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Premier to name new Cabinet member

Sen. Raymond Tannock
Premier Alex Scott's reshuffled Cabinet will be unveiled today.A Government release announced yesterday that a new member of Cabinet will be sworn in at Government House this afternoon.The development brings only one certainty to speculation about a replacement for the late Finance Minister Eugene Cox - that Mr. Scott has decided to bring a new face to the Cabinet.

Premier Alex Scott's reshuffled Cabinet will be unveiled today.

A Government release announced yesterday that a new member of Cabinet will be sworn in at Government House this afternoon.

The development brings only one certainty to speculation about a replacement for the late Finance Minister Eugene Cox - that Mr. Scott has decided to bring a new face to the Cabinet.

Sitting Ministers do not have to be re-sworn if they are given new responsibilities. At least one Cabinet Minister, but no more than two, must be from the Upper Chamber.

Mr. Scott could ask a backbencher to join the Cabinet, but the odds are that Senator Raymond Tannock, a businessman, is his choice.

Like the Premier, Sen. Tannock, 57, is not averse to working with the Opposition on crucial national issues.

He narrowly lost the contest to represent Southampton East Central (District 30) to former Tourism Minister David Dodwell by a mere 20 votes and would be considered good political capital going into another election. The opportunity to cut his teeth as a Minister in addition to his Senate duties would enhance his visibility and bring more business experience to Cabinet deliberations.

The owner of Esso City Automarket is of Dominican descent and started out in business as a taxi owner and operator.

He then worked as technical services manager for Fidelity International before launching out in business again.

Widespread speculation has it that Mr. Cox's daughter, Paula Cox, who currently serves double duty as the Attorney General and Minister of Justice and Education will be appointed as Finance Minister.

Works Minister Terry Lister is believed to be Mr. Scott's choice to replace Ms Cox at the Education Ministry, while Senator Michael Scott is expected to be appointed Attorney General.

Minister without Portfolio Ashfield DeVent will be handed a portfolio - broadcaster ZBM says it will be Transport, while the current holder, Deputy Premier Ewart Brown will be handed Tourism.

“ZBM doesn't have a clue,” said Mr. DeVent last night. “The Progressive Labour Party has a wealth of talent and whoever goes anywhere will do a good job.” He added he had no idea what will be unveiled this afternoon.