A new advertisement for the post of Director of Public Prosecutions has been published, seeking Bermudians or Bermuda residents only.

The advertisement, which appeared on page 29 of yesterday’s edition of The Royal Gazette and was placed by the Judicial and Legal Services Committee, states in part: “Only Bermudians or candidates currently practising in Bermuda need apply.”

Other requirements listed in the application state that the post holder must be a qualified barrister or attorney with at least 12 years’ experience in significant criminal litigation.

They must also have “experience and proven ability” in the management of staff and the “highest levels of integrity and robust independence”.

The Governor, George Fergusson, announced in December that Government House would seek a new DPP after Rory Field tendered his resignation to take other opportunities. His resignation is expected to take effect next month.

While Mr Field reported a smooth reception in September 2007, when he was reappointed in 2010 concerns were raised about the lack of a Bermudian in the position.

There was political furore in December 2013, including an unprecedented protest by lawyers, as Bermudian candidate Cindy Clarke, who had been expected to assume the role of DPP, was dropped. Government House in that instance stated simply that due to “certain subsequent developments, it became untenable for the appointment to proceed”.

Defence counsel Elizabeth Christopher, who had previously called for a Bermudian — specifically Ms Clarke — to be appointed to the post, said she was puzzled that the advertisement did not stop at saying they were seeking to hire a Bermudian.

“I just don’t understand it,” she said. “They said they wanted to hire a Bermudian. Objectively speaking, the best possible candidate for the position practising in Bermuda is a Bermudian. She is certainly qualified. I just don’t get why it doesn’t just say ‘Bermudians’.”