Fixed term and performance related contracts could be introduced for the government's chief officers.

Chief Minister Allan Bell confirmed in Tynwald today that the Civil Service Commission is investigating the concept. He was replying to a question from Onchan MHK Peter Karran who wanted to know what plans the Chief Minister had to introduce changes to terms and conditions for chief officers, adding: 'We have never seen a chief officer held to account.'

Mr Bell replied that this was a high priority and that he would have no problem with performance targets. He said: 'It is certain the challenges facing the Isle of Man over the next few years are pretty enormous and we need the best possible people we can get in key roles.'

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