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Some Cabinet posting suggestions for Portia
Al Edwards
Friday, March 03, 2006

Minister of Finance and Deputy Prime Minister - Dr Omar Davies.
He should continue with the macro-economic path chosen - at least in the short term. He would be well regarded as a deputy prime minister commanding respect overseas. Should have little problem with this dual role. Should enhance his standing as a senior statesman.

Minister of National Security - Portia Simpson Miller. Crime must be at the top of Portia's agenda and by leading from the front; her reputation can only grow. She is the best person to speak to the population at large and get them to see that crime is inhibiting the country's growth and standing abroad. Furthermore, if results are gained quickly it would check mate Dr Phillips and put to rest assertions that she has little substance and is not fit to run a front- line ministry. Then again, if she can do what Dr Phillips couldn't. Running dual offices should not be beyond her.

Minister of Local Government & Community Development - Dr Karl Blythe. Stepping into Portia's shoes should occupy the energies of the mercurial Dr Blythe. He has always displayed a penchant for community development and this will get him back in the game.

Minister of Foreign Affairs & Foreign Trade - Ambassador Anthony Hylton. The urbane, bright and capable young Anthony Hylton is more than capable of taking over where KD Knight will leave off. A fitting reward for giving Portia support and helping in her bid to become the next leader of the PNP. Youthful Exuberance is unlikely to make him fuzzy headed.

Minister of Industry & Tourism - Aloun N'dombet Assamba. If it ain't broke, why fix it? In her first term as a government minister, she has done well and risen to the challenges thrown out by this portfolio. With the experience of a term in office behind her, she will bring a lot to the table in the second term. Her engaging manner and financial savvy make her a good fit in this portfolio. As a former Minister of Tourism, Portia and Aloun should be able to share ideas and have meaningful dialogue. "Strength of a woman" and all that should see the two women as a good fit.

Minister of Information - Colin Campbell. Why Colin? For all the obvious reasons that's why. He should blossom in this ministry and truly come into his own. He could turn out to be one of Portia's rotweillers. A better guard dog she couldn't want for. Should have the stamina to go two terms. Should bring some vitality to this portfolio as Burchell Whiteman rides into the sunset.

Minister of Justice & the Attorney General's Department - Dr Peter Phillips. A fitting nod to Dr Phillips' tenure as Minister of National Security and just enough of a portfolio to get his teeth into without losing too much face. His skills as a Leader of the House should serve him well here and his abilities should come in handy as far as legislative framework is concerned. His missus should be of some help here. More than likely AJ will be kicked up to the Caribbean Court of Justice but should be available for some good advice.

Minister of Land and Environment - Roger Clarke. Nothing too taxing as Roger looks to exit the front line of government. Portia can count on him and he will lend her his ears. Don't expect his girth to be reduced anytime soon. He may decide to stick around for another term, then again he may decide to cultivate some land. Decisions, decisions. Portia may well want him around, the wily old general, Sherry in one hand, dispensing advice.

Minister of Development - Phillip Paulwell. A fitting post to focus his energies. He has done a good job at Commerce, Science and Technology and it is time for him to move into the inner circle. Will bring invaluable experience to this portfolio as Robertson bows out. It is a grown- up role and Phillip can no longer be considered a young turk. Dennis Morrison should stay on to guide him.

Minister of Education, Youth & Culture - Deika Morrison. Should bring some youthful vitality to this portfolio and is a good standard bearer for what a good education can do. This would be a step up for Miss Morrison and a good position to be if she harbours political ambitions.

Minister of Agriculture - Errol Ennis. Errol would bring some energy to this portfolio which he knows something about. Agriculture should play a bigger role in the productive sector and Errol can bat for it with much gusto. Portia would be assured that he has her back. He should be persuaded to stick around for a while - he may even find it enjoyable, if he takes the gamble.


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