Dear Sir,

Since David Burt, the Premier, has decided to implement the recommendation of the Sage Commission Report and create another Cabinet Secretary position, then why not, Mr Burt, be more forward-thinking and optional in scope?

In looking at other options, in earnest, why not, Mr Burt, simply take a competent and well-respected backbench MP and make them the Cabinet Office minister responsible for the Cabinet Office ministry, rather than creating a new senior Civil Service position?

It would create another Cabinet position and ministry — temporarily because this ministry should be aligned to Brexit and should merge into the business development ministry once its purpose has been realised — without creating other senior Civil Service positions.

To be forward-thinking, note that the London Office will automatically fall within the remit of the new ministry, thus seamlessly developing business opportunities that are swiftly emerging from Brexit.

Then hire two consultants, rather than another Cabinet Secretary, paying them for a period of no more than three years.

Next, eliminate the Assistant Cabinet Secretary position and move the existing holder of the position elsewhere or offer early retirement.

Simultaneously, develop a long-term programme with the British Civil Service to identify, properly train, mentor and integrate potential senior civil servants who will reinvigorate and transform the culture in the Bermuda Civil Service.

Your costs will be substantially reduced, while business opportunities and growth should multiply, but it will require a balance of both careful strategic planning and competent execution.

Final but not least, the Government should look very carefully at all options before it decides to increase the senior levels of the Civil Service, especially since temporary services of good Bermudian consultants should improve efficiencies while cutting costs as the next team of senior servants are being identified and properly trained.

VALIRIE MARCIA AKINSTALL

London, England