Callister quits health department

Blow to CM's vision for 'cohesive' govt

Howard Quayle's government has suffered its first political resignation.

Onchan MHK Rob Callister has stepped down from the Department of Health and Social Care after a clash with minister Kate Beecroft.

Mr Callister, who was elected to the Keys last September, says he's 'extremely disappointed' at resigning so early in the administration - but said it was the right decision and the right time to go.

Working relations between Mr Callister and his boss deteriorated over the past month amid disagreement about what's described as 'a course of action' she had begun.

He's cited personal reasons and a difference of opinion with Mrs Beecroft, but has refused to explain the issue at the heart of the row.

Mr Callister says he'll continue to support the Chief Minister's vision for a cohesive government over the nest five years.

He will continue in other roles in government, as a member of DED, Tynwald committees and as a constituency MHK.