Marlene Maska MLC has been appointed as a political member of the Department of Infrastructure.

The new appointment adds to Mrs Maska’s existing role as a member for the Department of Education, Sport and Culture.

However, her appointment seemingly goes against an amended Tynwald motion from November 2017, which was supported by many members of the Council of Ministers, that MLCs should only serve in one department.

The amendment to a motion on recommendations from the select committee on the functioning of Tynwald had been moved by the then Infrastructure Minister Ray Harmer.

It was supported by Chief Minister Howard Quayle.

Mrs Maska (pictured) was not a member of Tynwald at the time of that debate.

It is believed to be the first time since 2017 that an MLC has sat in more than one department on a permanent basis.

Infrastructure Minister Tim Baker MHK said: ’I’m delighted Marlene has become part of the team and I look forward to her joining as we prepare for a challenging period.

’My intention as soon I took over was to offer a fresh perspective and reshape how we do things.

’Marlene and I have worked together previously on planning issues. The department will be able to draw on her experience.’

Meanwhile, Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Jason Moorhouse has stepped down as a political member of the DoI.

Announcing the move on Facebook, he gave no reasons for his decision, saying only that: ’It seemed an opportune moment and in politics it is good to move on when things are going well.’

Listing the highlights of his time at the DoI over the past four years, he cited the new horse tram depot at Strathallan and the introduction of ConnectVillages dial-a-ride in the north of the island.

He said: ’The position was really interesting and often challenging.’

There is a general election next year.

Mr Moorhouse told the Examiner: ’It just seemed an appropriate moment.

’It gives a colleague the opportunity to have a worthwhile period of time there before the next election which is important.

’There is also the potential that it will open up new opportunities for me.’