vote for a president -- for the first time.

Until now only the 45 delegates of the Bermuda Public Services Association could vote.

But this has been changed to make the biennial election more democratic, officials say.

On February 3, all members will be able to cast their vote at the union's Hamilton headquarters.

Voting, by secret ballot, will take place between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Current president Mr. Stephen Emery will be standing again. Contesting him will be Mrs. Leleath Bailey.

Mrs. Bailey is chairwoman of one of the union's 15 divisions.

BPSA administrative assistant Ms Thelma Hart said the president's post was the only one being contested this year.

She explained in the past the president was elected at the delegates' conference.

The position would now be filled by a "general election'' -- allowing the total membership to vote, she said.

"It was felt this would enhance the democratic process,'' added Ms Hart.