Ellen-Kate Horton sent an e-mail to public school principals, teachers and Ministry of Education staff on Friday, December 21, at 4.31 p.m.

"Good Evening everyone," she wrote. "Earlier today, the permanent secretaries received appointments. I am extremely happy to report that I will remain here at the Ministry of Education. Do enjoy your holidays.

"Sincerely, Ellen-Kate Horton, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education."

Just ten days later, on Tuesday, January 1, at 3.36 p.m., she sent another message to the same recipients. "Happy New Year to all of you," she wrote. "I am writing again to inform you of the latest developments.

"The information in the previous correspondence was correct at the time and was printed in the Saturday newspaper and was carried on all of the local media (certainly no deception on my part).

"As of today, 1st January 2008, Dr. Radell Tankard will be acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education for three months and I have assumed the position of assistant Secretary to the Cabinet (Civil Service).

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my short stint here and I wish to thank all of you who called and wrote to congratulate me on the previous appointment.

"For those of you, who need my assistance; please do not hesitate to call. I will indeed make a difference at another level. Sincerely, Ellen-Kate Horton, Assistant Secretary to the Cabinet."