Government Senator Jeff Baron has been appointed special advisor to Premier Michael Dunkley.

And former One Bermuda Alliance communications director Don Grearson has also been retained as a special advisor by Mr Dunkley. Mr Grearson was previously advisor to former Premier Craig Cannonier.

According to a Cabinet Office statement, Sen Baron will be responsible for special project matters, daily support for the Premier and administrative details as required, will continue serving as a Senator and Junior Minister for National Security.

Mr Grearson will focus on communications. Sen Baron will be paid an annual salary of $85,000 while Mr Grearson will pick up $105,000 per year.

The statement added that Department of Communication and Information press officer Nea Talbot will be responsible for handling media inquiries to the Premier, while the post of executive assistant to the Premier has been filled by Carol Hayward.

All appointees will serve under the direction of the Cabinet Secretary Derrick Binns.

A Government spokesman pointed out that “this is the least number of personal staff appointments compared to previous Premiers”.

Welcoming his new team, Mr Dunkley said: “I am very pleased to welcome these individuals to the team. Each of them bring a strong level of commitment and professionalism to the table. Additionally I was very keen to continue utilising the talent and skill within the Civil Service as I have come to value their level of expertise during my time in Government.

“There is a tremendous amount of work to be done and we have a great team within the Cabinet Office and the Ministry of National Security to get it done.”

Mr Grearson’s appointment is with immediate effect and Sen Baron is due to start next week.