Following GSLP By-election candidate, Albert Isola’s win last week and his swearing in as a Minister of the Gibraltar Government, Chief Minister Fabian Picardo this morning announced that Mr. Isola would take over the ministerial portfolio for Financial Services and Gaming.

These responsibilities were formally held by Justice and Education Minister, Gilbert Licudi. The Government insists that the Cabinet was advised this morning of the minor reshuffle of portfolios. All other ministerial portfolios are to remain the same.

Commenting on the change, the Chief Minister noted, ‘I was delighted to welcome Albert Isola to the Cabinet table this morning. The Government considers that the result of the by election was a vote of confidence in our candidate and in our performance in office since we were elected in December 2011. The irony is that others chose to turn the by election into a referendum on the policies of the GSLP/Liberal Government and we have passed that test with flying colours.

‘Gilbert Licudi has done an excellent job in both financial services and gambling and lotteries; he really has set a very high standard for Albert to follow. In 18 months, we have seen 4 new online gaming companies licensed and 3 more in the pipeline. This has meant over 400 new jobs. In financial services, employment has grown by over 200 already. Nonetheless, as we move into the second half of the life of this Parliament, I wanted Gilbert to be able to concentrate on the huge legislative agenda ahead of us; as well as delivering the two new schools and the 700 berth marina. Albert's skills enable me to relieve Gilbert of the Financial Services, Gambling and Lotteries portfolio. I am sure he will be up to the challenge of meeting the high standard set by Gilbert in these areas.’