A perception of neglect at government properties has been traced to poor funding and “a lack of human resources and strategic planning”, according to Lieutenant-Colonel David Burch.

Colonel Burch told the House that 59 vacant posts remained at the Department of Public Lands and Buildings, with only 17 of them budgeted.

He said inadequate staffing had hampered the department and blamed the shortfall on the previous administration’s early retirement package and freeze on hiring.

Colonel Burch also highlighted a slow recruitment process and told MPs: “It should also be noted that changes in real estate take time.

“It takes time to scope, budget, schedule and implement property changes.”

Jeanne Atherden, the Opposition leader, said that recruitment had also been impeded because job descriptions had not been updated for the department.

Ms Atherden said the One Bermuda Alliance administration had been held up by the job criteria for posts and advised the minister to ensure they were updated to “get ahead of the curve”.