Department of Tourism staff have unveiled a scathing litany of criticisms against Minister Renee Webb, alleging she is vindictive, bullying, disrespectful and careless with the truth.

Bermuda Public Services Union has outlined three pages of concerns about the way Ms Webb allegedly treats staff to Cabinet Secretary John Drinkwater.

In a covering letter to Mr. Drinkwater, BPSU general secretary Edward Ball writes: "The Union's initial response to the allegations is that of shock. In all my years as a trade unionist, I have never seen civil servants who are so fearful of a Minister and the possible retribution that they could experience as a result of them voicing their concerns."

Ms Webb would only say last night that the matter was being dealt with between the union and Mr. Drinkwater.

But in the past, she has complained that some staff are resistant to changes necessary to modernise the department to bring drive Tourism forward.

As a result of a report from consultant Elliott Ettendburg, who is also criticised by staff, some overseas offices may close.

The letter of complaint to from Mr. Ball to Mr. Drinkwater states: "Staff are concerned that nothing will happen as a result of them collectively coming together to address these issues because the Minister believes she is beyond reproach by the Premier, the Secretary to the Cabinet or the Public Service Commission."

In the letter of complaint to Mr. Drinkwater, which has been seen by The Royal Gazette, staff assert:

They are instructed to stand when Ms Webb comes in;

"Threats and intimidating remarks being made by the Minister to staff in meetings;

"Multiple personalities: Minister is never two days alike and it is difficult to deal with her to get firm decisions";

Ms Webb "feels she is beyond reproach and that she is untouchable;

"Allegations the Minister continues to make disparaging remarks about the staff;

"Minister blatantly handling the truth carelessly;

"Allegations the Minister is using her political power to force staff to adhere to her demands and at times may be deemed to contravene financial instructions and the code of conduct";

Meetings are often scheduled, cancelled then rescheduled again on the same day;

"An allegation that the Minister prohibits senior staff to fully perform their duties and is then critical of their performance;

"Allegations that Minister has instructed that a specific person be hired by January 1 2004 who may be a personal friend;

"Allegations that the Minister has no respect for senior staff and appears to have no confidence in them";

"Staff forced to submit detailed travel itineraries to Ms Webb before they travel on official duty;

"Allegations the Minister is vindictive and holds things against staff;

"Allegations that the Minister insists she would not comply with the US Immigration/Naturalisation policy that all persons are randomly searched;

"Allegations that the Minister belligerently scolded a senior member of staff for responding to the staff per the then Acting Minister's instructions."

The staff also complain "new and unbudgeted project demands made by the Minister which go against financial instructions and has budgetary implications" and of expenses she runs up in attending every overseas department meeting.

And the letter also outlines a series of complaints about Mr. Ettenberg's company, claiming it has no idea about tourism, is disrespectful, and doesn't consult staff.

Ms Webb said last night: "It is being left with the author, the BPSU, and the recipient, Mr. Drinkwater, so I cannot comment.

"Clearly it will be dealt with. There is a process to be followed and addressing this in the Press is not part of that process."

Former Director of Tourism Judith Hall Bean left the department earlier this year to move to Cabinet Office after asking to be transferred out.

Mr. Ball could not be contacted last night and Mr. Drinkwater refused to comment.