Petrina Francis, Staff Reporter

JONES

Former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Maria Jones, yesterday shot down claims that she had been transferred to the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service because of a strained relationship with staff members in the education ministry.

Jones, who served the Ministry of Education for three years, said she would now be responsible for the divestment of government companies in the finance ministry. Her appointment took effect yesterday and she will be in office as of next week.

Acting permanent secretary

Barbara Allen, senior director of the Planning and Development Division in the ministry, will act as permanent secretary in the Ministry of Education until further notice.

"I completely refute that. (It) is the design and convenience of a few detractors," Jones said when asked if her transfer was related to a rift between herself and members of staff.

Jones said she hoped her new job would be just as challenging as her former post.

She also noted that, constitutionally, she could only be transferred as a permanent secretary, with all the benefits that she got at the education ministry. She was, however, unclear how the relationship between her and the financial secretary would work.

Deputy financial secretary for economic management, Darlene Morrison, is currently acting as financial secretary. The Public Service Commission is to advertise the post.

petrina.francis@gleanerjm.com