When considering where to apply for workplace experience while working towards his degree, Tynwald was always going to be his ‘first choice’, said Edan Shimmin-Munk.

Manx-born Edan, 20, (pictured) a former St Ninian’s High School student, is in his second year at University College Isle of Man studying for a BA (Hons) degree in History and Heritage. Speaking as his five-week placement was drawing to a close, Edan said: ‘The experience has far exceeded my expectations.’

Edan was assigned to the Research and Scrutiny Support team, which provides parliamentary research and information services for Members and committees of Tynwald. ‘But I’ve had so many opportunities to become involved in all the different functions of Tynwald and to engage with Members as well,’ said Edan, adding: ‘And to have been able to draft several papers, including one destined to be published as part of a series of proactive briefing papers for Members, was more than I could have hoped for.’

Edan said that, before his placement, he hadn’t realised just how varied Tynwald’s “behind the scenes” operation was. ‘Along with observing sittings, I’ve been involved in committee hearings, such as the Economic Policy Review Committee and the Social Affairs Policy Review Committee and I’ve also seen how Hansard functions. I was also very grateful to have been given the opportunity to serve as a messenger in the House of Keys; it was an interesting experience and gave me a very different perspective on the workings of parliament.’

Turning to interacting with Members, Edan said: ‘I found Members to be very approachable and personable and I was pleased to be recognised as one of the team.’

Summing up he said: ‘Everyone has been so helpful, supportive and patient. What I’ve valued is that I’ve been given a level of responsibility I hadn’t expected and been entrusted with meaningful work. I’ve gained a new-found confidence, learned a whole range of new disciplines – right down to how present a paper – and acquired transferable life skills I’ll be able to apply to whatever career I might choose in the future.’

-ends-

For further information contact:
Joann Corkish
Deputy Clerk of Tynwald
Legislative Buildings
Douglas, IM1 3PW
Tel: 01624 685500
j.corkish@tynwald.org.im

June 8, 2023