The Isle of Man has often been at the forefront of political and social change. As the first country to introduce the vote for all women in 1881, a driving age of 16 and a ban on purchasing cigarettes until 18, the island is not afraid to assert its independence. In keeping with this tradition the Manx Parliament has amended legislation to allow teenagers as young as 16 to vote in the forthcoming General Election. As a 17-year-old in the Isle of Man, I am affected by the alteration that gives me the right to vote five years earlier than anticipated due to the length of time between elections. To say that I have had an abiding interest in local politics prior to the change in legislation would be untrue. In fact it is exactly because I couldn't vote that my curiosity for Manx politics has not been roused previously.
 | | Philip wants more sports facilities |
So now I am eager to share my experiences with you all about how the Isle of Man has reacted to the amendment and what having the vote means to me and to other people of my age. Has lowering the voting age encouraged young adults to take a more active interest in Manx politics? How have local politicians tried to appeal to this new demographic? These are just a few of the issues I shall be addressing over the coming weeks. From a personal standpoint, as a keen footballer, I am as aware as anyone of the perceived shortage of quality recreational facilities in urban areas of the island. I am hoping subjects such as this, tailored towards the younger generation, will now be tackled more vigorously. There are over 2,000 of us newly eligible voters lurking in the shadows and we are determined to make our voices heard! Get clued-up on the 2006 Isle of Man General Election by using the links below to find out who is standing for the House of Keys and how you can register your vote. Do you plan to exercise your new right to vote? | 
