After defeating Opposition Leader Michael Dunkley in the general election on Tuesday, Patrice Minors has declined a portfolio preferring to be a backbencher.

Mrs. Minors said: "I can confirm that the Premier has indeed offered me an opportunity to fill a Cabinet post, but despite the honour afforded to me, I have respectfully declined.

"Although the past four years have been fulfilling and rewarding, the challenges I have faced in balancing a growing family and busy career with my public office responsibilities have at times been a struggle. At this time I have decided to focus my efforts on my constituency, my family and my revisited career."

She continued: "I have no doubt that I will have the opportunity in the future to serve the Premier in a Cabinet capacity, but for now I am comfortable in serving the people of Bermuda from the back bench. I also take this opportunity to thank all the constituents of Smith's North for affording me another opportunity to serve them, and serve I will. May you have a most blessed and joyous Christmas."

Premier Dr. Ewart Brown said: "Mrs. Minors is a fine leader — seasoned and well respected. I can fully appreciate the reasons she has decided to decline the appointment at this time. But I expect the country will have the chance to call on her dedicated service sometime in the future."

"Although she won't be at the Cabinet table I expect we can still rely on her input and her leadership skills as the entire team works to move Bermuda forward."

Patrice Minors had previously served as Minister of Health.