Reshuffle - three out, two in

The Island’s new-look government has been announced.

Two backbenchers will form part of Allan Bell’s administration as he shuffles the pack.

Meanwhile, three current ministers are standing down, two of whom have played a key role in successive governments. 

So, the long-awaited reshuffle is now known.

Out go David Cretney, David Anderson and Graham Cregeen.

In come Howard Quayle and Laurence Skelly.

Mr Cregeen – whose department is being disbanded – bows out after 18 months as a minister.

Mr Cretney will bow out after 18 years as a minister and has indicated he intends to retire from politics in 2016.

His replacement in infrastructure is Rushen member Laurence Skelly.

Mr Anderson’s health department troubles have been well documented – a massive task awaits his replacement, Middle MHK Howard Quayle.

Chris Robertshaw will head up the new Cabinet Office, the other five ministers will retain their positions.

The new-look government, newly restructured, in effect means a new era from April 1.

However, some of the ministerial changes will come in immediately.

Laurence Skelly takes charge of the Department of Infrastructure, Howard Quayle will head both the Department of Health and the Department of Social Care until the merger on April 1, and Chris Robertshaw will look after the Department of Community, Culture and Leisure until then.