But the Estimates of Expenditure tabled in Parliament yesterday made it clear that the decision on the portfolio changes had been made long before the announcement.

The estimates, which had been sent to the printers weeks ago, reflect the portfolio shifts Jamaica House announced on Monday.

The new Ministry of Mining and Energy, headed by James Robertson, is captured in the Budget. So, too, the renamed Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, headed by Dr Christopher Tufton.

Agencies which fell under the portfolio of former Minister Derrick Smith were shifted to the Office of the Prime Minister, while the Jamaica Information Service, which was under the portfolio of Olivia Grange, was also shifted to Golding's office where it will come under the supervision of new Minister Daryl Vaz.

It is not clear when Golding decided on the personnel shifts but, with at least two former ministers reporting that they were asked to resign Monday morning, it appears the prime minister kept his cards close to his chest before doing the reshuffle.

arthur.hall@gleanerjm.com