A suitable candidate, but there may be others

From Richard Cole.

I NOTE that the Chief Minister has indicated that he has just one man in mind for the job of permanent Foreign Minister – Senator Sir Philip Bailhache.

While accepting Senator Bailhache may well be a suitable candidate this does not in my mind exclude remaining Members of the House from being equally suitable (with certain exemptions) or even maybe more so.

When the Chief Minister was appointed, I and many others I have spoken to, was pleased that maybe a new era was beginning and the stranglehold held by a few might be broken.

I have to say I have been disappointed so far by our Chief Minister. He comes across to me as if he is apologetic and embarrassed by being the choice of the House.

It may be that, having been in the House a comparatively short time compared to some of our longer-serving Members, he is in awe of them but as he was recognised by Members as the person they wanted, although it was a close call, he should accept and be his own man.

If the House decides that Senator Bailhache is the choice that’s fine, but other very creditable Members should be considered too.