Fears were raised yesterday over some of the appointments to the new Immigration Board.

Shadow Home Affairs and Public Safety Minister Michael Dunkley said: "I do see a number of members in there who will be able to do a good job.

"But I do have some reservations about some of the members -- I'd like to keep a close eye on it.

"The proof of the pudding is in the eating -- but I do have some doubts here.'' Mr. Dunkley -- a member of the Immigration Board up to last Wednesday -- declined to single out any of the members for criticism.

But it is understood fears have already been raised over maverick hotel worker Raymond Russell -- seen as anti-expatriate.

And it is believed Board chairman and PLP MP Reginald Burrows and fellow Government backbencher Derrick Burgess, the leader of the Bermuda Industrial Union have also worried some observers. In Mr. Burrows case, it is claimed he lacks experience in the business world, while it is feared Mr. Burgess' union position may put him in a difficult position.

The Board -- as well as a 30-plus Advisory Council -- was unveiled earlier this week by Home Affairs and Public Safety Minister Paula Cox.

Mr. Dunkley said: "It appears to me that right from the start, the Minister tried to take a middle of the road approach.

"I guess right now, we have to give them a chance and wait and see.'' Bermuda Hotel Association chief John Harvey said the group had already met with the Minister -- but added they had not yet discussed the new board.

But he added: "I'm sure that good judgment will prevail -- and, if not, I'm sure the Minister will be there to ensure that it does in the end.'' Mr.

Harvey added that he was aware Mr. Russell had "certain views.'' But he said he was sure the 13-strong board "will come to the right decisions.'' Ms Cox last night defended her new team and said it would be "a dynamic in terms of group dynamics.'' And she added: "It's a balanced board and we will see that people will discuss and review, although they may not always be in sync.'' Ms Cox added that the Chief Immigration Officer Martin Brewer would also be at meetings to guide members. She added: "We don't want everybody to be yes-men and to be there just to rubberstamp applications.

"I don't think criticism is helpful or constructive -- I have faith in the board and that's why they were selected.'' See Editorial: Page 4 IMMIGRATION IMM