Chief Minister Howard Quayle has re-signed the Armed Forces Covenant, a declaration of support for island residents who serve, or have served, in the British armed forces.

The covenant, a voluntary statement of mutual support between a civilian community and its service personnel, was first signed in 2013 by then Chief Minister Alan Bell.

The government provided support in a number of ways including: Providing financial and logistical support to the island’s cadet movement; Building working links between the Isle of Man NHS and UK to ensure forces specific needs are met - especially in mental health and supporting reservists in the Isle of Man public service with special leave.

Mr Quayle said: ’I am very honoured to introduce to you the representatives of the armed forces who have attended today to sign the covenant.

’To those who have served in the past we thank you. To those returning home from service, we encourage you to take part in our island’s activities, to walk amongst us in the Queen’s uniform and become a significant part of our society.

’I commend this covenant and ask that it be signed on behalf of the armed forces community in the Isle of Man.’

The armed forces were represented by Commodore Phillip Waterhouse, Naval Regional Commander for the North West of England and the Isle of Man.

The convenant also commits the government to assisting members of the armed forces in accessing the housing waiting lists, meaning they are not negatively affected by their service in the UK or overseas.

The government also provides support for service housing projects such as Ian Cannel Court and the housing charity SSAFA.