Tynwald — The World's Oldest Continuous Parliament
Tynwald has met continuously since 979 AD (possibly earlier), making it the oldest parliament in the world still in operation.
How It Works
- House of Keys — 24 elected members (MHKs), elected by the public every 5 years
- Legislative Council — 11 members (8 elected by the Keys, the Bishop, the Attorney General, and the President of Tynwald)
- Tynwald Court — Both chambers sitting together for key legislative functions
- Chief Minister — Head of government, elected by members of Tynwald
Tynwald Day (5th July)
The annual open-air ceremony at Tynwald Hill, St John's. New laws are promulgated (announced) in both English and Manx Gaelic. Open to the public — it's the island's national day.
Your Representatives
The IoM is divided into constituencies, each represented by one or two MHKs. Find your MHK at tynwald.org.im — they hold regular surgeries.
Public Engagement
- Petitions of Grievance — Any resident can petition Tynwald directly on Tynwald Day
- Public Consultations — Government regularly consults on new legislation
- Hansard — Full transcripts of all Tynwald debates are published online
- Public Gallery — Attend debates at the Legislative Buildings, Douglas
Fun Fact: The three legs of Mann (the triskelion) on the Manx flag represent the three legs of government: the Crown, the Council, and the Keys. The motto "Quocunque Jeceris Stabit" means "Whichever way you throw it, it will stand."