A delegation from Tynwald is to attend the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) 47th British Islands and Mediterranean Region (BIMR) conference in Gibraltar from May 21 to 24.

Bill Malarkey MHK will lead the delegation and be accompanied by Geoffrey Boot MHK, Jason Moorhouse MHK and Bill Shimmins MHK.

The delegation will be supported by the Clerk of Tynwald, Roger Phillips.

The conference will open with an address by the Speaker of the Gibraltar Parliament, Adolofo Canepa OBE, followed by an official welcome by the Chief Minister Fabian Picardo QC MP.

Taking as its theme ‘Strengthening the role of the BIMR region and considering the role of small branches post Brexit’, the conference will begin with the BIMR annual general meeting.

Mr Shimmins will be speaking in plenary session one: ‘Strengthening of the Region in the CPC’ and Mr Boot in plenary session two: ‘The Role of Small Branches’.

Mr Malarkey said: ‘The conference will provide us with worthwhile opportunities not only to network with parliamentarians from other BIMR jurisdictions but also to promote Tynwald and its services - notably our Hansard operation - and the Isle of Man.

‘The Isle of Man is a very active member of the CPA and punches well above its weight.  As the oldest continuous parliament is the world Tynwald is well respected within the CPA and has much to share. The Manx perspective is always highly valued, while Tynwald is noted for offering bespoke capacity-building programmes to visiting parliamentarians, most recently to members of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly in Pakistan.

‘The Gibraltar programme of plenary sessions and workshops is very focused and set to prompt much discussion. Attending a conference such as this is invaluable. Delegates return more widely informed so are able to share newly acquired knowledge with their fellow members. Importantly, the experience gained can be applied to the vital work of strengthening the institution of parliament.’

Photo - The Gibraltar parliament building.