companies are delaying hiring full-time employees and are instead opting for temporary secretaries, as a result of worries over the discussion on Independence.

Referring directly to a report in the Business section of The Royal Gazette , (Monday February 21) the Labour and Home Affairs Minister, the Hon. John Irving Pearman, said: "Some employment agencies have suggested that some companies are seeking more temporary labour than full-time labour. My senior officers are going to meet with these agencies and get some direct feedback, so that we can gauge the concerns from the international companies.

"My concern is to find out if there is any substance to the claim.'' One such company that the Ministry's senior officers will be in touch with is Professional Consultants, whose Mr. Jeremy Whittle, told us: "Companies are no longer worried about the financial situation. Now, they are worried about the Independence talk.'' Mr. Pearman says that he would like to hear from any such company that is altering their hiring plans because of discussions on Independence. He said that the exploratory talks could lead to some direct action on the part of Government towards understanding their position and talking with them to remove their fears. He did confirm an increase in the amount of temporary secretaries.

The Government's concern comes at a time when the Island's managers have been hoping for an economic upturn. There has already been some improvement on the employment front and Government is hoping to assist in any economic improvement.

THE HON. JOHN IRVING PEARMAN -- Labour and Home Affairs Minister.