Weeks appointed Community Development Minister
Minister Michael Weeks has vowed to “move from behind his desk and go to the people” as he heads up the new Ministry of Community Development.Governor Sir Richard Gozney today swore in the former Minister without Portfolio as Minister of Community Development.At a press conference to announce the new Cabinet appointment, Premier Paula Cox said it would be a new ministry to “reach the people where they are”.It will be Mr Weeks’ responsibility to work on the recommendations of the Mincy Report into young black men and to work with the Island’s parish councils, charities and community groups.The Bermuda National Library and Department of Community and Cultural Affairs will also fall under the new Ministry, moving from Neletha Butterfield’s and Glenn Blakeney’s portfolios respectively.Mr Weeks said he was “truly humbled” to accept the new Ministry and said he was ready to rise to the challenge of moving Bermuda forward.He said he would be “developing the power, skills and knowledge” of people by working with both groups and individuals.Mr Weeks said: “I would like to see a Bermuda where its people are able to reach their full potential.“In doing so, as we venture into uncharted waters, we should embellish our creative spirit by putting our ideas into action so that they become a reality.”Permanent secretary for the Ministry of Community Development will be Marva-Jean O’Brien.