The Department of Marine and Ports has a new Bermudian Director today, however, the former non-Bermudian Director will be kept on as a consultant until July.

Former Director Barry Coupland said his appointment had only been for four years to assist Acting Director Francis Richardson as director designate, giving him time to complete studies to prepare for the role.

As of today, Mr. Richardson has assumed the role.

?I aim to leave Bermuda after July,? Mr. Coupland said. ?I have no knowledge of any further activity here in Bermuda concerning me.?

Mr. Coupland said his contract was extended to oversee the introduction of a 350-passenger ferry to the Island ? twice the size of anything used here so far ? however, he has no intention of staying in Bermuda past July when it is scheduled to come into service.