The Environment Minister has appointed his sister to the Development Applications Board.

Glenn Blakeney yesterday confirmed Beverley Samuels was a relative, but denied the appointment represented a conflict of interest.

"It was solely my appointment and I certainly make no apologies for it," he told The Royal Gazette.

The 2010 Development Applications Board was announced in the Official Gazette last month. The committee, which will decide Planning applications, includes: Carl Musson, Elwood Lambert, Loderick Holder, Edwina Lambert, Antonio Mapp, Garth Rothwell, Beverley Samuels, Ross Smith, Sean Tucker, Leslie Veney and Allan Lee.

Mr. Blakeney said yesterday: "Ms Samuels is a Bermudian with more than 20 years in the travel industry. She was appointed to the DAB as a lay person to represent the interests of the Bermuda community in making decisions on planning applications.

"That she is my sister was inconsequential in making this decision. When making appointments I always strive to find a good balance and I look to give people an opportunity who have expressed a sincere interest in making an invaluable civic contribution."

The Minister said: "The most important thing is integrity in being appointed, regardless of relationships. My sister is the only relative among a hundred-plus that I am aware of sitting on any Government board which I'm responsible for appointing.

"It was solely my appointment and I certainly make no apologies for it. My family has a history of stellar public service, as do many other Bermudian families, and I know Ms Samuels will make an excellent member of the DAB."