At just 18 year old Manx student Liam Miller has been elected as a commissioner for Garff Laxey.
Liam is thought to be the youngest ever Manx commissioner and was elected with an overwhelming 85 per cent of votes in the Garff local authority election.
The Ramsey Grammar student, who is studying history, geography and business studies at A Level, said it was a ‘great honour’ to be elected by his fellow parishioners in Laxey.
He said: ‘I wasn’t expecting it and to get a high turnout and receive 85 per cent of the vote is absolutely amazing. I’m really, really pleased and chuffed that people are obviously looking for change.’
He said: ‘I thought “I’m 18, I would like to make a change”. I want to have a positive impact and hopefully inspire young people to get into politics.’
During his four year term he wants to focus on tackling issues affecting younger people and improve the football club, tennis courts and skate park in the village to provide better facilities for youngsters.
He also wants to improve recycling, car parking and make sure the 20mph speed limit in Laxey does not get raised to 30mph.
Mr Miller said: ‘The past board of commissioners was of an older generation. I think people were just looking to see a younger representative, someone who can bring change and I think younger people thought I would represent them. I think that’s why I was elected.
‘I don’t think age is a problem. On the board now there is a good mix with younger and older generations. All in all that will work really well because there’ll be a viewpoint from every area
‘There’s not really much I’m not looking forward to. At the end of the day I have been elected so I have to carry out my role. Overall I’m looking forward to helping out where I can and having a positive impact.
Chief Minister Allan Bell MHK said he believed that Liam was the island’s youngest ever politician and congratulated him on his achievement.
He said: ‘The Isle of Man took the lead in granting the vote to 16 year olds. Liam’s election is excellent news and a reflection of a growing enthusiasm of young people in the political process.
‘Politics is vitally important and will shape the future for young people – it’s right that their voices should be heard. I congratulate Liam on his success. He could be a role model for young people to emulate in the future.’
The Laxey man also wanted to thank his family and friends for supporting him throughout his campaign.
Source: IOM Today
