An interim chief executive officer has been appointed at the Department of Home Affairs.

Dan Davies will take up the position for the next 12 months as a development opportunity before returning to his post as director of change and reform in the Cabinet Office.

His appointment follows the retirement of Mark Kelly, whose departure left the post of chief executive vacant after he completed 35 years in the Manx civil service in June.

Home Affairs Minister Bill Malarkey MHK said: ’Dan’s appointment is a positive move and his passion and enthusiasm will allow the department to build on solid foundations.

’We share a determination to do what’s right for our residents and that will continue as we deliver effective services for their safety, protection and security.

’Dan has a wealth of experience from his time in the Cabinet Office and I look forward to working alongside him in the department.’

Mr Davies said much of his role was about supporting the Ministers and members ’to make sure their priorities are delivered’.

He said his job was to ensure the different emergency services are resourced and ’all are pointing in the right direction and working together’.

’It’s a big job but I’m really looking forward to it,’ he said.