Calling it an "historic occasion", Minister of Transport Dr. Ewart Brown announced the first Bermudian to head the post of "director designate" for the Department of Marine and Ports.

Francis Richardson, who came up through the ranks of the department, has been given the nod for the post after 25 years of service.

Although it is expected that Mr. Richardson will take over the role as Director of Marine and Ports once his term of training is completed, an interim director for the department is yet to be named.

It is understood that Government is looking overseas to fill the top post.

Meanwhile, Dr. Brown introduced 36-year-old Mr. Richardson at a press conference yesterday, saying that he was "both excited and pleased" to be making the appointment.

Dr. Brown said he had full confidence that Mr. Richardson would be up to the task of overseeing such a broad department.

"It is a challenging time in the department," Dr. Brown said. "The expansion of our ferry system into a world-class public transportation system and further emphasis on marine security will require focus and determination. I have no doubt that Mr. Richardson will fulfil the requirements with a high degree of professionalism and leadership."

Dr. Brown explained that Mr. Richardson would oversee all marine functions, including the ferry service, the pilot service, Harbour Radio, tug and tender service, Dockyard maintenance and mooring and boat registration.

"Mr. Richardson was chosen because of his past experience and outstanding qualifications," Dr. Brown said.

In accepting the post, Mr. Richardson highlighted his experience in the Marine and Ports Department, noting that he had entered the department as a summer student.

"It's been a long journey," Mr. Richardson said. "I have come up through the ranks as a teenage student, working with Marine and Ports and I have always strived to better myself both personally and professionally and from day one I have been committed to this career."

Recently the appointment of a new Director has been the source of controversy, with acting director Michael Dolding overlooked for the post by Government.

The post was vacated by Ron Ross when he retired earlier last month.

According to Herman Tucker, Department of Transportation Permanent Secretary, an announcement will be made "soon" regarding the new director.

Mr. Dolding, who was the assistant director for the past five years and had worked in the department for 23 years, filed a writ with the Supreme Court early this month against the Public Service Commission.

Dr. Brown refused to comment on the issue saying that it is a legal matter.

"That situation is in the hands of the lawyers," Dr. Brown said. "I am here to celebrate Francis Richardson. It's not every day that we see a young Bermudian coming through the ranks and rising to the top of the department. That's what we are celebrating today."

Since June 2000, Mr. Richardson has been the Dockyard superintendent, overseeing all maintenance and management duties of the tenders, tugs and workshop facilities.

He has extensive experience in management, having travelled to Canada to receive post secondary experience in technology, engineering and shipping.

Dr. Brown said that Mr. Richardson will begin his duties, "effective immediately."