But an Education Department official yesterday explained that mathematics instructor Victor Coggin's departure was not due to the March 4 incident nor his ability as a teacher.

Education's senior manager of human resources Raymond Latter told The Royal Gazette that education officials had decided against renewing Mr. Coggin's contract in light of the number of qualified Bermudian teachers and teachers who were spouses of Bermudians.

He noted that Mr. Coggin was brought in from Barbados some 18 months ago due to the sudden departure of another teacher.

"There used to be a dearth of mathematics teachers,'' Mr. Latter added. "We brought in people when we needed them. But now we have people on the Island with Bermudian spouses who are qualified.'' The Ministry, which declared all teaching posts vacant last year as part of its restructuring plans, still has to place ten Bermudian teachers.

All teachers are expected to be placed by June 1.

Mr. Latter said there was a possibility that the Ministry could rehire Mr.

Coggin who was still on sick leave when he left the Island.

But he stressed that the Ministry first had to ensure that all Bermudians and their spouses were placed.