the Ministry of Health.

The Royal Gazette understands that at least ten education therapists will have to move to the Health Ministry for reasons which are still unclear.

The move may mean that the therapists, some of whom have earned senior staff privileges and salary, may be faced with completely new conditions of employment.

Chief Education Officer Joseph Christopher confirmed that a meeting had taken place with education therapists yesterday.

"It concerned the transfer of therapist positions to the Ministry of Health,'' Dr. Christopher said.

But he did not know the number of staff involved nor details about the meeting.

"I was not directly involved in that meeting,'' he said. "But I was aware of it. There are many meetings that take place at the Education Department.'' Dr. Christopher referred further inquiries to Chief Medical Officer John Cann at the Health Ministry.

But Dr. Cann refused to comment.

"I cannot comment on anything until discussions are completed,'' he said.

Asked when he expected discussions to be completed, Dr. Cann said: "I don't want to tie myself up with a date. As soon as we have information, I will make a statement.''