local advocate Walter Wannenburgh has today (Monday 13th July) been officially sworn-in as Solicitor General of the Isle of Man.

Mr Wannenburgh took the Oath of Allegiance and Oath of Solicitor General during a special ceremony at Government House. The Warrant of Appointment was presented by His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor Mr Adam Wood on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen.

Formerly a partner at law firm DQ, Mr Wannenburgh brings a wealth of experience to the role having demonstrated a strong track record of professional achievement since being called to the Manx Bar in 1993.

He will act as legal adviser to the Lieutenant Governor, Council of Ministers, Government Departments and Statutory Boards and will support the Attorney General in providing guidance on issues relating to the Isle of Man’s domestic and external interests. He will also assist in representing the Crown in the prosecution of offences and the drafting of Government legislation.

His Honour First Deemster David Doyle, who administered the Oaths, said: ‘As the Island continues to mature as a modern democracy, the significance of the creation of the Solicitor General within the Island’s constitutional infrastructure and the appointment of Mr Wannenburgh to that position should not be underestimated.

‘It is vitally important to the Island’s future that we have strong institutions which support the rule of law. The rule of law is the backbone of a civilised existence and economic growth. This must have been recognised by those who decided, in the best interests of the Island, that there was a need for a full-time, permanent, locally based Solicitor General. This appointment will assist in enhancing the Island’s reputation internationally, which in turn will assist in growing the economy.’

Deemster Doyle added: ‘Mr Wannenburgh combines a solid intellect and practical ability with sound common sense and a good work ethic. It is good that such high quality and well respected local advocates are attracted to such important positions as that of Solicitor General. Mr Wannenburgh will provide essential support and assistance to the work of the Attorney General’s Chambers. I hope that he will relish and thrive upon the challenges that this position will present.’

Mr Wannenburgh commented: ‘I am extremely proud and privileged to be appointed to the position of Her Majesty’s Solicitor General and will endeavour to serve the Crown and the Isle of Man to the best of my abilities.

‘I am delighted to be returning to Chambers having previously served as a Prosecutor and Civil Officer, experience which I hope to put to good use. It is important for the administration of Government, as well as the administration of justice in our Island that the Attorney General’s Chambers should operate as a centre of excellence, with the Attorney General being supported by an effective and fully functioning staff.’

The post of Solicitor General was one of the recommendations of a review into the Attorney General’s Chambers conducted by Stephen Wooler, a former Chief Inspector of the Crown Prosecution Inspectorate.

Mr Wooler’s report concluded that a second Crown officer should be appointed to support the full range of duties performed by the Attorney General.

Photo - Mr Wannenburgh with His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor Mr Adam Wood during today’s ceremony at Government House.