Dr Derrick Binns Goes Back to Solo Role as PSC Aims to Appoint New Cabinet Secretary by January 31st

After serving in two roles since 2013, the Government announced today that Dr Derrick Binns will step down as Cabinet Secretary, as the Public Service Commission aims to appoint his successor by the end of this month.

As Head of the Civil Service, he will continue to lead public service reform. The two roles were combined in 2010 and performed by Marc Telemaque and Donald Scott.

According to the statement released today, the Government decided to separate the posts in keeping with one of the recommendations put forward by the Sage Commission.

Both the Governor, John Rankin and Premier David Burt believe separating the posts will place “a sharper focus on public service reform”.

A spokeswoman said: “As a result, and in accordance with the Constitution, the Governor has invited the Public Service Commission (PSC) to commence the process to fill the role of Secretary to the Cabinet. The aim is to conclude the process later this month.”

It was also noted that both the Governor and the Premier “determined that, based on extensive and unmatched knowledge of the service at all levels, and his many years and breadth of public service experience”, Dr Binns “is ideally placed to continue as the Head of the Civil Service and lead the continuation of public service reform”.

Dr Binns has held various civil servant posts including Permanent Secretary for Labour, Home Affairs and Housing, Environment and Planning.

Premier Burt said: “I wish to thank Dr Binns for his service as Secretary to the Cabinet and Head of the Civil Service, posts he has held since December 2013. In those roles he has offered wise advice and guidance to three Premiers and has provided strong leadership to the Public Service.”

His comments were echoed by the Governor, who said: “I too would record my warm thanks to Dr Binns for his service as Secretary to the Cabinet and Head of the Civil Service. I have been pleased to work with him and benefit from his advice during my tenure as Governor and look forward to his continuing contribution to maintaining and enhancing the highest standards of the Public Service in Bermuda.”