A last-minute adjustment to an ongoing public service reshuffle has seen Permanent Secretary Clarence Pilgrim reassigned from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to the Ministry of Creative Industries.
The transfer appeared abrupt, representing a deviation from the original reshuffle plan. In Pilgrim's place, Sharon Stevens has been appointed the new Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Stevens previously held the position of Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Creative Industries — the very post Pilgrim now assumes.
Notably, Permanent Secretary Ena Dalso will remain in the Ministry of Education. The decision comes amid public pushback from residents who argued strongly that Dalso should continue in the role, citing what many have described as exceptional performance in the ministry. The apparent reversal on her reassignment has drawn quiet but pointed discussion in administrative and political circles.
Many observers are now watching closely to see whether further changes within the public service will follow.
Director General of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister, Maurice Merchant, noted that the assignment of Permanent Secretaries ultimately falls within the authority of the Public Service Commission. He explained that the Commission holds the discretion to assign senior public officers based on the needs and operational requirements of the public service.
