A new year...

2022 has arrived, but in some ways it just feels a bit like a repeat of 2021.  Covid infection rates are at an all time high due to the arrival of the Omicron variant which doesn't seem to mind much about previous infections and natural immunity, or about 2 doses of vaccine.  The consequences of high levels of infection is that everyone is under pressure due to staff shortages, schools, businesses, health and social care, we are all suffering the effects of staff absences.

I'm starting to find my feet a little more now.  Over at DEFA I have been asked to take the lead on Environment and Regulation, both areas which are right up my street. I hope to be able to bring the new Animal Welfare legislation to the House in the next few months, along with some secondary legislation with measures for controlling Avian Flu.

In Health and Social Care, the work to set the Mandate for Manx Care is ongoing. I've taken a particular interest in staff welfare and sickness, and in supporting those suffering from Long Covid.

Outside of Departmental roles, I've been actively meeting constituents and dealing with specific issues.  I'll be running more constituency surgeries in the next few months, but if you want to contact me in the meantime, please give me a call or drop me an email.