The President of Tynwald, The Hon Steve Rodan OBE MLC, has paid tribute to the late David Callister, whose death was announced yesterday.

Mr President said:

 ‘It is with great sadness that Tynwald mourns the death of our former colleague David Callister.

He was a highly respected political commentator and Manx Radio presenter, who had reported on Tynwald for many years before he joined Legislative Council in 2008. His life experience and intimate knowledge of the Manx political scene made him a valuable Member especially in debate, which he enlivened with incisive common sense and often humorous anecdote. 

He applied open-minded diligence and was dedicated to his role, taking ten Bills through Legislative Council, although his own Private Member’s Bill to reform elections to LegCo, which was a personal mission and major motivation for joining, failed at clauses.

He served on numerous committees including the MEA Select Committee, where as chairman I found his contribution invaluable; and served Government in the Departments of Health, Agriculture and Transport; and as Vice Chairman of the Civil Service Commission and the Office of Fair Trading.

David made a great contribution to Manx politics not only during his five years in Tynwald, but as a great political observer who had his ear to the ground.

Our deepest sympathy goes to his wife Ann and family.’

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For further information contact:
Clerk of Tynwald’s Office
Telephone: 01624 685500
Email: enquiries@tynwald.org
Website: www.tynwald.org.im