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By Aaron Ibanez - Local Democracy Reporter

A former Malew commissioner says she is ‘immensely proud’ of her time with the authority, having announced her resignation this week.

 

Janice Knighton, who was elected in 2016,  had responsibility for the Ballasalla Community Partnership and for elderly persons housing.

 

In a statement she says she her experience on the board was ‘lively’.

 

‘I did not always agree with everyone, but nor should every Board member agree with all the others because it is a board of elected individuals who come into local politics with different views.’

 

A succession of resignations last year brought decision making at Malew Commissioners to a standstill, as three members were needed to ensure the authority is quorate.

 

Mrs Knighton says this period ‘severely affected’ operations, though a by-election in September 2019 restored functionality of board.

 

‘I was encouraged that it was my place to remain and guide the new members as much as I could.

‘This was difficult for me as my family and I were traveling backwards and forwards from Scotland as we were planning eventually to move permanently, all of which was done at my own expense.

 

‘I do not regret it at all I felt it was my duty to the people of Malew and I hope I managed to serve them well.’

Mrs Knighton, who also runs four businesses, admitted that being a commissioner ‘was not easy, but would happily do it all again.’

 

‘I would encourage anyone wishing to become a commissioner to put themselves forward in particular the younger residents.

 

‘It can be very frustrating but it is also very satisfying, if I could give one suggestion to anyone I would say ‘stand up for whatever you believe and do not let anyone push you around.’

 

‘I wish the board all the best and I hope they will try and put the future of Malew first before their own agendas.’

 

‘I thank the residents of Malew for giving me the chance to serve as a commissioner.’

 

Her resignation leaves three remaining commissioners on the Board with Nigel Bazley serving as chair along with Tanya Mackeral and Tim Chamberlain.

 

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