A new team has been set up to oversee the department's finances, training, promotions and administration.

It will be headed by an Assistant Collector of Customs (Finance and Administration).

The post, which attracts a salary of between $73,795 and $79,431, has now been advertised.

Collector of Customs Gerry Ardis explained: "It's not a new post, although the financial aspect of it is new.'' He added: "We feel it's a pretty good idea to have up-to-date financial controls in the department, a new integrated system for auditing and human resource management. We believe it will improve the department.'' Mr. Ardis said the changes stemmed from a fundamental review over the last 18 months.

"The changes are not something plucked out of the air ... We periodically have a look at ourselves and other people look at us as well.'' Mr. Ardis said the department was also planning to take delivery of new sophisticated equipment to help with such matters as Customs clearance.

GOVERNMENT GVT