Roban resigns from Cabinet

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18: Beleaguered Public Works Minister Walter Roban last night resigned from Cabinet.

Having been at the centre of planning rows involving colleagues Zane DeSilva and Wayne Furbert, he sent a letter of resignation to Premier Paula Cox.

“Public criticism,” he wrote, “has brought about questions of the Government’s integrity and accusations of corruption of which I deeply regret. It was and is not my intention to see any accusations of this nature continue on the PLP Government with my presence in your Cabinet.

“After careful consideration of the events that have transpired, I honestly feel this decision is the best for me and the Government.”

As Environment Minister, Mr Roban had controversially granted in-principle approval for plans — by a firm linked to Mr DeSilva’s Island Construction — to build warehouses on Devonshire Marsh.

17 November, 2011

Dear Premier the Hon. Paula A. Cox,

I wish to tender my resignation as Minister for Public Works, effective immediately.

In recent days there has been hightened public criticism of my decisions as Minister of the Environment Planning and Infrastructure Strategy in two particular matters. This has brought about questions of the Government's integrity and accusations of corruption of which I deeply regret.

It was and is not my intention to see any accusations of this nature continue on the PLP Government with my presence in your Cabinet. After careful consideration of the events that have transpired, I honestly feel this decision is the best for me and the Government.

I remain a steadfast supporter of your Premiership and the work you and our team endeavour to achieve.  My work in the backbench will remain to support the mandate given to us by the people of Bermuda. Thank you for the opportunity to serve our country.

Sincerely,