This was a routine sitting focused on government updates rather than debates on new legislation. The Premier reported on government reform achievements including leadership training programs and public service awards. Ministers provided progress reports on ongoing infrastructure projects, particularly road repairs being delayed by utility work, and announced significant increases to financial assistance and child care benefits taking effect in October 2023.
Government reform progress update covering public service improvements and leadership programsTourism Investment Act 2017 awareness campaign to help local restaurants and attractions access tax reliefIsland-wide roadworks update including BELCO trenching projects and road paving plansSchool graduation results for Berkeley Institute and CedarBridge Academy's Class of 2023Airport fire rescue services staffing with 24 new Bermudian firefighters being trainedIncreased financial assistance benefits for seniors, disabled, and low-income residentsEnhanced child day care allowance with expanded eligibility up to $130,000 household income
Bills & Motions
Financial Assistance Amendment Regulations 2023 - tabled for information
Child Day Care Allowance Amendment Regulations 2023 - tabled for information
Note: No bills were debated or voted on during this sitting. The session consisted entirely of ministerial statements providing updates on government programs and services.
Notable Moments
The Premier thanked Dr. Derrick Binns, Head of Public Service, who was retiring after 37 years of service on his last day
The Works Minister acknowledged public frustration with road conditions, explaining that fixing all poor roads would cost $100 million over 10 years
240 students graduated from Bermuda's two senior schools despite pandemic challenges during their high school years
Debate Transcript
517 speeches from 28 speakers
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood morning, Members. The Acting Clerk will lead us in prayer this morning. PRAYERS [Prayers read by Mr. Clark Somner , Acting Clerk ]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood morning, Members . The House is now in session. [Gavel] CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES [Minutes of 14 July 2023 ]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMembers, the Minutes from the 14th of July have been circulated. Are there any amendments or adjustments required? There are none. The Minutes will be confirmed as printed. [Minutes of 14 July 2023 confirmed] MESSAGES FROM THE GOVERNOR
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are none. ANNOUNCEMENTS BY THE SPEAKER OR MEMBER PRESIDING APOLOGIES
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThe following Members have indicated that they will be absent today: Minister Tinee Furbert, Minister Kim Wilson and MP Ant hony Richardson. 45 TH CPA REGIONAL CONFERENCE AND THE 13TH COMMONWEALTH WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS CONFERENCE IN TURKS AND CAICOS BERMUDA DELEGATION
The SpeakerThe SpeakerI would also like to announce the delegation attending the 45th CPA Regional Conference and the 13th Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians Conference in Turks and Caicos , the Bermuda delegation for this is MP Susan Jackson, MP Lovitta Foggo, Senator Arianna Hodgson, and our Assistant Clerk, designated Deputy Clerk, Ms. [Kara …
I would also like to announce the delegation attending the 45th CPA Regional Conference and the 13th Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians Conference in Turks and Caicos , the Bermuda delegation for this is MP Susan Jackson, MP Lovitta Foggo, Senator Arianna Hodgson, and our Assistant Clerk, designated Deputy Clerk, Ms. [Kara ] Beale. MP Jackson has already departed or will be departing today and is absent. The others will be departing over the weekend.
190th ANNIVERSARY OF EMANCIPATION BILL
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAlso, Members, I would like to make mention of the 190 th anniversary of the passage of the Emancipation Bill in the British House of Parliament. And I make mention of it because tomorrow is that anniversary. July 22 marks the 190th anniversary of the passage of the Emancipation Bill …
Also, Members, I would like to make mention of the 190 th anniversary of the passage of the Emancipation Bill in the British House of Parliament. And I make mention of it because tomorrow is that anniversary. July 22 marks the 190th anniversary of the passage of the Emancipation Bill in the British House of Commons, which was the result of many decades of grassroots movements for the abolishment of slavery, everything from the outright rebellion to parliamentary lobbying. The Bill received royal assent on the 28th of August 1833 and came into effect on the 1st of August 1834. As part of that, I think it is significant to note that a pivotal part of that breakthrough was the success of the Haitian people in defeating Napoleon’s troops, which broug ht about the ending of slavery in their country and the abolishment of the slave trade in the region. Also, the organisers would like to remind and us and the public that o n August 1, in celebration, there will be a gathering on the grounds of City Hall between 12:45 and 1:15, and all are invited to attend this in recognition of the anniversary of Emancipation. Those are my announcements for this morning.
MESSAGES FROM THE SENATE
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are none. PAPERS AND OTHER COMMUNICATIONS TO THE HOUS E
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are two papers this morning. The first is in the name of the Minister of Economy and La-bour. Actually, they both are in his name. Minister. Hon. Jason Hayward: Good morning, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMm-hmm. 1700 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AMENDMENT REGULATIONS 2023 Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to attach and submit for the information of the Honour-able House of Assembly the Financial Assistance Amendment Regulations 2023, as made by the Minister …
Mm-hmm. 1700 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AMENDMENT REGULATIONS 2023
Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to attach and submit for the information of the Honour-able House of Assembly the Financial Assistance Amendment Regulations 2023, as made by the Minister responsible for Financial Assistance in exercise of the power conferred by section 21 of the Financial As-sistance Act 2001.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. Would you like to present the second? CHILD DAY CARE ALLOWANCE AMENDMENT REGULATIONS 2023 Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to attach and submit for the information of the Honour-able House of Assembly the Child Day Care Allowance Amendment Regulations 2023, as made by …
Thank you, Minister. Would you like to present the second?
CHILD DAY CARE ALLOWANCE AMENDMENT REGULATIONS 2023 Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to attach and submit for the information of the Honour-able House of Assembly the Child Day Care Allowance Amendment Regulations 2023, as made by the Minis-ter responsible for Financial Assistance in exercise of the power conferred by section 17 of the Child Day Care Allowance Act 2008.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. PETITIONS
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are none. STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS AND JUNIOR MINISTERS
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWe have eight Statements this morning. The first is in the name of the Premier. Premier, would you like to present your Statement? Hon. E. David Burt: Certainly. Good morning to you,
Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerGood morning. GOVERNMENT REFORM 2019 –2023 REVIEW AND PLANNING FOR 2024 Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to provide an update on the Government Reform initiative. In the Government’s 2017 platform, we committed to reforming the public service. And as we have shown time and again, this …
Good morning.
GOVERNMENT REFORM 2019 –2023 REVIEW AND PLANNING FOR 2024 Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to provide an update on the Government Reform initiative. In the Government’s 2017 platform, we committed to reforming the public service. And as we have shown time and again, this Government follows through on its com-mitments to the electorate. Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members will recall learning about the Strategic Planning Framework for Government Reform, which was tabled in this Honourable House on 1 March 2019. This framework was produced in consultation with PricewaterhouseCoopers [PwC] and set out a starting point for the building of a comprehensive roadmap to achieving government re-form between 2019 and 2023. Mr. Speaker, the framework comprised six strategic areas: Strategy, Pro-cesses, Platform, People, Perspective and Perfor-mance. Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members will also recall the Government established that the priorities would focus on the P eople and Information Technology work streams. Workshops and training sessions aligned departmental mission objectives with the vision for a f uture- forward government for the people of Bermuda . Budget structures were redefined to enable zero- based budgeting [ZBB] and public value assessment for decision-m aking on service delivery. Mr. Speaker, there were six P eople objectives, and by “People, ” I am referring to the [Bermuda ] Government employees. These included the following: 1. 100 per cent of public officers complete annual performance appraisals ; 2. additional performance- based pay/recognition is provided to the top 20 per cent of performers ; 3. 50 per cent of all public officers participate in a government wellness programme; 4. implement a centralised training platform accessible by all public officers ; 5. consistent succession plan created and approved for all permanent secretaries; and 6. 60 per cent of roles in the public service have documented detailed job descriptions. Mr. Speaker, all six of the People o bjectives have been advanced with foundational policies and programmes successfully implemented toward achieving the reform initiatives . Mr. Speaker, the Government has introduced a successful leadership programme. Thirty -four graduates completed the programme as part of the pilot co-hort, and the public service is now preparing for a sec-ond cohort. A succession planning policy was completed for all public service roles. Additionally, all critical and hard- to-fill posts across the public service were identified to enable the implementation of a system- wide succession plan. Mr. Speaker, the Government and Honourable Members know that our public officers work tirelessly to serve the people of Bermuda, and we must [ensure ] that their hard work is acknowledged. Therefore, to recognise and encourage continued excellence in service delivery, we introduced the Public Service Excellence Award [PSEA ] programme, which highlights public officers ’ outstanding work and contributions of public officers each month. I am proud to personally participate in the awards ceremony each month at the Cabinet Of-fice, where I meet with the recipient and with the Head of the Public Service to commend them on their out-standing work. And, Mr. Speaker, also important to note is that the age- old bonus programme that awards up to
Bermuda House of Assembly $1,000 per year to technical officers for outstanding performance has been expanded and can now be used to recognise exceptional performance across all segments of the public service. Additionally, Mr. Speaker, we created an online appraisal process and provided an inventory of learning and development programmes accessible to all public officers. Mr. Speaker, in keeping with the People focus , the wellness initiative continues to deliver programmes in health and well -being to officers. To date there have been over 13 initiatives and close to 1, 500 public officers participating in group challenges to encourage healthy lifestyles. Mr. Speaker, e ach of the policies and programmes that have been advanced or implemented represents a necessary foundational building block toward government reform and a more efficient and effective public service. Mr. Speaker, there were eight Information and Technology Objectives. The public health crisis that we experienced in 2020 proved to be a significant disrupter in this area, an d while Paperless 2023 was an original core objective, planned resources were required to be redirected to support the immediate needs of providing contactless services to the community. More than 80 digital forms and app lication s have been released to the public since 2019. Mr. Speaker, with the exception of COVID -19-specific forms and apps, most of the 80 remain a core part of the current delivery model, with new web- based applications and forms coming online to support operations. Meanwhile, a digital st rategy was completed, and work is currently advancing on the delivery of a unified payment gateway for the government to support end- to-end online payments and reconciliation for all government departments. Mr. Speaker, in our ongoing effort to improve the service we deliver to the people of Bermuda, a Service Standards Policy has been completed. T he Government has now commenced the roll -out of customer service training which is aligned with this policy. Therefore, not only have public officers been inform ed of the standards we seek to achieve, but we have now com-menced the work to train all public officers on the standards we expect, supporting them in their role while also providing benefits for the people we serve through improved customer service. Mr. Speaker, to prepare the Government to take a strategic look at its services very early in the roll - out of the Government Reform initiative, a series of workshops and training sessions with permanent secretaries and heads of departments provided for all departments’ mission statements to be aligned with the vision for a future- forward government for the p eople of Bermuda. The aligned mission statements have been reflected in business plans and the Approved Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure publication for several budget cycles. Mr. Speaker, further training in subsequent budget cycles resulted in the redefining of the approach to budget development to achieve service- specific budget structures to align with the requirements of zero- based budgeting and to provide for the introduction of a public value assessment to determine the rel-ative value of all of the services provided by the government. Th ese data are now available internally for decision -making relative to the future of the delivery of government services. Mr. Speaker, work on the outstanding initiatives will continue through the end of the year . Simultaneously, a team has been assembled and assess-ments have been undertaken to review the lessons learned and advance the development of the Government Reform Plan 2024 –2027. Mr. Speaker, having used the last few years to develop and implement the necessary foundational pol-icies and programmes, the 2024 p lan is intended to a) build on the foundation by better advancing digital initiatives ; and b) focus on the specific needs of high- touch departments to increase efficiency in service delivery. Mr. Speaker, also, in addition to the strategic objectives outlined in the Strategy Planning Framework, the 2024 plan highlights lessons learned and identifies areas for improvement in resource planning, staff involvement, culture change and performance management. Mr. Speaker, technology is expected to drive change [in the service] in the future. About 20 customer -facing departments will be prioritised and are expected to be among the early cohort to deliver end- toend digital services. Mr. Speaker, to support these en-deavours, a well -trained and talented workforce will be required and both existing employees and new recruits to fill critical roles will drive the process. While the Government of Bermuda endeavours to be the employer of choice, attracting talent can sometimes be challenging. Recent market research conducted as a part of the Bermuda Omnibus Survey has provided statistically relevant data to help focus communic ations, address perceptions and better understand the various target groups so that we can at-tract the best talent in the future. Mr. Speaker, in closing, what I have outlined to this Honourable House is further confirmation that the reform this Governme nt committed to is well underway. Not only is this yielding benefits for the people of Bermuda through more efficient and effective services, but also to our public officers by providing an improved working structure, fair rewards and initiatives that recognise their valued contributions. The Government will continue to advance these vital reforms and deliver on creating a more efficient public service for the people of Bermuda. Finally, Mr. Speaker, I would also like to take a moment to thank Dr . Derrick Binns, Head of the Public Service, who has been leading this reform and who is 1702 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly today serving his last day as a public officer . He is retiring after 37 years of service in which he has held roles including Permanent Secretary and Cabinet Sec-retary. On behalf of the Government, I thank Dr . Binns for his leadership, his devoted work and the decades that he has given to public service. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Mr. Premier. Members, the next Statement this morning is in the name of the Minister of Tourism and Cabinet Office. Minister Campbell. Hon. Vance Campbell: Good morning, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood morning. TOURISM INVESTMENT ACT 2017 AWARENESS Hon. Vance Campbell: Mr. Speaker, I wish to provide this Honourable House with an update on the Ministry of Tourism and the Cabinet Office’s efforts to engage our industry stakeholders on the recently amended Tourism Investment Act 2017 . Mr. Speaker, a few …
Good morning.
TOURISM INVESTMENT ACT 2017 AWARENESS Hon. Vance Campbell: Mr. Speaker, I wish to provide this Honourable House with an update on the Ministry of Tourism and the Cabinet Office’s efforts to engage our industry stakeholders on the recently amended Tourism Investment Act 2017 . Mr. Speaker, a few weeks ago we debated significant amendments to this very important piece of legislation which is aimed at supporting hotels, restaurants and local entrepreneurs in the tourism space. Mr. Speaker , the primary objective of the Tourism Investment Act 2017 is to make Bermuda more attractive to investors and to incentivise and assist businesses to reinvest in their product by providing a level of tax relief for the following tourism products: • new or existing restaurants; • visitor attractions; • a new hotel; or a • a refurbished hotel. More specifically, Mr. Speaker, tourism attractions and restaurants are major contributors to the local economy. They create employment opportunities, generate revenue and stimulate business activities. Visitors often allocate a significant portion of their travel budget to dining and entertainment, making restaurants and attractions key drivers of tourism spending. The revenue generated by these establishments, Mr. Speaker, s upports other sectors of the local economy such as transportation and retail, further amplifying their impact. So, Mr. Speaker, since the debate I have made it my mission to reach out to businesses in this space to share with them just how important this piece of legislation is to their operations and to their success. It might surprise the Honourable Members of this House to learn that there is limited awareness among our local entrepreneurs about the benefits of this Act. And so our direct engagement is a critical component to ensuring that restaurants and visitor attractions take full advantage of the incentives and relief that are available to them. Most recently, Mr. Speaker, I had a discussion with the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation [BEDC], a key industry partner , to highlight the incentives. During our conversation on the Mind Your Business podcast, I stressed the importance of upgrading and enhancing the visitor product offerings and taking advantage of the tax relief and customs duty relief that are available to restaurants, attractions and hotels. Mr. Speaker, for restaurants, I explained that the Tourism Investment Act 2017 [ provides ] a conducive environment for growth and development. It offers relief measures and incentives to at tract investment in new or existing restaurants, encouraging entrepreneurs to establish high- quality dining establishments. These incentives may include tax relief and duty con-cessions on imports of equipment and supplies, all of which can significantly reduce operational costs for restaurant owners. Similarly, Mr. Speaker, our visitor attractions can also reap the advantages of the Tourism Investment Act. It encourages investment in the development and enhancement of tourism attractions such as museums, cultural sites and landmarks. The Act facilitates the expansion and diversification of attractions, making Bermuda a more appealing destination for tourists. Mr. Speaker, with increased investment, attractions can im-prove their infrastructure, upgrade facilities and introduce new experiences. This can lead to a wider array of entertainment options, immersive attractions and interactive exhibits, ultimately enhancing the overall visitor experience. Mr. Speaker, next month we have scheduled stakeholder engage ments with the Bermuda Tourism Authority and another BEDC meeting planned for busi-nesses and local entrepreneurs in the East End. We have also connected with the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce with the intent of directly engaging with their Restaurant and Tourism Divisions to share the benefits of the Tourism Investment Act 2017. Additionally, Mr. Speaker, we are sharing our Tourism Investment Act 2017 promotional and awareness information via our online, digital and traditional media communications channels. Mr. Speaker, our message is simple. Bermuda’s tourism industry is vital to our economic success. And if we are to remain competitive with other visitor destinations, we must invest in and enhance our product offerings. The Tourism Investment Act 2017 is a catalyst for growth in the restaurant and attraction sectors by creating a favou rable investment climate. It incentivi ses entrepreneurs to establish and expand their businesses , promotes collaboration between the public and private sectors , and enhances the overall tourism experience in Bermuda. Mr. Speaker, this Government understands and appreciates that it can sometimes be difficult owning and operating a business in the tourism space. But we are putting things in place to help, like the Tourism Investment Act 2017.
Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. Speaker, we are determined to support our local businesses and entrepreneurs and make them more aware of what is available to them in this current climate. We will continue to have direct discussions with the key stakeholders in this space so that they know what steps they can take to ensure that they benefit from the Tourism Investment Act 2017. I want to encourage th ese interested businesses, particularly small and medium- sized businesses (this includes restaurants and visitor attractions ) to please email tourisminvestmentact2017@gov.bm or go to www.gov.bm/tourisminvestmentact2023 to learn more. Mr. Speaker, by continuously investing in and improving these aspects of our tourism product, I have no doubt that we can create an even more vibrant and enticing tourism industry that attracts and satisfies all of our visitors. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. Members, the next Statement this morning is by the Minister of Works. Minister.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood morning. UPDATE ON ISLAND- WIDE ROADWORKS
Lt. Col. Hon. David A. BurchMr. Speaker, as I traverse across the Island daily to undertake the roles that the people of Bermuda have entrusted me with, I physically feel e very crack and crevasse on our roads. Mr. Speaker, Members of this Honourable House and the listening public should note that I am intrinsically …
Mr. Speaker, as I traverse across the Island daily to undertake the roles that the people of Bermuda have entrusted me with, I physically feel e very crack and crevasse on our roads. Mr. Speaker, Members of this Honourable House and the listening public should note that I am intrinsically aware of the state of our highway infrastruc-ture, and the issues are not lost on myself or any of the technica l officers within the Department of Works and Engineering. We receive reports every day from residents who are not satisfied with the length of time it is taking to fix the issues. Hearing these reports —especially those technical officers who day in and day out work tirelessly to provide services to the c ountry — serve s as an incentive to work harder to address them. Mr. Speaker, akin to what I have previously said in four Statements prior to this one today , the repair of our roads is a priority for the Ministry of Public Works. To reiterate, the immediate pain for the motoring public will be well worth it as , when completed, these current infrastructure initiatives —that is , BELCO’s $250 million capital plan and our own Water and Wastewater Master Plan, which are digging up our roads —will see that the protection of our fresh water supplies, protection of our electrical infrastructure and ensuring sewage is properly disposed of. Therefore, Mr. Speaker , with this being said, I rise again to provide this House with yet another report on the state of the I sland’s roads and the various ongoing trenching projects. In the March 2023 update, I announced various completed, ongoing and planned trenching and asphalting works. Mr. Speaker, with your indulgence please allow these updates to those projects and the steps we are taking to address them.
Lt. Col. Hon. David A. BurchHowever, before I begin, a slight reminder to Honourable Members: A “pull hole” is a hole dug every 800 feet in the road to allow for cables to be pulled through the laid conduits and to be joined. With this reminder given, I deliver the following status regarding the t …
However, before I begin, a slight reminder to Honourable Members: A “pull hole” is a hole dug every 800 feet in the road to allow for cables to be pulled through the laid conduits and to be joined. With this reminder given, I deliver the following status regarding the t renching and pull hole portions : 1. The BELCO trench work on the Middle R oad in Southampton from Lighthouse R oad to Evans Bay through the roadway and Railway Trail did start in April 2023. The works are currently by Five Star Island, and it is anticipated that it will be another two months before reaching the Railway Trail. By that time we anticipate the re-moval of traffic lights currently in place. 2. The BELCO pull hole work for Middle Road near the Whitney Institute Middle School is now completed inclusive of the pull hole work for Store Hill and North Shore Road up to Barker’s Hill roundabout . 3. The BELCO pull hole work for the Eastern Northshore route—that is , from Palmetto Road Railway Trail to Old Military Road, and Frog Lane to the National Sports Centre Substation—is set to commence in September subject to the delivery of speciali sed equipment . 4. Unfortunately , attributed to supply chain issues, the works for pull holes at Ettrick [Animal Hospital] on Middle Road, Warwick , to Lighthouse Hill ; Middle Road to Jews Bay has not started as previously planned. This work will commence once the National Sports Centre pull hole work has been completed. Mr. Speaker , in regard to the asphalting portions, I am pleased to share the following: 1. The permanent paving for trenching works at Coney Island, Fractious Street and Wilkinson Avenue have all been completed. 2. The permanent paving for Harrington Sound Road is progressing steadily with works currently around Shark Hole Hill heading toward Tom Moore’s Tavern driveway . 3. Repair works for uneven surfaces have been addressed at Mullet Bay Road near Stokes Point Road, St. David’s Entrance, Middle Road at Warwick Academy, and Middle Road at St. Anthony’s Church. Mr. Speaker, these are not the only roadworks that have been completed over the last four months. 1704 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly Apart from those projects that I have now updated this Honourable House on, the following works have also been completed : First, I am sure that Honourable Members are aware of the flooding issue at Perimeter Lane near Marsh Folly in Pembroke. This issue should be re-solved in the immediate, as the Ministry has now cleared the boreholes , allowing for drainage. In addition to the clearing of the boreholes, an asphalt lip on Pe-rimeter Lane at Glebe Road junction and a drainage channel have been installed at the Glebe Road bus layby to allow for excess rainwater to be redirected into the nearby canal , thereby reducing the flooding risk for the area. Mr. Speaker, since the start of our unusually wet first few months of summer and to address the pothole situation, the Ministry has filled in nearly 100 different potholes in 21 different areas across the I sland. And, Mr. Speaker, jus t for clarity , if the potholes are reported to potholes@gov.bm , they will be fixed. Mr. Speaker, $2,027,000 has been budgeted for roadworks this year . The Ministry is also the recipient of a $900,000 carry -forward from the previous fiscal year to enable more capital roadworks to be done this year. Several locations that are some of the worst areas will be addressed, like South Road, Southampton, near Henr y the 8th; Middle Road, Warwick , near T . N. Tatem; and South Road at Collectors Hill Road junction, to name a few. Mr. Speaker, to make the Ministry’s position crystal clear to Honourable Members and the listening public, there now is an allocated budget of $2,927,000 devoted to new paving works for this fiscal year. However, Mr. Speaker , this is nowhere close to the substantive investment needed to repave all of our roads. For example, if the Government were to undertake an im-mediate initiative to fully repave those public and private roads that are in poor condition—approximately 226 k ilometres , or half of our roadways —it would cost approximately $100 million over a 10- year period. Let me repeat : That is $10 million per year for 10 consecutive years regardless of what the Government’s economic position or the Island’s macroeconomic status might be. This would be a quarter of the entire Ministry’s Capital Budget allocation for this year spent on just road paving alone. Mr. Speaker, just to put this into perspective: 1. There are 263 public roads totalling approxi-mately 200 kilometres . 2. There are 1,080 private roads totalling approx-imately 253 kilometres . 3. The estimated price for paving just one kilome-tre (or half a mile) of roadway on both lanes is $600,000. These costs are broken down to a single major component, namely, the exorbi-tant price of asphalting material. It currently costs the Ministry $0.62 cents on every dollar used for road paving for this material, 4. On Island there is only a finite amount of paving equipment and a handful of personnel qualified to undertake the required works, all spread thinly across just two large organisations —one of which is the government, 5. The total cost to pave all public roads would be approximately $120 million, 6. Total cost to pave all private roads would be approximately $76 million. The reason for that is that most private roads are single- lane roads. Mr. Speaker, these are significant amounts of money. The $2,927,000 allocated this year will put but a small dent in the amount of paving we will do. There has to be a balance between competing infrastructure projects and other government priorities. Mr. Speaker, difficult decisions must be made by a government due to this economic climate we find ourselves in today. We will continue to look at ways that we can increase fund-ing to road paving to improve the driving experience. In addition, Mr. Speaker, the Ministry does not solely focus on fixing the roadways for vehicles, but we also ensure the safety of pedestrians. As such, the Cabinet will soon consider a request to purchase 16 brand- new solar -powered Flashing Beacon Signal sets that will be installed at crosswalks in various locations across the Island. From Mullet Bay in St. George’s to Maximart in White Hill, there will be new safety signals to protect those crossing our roadways. To further pro-tect pedestrians, the Ministry has now repainted some 20 crosswalks across the Island. This can be seen in places like Flatts Village in Smith’s Parish, Crawl Hill, Whale Bay, Harlem Heights in Hamilton Parish and outside Ice Queen in Paget Parish. The next scheduled work areas are in Ferry Reach in St. George’s, South Road in Warwick and Middle Road near Cobb’s Hill. Mr. Speaker, as I have said previously, yes, the state of our roads are uncomfortable, but this sacrifice is well worth the wait. The Ministry of Public Works commits to getting our roadways fixed; however, we are not in the position to do everything all at once. Mr. Speaker, I continuously thank the pub lic for their patience with this initiative, and as the overall in-frastructure works conclude we will follow with perma-nent asphalt paving. While not ideal, in the interim the Ministry will continue to apply temporary asphalting and fix potholes. As always, Mr. Speaker, I will keep this House informed as we progress. Thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. Members, the next Statement this morning is in the name of the Minister of Education. Minister. Hon. Diallo V. S. Rabain: Good morning, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, listening audience.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood morning. 2023 SENIOR SCHOOL GRADUATIONS Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Diallo V. S. Rabain: Mr. Speaker, on Wednesday, June 28, and Friday, June 30, [respectively], I had the pleasure of attending the graduation ceremonies for both The Berkeley Institute and CedarBridge Academy. During each of the last six years, …
Good morning.
2023 SENIOR SCHOOL GRADUATIONS
Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Diallo V. S. Rabain: Mr. Speaker, on Wednesday, June 28, and Friday, June 30, [respectively], I had the pleasure of attending the graduation ceremonies for both The Berkeley Institute and CedarBridge Academy. During each of the last six years, I have rejoiced in wit-nessing the achievements of our students from whom Bermuda’s changemakers and future leaders are being drawn. Thus, I am eager to share the accomplishments of our 2023 senior school graduating classes with this Honourable House and the Ber muda public. Mr. Speaker, these graduating classes in particular have had a rather unusual and unfortunate high school experience as they began their senior school journey just before the beginning of the COVID -19 pandemic. While adjusting to a new school, new teachers and new peers, they were also required to adapt to learning at home via Zoom, then transitioned to a hybrid learning system where they attended school for in- person learning at least twice a week. They had little choice but to persevere through these challenges, and their reward is that they are now graduates of the Ber-muda public school system and better prepared for the tests that will come as they pursue their personal, educational and professional aspirations. Mr. Speaker, the guest speaker at Berkeley Institute’s graduation was Berkeley alumnus, Mr. Calon Minors, of the Class of 2014. Mr. Minors spoke about the transition from one season to another and how it is a principle of life that one’s ability to transition is important as it is a process of change and allows us to adapt to new environments. He cautioned graduates that their next season will demand more effort than they have previously given and that their ability to transition determines their potential and what they can achieve. Mr. Speaker, 133 students from The Berkeley Institute met the criteria that the Ministry of Education set for graduation from the Bermuda Public School System. Of the 133 students: • 115 students graduated with the Bermuda School Diploma [BSD]; • 10 students graduated with the Bermuda Alternate School Diploma [BASD] from the Functional Academics programme; and • 8 students graduated with the Penn Foster High School Diploma. Of these graduates, • 1 student was awarded Advanced Honours, Summa Cum Laude; • 6 students were awarded Advanced Honours, Magna Cum Laude; • 6 students achieved Advanced Honours, Cum Laude; • 1 student graduated from Bermuda College with an Associate’s Degree; and • five students graduated with their Nursing Assistant Certification.
Mr. Speaker, [also of note is the following:] • 79 students have been accepted to top col-leges and universities with 44 going to the US, 21 going to the UK, 12 going to Canada and 2 are going to attend other schools internationally; • 38 students plan to attend Bermuda College; • 10 will be joining the workforce; and • 6 are undecided at this time. Mr. Speaker, at CedarBridge Academy’s graduation, alumnus Mr. Darren Trott from the Class of 2013 was the guest speaker. Mr Trott acknowledged the challenges that he faces due to his disability as a result of being born with spina bifida and the time it takes for him to complete his tasks and goals. Darren urged the graduates to understand that the time it takes them to complete a task is not as important as ensuring that the task is completed. He also spoke of the im-portance of not staying in one’s comfort zone and that their ability to adapt to change will allow them to grow and reach their goals. Mr. Speaker, having satisfied the criteria set by the Ministry of Education for graduation from the BPSS at CedarBridge Academy, there were a total of 107 graduates as follows: • 89 students graduated with the Bermuda School Diploma; • 5 students graduated with the Bermuda Alter-native School Diploma from the Functional Academics programme; • 5 students graduated with a Bermuda Func-tional Skills Certificate [BFSC]; • 8 students graduated with the Penn Foster High School Diploma; • 1 student graduated with [BSD] Honours Dis-tinction; and • 11 students graduated with [BSD] Honours.
Mr. Speaker, [also of note is the following:] • 2 students graduated from Bermuda College with an Associate’s Degree; • 3 students graduated from Bermuda College with a Certificate in Applied Technology; and • 5 students graduated with the Nursing Assistants Certificate from Bermuda College. Of the 107 graduates of CedarBridge Academy, 80 students have been accepted into one or more colleges in the fall. Outside of those attending Bermuda College, others will attend various colleges and univer-sities overseas including the London Metropolitan Uni-versity, Acadia, Michigan State, Dalhousie and Full Sail University. [There were] 18 students who were recognised for earning the National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER) Core Certification. Mr. Speaker, I cannot recognise the success of our students without commending all of those who have assisted and encouraged them along the way. That includes parents and other family members; educators, support staff, school boards and leadership teams; and 1706 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly the many volunteers and community partners who support our senior school students, all of whom all played instrumental roles in helping our students reach this milestone. Mr. Speaker, I would also like to give a special thanks to the graduating class of 2023. I see and understand many of the difficulties experienced by young people in this era. And des pite adversity in our muchchanging world, they have already treaded a pathway to achievement as senior school graduates. While they have much more to accomplish, I would like to let them know that they will have the support of the Minister of Education and the Government of Bermuda as they work toward their personal and professional growth into adulthood. Their success and achievements will con-tinue to make Bermuda a better place. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. Members, the next Statement this morning is in the name of the Minister of National Security. Minister. AIRPORT FIRE RESCUE SERVICES Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning to you. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to provide this Honourable House with an update on …
Thank you, Minister. Members, the next Statement this morning is in the name of the Minister of National Security. Minister.
AIRPORT FIRE RESCUE SERVICES
Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning to you. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to provide this Honourable House with an update on the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service A irport Operations Division and what we are doing to ensure that sufficient resources are in place to meet the increased airport requirements. Mr. Speaker, you will recall that I made a statement to this Honourable House on February 3, 2023, advising of the revised requirements for the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service at the airport and the commitment this Government made to resolve the emergency situation that faced the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Ser-vice. As I have previously advised this Honourable House, the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service operates the Airport Rescue Firefighting Services section which provides aircraft rescue and firefighting services for the L. F. Wade International Airport. This is an essential service that enables the airport to serve commerci al flights in accordance with international standards. You will recall, Mr. Speaker, that I also advised of the increased staffing requirements at the airport in respect of the minimum duty strength and the need in the short term to bring in overseas firefighters to meet that re-vised requirement to ensure that airport operations continued uninterrupted. Clearly, we could not afford as a country to jeopardise the operation of the airport, which is an essential component of our economic sta-bility and long- term sustainability. Mr. Speaker, it is important for me to underscore that the Airport Rescue Firefighting Services is a Retained Government Service as part of the airport project agreement between Skyport and the Bermuda Airport Authority. The Bermuda Airport Authority is responsible for providing the Retained Government Ser-vice and has transferred responsibility for the delivery of the Airport Rescue Firefighting Services to the Ber-muda Fire and Rescue Service by way of a memoran-dum of understanding in 2007, with an amendment in 2017. Mr. Speaker, I stress that there is no fee paid by Skyport to the Bermuda Airport Authority or to the Ber-muda Fire and Rescue Service for this service. Mr. Speaker, since my last Statement to this Honourable House on this matter, I am pleased to re-port that we have advertised and recruited a further 24 local recruit firefighters. These new recruits are scheduled to travel to Newcastle in the UK on the 5 th of August 2023 for six weeks to receive specialist training that will certify them as aircraft rescue firefighters. The Newcastle International Fire Training Academy is a world -class aircraft rescue firefighting training facility with highly qualified instructors. During this training, our firefighters will be required to demonstrate competence in the following areas: • save and preserve endangered life at incidents; • extinguish fires at aircraft incidents; • maintain operational readiness of resources; • site and position vehicles at an incident loca-tion; • implement action to resolve operational incidents; • contain and control spillage or release of hazardous material; and • recognise airside hazards and minimise risks. On successful completion of their training, each recruit will be issued with a certificate of competence in line with CAP 699 (standards for the competence of rescue and firefighting service personnel, developed by the UK Civil Aviation Authority). Mr. Speaker, this recruitment drive represents the last phase of the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service’s emergency plan to rapidly expand and build the extra workforce capacity required to meet the new min-imum staffing levels mandated by the Aerodrome Regulators. The efforts of the fire services to reach this stage was extraordinary because of the timing of simi-lar recruitment drives taking place in my wider Ministry. Mr. Speaker, I met with the Chief Fire Officer and his management team this week, and I expressed our pleasure with the progress to date. Barring any unforeseen problems, the newly trained fire officers will replace the overseas consultant [firefighters] on October 1, 2023. Mr. Speaker, not all jurisdictions hire raw recruits and train them for the fire service. Some will only hire trained and qualified firefighters. Bermuda, however, hires raw recruits and trains them to be firefighters. It typically takes 24 weeks for the foundation training, and then there is further specialist training. With this particular cohort, the intent is to have them certified
Bermuda House of Assembly as aircraft rescue firefighters and subsequently deployed at the airport to replace the remaining overseas firefighters by the 1 st of October 2023. We currently have 16 overseas firefighters remaining in Bermuda who will fulfil their contracts until they are replaced on the 1 st of October 2023. On a related note, Mr. Speaker, I can advise that we are planning to fill a number of posts in the ser-vice resulting from retirements and recent promotions. This will include the Assistant Chief Fire [Officer’s] post. Earlier this month two senior -level management positions were filled. This is in alignment with the fire services’ succession plan and departmental objectives for 2023/24. Mr. Speaker, we are committed to ensuring that there are sufficient resources at the airport to main-tain operations. We are also committed to recruiting and retaining Bermudians in the service in general. This essential service provides a challenging and rewarding career, and I encourage people to apply to join. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I hasten to remind this Honourable House that I made a commitment to this country that we would replace the overseas firefighters at the airport with qualified Bermudians. This recruitment and overseas training of Bermudian firefighters will achieve that aim. This is another example of a promise made and a promise kept. Mr. Speaker, I has-ten to thank the women and men throughout the Ber-muda Fire and Rescue Service for their continued outstanding service to this country, without which our lifeline at the airport would not be able to function and op-erate. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. Members, the next Statement this morning is in the name of the Minister of Economy and Labour. Minister. INCREASING BENEFITS FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE RECIPIENTS Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce amendments to the Schedule of the Financial Assistance Regulations 2004, which is entitled …
Thank you, Minister. Members, the next Statement this morning is in the name of the Minister of Economy and Labour. Minister.
INCREASING BENEFITS FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE RECIPIENTS Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce amendments to the Schedule of the Financial Assistance Regulations 2004, which is entitled the Ta-ble of Allowable Expenses. The purpose of these amendments is to increase the benefits for recipients to ensure that the rates better reflect the cost of living in Bermuda. These changes will increase benefits re-ceived by over 2,000 seniors, disabled, low -earner and abled- bodied recipients of financial assistance. Mr. Speaker, the Table of Allowable Expenses was last amended in April 2014 and no longer provides adequate support to those who are most vulnerable in our community. Cost of living expenses have increased tremendously since the last amendment, and as a re-sult an extensive review was carried out to determine the level of assistance required to lessen the burden for recipients on the Financial Assistance programme. Mr. Speaker, Government will continue to be dutiful and deliberate when providing support intended to ensure that members of our community can meet their basic needs. I am pleased to highlight some examples where increases have occurred in the hope that a significant positive impact will be experienced by families that are current recipients of financial assistance: • the rent allowance for a one- bedroom accommodation will increase by 24 per cent from $1,450 to $1,800; • the disability allowance will increase by 15 per cent from $650 to $750 per month; • funeral expenses will increase by 33 per cent from $3,000 to $4,000; • nursing home rates will increase by 20 per cent from $5,000 to $6,000 per month; • rest home allowance will increase by 25 per cent from $4,000 to $5,000 per month; and • other notable changes were made to benefits for electricity, food allowances, eye care exams, podiatry fees, telephone fees and water fees. Further, Mr. Speaker, some new items were added to include support to address mental health issues and transitional housing for the homeless. Finally, Mr. Speaker, the commencement date for these amendments is the 1 st of October 2023. This enables internal processes to be completed to ensure effective implementation, such as updating the new rates on our computer system. Mr. Speaker, the Government is very pleased to provide these increased benefits for Bermudians who are among the most vulnerable in our society. These increases are long overdue, but this Government is committed to continuing to work for the people of Bermuda to improve their quality of life and support them in their time of need. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. Members, the next Statement is also in the name of the Minister of Economy and Labour. Minister. NEW AND IMPROVED CHILD DAY CARE ALLOWANCE BENEFITS Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, today I laid before this Honourable House the Child Day Care Allowance Amendment Regulations 2023. Mr. Speaker, …
Thank you, Minister. Members, the next Statement is also in the name of the Minister of Economy and Labour. Minister.
NEW AND IMPROVED CHILD DAY CARE ALLOWANCE BENEFITS Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, today I laid before this Honourable House the Child Day Care Allowance Amendment Regulations 2023. Mr. Speaker, the pur-pose of these Regulations is to increase the value of awards and to expand the pool of persons eligible for the benefit. Specifically, it amends the Child Day Care Allowance Regulations [2008] to introduce tiered in-come- based benefits and a maximum gross annual household income of $130,000 with respect to an ap-plication for child day care allowance . The amend ment specifies the annual gross household income catego-ries and the associated maximum awards that may be granted for an eligible child, as follows: 1708 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly • Category 1. A qualified person whose annual gross household income is up to and including $65,000 may be eligible for a maximum monthly allowance of $900 per month per child. • Category 2. A qualified person whose annual gross household income is from $65,001 up to and including $97,000 may be eligible for a maximum monthly allowance of $700 per child. • Category 3. A qualified person whose annual gross household income is from $97,001 up to and including $130,000 may be eligible for a maximum monthly allowance of $500 per child. Overall, Mr. Speaker, reforming the structure of awards will assist households to cope with the rising costs of day care and to [minimise] the risk of families having to decide between child day care services and employment. This additional support is paramount to sustaining households and ensuring that children are on a developmental continuum from the earliest years. Mr. Speaker, the new rates have been uploaded into the Financial Assistance Department’s computer system, and work has commenced to update the relevant forms to be in alignment with the amendments. The commencement date for these amend-ments will be the 1 st of October 2023. To close, Mr. Speaker, this increased benefit complements the duty -free concessions that the Government has recently extended to day care facilities. The two initiatives demonstrate the Government’s commitment to improving the quality [of] and access to day care for Bermuda’s families. Protecting early childhood education is vital for individuals’ lifelong well- being and for the sustainability of our economy. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. Members, the final Statement this morning is in the name of Minister of Transport. Minister. BERMUDA HAS TRANSPORTATION WIN ON THE 15 TH OF JULY Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and good morning to everyone. I rise t oday to address the significant milestone …
Thank you, Minister. Members, the final Statement this morning is in the name of Minister of Transport. Minister.
BERMUDA HAS TRANSPORTATION WIN ON THE 15 TH OF JULY Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and good morning to everyone. I rise t oday to address the significant milestone achieved in our transportation services for Bermuda's cruise passengers. On [Saturday], July 15, Mr. Speaker, we experienced an influx of almost 10,000 (as a matter of fact, it was more than 10,000) cruise pas-sengers and approximately 3,000 crew and staff, making it one of the highest anticipated passenger days this season. I am proud to acknowledge the commendable efforts and collaboration of all stakeholders who con-tributed to the seamless transportation experience for these visitors. Mr. Speaker, first and foremost I extend my gratitude to the dedicated individuals in the transpor tation sector, including the minibus, taxi, ferry, and public bus operators and teams, who worked together harmo-niously to ensure the smooth movement of our guests. Their professionalism and commitment to customer service played a pivotal role in creating a positive im-pression of Bermuda from the moment our visitors ar-rived. Additionally, I would like to recognise the invaluable efforts of our traffic officers stationed at the TCD (or the Transport Control Department) and the West End Development Corporation (WEDCO). These offic-ers exhibited exceptional traffic coordination skills, es-pecially in high -traffic areas such as Dockyard and Horseshoe Bay. Their dedication and expertise helped maintain order and efficiency, further enhancing the overall transportation experience for our guests. Mr. Speaker, the success of this day serves as a prime example of what we can achieve when stake-holders work together toward a common goal. The collaboration between the various transportation entities showcased a coordinated and effective system, ensur-ing that our visitors received the best possible experi-ence during their time in Bermuda. Mr. Speaker, I had the great privilege of personally witnessing the General Transportation Areas (GTAs) at both Horseshoe Bay and Dockyard where I had the opportunity to observe all of the stakeholders in action. The coordinated efforts of these various enti-ties in managing the transportation system were truly inspiring and left a lasting impression on me. As I arrived at the bustling transportation hubs, I was immediately struck by the remarkable efficiency with which everyone worked together to cater to the needs of the numerous cruise passengers. The level of organisation and collaboration among these stakeholders was noth-ing short of exceptional. Throughout the day I had the chance to interact with several drivers and transporta-tion staff who demonstrated an unwavering commit-ment to providing top- notch service to our visitors. Their professionalism and dedication to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for every passenger were evident in their actions and demeanour. Mr. Speaker, I was also fortunate to have the opportunity to personally engage with several cruise passengers, and their overwhelmingly positive feed-back about Bermuda was truly heartwarming. It was ev-ident that they were thoroughly pleased with their experience on the Island. As I conversed with the visitors, they expressed their admiration for Bermuda's natural beauty, vibrant culture and warm hospitality. Many re-marked on the pristine beaches, crystal -clear waters and breathtaking landscapes that left them in awe, Mr. Speaker, and of course they conveyed their pleasure with the smooth transportation system on that day. Mr. Speaker, while we celebrate this achievement, it is essential to recognise that we have more high-passenger days ahead this season. We are still on our journey to reach the pre- 2018 high- end passenger days, and we acknowledge that there is work to be
Bermuda House of Assembly done. The Ministry remains firmly committed to the ongoing improvement of our transportation system to meet the demands of our passengers and residents. As we move forward, we must not rest on our laurels. Rather, let this accomplishment inspire us to continue striving for excellence in our transportation services. One of our high priority goals is to provide an exceptional transportation experience for our visitors to Bermuda, ensuring they leave with fond memories and a desire to return. Mr. Speaker, before I end my Statement, it is [of] utmost cri tical [importance] to acknowledge the dedicated team at the Ministry Headquarters, particu-larly the transportation team, whose hard work and strategic planning have been instrumental in achieving this success. The tireless efforts have contributed sig-nificantly to the effective coordination of transportation services for our cruise passengers. In conclusion, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all individuals and organisations who played a part in making the high- passenger day of July 15 a resounding succ ess. Your commitment and dedication are invaluable, and I am confi-dent that together we will continue to elevate the standards of our transportation services. Mr. Speaker, thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. Members, this brings us to a close of the Statements for this morning. We will now move on. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are none. QUESTION PERIOD
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinisters, there are Members who have indicated that they have questions for your Statements this morning. So we will take the Question Period now, and it is 10:56. The first question this morning is for the Minister of Tourism. The question is from MP C annonier. MP Cannonier, you have …
Mr. L. Craig CannonierYes, thank you. And good morning, colleagues and to Bermuda, Mr. Speaker. Yes. My question is, assuming some thought has gone into the types of concessions that [the Minister of] Tourism is looking for to expand and the fact that the Minister has spoken about investment into concessions that would …
Yes, thank you. And good morning, colleagues and to Bermuda, Mr. Speaker. Yes. My question is, assuming some thought has gone into the types of concessions that [the Minister of] Tourism is looking for to expand and the fact that the Minister has spoken about investment into concessions that would assist tourism, for the public’s edifica-tion can the Minister give some idea of those ty pes of industries or types of concessions he believes might do well in assisting with our offering as a tourism product? And I ask that question so that the public, those people who might be interested in getting involved, could. The Speaker: Minister.
Hon. Vance Campbell: I am not quite understanding the question. So if he could clarify.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerCould you clarify a bit, Honourable Member?
Mr. L. Craig CannonierSure. I am just interested if the Minister could give the public an idea of some of the concessions that they may have identified as those things we would like to see our private individuals, our Bermudians, getting involved in to help with the product.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberAttractions.
Mr. L. Craig CannonierAttractions or . . . [Inaudible i nterjections] Hon. Vance Campbell: The primary concessions — [Inaudible interjections ]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThe Minister is on his feet. Hon. Vance Campbell: The primary concessions are around the importation, the customs duty relief. And if you are a new restaurant, you will also get the concession of the employer’s portion of the payroll tax.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Supplementary? Hon. Vance Campbell: Again, all of this is in the public domain.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. Supplementary? Supplementary or . . . okay. No further questions. Minister, that brings an end to your questions. The next Statement this morning that has questions is for the Minister of Work s. Minister of Works, MP Cannonier would like to put a question to you. MP Cannonier. QUESTION …
Mr. L. Craig CannonierThank you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Considering that we have increased the resources to $2.9 [mill ion] for the roads, and the Minister mentioned that balancing this type of thing off with the resources and the like is important. Understanding that with the $2.927 million that he has increased it …
Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Considering that we have increased the resources to $2.9 [mill ion] for the roads, and the Minister mentioned that balancing this type of thing off with the resources and the like is important. Understanding that with the $2.927 million that he has increased it to, which would be approximately about two and a half mil es of 1710 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly roads, just curious, does he believe that the $2.9 [million] exhausts the physical resources of both government and the private sector? Or if we were to do more, does he believe that the resources available could accommodate more of an investment?
Lt. Col. Hon. David A. BurchMr. Speaker, the short answer is yes. We have an agreement with East End Asphalt to provide support for us, both in terms of prod-uct (i.e., asphalt) as well as equipment. And we trade often in that regar d. We have not finished looking at the funding that we have …
Mr. Speaker, the short answer is yes. We have an agreement with East End Asphalt to provide support for us, both in terms of prod-uct (i.e., asphalt) as well as equipment. And we trade often in that regar d. We have not finished looking at the funding that we have from a capital point of view this year that we might be able to divert some more funds toward roadwork. And that work is ongoing.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSecond question? QUESTION 2: UPDATE ON ISLAND- WIDE ROADWORKS
Mr. L. Craig CannonierYes, second question. I could be wrong, and I am hoping the Minister can correct it, do we know whether or not the asphalt plant is up and running? Are we making any repairs to get it up and running?
Lt. Col. Hon. David A. BurchI will give the short version of it. We have had a full assessment of the plant that is about 30 years old. It is still a viable entity that can be repaired and kept in service for an extended period of time. So we are on the pathway of …
I will give the short version of it. We have had a full assessment of the plant that is about 30 years old. It is still a viable entity that can be repaired and kept in service for an extended period of time. So we are on the pathway of trying to get the parts first. We had a choi ce this year to either put the plant down and fix it or continue paving. So we are continuing paving, but we are getting the parts to be able to fix it after this summer. There is also some movement from a staffing point of view in that the former manager of the plant has retired and a new, younger person has taken over from within Public Works who really has hit the ground running. And you will see his handiwork when you come out of St. George’s from the Causeway where there have been some paving works that have been done in patches. Instead of just filling the hole, they have cut out a longer rectangular piece and filled that and made it smoother. This is the process that will alleviate the need for the asphalt coming out of potholes with rain that may come in the future and roadworks. So we are making progress in that regard. Colleagues may recall that we initiated a review of the work at the quarry in its entirety. That report is close to being produced for us. We expect that this will give us a clear guide about what we should continue to do at the quarry and what we should do in a different way. As an example, we have expanded the purchase of GP vehicles to virtually every make known to man. We do not have that skill set at the quarry to be able to s ervice every one of those vehicles. So there is some combination of that that may come out of this. But we will go back to the suppliers. First, we will restrict expanding this scope any further. But we will go back to some of the suppliers to fix those ve hicles that are outliers to the experience and expertise that we have at the quarry.
Mr. L. Craig CannonierDoes the Minister have an idea of what it would cost to get us to a point of being operational at the level that he would like at the quarry for the asphalt?
Lt. Col. Hon. David A. BurchMr. Speaker, the last estimate which was, I guess . . . I get confused about the class . . . whatever. The most questionable estimate is about $2 million.
Mr. L. Craig CannonierYes, second supplementary. Based on the answer that [the Honourable Minister] gave, for the asphalt itself, are we looking at al-ternative sources for the sourcing of the asphalt in and of itself? I am aware of where we used to buy it, but are we looking at other sources that …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister. Bermuda House of Assembly Lt. Col. Hon. David A. Burch: I am not sure I understand the purchasing asphalt . The only place that we purchase asphalt from now, other than from our plant, is from East End Asphalt.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. Minister, that brings to a close the questions for you this morning. Members, the next Statement that has questions this morning is the Statement by the Minister of National Security. Minister, MP Dunkley has questions for you. MP. QUESTION 1: AIRPORT FIRE RESCUE SERVICES Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Thank …
Okay. Minister, that brings to a close the questions for you this morning. Members, the next Statement that has questions this morning is the Statement by the Minister of National Security. Minister, MP Dunkley has questions for you. MP.
QUESTION 1: AIRPORT FIRE RESCUE SERVICES Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, colleagues. Good morning, Bermuda. To the Honourable Minister: I appreciate the update. With the hiring of the 24 recruits, once they are trained, Minister, will this bring the Airport Fire and Rescue Service up to required and mandated levels?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Mr. Speaker, thank you for that. The short answer is yes.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary? Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Second question, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSecond question. Go ahead. QUESTION 2: AIRPORT FIRE RES CUE SERVICES Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: The Honourable Minister in his Statement referred to the extraordinary challenges. And those are my words. I know you use extraordinary because similar recruitment drives are taking place within the Ministry. Can the Minister give …
Second question. Go ahead.
QUESTION 2: AIRPORT FIRE RES CUE SERVICES
Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: The Honourable Minister in his Statement referred to the extraordinary challenges. And those are my words. I know you use extraordinary because similar recruitment drives are taking place within the Ministry. Can the Minister give a brief update on the s uccess of those similar recruitment drives within the Ministry?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The similar recruitment drives are still ongoing. And as we complete the process, I have no problem bringing the result s to the House.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Supplementary? Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: No. Next question, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThird question. QUESTION 3: AIRPORT FIRE RESCUE SERVICES Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Yes, Mr. Speaker. In the Statement, the Mi nister focused in on the Airport Fire and Rescue Service. And we all know, Honourable Members in this House and the members of the public are all aware that the …
Third question.
QUESTION 3: AIRPORT FIRE RESCUE SERVICES
Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Yes, Mr. Speaker. In the Statement, the Mi nister focused in on the Airport Fire and Rescue Service. And we all know, Honourable Members in this House and the members of the public are all aware that the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service is much broader than that. Can the Minister please inform this Honourable House of the current staffing levels of the Fire and Rescue Service outside of the airport? How many vacancies exist, and is there a current recruitment drive?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Mr. Speaker, we have just finished a recruitment drive for the airport. As the Honourable Member will know, being a former Minister of National Security, it was a critical stage that the Government went through when we had to triple the number of firefighters at …
Minister.
Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Mr. Speaker, we have just finished a recruitment drive for the airport. As the Honourable Member will know, being a former Minister of National Security, it was a critical stage that the Government went through when we had to triple the number of firefighters at the airport in such a short period. Now that this is complete, we will be looking at how we could fix other resources in other parts of our Ministry.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary? SUPPLEMENTARY Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Yes, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate the answer to part of the question. So I will use my supplementary to re- examine the question again. Can the Honourable Minister please inform this Honourable House of the current staffing levels, outside of airport operati ons, and …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 1712 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly At this time I would say it would be approximately 15 vacancies that exist in the Structural Division of the Fire Service. And now that we have gotten the airport …
Minister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 1712 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly At this time I would say it would be approximately 15 vacancies that exist in the Structural Division of the Fire Service. And now that we have gotten the airport sorted out, we will be looking to have another recruitment drive to bring our other numbers up to date.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary? End of questions. Thank you. The final Statement that has questions this morning is that for the Minist er of Transport. Minister of Transport, MP Cannonier has questions for you. QUESTION 1: BERMUDA HAS TRANSPORTATION WIN ON THE 15 TH OF JULY
Mr. L. Craig CannonierYes. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Minister, identifying the fact that I believe you had a successful effort at dealing with such a number of folks coming to and visiting the Island, were you able to identify any challenges that we might have that we need to work on, …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister. Hon. Wayne L. Fur bert: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, there are always improvements we can [make]. [Those are] getting some transportation [providers] to move faster than they do, and a faster turnaround. But other than that, it works out. There is always a chance f or improvement.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. [Inaudible interjections ]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerI think he asked, could you identify any area? Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, as other colleagues may be aware, we are working on a significant modernisation and harmonisation which we are trying to deal with, and we are working on that. Once we get that all sorted out, …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary? SUPPLEMENTARY
Mr. L. Craig CannonierYes, supplementary. I did have the pri vilege of cruising back to Bermuda for, unfortunately (no one would think), medical reasons. But I could not fly. So upon arriving at Dockyard, unfortunately, the ship with almost 3,000 passengers, there were no taxis at all there. So that is why I …
Yes, supplementary. I did have the pri vilege of cruising back to Bermuda for, unfortunately (no one would think), medical reasons. But I could not fly. So upon arriving at Dockyard, unfortunately, the ship with almost 3,000 passengers, there were no taxis at all there. So that is why I was ask ing the question, identifying any potential areas. So, is there any move toward getting more types of vehicles to assist outside of the taxis? Or maybe expanding on the minibuses, I do not know, to help accommodate that? There was literally not one taxi a vailable when I came in on the cruise ship.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, depending on which cruise ship he was on, sometimes . . . most taxi drivers . . . there are some taxi drivers who are there. But because of the movement of the individuals and serving, well, probably actually 7,000 cruise passengers at …
Minister.
Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, depending on which cruise ship he was on, sometimes . . . most taxi drivers . . . there are some taxi drivers who are there. But because of the movement of the individuals and serving, well, probably actually 7,000 cruise passengers at any one time, there is always a particular . . . whether it is minibuses or taxi drivers, they may not be in a particular place. But there is a turnaround and then they come back.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary? Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: I have a supplementary.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes. SUPPLEMENTARIES Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Can the Minister please give us an update on how he is addressing the challenges at the bus depot in regard to servicing the community? [Inaudible interjection] Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Can you give an update on the challenges that you face …
Yes.
SUPPLEMENTARIES Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Can the Minister please give us an update on how he is addressing the challenges at the bus depot in regard to servicing the community?
[Inaudible interjection] Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Can you give an update on the challenges that you face in the bus depots in regard to delivery of regular services? I have had a number of calls in regard to challenges of buses being on time or being cancelled. And the passengers have not been advised. So I would like for you to speak to that, please. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, that is not in the purview of this particular paper. We are talking about the cruise industry. I would be willing to talk to the Honourable Member later. And as he is aware, I sent him an email on that particular issue.
Hon. N. H. Co le Simons: Supplemental. I recognise the Minister’s comments, but the question was generally in regard to a “transportation win.” He did not restrict it to just shipping and cruise ships, hence the question. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, I did rest rict this particular message to cruise ships.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerI am actually thumbing through it now. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: We had talked about the minibuses and the taxis coming from the cruise industry in Dockyard and in Horseshoe Bay. Bermuda House of Assembly The Speaker: The St atement started with the Minister identifying what is his term “ …
I am actually thumbing through it now. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: We had talked about the minibuses and the taxis coming from the cruise industry in Dockyard and in Horseshoe Bay.
Bermuda House of Assembly The Speaker: The St atement started with the Minister identifying what is his term “ win” by indicating that they achieved a milestone in Bermuda’s cruise passengers. And it speaks to how they were able to move those tourist passengers. Supplementary?
SUPPLEMENTARIES
Hon. M ichael H. Dunkley: Yes, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate the Statement from the Honourable Minister about the win on July 15. But if you win one day and you lose in the coming days, it certainly sets you backward. Honourable Minister, are you aware of challenges this past week at Horseshoe Bay? And obviously the Minister is because he is smiling. On at least two consecutive days, or two days in the past week, where there have been calls for service at Horseshoe Bay, outright urgent calls for service. I have seen the video circulating where there have been dozens of people waiting, perhaps hundreds of people waiting for transportation and could not get any urgent calls [through] for that. Secondly —
[Inaudible interjection] Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Well, I did n ot want to . . . I changed dozens to hundreds because I did not want Members on the other side to say that I am making this situation more dramatic than it is.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerNow, put your question then. Put your question. Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: But I ha ve seen the video, Mr. Speaker, and if this Government wants to belittle the fact that people [are having trouble] getting transportation after talking about a win, they are turning the win into some long …
Now, put your question then. Put your question.
Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: But I ha ve seen the video, Mr. Speaker, and if this Government wants to belittle the fact that people [are having trouble] getting transportation after talking about a win, they are turning the win into some long goals. Second, Mr. Speaker, I understand that at l east one day this week the facility was closed down at Horseshoe Bay when there were many people down there using the facilities. So I ask the Honourable Min-ister (1) is he aware of these concerns; and (2) how is he addressing these concerns? And obviously Government Members support me because they are intently listening and commenting on what I say. So thank you, Minister.
[Laughter and crosstalk ]
Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: So I have two questions for you. One, are you aware of these concerns? And second, what are you doing to address these concerns? Thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, I am not sure whether the Honourable Member saw both videos. There were two videos going around. But let me just say— Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Mr. Speaker, there are more than two videos going around. I have seen more than two videos. …
Minister. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, I am not sure whether the Honourable Member saw both videos. There were two videos going around. But let me just say— Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Mr. Speaker, there are more than two videos going around. I have seen more than two videos.
[Inaudible interjections and laught er] Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: I am happy to share with the Honourable Minister.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerJust let the Minister speak to me. Minister. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, let me just say many have seen a video regarding tourists waiting at Horseshoe Bay for transportation. I am sure that is the video the Honourable Member saw, which I saw. I personally witnessed this on …
Just let the Minister speak to me. Minister.
Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, let me just say many have seen a video regarding tourists waiting at Horseshoe Bay for transportation. I am sure that is the video the Honourable Member saw, which I saw. I personally witnessed this on my cell phone on June 15 when beachgoers wanted to leave immediately due to the rain.
[Inaudible interjections ]
Hon. Wayne L. Furb ert: This had happened that particular day. When you have rain pouring in at one time and 1,000—there are normally 2,000 people on the beach on average —dashing to get transportation, then there is a chance. Now on that day the cruise boat . . . as I said, there were roughly about 2,000 people on the beach. So when it started to rain that day there was a mad rush again to leave, which caused long lines. However, I understand that the minibus group sorted it out within 30 minutes to get this moving. Mr. Speaker, a picture or video can speak 1,000 wrong words without the proper content around it. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary? Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Supplementary, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes. SUPPLEMENTARY Hon. Zane J. S. D e Silva: Yes, Minister. Minister, would you agree or disagree that having a few dozen, hundreds or thousands of tourists down at the beach 1714 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly when they were hit with a torrential downpour …
Yes.
SUPPLEMENTARY Hon. Zane J. S. D e Silva: Yes, Minister. Minister, would you agree or disagree that having a few dozen, hundreds or thousands of tourists down at the beach 1714 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly when they were hit with a torrential downpour from out of the blue is a good problem or a bad problem?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, let me make it very clear. I am a person who loves tours. And when it rains, I get pretty well disappointed myself. Hence why on the 15 th I went personally, I left Dockyard, went to Horseshoe Bay and helped out the …
Minister.
Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, let me make it very clear. I am a person who loves tours. And when it rains, I get pretty well disappointed myself. Hence why on the 15 th I went personally, I left Dockyard, went to Horseshoe Bay and helped out the transportation in-dustry. But the industry was able to recover within a short time. And if the Honourable Member, Michael Dunkley, had seen a particular video after that one —I will send it to you—the persons who do not believe in all of the hype, because within two minutes those particular individuals were on those buses going back to Dockyard.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. Supplementary. Your second supplementary. Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Yes, Honourable Minister. Can you address the facility being closed, the Horseshoe Bay beach pavilion? [Inaudible interjections ] Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: I hear Honourable Members say it is a private facility. But it is leased out from government, at our …
Some Hon. Members Some Hon. MembersOoh! Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: It makes sense for that facility to be open. I hear Honourable Members — Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Point of order, Mr. Speaker! Point of order.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Mr. Speaker, but if they think it is good to have the facility closed, they are missing the boat. [Crosstalk] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, point of order!
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWe will take your point of order . POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes. I think the Honourable Member is misleading the House. If he is going to ask that question, Mr. Speaker, he should state the time of day that it was not open. …
We will take your point of order .
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes. I think the Honourable Member is misleading the House. If he is going to ask that question, Mr. Speaker, he should state the time of day that it was not open. Or maybe he does not know; he is just being mischievous. Now, I do have a supplementary, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerDid you want the Member . . . is it included in his question? Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Sure. Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: It was the middle of the day, Mr. Speaker. So there is no excuse — Hon. Jason Hayward: Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER Hon. Jason Hayward: The Minister he is addressing the question to is responsible for transportation. That is not the appropriate Minister to be addressing that question to. Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Well, Mr. Speaker, the appropriate Minister is in the House. If he can …
Point of order.
POINT OF ORDER
Hon. Jason Hayward: The Minister he is addressing the question to is responsible for transportation. That is not the appropriate Minister to be addressing that question to.
Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Well, Mr. Speaker, the appropriate Minister is in the House. If he can answer, it would be appreciated. [Laughter]
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Supplementary, Mr. Speaker?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMembers, Members — [Inaudible interjections]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMembers, Members, Members, Members, Members. Are we back on track, everyone? Okay. Everyone has calmed down? Good. You have a supplementary to the Mini ster? SUPPLEMENTARY Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I do, Mr. Speaker. Minister, are you aware of any other tourist destination in the world [that], when …
Members, Members, Members, Members, Members. Are we back on track, everyone? Okay. Everyone has calmed down? Good. You have a supplementary to the Mini ster?
SUPPLEMENTARY Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I do, Mr. Speaker. Minister, are you aware of any other tourist destination in the world [that], when they are hit with torrential unpredicted downpours as we experienced, have hundreds of buses and minibuses on hand to move tourists who may be at a particular beach at any given time?
Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: No, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. Any other supplementaries? MP Cannonier, you had asked one question and one supplementary. Do you have a second question? Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. L. Craig Cannonier: No.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSo you are finished with the questions. Thank you. Thank you. Members, this brings us to a close of questions for the Minister of Transport. It actually brings us to a close of the Question Period. Thank you for your participation. We will now move on. CONGRATULATORY AND/OR OBITUARY SPEECHES
The SpeakerThe SpeakerI am just going to clear the clock and get us reset. Minister Burch, I see you in front, and I will take you first.
Lt. Col. Hon. David A. Bur chThank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I have commented previously about the challenges with onboarded staff within the public service and been the subject of some reprimand by members of the civil service. So, I will equally stand and offer congratulat ions to some onboarding of staff in the Ministry …
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I have commented previously about the challenges with onboarded staff within the public service and been the subject of some reprimand by members of the civil service. So, I will equally stand and offer congratulat ions to some onboarding of staff in the Ministry of Public Works. Nothing pleased me more than yesterday to get the congratulations for people who are employed at the Depot in Prospect. Before I name them, Mr. Speaker, this is important and significant bec ause in many areas of the Ministry, and I suspect within government, there are people who have been acting for years in posts. And what that means, Mr. Speaker, is that you have then got a double whammy. Because they are act-ing in the post that they are acting in, but they are blocking in the post that they are substantively in. So you create a complete backlog in various departments by having people acting for so long without being able to go through the process of actually [being appointed] to the post. So the number -one candidate whom I was complaining about is now the Principal Facilities Manager at the Depot, and he was appointed several months ago. That is Sheridan Ming, who is an amazing civil servant. Anybody who has worked with him or had an inter action with him will have the same response. His response to every request is the same: How can he get it fixed? So he now has Jerry Jones, who was appointed yesterday as the Assistant Principal Facilities Manager. And the following gentlemen (all gentleme n) have been appointed to the Facilities Maintenance Managers’ posts; they are Mr. Edwin Bucher , Mr. Thomas Brown, Mr. Leslie Mills, Mr. Louis Smith and Mr. Dale Thompson. I extend sincere congratulations to them. And I give indication that now that they have been appointed to substantive posts, the posts below them and the posts below them will also flow. So whenever we come back to this House, I will have another list. And I am a happy Minister today because we are getting staff, and we are getting work done, and we are making progress. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. MP Foggo, you jumped before the Minister was even finished.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWould you like your three minutes?
Ms. Lovitta F. FoggoBecause, you know, that is what we are supposed to do to catch your eye, Mr. Speaker. [Laughter]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAll right. Go right ahead, my dear. Let us see how that works this afternoon. [Laughter]
Ms. Lovitta F. FoggoMr. Speaker, I just have one note of condolences to the Furbert family in St. George’s, which is an extremely large family. We have lost Mr. Maurice Furbert. He was one of the owners of what was called Mama Angie’s or Furbert’s to most St. Georgians. His son now is …
Mr. Speaker, I just have one note of condolences to the Furbert family in St. George’s, which is an extremely large family. We have lost Mr. Maurice Furbert. He was one of the owners of what was called Mama Angie’s or Furbert’s to most St. Georgians. His son now is the proprietor of that estab-lishment. But a very nice man, a communal person, polite, the epitome of what a gentleman should be. And St. George’s is at a loss with his passing. So I would like to associate MP Renee Ming, Minister Wayne Furbert, MP Derrick Burgess, and MP Kim Swan.
[Inaudible interjection]
Ms. Lovitta F. FoggoThe whole House? I do not even know if the whole House k new him. But if you want the whole House associated, I shall associate the entire House. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, MP. MP Simmons, you have the floor.
Mr. Jamahl S. SimmonsThank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to pay tribute to o ne of my most precious constituents, Ms. Josephine Matthew. Originally born in St. Kitts, she came to Bermuda many, many years ago and was the epitome of a generous soul, a community spirit and a lover of all …
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to pay tribute to o ne of my most precious constituents, Ms. Josephine Matthew. Originally born in St. Kitts, she came to Bermuda many, many years ago and was the epitome of a generous soul, a community spirit and a lover of all she knew and all who knew her. We are very saddened by her loss. And I will share a funny story with you, Mr. Speaker, because she was a very big supporter of mine. Because she first knew my mother. My mother met her when [my mother] was working at the obstetrician’s office when [Ms. Matthew] came in with her last daughter, Josette, when she was pregnant with Jo-sette. But when I met her, she and I bonded over my time working in St. Kitts and being able to reminisce about the places she had grown up and things she 1716 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly knew. But what was funny, during the 2017 election, some organisation, some mystery organisation put out some flyers attacking me. And when I went by her house, she had it prominently displayed on her fridge! And I said, Well, why do you have that up for me? These people are going after me. She says, Because you look so good in that picture! [Laughter]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAll right. Mr. Premier, you were quick to jump. You have your three minutes, sir. Hon. E. David Burt: You have got to try, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask that this Honourable House do send condolences, and I will associate all Members, on the passing of …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes. Hon. E. David Burt: Or Thursday, sorry. I was deeply saddened, and I am sure that all in this Honourable House and the country were sad-dened to learn of her passing. There is no question that she was a champion for children and for families and for the work …
Yes.
Hon. E. David Burt: Or Thursday, sorry. I was deeply saddened, and I am sure that all in this Honourable House and the country were sad-dened to learn of her passing. There is no question that she was a champion for children and for families and for the work which is needed to repair some of the longterm damage in our society and to heal some of the measures of our social fabric. And we know that she led the Family Centre for over 30 years and helped to turn it into an important institution in our community. Her devotion to helping those in need and th e positive impact that she made in Bermuda will live on for a long time. And [there is] no question that she will be missed. Mr. Speaker, I had a special connection with Ms. Dismont, as not only did I know her in her profes-sional capacity, but I also repr esented her and her daughter in this Honourable House. And I remember the first time when I knocked on the door at the top of Prince’s Estate and I looked at the name on it. I was wondering if this is the Martha Dismont. And there she was. And she came out of the door, and we had our first talk when I canvassed with her in 2012. So I certainly want to extend my condolences to her daughter, Aruna, whom I saw last evening and will see later today as they have lost another family member of whom we will be reme mbering. And I just want to associate the entire House with those condolences. I am sure there will be other Members who will get up and speak and give their remarks. Mr. Speaker, I would also like to ask to send condolences to the family of the North Vil lage legend, the club’s first football captain, Howard “Boxhead” Romaine, who suddenly passed away recently in his 84 th year.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes. Yes. Hon. E. David Burt: I had the honour of participating in the North Village Community Club’s 65 th Legends Ball last year where Mr. Romaine and other legends of the historic club were honoured. And my thoughts and prayers, and I am sure of the whole House, for …
Yes. Yes. Hon. E. David Burt: I had the honour of participating in the North Village Community Club’s 65 th Legends Ball last year where Mr. Romaine and other legends of the historic club were honoured. And my thoughts and prayers, and I am sure of the whole House, for his children, Donna, Judy, Andrea, and the entire and extended North Village family and Romaine family . Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Premier. MP De Silva, you have your three minutes. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like the House to send condolences to [the family of] Jeanetta Simons from Somerset, affectionately known as “ Natta.” She spent her entire …
Thank you, Premier. MP De Silva, you have your three minutes. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like the House to send condolences to [the family of] Jeanetta Simons from Somerset, affectionately known as “ Natta.” She spent her entire life in Somerset, Mr. Speaker. I think you may know her well.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes. Hon. Zane J. S . De Silva: She first lived on what is now Grandstand Lane, then Cook’s Hill, then Bob’s Valley, Sound View and then finally back to Cook’s Hill. She never left Somerset, Mr. Speaker. For those who knew her knew her husband, that is Millard, the …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes, yes. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I spoke about Shinah’s, his son Shinah’s wife’s mother’s passing just two weeks ago. And the funny thing about Natta was that she used to get asked all the time, How did you meet Shina h? And she said she could not …
Yes, yes. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I spoke about Shinah’s, his son Shinah’s wife’s mother’s passing just two weeks ago. And the funny thing about Natta was that she used to get asked all the time, How did you meet Shina h? And she said she could not remember.
[Laughter] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: She used to tell people in Somerset, I can’t remember where I met him. But the word around Somerset with her is that she used to have children every three or four years, as you know, Mr. Speaker. So it was always a very enlightening conversation when it came to Natta. And she was also known for some famous quotes, and I will give about two, Mr. Speaker, or three. One of them was, If you can’t read, you can’t do anything. Another good one was, she said to a young lady one time, up at Somerset, she said, Send my son home. If not, he will not marry you. And the other one she was famous for is, If you think you’re important, drop dead and see what happens.
[Laughter]
Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In memory of —Shinah Simons, who happens to be a very good friend of mine —his mother, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes. Thank you, MP. Minister Weeks, you have your three minutes. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to start off my remarks with congratulating one of my constituents. I am not sure if Members congratulated the participants of the Island Games last week, but I …
Yes. Thank you, MP. Minister Weeks, you have your three minutes.
Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to start off my remarks with congratulating one of my constituents. I am not sure if Members congratulated the participants of the Island Games last week, but I would like to. If so, I would be associated with them.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSome were done. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: But I want to talk about someone in particular. I have a y oung constituent, a 20- yearold constituent, who plays on the badminton team. He stays on Clarke’s Lane in North Shore. I just wanted to congratulate him and wish him well. …
Some were done. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: But I want to talk about someone in particular. I have a y oung constituent, a 20- yearold constituent, who plays on the badminton team. He stays on Clarke’s Lane in North Shore. I just wanted to congratulate him and wish him well. They did not win any medals this time, but I tell them, Keep your head up. They are a young team, and they will be able to get success in future Island Games. Mr. Speaker, I also want to take this time to alert Members if they have not heard that the police graduated nine more recruits yesterday. So we are definitely moving on up. It was six males and three—
Mr. Jarion RichardsonAssociate me, please. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: I will associate the MP Jarion Richardson. But, Mr. Speaker, it was six males, three women. I am happy to say they are all Bermudians and/or spouses of Bermudians, Mr. Speaker. So they are excited, and we are looking forward to their joining …
Associate me, please.
Hon. Michael A. Weeks: I will associate the MP Jarion Richardson. But, Mr. Speaker, it was six males, three women. I am happy to say they are all Bermudians and/or spouses of Bermudians, Mr. Speaker. So they are excited, and we are looking forward to their joining the police force proper. Mr. Speaker, as I take my seat, I want to make a note. I want to make congratulations to TNN Network and Kendrick Zuill for the new online “ MEN TALK” In The Barbershop discussion which started July 8. And tomorrow they have another airing that is scheduled for the Ohana barber shop in Somerset. So, Mr. Speaker, the aim of this series of programmes is to stop at eight particular barber shops fr om Somerset to St. George’s with the aim to tackle the gang behaviour and lifestyle with an effort to bring this behaviour to an end. Men are talking, Mr. Speaker. And there are more men who want this to end. This beefing and gang warfare is only killing o ur young Black men here in Bermuda. So, Mr. Speaker, I encourage all men who are able to try to participate at some point in the barber shop talks that will be held over the whole Island in an eight -part series. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. MP Swan, you have your three minutes.
Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. SwanThank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to be associated with the condolences to the Furbert/Dismont families and also to that of the Romaine family. On a happier note, I would like for congratulations to be sent to the founder and co- director of t he Shotokan martial …
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to be associated with the condolences to the Furbert/Dismont families and also to that of the Romaine family. On a happier note, I would like for congratulations to be sent to the founder and co- director of t he Shotokan martial arts, our very own Sergeant Major Allen and his team–– and I will associate Minister Weeks and MP Ming with that.
[Desk thumping]
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberThe whole House!
Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. SwanAnd I am sure the whole House–– who has realised t he 40- year dream in the Shotokan—
Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. SwanBut the expressions of support from families and the young people and the respect shown to and from their senseis is something that is deserving of emulation in every sport and discipline in Bermuda. I would also like to send congratulations to those who participated and were recognised in the …
But the expressions of support from families and the young people and the respect shown to and from their senseis is something that is deserving of emulation in every sport and discipline in Bermuda. I would also like to send congratulations to those who participated and were recognised in the 37 th annual Dento n Hurdle Memorial Awards, Mr. Speaker. It was another outstanding expression in our community of all of the good work that is happening in many spheres. Finally, Mr. Speaker, I would like for suitable recognition to go out to one of our very own, Mr. Jays on Jackson, the golf course superintendent at Port Royal Golf Course and Ocean View Golf Course. And I will associate the Whip, Brother Tyrrell, and also Mr. Zane De Silva on the good work that he is doing. And he and I co-authored an article that appeared in the Bermuda Business Review, which for me was an honour to help feature a young man who is an example of the bright future that we hold with the number of people who are unassuming and just going along and doing what is outstanding on a day -to-day basi s. But also the number of young Bermudians whom he is bringing along in the field, uplifting blue- collar workers to managerial positions. I am very proud of what he is doing, and I just wanted to recognise him. Finally, I would like to send congratulations out to the team at Ocean View because, as we are speak-ing today, the Island Construction Cobra Puma Junior Golf Championships are taking place at Ocean View. And it was the brainchild of the late Brian Morris. But OJ Pitcher is holding up the fort. And I do not have to associate MP Zane De Silva because I am congratulating him for what he is doing in that event and sponsoring golf in many avenues. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Honourable Member. MP Famous, you have three minutes on the clock. 1718 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. Christopher Famous: Mr. Speaker, I come to your humble House with a heavy heart. Bermuda has lost quite a few people recently. But this week …
Thank you, Honourable Member. MP Famous, you have three minutes on the clock. 1718 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. Christopher Famous: Mr. Speaker, I come to your humble House with a heavy heart. Bermuda has lost quite a few people recently. But this week in particular we lost a woman who, when she was down [at] her lowest, she did for others. She was a lady originally from Parsons Road, of St. Kitts heritage, moved to Devonshire, Devon Spring to be precise. Last year she was diagnosed with what nobody wants to be diagnosed with. And even in the midst of her travails, she was the one always on social media encouraging people to look out for each other, take care of their health, take care of their families. She shared with many what others would have kept private. And I speak of one Robin Tota of the Tota – Douglas clan. Mr. Speaker, she had a large family, a large extended family and an unlimited number of friends. But most of all, Mr. Speaker, she is someone who loved the Lord, so we know where she is at this moment. Also, Mr. Speaker, Devonshire has lost another lady, 98 years old, Ms. Dorothy Saints of Poi nciana Road. She had a beautiful family, her daughter, Laura . . . Lynne Smith took care of her right up to the last moment. And we will miss her in Devonshire. In closing, Mr. Speaker, no one likes to go to funerals. But I must speak of two ladies who ar e always at funerals. A lady, Ms. O’Connor, mother to Patrina O’Connor, Power Girl; and a lady, Ms. Toni Robinson. These persons sing as if they are practicing to be with a choir of angels in heaven, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And thank you for recognising the 190 th year of the declaration of abolition of slavery. (But we still have slavery) .
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAnd MP Dunkley, you have your three minutes. Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to be associated with the condolences to the Saints and Tota families on the passing of those two wonderful ladies, and associated with the condolences by the Honourable Premier …
And MP Dunkley, you have your three minutes. Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to be associated with the condolences to the Saints and Tota families on the passing of those two wonderful ladies, and associated with the condolences by the Honourable Premier to the Dismont family on the passing of Martha. I have known Martha for an extended period of time. And I certainly, like all Members of this House, appreciated what she did for the less fortunate and appreciated her constant laser -like focus on trying to help families and those who are struggling. And one thing I keenly also appreciated about Ms. Dismont was the fact that not only was she tireless in what she did, but she was never afraid to let you hear of what she thought and shared those words in an appropriate way. Too often in society, Mr. Speaker, we couch what we believe in a way that the message gets lost. Martha was direct, straight to the point. And she will be missed in every-thing that she did, Mr. Speaker. I would like to be associated with the congratulations given by the Honourable Minister Weeks and my honourable colleague who filled in for me yesterday at the recruitment class for the BPS officers who graduated. I wish them the best in service and thank them for stepping forward. And I associate with the congratulations by the Honourable Premier to Dr. Derrick Binns on his retirement. Mr. Speaker, I was blessed to have worked with Dr. Binns in the Cabinet Office. And I always appreciated his professionalism in working closely with him and the opportunity to work for a better future for al l Bermudians. And Dr. Binns should be congratulated for his service to the people of Bermuda. And we wish him well in whatever he decides to do in his retirement. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Does any other Member wish to make a contr ibution at this time? There are none on their feet. Opposition Leader, you almost missed it. Opposition Leader, you have your three minutes on the clock. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise just to …
Thank you. Does any other Member wish to make a contr ibution at this time? There are none on their feet. Opposition Leader, you almost missed it. Opposition Leader, you have your three minutes on the clock. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise just to associate myself in regard to the comments made on the passing of Ms. Martha Dismont. She was truly a social beacon in this country. And the likes of that beacon have faded. And we will never be the same without her. Mr. Speaker, she gave until she could give no more. As you all know, if you knew her, she was a lady. And she was direct. And as my colleague, the Honourable Michael Dunkley, said, she did not mince her words, but she presented them in a most effective way. But having said that, I take the view that Ms. Dismont had dedicated herself to improving the welfare of families. She provided them with academic support, mental support. She advocated for our families, and she took a holistic, therapeutic approach to addressing the family challenges. Mr. Speaker, she has helped many, many f amilies in this country. And someone said to me, Well, maybe we should invite her to become a National Hero. So, Mr. Speaker, that is another consideration. I think it would be warranted. She was recognised in 2015 by the Queen when she received her MBE. B ut I think we should do something more personal here in Bermuda because she truly, truly deserves it. You know, she founded the Family Centre. And the vision of the Family Centre is a healthy Bermuda where all families are valued, supported and empowered to thrive. Mr. Speaker, that vision should be adopted by all of Bermuda and not just the Family Centre. So, Mr. Speaker, I would like to again convey my
Bermuda House of Assembly condolences to Aruna for a saint when it comes to addressing social challenges and supporting our famil ies in Bermuda. I would like to also associate myself in regard to the retirement of Derrick Binns. He has had a sterling career in government. He has always been very kind and very helpful. And we wish him all the best during his retirement. I see him ri ding his cycle at six o’clock in the morning sometimes when I walk. So at least he is getting fit to have a wonderful retirement. So again, thank you, Dr. Binns, for your contributions. And I wish you all the best during your retirement. Thank you.
The S peaker: Thank you, Opposition Leader. Does any other Member wish to make a contribution at this time? I see none on their feet; we will move on.
MATTERS OF PRIVILEGE
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are none. PERSONAL EXPLANATIONS
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are none. NOTICE OF MOTIONS FOR THE ADJOURNMENT OF THE HOUSE ON MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are none. [Inaudible interjections ]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThey were a little confused that time. Just leave them. They are confused. [Inaudible interjection]
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberIt is called desperation.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWe will just leave them back there. [Crosstalk] INTRODUCTION OF BILLS GOVERNMENT BILLS
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are two Government Bills to be introduced this morning. The first is in the name of the Minister of Tourism and Cabinet Office. Minister. FIRST READING DISTILLERIES LICENSING ACT 2023 Hon. Vance Campbell: Mr. Speaker, I am introducing the following Bill for its first reading so that it may …
There are two Government Bills to be introduced this morning. The first is in the name of the Minister of Tourism and Cabinet Office. Minister. FIRST READING
DISTILLERIES LICENSING ACT 2023 Hon. Vance Campbell: Mr. Speaker, I am introducing the following Bill for its first reading so that it may be placed on the Order Paper for the next day of meeting: Distilleries Licensing Act 2023.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Hon. Vance Campbell: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Sp eaker: And the second is in the name of the Minister of Transport. Minister. FIRST READING MOTOR CAR (CLASSIC CARS) AMENDMENT ACT 2023 Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, I am introducing the following Bill for its first reading …
Thank you.
Hon. Vance Campbell: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The Sp eaker: And the second is in the name of the Minister of Transport. Minister.
FIRST READING
MOTOR CAR (CLASSIC CARS) AMENDMENT ACT 2023
Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, I am introducing the following Bill for its first reading so that it may be placed on the Order paper for the next day of meeting: Motor Car (Classic Cars) Amendment Act 2023.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. OPPOSITION BILLS
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are no Opposition Bills. PRIVATE MEMBERS’ BILLS
The SpeakerThe SpeakerNo Private Members’ Bill s. NOTICE OF MOTIONS
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are none. ORDERS OF THE DAY
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are two Orders to be discussed/debated today, the first being the Investment Funds Amendment Act 2023 and the second being the Contributory Pensions (Amendment of Benefits) (No. 2) Order 2023. I understand that due to the Premier’s attendance at on e of the funerals, he has asked that we …
There are two Orders to be discussed/debated today, the first being the Investment Funds Amendment Act 2023 and the second being the Contributory Pensions (Amendment of Benefits) (No. 2) Order 2023. I understand that due to the Premier’s attendance at on e of the funerals, he has asked that we will do the Contributory Pensions first. And if the Opposition are in favour . . . ? Yes. Premier, we will do [Order] No. 2 first. So we will now do the Contributory Pensions (Amendment of Benefits) (No. 2) Order 2 023. Premier.
1720 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And I am grateful for the Opposition Leader’s deferral to allow me to do the second one first. I am grateful for my col-league, the Deputy Premier, who will be carrying the second matter for me later as I attend the funeral of my constituent, Ms. Joan Dismont. Mr. Speaker, I move that consideration be given to the draft Order entitled the Contributory Pen-sions (Amendment of Benefits) (No. 2) Order 2023 pro-posed to be made by the Minister of Finance in exercise of the powers conferred by section 37 of the Contribu-tory Pensions Act 1970.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAre there any objections? There are none. Continue. DRAFT ORDER CONTRIBUTORY PENSIONS (AMENDMENT OF BENEFITS) (NO. 2) ORDER 2023 Hon. E. David Burt : Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the tabling of the Contributory Pensions (Amendment of Benefits) (No. 2) Order 2023 last week in this Honourable House reflects …
Are there any objections? There are none. Continue.
DRAFT ORDER
CONTRIBUTORY PENSIONS (AMENDMENT OF BENEFITS) (NO. 2) ORDER 2023 Hon. E. David Burt : Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the tabling of the Contributory Pensions (Amendment of Benefits) (No. 2) Order 2023 last week in this Honourable House reflects the Gov-ernment’s resolute and unwavering commitment to im-proving the quality of life of our senior citizens. Mr. Speaker, the contributions to us that our seniors have made to this country are immeasurable. And t herefore, this Government continues to prioritise its 2017 election platform promise of increasing pensions by the rate of inflation every year. We recognise the hardships that too many of our seniors now endure due to the rising cost of living, and we are committed to doing what we can to support them so that they live the dignified lives they deserve. And, Mr. Speaker, I think it is also important to note that it is not just the seniors who benefit from an increase in pension, but also those persons who are disabled and receive disability benefits underneath the Contributory Pensions Act. Mr. Speaker, Bermuda provides retired individuals and those who are disabled with a combination of social insurance benefit from the Contributory Pension Fund and a mandatory occupational pension from their employer. In a perfect world, the social insurance benefit should provide a first tier (or basic) option, which a second tier (or occupational) pension would most likely supplement. Through no fault of their own, however, currently a number of retired persons are not receiving an occupational pension and are therefore relying on the social insurance benefit as their sole source of in-come. Mr. Speaker, this situation could be better, and the Government continues to do its utmost to ensure that seniors who rely heavily on their social insurance benefits are suitably cared for. And, Mr. Speaker, it is not lost on me that earlier today the Honourable Minister for Economy and Labour tabled the Regulations that are adjusting the Table of Allowable Expenses. And that is just one way that the supplement for those senior citizens who may only have a single source of income of social insurance [can] make sure that they can continue to live with dignity. Mr. Speaker, notwithstanding that, the Contributory Pension Fund (which I will refer to in this brief as CPF) benefit provides an important base retirement in-come. Currently, the maximum pension paid under the CPF remains about 26 per cent of the median annual gross earnings for Bermudians, as indicated in the Ber-muda Job Market Employment brief produced by the Department of Statistics. And this compares closely to the United Kingdom, where the full basic state pension, as a percentage of average earnings, is around 24 per cent. Mr. Speaker, the purpose of the Order is to increase pensions and other benefits under the Contrib-utory Pensions Act, such as those who are disabled, by 4.1 per cent as of August 2023 when increases are typ-ically made to the benefits. Per the Government Actuary, the 4.1 per cent increase in benefit would represent a small negative impact to the overall development of the fund. Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members are ad-vised that, based on the CPI, the cost of living has in-creased by a further 4.1 per cent since the last increase was granted. Therefore, the proposed benefit increase fully covers the cost of the prevailing rate of inflation to ensure that our seniors can keep up with the cost of inflation. Mr. Speaker, there are five types of benefits payable under the Contributory Pensions Act 1970, and all of the pension allowances will be increased by 4.1 per cent. These pensions and allowances are as follows: 1. the Contributory Old Age Pension; 2. the Contributory Widows or Widowers Al-lowance; 3. the Contributory Disability Benefit; 4. the Non- Contributory Old Age Pension; and finally, 5. the Non- Contributory Disability Benefit. Mr. Speaker, the basic contributory pension is $1,106.76 per month. The maximum contributory pension currently payable, which includes additional increments, is approximately $1,610.00 a month. Altogether, some 14,766 persons currently receive benefits under the Act. The proposed 4.1 per cent increase with additional increments will raise the basic contributory pen-sion from $1,106.76 a month to $1,152.00 a month; and the maximum benefits will be raised from $1,610.00 to $1,673.00 per month. The increase in pension pay-ments will be in the September 15, 2023, payment. And thereafter, beneficiaries should expect a 4.1 per cent increase in their regular monthly payment on the sub-sequent 15 th of the month.
Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. Speaker, I am proud of the fact that this 4.1 per cent increase marks the fifth pension increase. Yes, Mr. Speaker, you heard correctly —the fifth pension increase the Progressive Labour Party Government has put through in its time since returning to Gov-ernment in the last six years. Oh, yes!
[Desk thumping] Hon. E. David Burt: And, Mr. Speaker, this is in stark contrast to the former Government, who made our seniors wait almost five years before they gave them a single pension increase, and we all remember what they said at that time, Mr. Speaker: Money doesn’t grow on trees! Let us not forget. As a reminder, Mr. Speaker, just a month after our election when we were elected, we came back to the House. We made pension increases effective in August of 2017. That time, in 2017, [the increase was] 1.75 per cent. The next year, 1.4 per cent. The next year, 1.2 per cent. And then last year, as there was a little bit of break in the pandemic, we made sure that we put it through for 2.75 per cent, which was effective in August of 2021, which, Mr. Speaker, as we said at that time was slightly above the prevailing rate of infla-tion, noting that although the overall rate of inflation was a little bit lower, we wanted to make it higher than the prevailing rate to account for the increase in the cost of food, which we know affects persons on fixed incomes more. And today, Mr. Speaker, we are passing our fifth increase since our election, of 4.1 per cent. Mr. Speaker, it is very simple. In every case in which this Government has increased benefits for our seniors, the increase has been in line with or has ex-ceeded the prevailing rate of inflation, thereby placing seniors’ pensions, when compared to the Consumer Price Index, in good stead. And before I move on, Mr. Speaker, it is important that we compare the record. The One Bermuda Alliance granted one pension increase in 55 months, Mr. Speaker.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberWow! Hon. E. David Burt: One pension increase in 55 months.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberNo point of order? Do a point of order! Hon. E. David Burt: None? Because it is the truth. Mr. Speaker, we went to the electorate. We said that we would make sure that seniors’ pensions keep up with t he rate of inflation. We have delivered that, and this …
No point of order? Do a point of order!
Hon. E. David Burt: None? Because it is the truth. Mr. Speaker, we went to the electorate. We said that we would make sure that seniors’ pensions keep up with t he rate of inflation. We have delivered that, and this is the fifth pension increase that we have done since we have been in office, Mr. Speaker.
[Desk thumping] Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, the 2023 increase in benefits would normally be accompanied by a corre-sponding increase in contributions by an actuary -recommended rate of 6.2 per cent, which would be above the benefits rate. Mr. Speaker, it should also be noted that contrib utions were last increased in August 2018 by 4.2 per cent. Members will recall that in the 2018 Throne Speech the Government announced that Ber-muda’s social insurance system will be changed from a fixed -rate contribution to one based on percentages of income. Therefore, it is proposed that the contribution increases will be incorporated into the proposed changes, which are currently (as I mentioned last week in this Honourable House, Mr. Speaker) nearing finalisation, [and will] be brought to the House in t he next session. Mr. Speaker, it has been regularly discussed that the Contributory Pension Fund (CPF) and the Public Service Superannuation Fund (PSSF) pensions are underfunded, and if there are no changes made will (like many pension funds in the world) run into difficulties if reforms are not urgently undertaken. This means that for many Bermudians, unless the Government acts, there will not be the space for benefits in the future. And what is important to note is that this Government is taking action. (What is wrong, Cole?)
[Inaudible interjection]
Hon. E. David Burt: No problem. Mr. Speaker, I note the important work done over the last two years by the Pension Reform Committee. This committee includes officials from the Ministry of Finance and the P ublic Funds Investment Committee, assisted by consultants McKinsey & Company and also LifeWorks, which was formerly known as Morneau Shepell, who have been long- time actuarial advisors for the Government of Bermuda, who have been as-sessing the current stat e of the PSSF and the CPF and making sure to advance various options to address government pension funds while, Mr. Speaker, keeping in mind this Government’s pledge to make contributions to social insurance progressive. Just as a point, Mr. Speaker, 98 per cent of global government pension funds, which are tier 1 pension funds, have contributions that are based on income. Bermuda is literally the sole outlier, Mr. Speaker —the sole outlier. The pension reform work that is being done is developing options t o sustainably address the deficit and secure future benefits for Ber-muda’s people. And once that work is finalised, increases to pension contribution levels will form one part of the reforms to ensure that this fund is sustainable. And yes, Mr. Speaker, I know that is hard to hear that there will be increases. But the fact is, Mr. Speaker, if there is no action taken, then there will be no sustainable pensions. And that is not something that this Government will allow. 1722 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. Speaker, as it has been previousl y stated, the Government will shift the percentage of income to an income contribution model for the Contributory Pension Fund. And as I mentioned, the changes are consistent with the overall majority of tier 1 pension systems globally. And based on the results of continued actuarial analysis, the Pension Reform Committee will be able to put forth options to achieve the path to pension stability for the Government. And, Mr. Speaker, just by way of update, yesterday I had another meeting in the Ministry of F inance with the representatives finetuning some of the proposals as mentioned. They are consulting with the unions on matters related to the Public Service Superannuation Fund, which is also important. (We are not discussing that today.) And the matters r elated to the Contributory Pension Fund will be matters for broad public consultation, certainly matters that are related to employers. The employers play a part as well, and also the broader public. But it is important to note. And for the young persons listening who will ask questions and say, I am paying money into social insurance. Will I get this money out? The answer is yes. We must make the change and adjustment to make it sustainable, but there is no doubt that we will be able to make it sustain-able. Mr. Speaker, while contribution rates were last increased in 2018 by 4.2 per cent, the Ministry of Finance has considered the position of the CPF and it is anticipated that the fund can withstand a year’s delay in contribution increases. However, it wi ll be critical to adjust the contributions next year when we advance the pension reform measures. Mr. Speaker, as of the 31 st of March 2023 the fund had net assets of over $1.9 billion, representing approximately 10 times the value of benefits paid in the fiscal year. The effect of this is that if the CPF received no further contributions —that is the thing. Because of course, Mr. Speaker, we know that it does receive contributions on a regular basis; people continue to work. But if there were no further contributions, the fund can still continue to pay out pensions at the prevailing rate for almost 12 years. However, the reality is that contributions will continue through time and will be increased from time to time. Consequently, the prudent investment of pension fund assets is an important factor in the fund’s financial position. Mr. Speaker, in this regard the Government’s sound investment strategy for pension fund assets is already achieving good results. As mentioned previ-ously, as at March 31, 2023, t he Contributory Pension Fund stood at $1.9 billion, and the nominal rate of return for the 10 years proceeding March 2023 has been 5.4 per cent. As evidenced in the 2020 Actuarial Report tabled in this Honourable House on February 4, 2022, the viability o f the fund in the short - to medium- term is good with the fund being positive for the next 21 years until 2044. However, recognising long- term challenges to the pensions globally, the Ministry will continue to monitor the performance of the fund. And it sho uld also [be noted] that the funding policy for the fund is not only based on full actuarial funding, but also the work which we are doing in reform is based on sustainable funding. And that is that contributions plus investment income should cover benefit s and administrative expenses on an annual basis while the funds build up sufficient reserves to cover several years of benefits and expenses to withstand possible unexpected future circumstances. Mr. Speaker, despite the encouraging short - to medium- term outlook on the fund, what is clearly evident from the latest actuarial review is that Bermuda like most of the developed world is faced with challenges associated with the growth of an ageing population. This increase in our seniors will obviously place a greater strain on the country’s pension system. And therefore, the difficult choices that we will have to make, the Government will take those on. And as we all know, there are only three adjustments that can be made to pensions: increase contributions, r educe benefits or increase retirement age. For the public pension, that is basically it. And there will have to be a combination of all. But what we will ensure to do is to continue to make sure (and I had this confirmed yesterday) that the work that the t eam is doing is to ensure that as time goes on we continue to make sure that our pensioners will not fall behind the rate of inflation, because that is something that is critically important, Mr. Speaker. So in closing I wish to again assure Members, and more importantly current and future pensioners, that the Government recognises the challenges they face. We will take the appropriate action and decisive steps to enhance the benefits paid by the Contributory Pension Fund to ensure that the fund has the ongoing ability to pay for such benefits in the future. And, Mr. Speaker, there will be a debate today on this Order, and I know that we will hear a lot. But I want to make sure that the persons listening on the radio remember the difference: For 55 months t he party opposite increased seniors’ pensions once. One time, Mr. Speaker. And this, Mr. Speaker, is the fifth increase that this PLP Government is giving to our seniors. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
[Desk thumping]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Premier. Does any other Member . . . Opposition Leader, would you like to make a contribution at this time? Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGo right ahead. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Mr. Speaker, I smile because— Bermuda House of Assembly [Inaudible interjections] Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Mr. Speaker, we on this side recognise that there is a need to support our seniors during these difficult times. And so the 4.1 per cent …
Go right ahead.
Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Mr. Speaker, I smile because—
Bermuda House of Assembly [Inaudible interjections]
Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Mr. Speaker, we on this side recognise that there is a need to support our seniors during these difficult times. And so the 4.1 per cent will have our blessings. But the issue, Mr. Speaker, that we have is the overall big picture of the fund. And as the Minister of Finance said, he must have known where I was going to go because he tried to circumvent me and put blocks up during my whole presentation. But anyway, I am go-ing to continue what I had planned because I t hink he knows me by now. [Laughter] Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Mr. Speaker, [the Honourable Minister] spoke about not being able . . . the OBA had not given an increase for 55 months while we were in Government. Mr. Speaker, we did not give the increase because the PLP Government was in place since 1998.
[Inaudible interjections]
Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: In 2013, Mr. Speaker . . . Mr. Speaker, in 2013 a SAGE Report was produced. And, Mr. Speaker, that report indicated a shortfall of $2 bil-lion. Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker. Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. We will take it. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: The Honourable Member is misleading the House. The SAGE Report had absolutely nothing to do with the Contributory Pension Fund. The Contributory Pension Fund is a separate fund from the Consolidated Fund, and the Contribution …
Point of order. We will take it.
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Hon. E. David Burt: The Honourable Member is misleading the House. The SAGE Report had absolutely nothing to do with the Contributory Pension Fund. The Contributory Pension Fund is a separate fund from the Consolidated Fund, and the Contribution Pension Fund is administered under separate laws and separate Acts. And the Honourable Member would know that we table actuarial reports in this Honourable House every three years as required by law on that particular Act. So if he is referred to any [regarding] the Contributory Pension Fund, which we are discussing, he should keep his comments referring to that, Mr. Speaker, and not to other matters.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Just be guided by the remarks, Opposition Leader. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Guess what? The Contributory Pension Fund is not much better, Mr. Speaker. Quite frankly, I have a LifeWorks report in front of me, Mr. Speaker, and in 2000 the funds had …
Thank you. Just be guided by the remarks, Opposition Leader. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Guess what? The Contributory Pension Fund is not much better, Mr. Speaker. Quite frankly, I have a LifeWorks report in front of me, Mr. Speaker, and in 2000 the funds had a total liability of $5.5 billion and the total contributions and the value of the fund was $1.9 7 billion. If you take the $1.97 billion from the $5.5 billion in liability, how much do you have, Mr. Speaker? A deficit of almost $3 billion. Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Mr. Speaker, the facts speak for themselves. I will be happy to table this report, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWell, we will take your point of order. Yes, you can table it. But we will take your point of order. Hon. E. David Burt: You can table it. It was already tabled in the House. Mr. Speaker, point of order, if I may.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, the Honourable Member is misleading the House. Because what he is trying to say is that the deficit inside of the fund is the difference between the total future liabilities and the current assets. And what I said inside …
Yes.
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, the Honourable Member is misleading the House. Because what he is trying to say is that the deficit inside of the fund is the difference between the total future liabilities and the current assets. And what I said inside of my statement is that this is the actuarial basis. However, that assumes that no one will pay into the fund ever. So to follow that assumption is today everyone stops contr ibuting to social insurance. That is how that reality is, but that is not the reality of the way that these things work. And that is the reason why I was very careful in my statements, because as the Honourable Member said, I know where he was going to try to go. They make the same points all the time. But it is important that we are being frank and forthright and explaining the full picture to persons rather than using these numbers to make a point which is not reflected.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Opposition Leader. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: So, Mr. Speaker, again, I stand by the actuarial report. And it is indisputable that there is a liability projected for future benefits of $5.5 billion. That is irrefutable, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as I said, and the Minister of Finance …
Thank you. Opposition Leader. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: So, Mr. Speaker, again, I stand by the actuarial report. And it is indisputable that there is a liability projected for future benefits of $5.5 billion. That is irrefutable, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as I said, and the Minister of Finance did say that, you know, if we do not do anything in regard to closing the gap, we may run out of funds for our young people by 2044. And he acknowledged that. And he said that he was going to take steps to 1724 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly change it. And he in fact indicated, Mr. Speaker, that the Pension Reform Committee was working with the Ministry of Finance and other people including Life-Works, who are the actuaries who did the last report. My question to them is, When will these reports be finalised and be brought to the House with their recommendations? Mr. Speaker, [the Minister of Finance] answered it vaguely. We are looking for a finite date. Be-cause we were waiting, we were promised a date for the Fairmont Southampton, Mr. Speaker. And that was suppos ed to be June when the bulldozers were going to be hitting the ground. Hon. E. David Burt : Ah! Ah! Ah! Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: But, Mr. Speaker, to date we have seen no movement in that space. [Inaudible interjections] Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: So why should we believe [the Honourable Minister] that this actuarial review in regard to pension commission reform will be imminent? So what does “imminent” mean, Mr. Speaker? So we are now told— Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWe will take your point of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: The Honourable Member is misleading the House. I did not say “imminent.” I said in the next session. I did not say “imminent.” We will come in September. We will have a Throne Speech. We …
We will take your point of order.
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: The Honourable Member is misleading the House. I did not say “imminent.” I said in the next session. I did not say “imminent.” We will come in September. We will have a Throne Speech. We will come back. We will have a Throne Speech session. And when we have Budget session you will have legis-lation. We will fix the issue. I said next session. I d id not say “imminent,” Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerContinue on. Just be mindful of the comment. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Mr. Speaker, the next session is just three or four months away. So, in my mind that is imminent, Mr. Speaker. [Inaudible interjections and laughter ] 1 Repor t of the Auditor General on the Work of …
Continue on. Just be mindful of the comment. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Mr. Speaker, the next session is just three or four months away. So, in my mind that is imminent, Mr. Speaker.
[Inaudible interjections and laughter ]
1 Repor t of the Auditor General on the Work of the Office of the Auditor General for FY ended 31 March 2019 Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Mr. Speaker, let us continue. Mr. Speaker, I am not just concerned. The concern has also been showcased by two Auditor Generals. And if you will allow me, Mr. Speaker, I would like to read what Auditor Generals have said.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGo ahead. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: And this is from the late Heather Jacobs -Matthews. 1 “Due to serious deficiencies in the accounting records of the [Contributory Pen-sion] Fund and in the system of internal controls, I was not able to satisfy myself that all assets, liabilities, revenues and …
Go ahead.
Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: And this is from the late Heather Jacobs -Matthews. 1 “Due to serious deficiencies in the accounting records of the [Contributory Pen-sion] Fund and in the system of internal controls, I was not able to satisfy myself that all assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses of the Contributory Pension Fund have been reflected, nor was I able to satisfy myself that recorded transactions represented valid transac-tions of the Contributory Pension Fund for the year then ended. As a result, I was unable to determine whether adjustments were required in respect to recorded or unrecorded assets, recorded or unrecorded liabilities and the components making up the statement of financial position and the statements of changes in the net as-sets available for the benefits and changes . . . .” That was under the late Heather Jacobs -Matthews. Mr. Speaker, moving forward to 2023, the current Auditor General, Ms. Heather Thomas, wrote, and I quote, 2“It is inexcusable that the CPF has not produced financial statements since 2012,” Mr. Speaker. We are talking about such an important pension fund, and we have not received financial statements for the pension fund since 2012. She goes on to say, “Government should take immediate steps to ensure that the Accountant -General has the financial resources to recruit staff to bring the CPF financial statements up to date. To not bring”—
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerHold on one second, Member. Point of order? POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes, Mr. Speaker. So that the Honourable Member does not mislead the House and the people of the country, I think that if he is going to quote from former Auditors Gen-eral, …
Hold on one second, Member. Point of order?
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes, Mr. Speaker. So that the Honourable Member does not mislead the House and the people of the country, I think that if he is going to quote from former Auditors Gen-eral, he should get the dates on which the quotes were made so everybody knows what period we are talking about.
The S peaker: Continue. Continue.
2 Royal Gazette 18 March 2023
Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Mr. Speaker, as I said, the current one, Ms. Jacobs [sic], was 2023, earlier this year.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerIt’s Thomas Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: She said, “ To not bring the financial statements up to date sho uld not be an option.” Mr. Speaker, this is abominable. Because it shows a lack of proper governance. And so, it is fine to hand out the benefits and keep …
It’s Thomas
Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: She said, “ To not bring the financial statements up to date sho uld not be an option.” Mr. Speaker, this is abominable. Because it shows a lack of proper governance. And so, it is fine to hand out the benefits and keep paying, but we should be responsible and make sure, Mr. Speaker, that the pension plan is managed ef fectively and that the shortfalls are managed. And quite frankly, since—well, it goes back to 1998, quite frankly, the PLP Government is just providing a pension reform, Mr. Speaker. And I suppose, Mr. Speaker —
[Inaudible interjections ]
Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: We are not the Government, as my colleague said. We were Government for four years, Mr. Speaker, since 1998.
[Inaudible interjections and general uproar ] Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Mr. Speaker, what have they done in the 25 years?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMembers! Members! Members! Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: They have been handing out money and providing poor governance and poor oversight in regard to the management of the Contributory Pension Fund, Mr. Speaker. [Inaudible interjections ]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMember, Member! Member! Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Mr. Speaker, will you ask the Deputy Premier to stop chirping, please?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMember. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: He should be leading, showing an example for the country as a Deputy Premier. But his behaviour is unacceptable, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMember, you said it enough times. Next time you are going outside to say it. See? Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Oh, yes, I like that! Thank you, Mr. Speaker. [Laughter]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Go on. Talk to me, Mr. Opposition Leader. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: So, Mr. Speaker, at the end of the day, as I said when I opened my comments, it is fine to make these payments. A nd we support the payments. But at the end of …
Thank you. Go on. Talk to me, Mr. Opposition Leader.
Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: So, Mr. Speaker, at the end of the day, as I said when I opened my comments, it is fine to make these payments. A nd we support the payments. But at the end of the day we have a colossal problem which the Premier finally recognises and is beginning — Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker, point of order!
[Crosstalk] Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker!
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. Point of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: I will not allow this Honourable Member to mislead the House. We know what was stated in the Budget Statements. We understand what has been stated by Finance Ministers since 2017, both former and current on …
Point of order. Point of order.
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: I will not allow this Honourable Member to mislead the House. We know what was stated in the Budget Statements. We understand what has been stated by Finance Ministers since 2017, both former and current on this issue, the work that has been undertaken. B ut I just want to say, Mr. Speaker, while [the Honourable Opposition Leader] continues to mislead the House, I find it particularly interesting that he mentioned the fact that the Auditor General said that there has been no audited reports since 2012 and c onveniently missed out the fact of who was elected to the Government in 2012 and the time and the break that was there. But do not worry. When I respond I will make sure he gets his answers. But it is not correct, Mr. Speaker, that we have finally realised . This has been work that has been undertaken for some time to get it right.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Member, just be mindful of the comments. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is interesting that [the Honourable Minister] makes those comments because frankly the same challenge . . . he cannot stand here today and say that the …
Thank you. Member, just be mindful of the comments.
Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is interesting that [the Honourable Minister] makes those comments because frankly the same challenge . . . he cannot stand here today and say that the Contributory Pension Fund’s financial statement s are current. He cannot stand here today and say that, Mr. Speaker. So the challenge still persists under the PLP Government. So with those brief remarks, Mr. Speaker, as I said I accept the challenges, but I think we as a country, based on what the Prem ier is saying, is beginning, finally beginning to do something about remedying the deficiencies and the poor management of our Contributory Pension Fund. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
1726 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly The Speaker: Thank you. Does any other Member wish to make a contribution? MP Adams, you have the floor.
Mr. Jache AdamsMr. Speaker, good afternoon. I wanted to speak briefly on this Order partly because I recognise that you do not have to be a senior or close to being a senior to care about how our seniors are being treated. You see, not only do I have friends and family …
Mr. Speaker, good afternoon. I wanted to speak briefly on this Order partly because I recognise that you do not have to be a senior or close to being a senior to care about how our seniors are being treated. You see, not only do I have friends and family members who are of that age, but I find myself surrounded by a bunch of them in my caucus meetings as well.
[Inaudible interjections and laughter ]
Mr. Jache AdamsBut in all seriousness, the Progressive L abour Party, as the Premier alluded to, without question reveres our seniors —the seniors who have laid the foundation, who have worked hard and sacri-ficed for this country. We often say that Bermuda punches above its weight, and a large part of that …
But in all seriousness, the Progressive L abour Party, as the Premier alluded to, without question reveres our seniors —the seniors who have laid the foundation, who have worked hard and sacri-ficed for this country. We often say that Bermuda punches above its weight, and a large part of that is because of the standard that our seniors have set. So, Mr. Speaker, every single member of the Progressive Labour Party can attest to the fact that increasing social insurance benefits by the rate of inflation is amongst our highest priorities. We will contin ue to manage the public purse prudently so that we have the capacity to keep the promise that we made to the electorate in 2017. You see, Mr. Speaker, this Government has to make difficult decisions every single day. But I can assure the listening public that increasing pensions that would provide relief and lessen the financial burden for many of our seniors was not a difficult decision at all. I am proud to stand by and with a government that un-derstands that. But, Mr. Speaker, I say that because as the Premier alluded to or said, our seniors have not forgotten how they were treated under the former Admin-istration. We all remember! When asking for a pension increase to maintain their standard of living, our seniors were told, Money doesn’t grow on trees. But did you notice that the Premier at that time chose to say noth-ing? Leaving the rest of us to believe that his silence meant consent. That, Mr. Speaker, is the OBA. Mr. Speaker, that then is completely different from the ideals of the Progressive Labour Party which amended legislation to provide better standards in our care homes, increased FutureCare prescription drug benefits. We introduced interest -free loans up to $15,000 for families who need to modify their homes. We continue to increase our stock of affordable houses. And today we are here to increase the pensions yet again. Mr. Speaker, that is the PLP. Mr. Speaker, notice we did not come here with excuses. We are here with results. We are keeping our promise. Seniors in this country will see a 4.1 per cent increase in their pensions. I have already heard from many seniors within my constituency, and they have expressed that they are grateful for the increase. They are appreciative that this Government is honouring its commitments. Mr. Speaker, I want to also say that I really hope that the Members of the OBA refrain from deval-uing and disrespecting the work of civil servants by questioning the competency in calculating the rate of inflation. And the reason I mention this is because quite often, quite often I have heard Members of the Opposition question the rate of inflation that is provided by those within the Department of Statistics. So I am glad that I got a chance to speak early in the [debate on this] Order because if that is their playbook , then I hope they go in a different direction, because it is in poor taste, poor form and a total lack of respect for the men and women within that department who take pride in their work and performance.
[Inaudible interjection]
Mr. Jache AdamsIt is certainly within their character. So, Mr. Speaker, if that is in their playbook, and that is why I got up early because I am trying to say if it is in their playbook, I suggest they come with actual facts and cite their sources. [Inaudible interjections ]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerLet the conversation flow this way. [Laughter]
Mr. Jache AdamsWe have got them riled up today, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I will switch gears for a second and just say that this Government also recognises the importance and the need for reform of our social insurance system and the public sector pension plan. We have not shunned away from …
We have got them riled up today, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I will switch gears for a second and just say that this Government also recognises the importance and the need for reform of our social insurance system and the public sector pension plan. We have not shunned away from the fact that they are underfunded. But we also have not shunned away from taking the responsibility of fixing it. We are not only proud of the fact that we are supporting the seniors of today by helping them maintain their standard of living, but we also need to begin the journey of supporting or providing the seniors of tomorrow to enjoy that same support. Mr. Speaker, I for one am pleased to know that the work on finalising the revision to the public pension system is well advanced. And l look forward to hearing more from the Premier on the path forward. Mr. Speaker, as part of that reform I also look forward to the Government’s addressing a s ignificant concern many of my constituents have expressed. And that is regarding the social insurance contributions. We quite rightly said that we were not elected to maintain the status quo. And the fact that in 2023 an entry -level employee is contributin g the same as the CEO is outdated and, quite frankly, unfair. Social insurance contributions based on a percentage of income, as the Premier said,
Bermuda House of Assembly is not a unique concept. This happens all around the world. And we take pride in soon putting forth an initiative that will allow many of our workers to increase their take- home pay while our pension fund is sustainable for decades to come. So finally, Mr. Speaker, the rising cost of living and the cost of doing business affect us all in different ways. I get th at at the end of the day the people of the country do not care about the reasons behind the rising costs. They do not care who is to blame. The only thing they really care about is, What is the Government doing about it? So to those I say that we have reduced payroll taxes for the majority of the workers and businesses in this country. We have increased funding for scholarships. We have eliminated land tax for nursing homes and charities. We have ensured that businesses i n the retail, restaurant and personal care sectors do not have to pay duty for their capital upgrades. We have revised the sugar tax so that many of those items that used to be subject to the tax are no longer subject to it. We have eliminated duty on the school uniforms, all school uniforms. We have introduced a mortgage guarantee programme where all public officers right now can transfer their mortgage and get a reduced mortgage rate. We have increased child day care allowance. We have implemented one of the highest minimum wages in the world. We have elim-inated duty on essential goods, and we are now keep-ing our promise yet again and increasing pension benefits for our seniors. So, Mr. Speaker, I will end by simply saying that we have a record of improv ing our fiscal performance and prudently managing and providing relief. We have managed that balance. And as I said last time, when you hear the Premier and Minister of Finance say that we have out -performed financial expectations, it is reasonable to take that as a sign that there is more relief to come. Thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, MP Adams. Premier, we have got two minutes before that time. Do you want to make that call now, or do you want to use up the two minutes? Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Knowing that I have a funeral [to attend], Mr. Speaker . . . But …
Thank you, MP Adams. Premier, we have got two minutes before that time. Do you want to make that call now, or do you want to use up the two minutes? Premier.
Hon. E. David Burt: Knowing that I have a funeral [to attend], Mr. Speaker . . . But I move that this Honourable House do now adjourn until 2:00 pm, for lunch.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Are there any objections to that? There are none. The House now stands adjourned until 2:00 pm. Proceedings suspended at 12:28 pm Proceedings resumed at 2: 01 pm [Hon. Dennis P. Lister, Jr., Speaker, in the Chair]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood afternoon, Members. I trust everyone had an enjoyable lunch and is ready to settle back in for the afternoon session. [Gavel]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThe House is now in session. MP Adams had finished. Who is speaking next? [Inaudible interjections] The S peaker: MP Adams had finished and we went to lunch, before anyone else got up. . . so— [Inaudible interjections]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAnyone else who would like to add to the contribution . . . make a contribution now? Minister Hayward. Hon. Jason Hayward: Good afternoon, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood afternoon. DRAFT ORDER CONTRIBUTORY PENSIONS (AMENDMENT OF BENEFITS) (NO. 2) ORDER 2023 [Continuation thereof] Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise and support the 4.1 per cent increase to the Social Insurance payments for our seniors. Mr. Speaker, our seniors are the most venerable, valuable members …
Good afternoon.
DRAFT ORDER
CONTRIBUTORY PENSIONS (AMENDMENT OF BENEFITS) (NO. 2) ORDER 2023
[Continuation thereof]
Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise and support the 4.1 per cent increase to the Social Insurance payments for our seniors. Mr. Speaker, our seniors are the most venerable, valuable members of our society. They have, over the years, contributed to the devel opment and well -being of our communities and overall, our country. These are individuals in our society, Mr. Speaker, that deserve respect. They deserve dignity. They deserve recognition for the roles and achievements that they have played promoting Bermuda to the gem that it is today. Mr. Speaker, our seniors are a group of individuals with a diverse set of needs, whether it be health issues, social inclusion or isolation issues, financial issues or discrimination faced by trying to remain or re-enter the workforce. Then there are some seniors who do not have any issues because I was reminded by a senior as I was canvassing and she said, I worked hard my whole life. I made sure that I prioritised my retirement and as a result of that I now live comfortable in my old age. The same joy of life that this senior experi-enced is the joy of life that we want all of our seniors [to] experience. We want them to be comfortable in their older ages. We cannot turn a blind eye to the reality that a government is measured by the way in which 1728 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly it takes c are of its most vulnerable. You see, MP Adams and the Premier alluded to the fact that the former Minister of Finance told seniors that money doesn’t grow on trees. But what that said to me, Mr. Speaker, is that they were not a priority at that time, because money was being spent in other areas. What we are saying as a Government is that our seniors are our priority and as a result, we will ensure that they get the Social Insurance uplifts that we promised. Mr. Speaker, thousands of seniors in our communi ty will benefit by the work that we are doing in this House today. And by extension, this means thousands of households and families within our country will benefit from the work that we are doing today. Mr. Speaker, they often say, Talk is cheap. But what this Government is actually doing is demonstrating in action our commitment to our seniors, those over the age of 65 in Bermuda. And this is a commitment to individuals who may or may not have contributed to the pension fund. You see, we have a non- contributory allowance despite one’s inability to provide contributions into that fund; those individuals are still entitled to benefits and will benefit from the uplifts that we provide here today. When I talk about this Government has had a commitment to o ur seniors, one just has to look at the initiatives that this Government has had in place. Mr. Speaker, I can [speak about] the initiatives from 1998 to now but time will not permit me. And as a result, I can [speak about] initiatives from 2017 until now and I still won’t have time to adequately explain to the popu-lation of Bermuda all of the work that this Government has done in support of our seniors. That has been one of the hallmarks of being a member of the Progressive Labour Party. The workers of this country, the children of this country and the seniors of this country have been our primary focus from day one. Yes, we have provided additional loans, interest-free loans through the Housing Corporation to allow seniors to repair their homes, demonstrati ng our commitment. We have demonstrated our commitment by increasing our funding to Age Concern to support their hardship support. We have demonstrated our commitment by increasing the grants to nursing homes in Ber-muda, to support those homes. Mr. Speaker , we give annual grants and then this year we even gave a supplementary grant to support those homes even further. We increased the retirement age for civil servants to the age of 68. It is a bad practice to believe or to support a notion that when once an individual goes to the age of 65, they are no longer useful in the workplace. And so we will encourage more organisations to follow in terms of retaining our able and qualified seniors who have ability [in] the workplace. We also increased prescription be nefits under FutureCare while reducing the cost of certain prescription medication. I cannot gloss over that this morning over a thousand seniors will benefit from the changes that we made to the table of allowable expenses. Hon. E. David Burt: Yes.
Hon. Jason Hayward: We have increased the allowance that they will receive for rent. We have increased disability allowance. We have increased fuel expenses. We have increased the amount of funds that we will provide to nursing home coverage. We have increased the amount of funds we will provide to rest home coverage. We have increased the amount of money our seniors will receive for electricity, for food, for their eye exams, for their podiatry appointments, their telephone fees, their water fees, and we have also introduced new benefits for mental health [care]. We do not just talk the talk, Mr. Speaker. This Government is actually walking the walk! And so a senior cannot say, They have increased my benefit by 4.1 per cent and now they are taking something f rom me on the back end. What we have actually done is increase your pension and, if you are eligible, we have also increased the allowances that FA recipients [Financial Assistance] would receive. And you would know, Mr. Speaker, that the majority of recipients on our Financial Assistance programme are seniors. Typically, if a senior comes on to Financial Assistance at the age of 65, they remain on [it] for the entirety of their senior life. And I have no problem as the Minister coming to this House and continually asking for funding and benefits that will support that portion of our population because we care about the well -being of our seniors. So much so [that] we have a Ministry responsible for social development and seniors. It is a primary focus of this particular Government. Mr. Speaker, as an MP, one of the events that we put on in the Pembroke constituencies on an annual basis is the Seniors Tea Party. I absolutely enjoy participating in that Tea Party and catering to our seniors. We talk about our young people as being the future, and when I speak with the seniors, I remind them that they are the foundation. They are the reason why a person like me can stand on the floor in the House of Assembly. It is the work that they have done, some of the sacrifices, some of the things that they had to endure. My granny went the age of 91, Mr. Speaker. When I go visit her, I can tell her that she can expect an increase in the amount of money [that] she receives on a monthly basis from the Government. I can no w walk downstairs and tell my mother, who is a senior, that she can also expect an increase. Both will respond and say Thank you. They appreciate the hard work that this Government does on their behalf. They appreciate being prioritised. Mr. Speaker, we recognise how pension plans work in terms of ensuring that they are sustainable. And I want to stick to the word “sustainable” rather than worrying about a position at a period of time, because the position in a period of time does not adequately tell the story. Some of those pension liabilities that were mentioned earlier are my liabilities. Based off of my contributions, I am due a benefit when I reach the age of 65.
Bermuda House of Assembly But I do not reach the age of 65 [until] 24 years from now which means if we just did a comparison about our current liabilities, we have a glide path, we have some time to get it right so that it is assured that when I reach the age of 65 there are sufficient funds in the pot. Every actuarial analysis has a date when a plan will run dry. It is the adjustments that you do to ensure that the plan remains sustainable. And there are things that can happen within your population, like having an increased number of workers.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMm-hmm. Hon. Jason Hayward: That can have huge benefit to the sustainability of that particular fund. The Premier and the Government have committed to ensuring that we make that fund more sustainable. It would be irresponsible for any Government to sit around and allow a pension plan to run out …
Mm-hmm.
Hon. Jason Hayward: That can have huge benefit to the sustainability of that particular fund. The Premier and the Government have committed to ensuring that we make that fund more sustainable. It would be irresponsible for any Government to sit around and allow a pension plan to run out of funds without doi ng anything. The Progressive Labour Party is not incompetent. We do care about our population. And if there is anything that can be said about this [Progressive Labour] Party, it is that we care about our seniors and the most vulnerable within our society, and we have demonstrated it through our actions. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. [Desk thumping]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMP Pearman. I see you are on your feet. Would you like to make a contribution at this time?
Mr. Scott PearmanI am mindful that the Honourable Premier has indicated that he has to go to a funeral for the Dismont family so I will keep my comments very quick a nd just add to what some of the primary speakers have said. Mr. Speaker, I rise because notwithstanding that Cup …
I am mindful that the Honourable Premier has indicated that he has to go to a funeral for the Dismont family so I will keep my comments very quick a nd just add to what some of the primary speakers have said. Mr. Speaker, I rise because notwithstanding that Cup Match is coming, we were being slightly silly about this debate earlier on, before lunch, with some joking. This really is not a topic for jok es because the parlous state of our public sector pensions is a signifi-cant problem. And the reality is that the partisan sniping does not really help. All politicians in every country across the world would love to give pension increases. The question is will they be able to do so and, if so, how much? But obviously all politicians would love to do that, particularly because they relate often to those at the longer end of the community —not the Minister who just took his seat, as we learned how young he is . But perhaps to those closer, if I may be so bold, Mr. Speaker, to your age.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMm-hmm. It’s a good age, good age.
Mr. Scott PearmanI am very pleased, very pleased to learn from the Premier that the actuarial report is coming. He said it wil l be tabled next session. But by that he means not the next sitting of the House — Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, the Honourable Member is misleading the House. I did not say the actuarial report. The actuarial reports are spelled out in law as to the times in which they are able to be tabled inside of this …
Point of order.
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, the Honourable Member is misleading the House. I did not say the actuarial report. The actuarial reports are spelled out in law as to the times in which they are able to be tabled inside of this House. I said that the reforms that we are bringing will be brought in the next session.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. That clarification —
Mr. Scott PearmanObviously, both the Bermudian public and this House in particular would greatly benefit from as much information as possible, and as soon as possible because this is a very serious issue. And I was merely going to say that when the Premier indicated that something would be tabled next session, …
Obviously, both the Bermudian public and this House in particular would greatly benefit from as much information as possible, and as soon as possible because this is a very serious issue. And I was merely going to say that when the Premier indicated that something would be tabled next session, he of course meant the next Parliamentary session and not the next sitting in September. But in the absence of that information, we do not actually know how bad the underfunding really is at this time. We have heard from the Opposition Leader —
Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: The Honourable Member is misleading the House. As a note, the Statement in which I gave we take from the actuarial reports which are tabled. It is inaccurate to say that we do not know the state of the …
Point of order.
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Hon. E. David Burt: The Honourable Member is misleading the House. As a note, the Statement in which I gave we take from the actuarial reports which are tabled. It is inaccurate to say that we do not know the state of the fund. Actuarial reports are submitted every three years, as per law. And if the Honourable Member has a question, specifically —I know the Opposition 1730 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly Leader submitted questions that we had answers to inside of the brief —I would be happy to answer them. But it is not correct to say we do not know.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPlease keep his comment in view. [Crosstalk]
Mr. Scott PearmanMr. Speaker, I am going to take longer if the Premier keeps interrupting me, but if he wants to get to his funeral I will try and be quick. Well, let’s be factual then. Let’s be factual. When the Premier addressed this House in the opening of this Order about …
Mr. Speaker, I am going to take longer if the Premier keeps interrupting me, but if he wants to get to his funeral I will try and be quick. Well, let’s be factual then. Let’s be factual. When the Premier addressed this House in the opening of this Order about the pension fund, he did not actually say how much of an underfunding there was. What he said was that there was $1.9 billion in the fund. He neglected to tell this Honourable House or the Bermudian public how much was actually missing from the fund. How much of an underfunding there is —
Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes, we will take your point of order. POINT OF ORDER [Imputing improper motive] Hon. E. David Burt: First of all, the Member is [imputing] improper motive because there are no funds miss-ing from anything. So let’s start there. Secondly, I went through great lengths in my brief to outline …
Yes, we will take your point of order.
POINT OF ORDER [Imputing improper motive]
Hon. E. David Burt: First of all, the Member is [imputing] improper motive because there are no funds miss-ing from anything. So let’s start there. Secondly, I went through great lengths in my brief to outline the difference, as the Honourable Minis-ter who just took his seat, to outline the difference be-tween liabilities that will accrue in the future for persons like myself and others who will still pay for the fund versus the monies paid. And I gave the amount of monies that were there and said if everyone stopped paying how long it would take to deplete the fund. Those were the things which I said in my comments, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMm-hmm. [Inaudible interjections]
Mr. Scott PearmanFirstly, there is no . . . I’m sorry. The Premier did not indicate the shortfall in the pension fund which we know from the Auditor General’s report, as quoted by the Opposition Leader to be in the region of $3 billion. So there is money —a $3 billion — …
Mr. Scott Pearman—shortfall in our pension fund. Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker. The Speaker: Point of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: The Honourable Member is misleading the House again. I went through this at length in my Statement. When the person talks about . …
—shortfall in our pension fund.
Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker. The Speaker: Point of order.
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Hon. E. David Burt: The Honourable Member is misleading the House again. I went through this at length in my Statement. When the person talks about . . . the Honourable Member talks about shortfall. These have to be looked at from an actuarial standpoint to a sustainability standpoint which the Honourable Member said. And again, any pension fund would be short if you were s aying all these people in the world, if we stopped paying . . . if everyone stops giving money now, and you have to pay out all those persons in the future, that is . . . that is the way it is done actuarially. We understand that. But we are focused on the fund’s sustainability. So the Honourable Member is misleading the House, trying to get a headline that says Pension fund is $3 billion short. It is not correct. There is a difference between the value of the fund, the money and the assets of which it has , how much of that fund has to be paid out, and you have to take into account the money that is coming into the fund in the future, which is what actuarial analysis do not do. We are focused on sustainability. That is the work of which we are dealing with.
Mr. Scott PearmanA pension fund, Mr. Speaker, is an obligation to meet promises to people when they reach the ability to take those promises. It is a promise to pay a certain amount of money to a certain fixed amount of people at certain fixed dates when they fall due. So, yes, …
A pension fund, Mr. Speaker, is an obligation to meet promises to people when they reach the ability to take those promises. It is a promise to pay a certain amount of money to a certain fixed amount of people at certain fixed dates when they fall due. So, yes, we know what it will cost to pay the pensioners of Bermuda. And yes, we know that we do not have the money in the fund to do that. Now, the Premier is right to say that there will be continuing payments into the fund. But the Premier is quite wrong to say there is no shortfall in the fund. [Inaudible interjection]
Mr. Scott PearmanAnd let me try and break this down with an easy example. [Inaudible interjection]
Mr. Scott PearmanI will give an example. And I have been asked by the Honourable MP for constituency 26 to give an example, so I will. So here is an example: My credit card bill that I have to pay off is $15,000. Yes, next week I will still be working and …
I will give an example. And I have been asked by the Honourable MP for constituency 26 to give an example, so I will. So here is an example: My credit card bill that I have to pay off is $15,000. Yes, next week I will still be working and I will have a salary and so I will have some money in my pocket to pay down part of that
Bermuda House of Assembly $15,000 credit card bill. But that $15,000 credit card bill still exists. It does not disappear because of the fact that I may well keep working and earning money — Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Scott Pearman—there is an obligation to pay it. It is a contingent debt. Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: The comparison! The Honourable and Learned Member should probably stick to the law instead of finance because the comparison of which he is making is patently ridiculous in this particular circumstance. That is money that is spent; not money …
Point of order.
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: The comparison! The Honourable and Learned Member should probably stick to the law instead of finance because the comparison of which he is making is patently ridiculous in this particular circumstance. That is money that is spent; not money that wi ll accrue in the future. That is what pension liabilities are measuring. Things that will accrue in the future without taking into account things that will benefit and be a part of those benefits, and he knows this. He is deliberately misleading the House.
The SpeakerThe Speaker[INAUDIBLE] POINT OF ORDER [Imputing improper motive]
Mr. Scott PearmanThe Premier is [imputing] improper motive. It is incorrect to say that I know that he is righ t and that I know that I am wrong, and I am nonetheless saying what I am saying. And the Bermudian public will judge on whether what I am saying makes sense …
Mr. Scott PearmanAnd the point I am making is that a pension fund is an obligation to pay money to people who have paid into it. And it is a debt that is a contingent liability and it is due. There comes a time when a pensioner is going to say I …
And the point I am making is that a pension fund is an obligation to pay money to people who have paid into it. And it is a debt that is a contingent liability and it is due. There comes a time when a pensioner is going to say I get my money. There are a certain fixed number of pensioners and they grow as people get older. Depending on the lifespan of various people in the population, those obligations either increase or decrease. Now, we have the Auditor General’s report. We have the figures that the Opposition Leader has pre-sented to this House.
[Inaudible interjection] Mr. Scott Pearman: And there is a $3 billion shortfall.
Hon. E. David Burt: Where is the report?
Mr. Scott PearmanAnd those figures . . . and the Premier is chirping in from the side asking me, Where is the report? I believe he said that he will be filing reports in the next session and the actuarial report will be tabled every three years as a statutory obligation. Now, …
And those figures . . . and the Premier is chirping in from the side asking me, Where is the report? I believe he said that he will be filing reports in the next session and the actuarial report will be tabled every three years as a statutory obligation. Now, he can keep chirping — Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker. The Honourable Member is misleading the House. The Leader of the Opposition was not referring to an Auditor General’s report. He was reading from a Royal Gazette op-ed, which may have been referencing said …
Point of order.
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker. The Honourable Member is misleading the House. The Leader of the Opposition was not referring to an Auditor General’s report. He was reading from a Royal Gazette op-ed, which may have been referencing said report. So if the Ho nourable Member is going to speak about a report, he should say specifically to which report he is—
Mr. Scott PearmanPoint of order, Mr. Speaker. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Point of order.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. Who is going to give the point of order?
Mr. Scott PearmanI will defer to the Opposition Leader. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: The Premier is misleading the House. I was referring to the actuarial reports produced by — [Crosstalk] Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: —produced by LifeWorks, Mr. Speaker. [Crosstalk] Hon. E. David Burt: That has …
I will defer to the Opposition Leader.
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: The Premier is misleading the House. I was referring to the actuarial reports produced by — [Crosstalk]
Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: —produced by LifeWorks, Mr. Speaker.
[Crosstalk] Hon. E. David Burt: That has no criticism from the Auditor General. See, he is confused —
Mr. Scott PearmanSo, I am grateful that the Premier has sat down. His point of order was of course incorrect because I am holding in my hand the actuarial review. [Inaudible interjections] 1732 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. Scott Pearman: So the suggestion both that I …
So, I am grateful that the Premier has sat down. His point of order was of course incorrect because I am holding in my hand the actuarial review.
[Inaudible interjections] 1732 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. Scott Pearman: So the suggestion both that I was incorrect and the suggestion that he [imputed] an improper motive on my part, should be withdrawn— [Crosstalk]
Mr. Scott PearmanBut I am trying to move on because there is a funeral coming. [Crosstalk]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerIs it the review or is it the report?
Mr. Scott PearmanIt is the actuarial review of Contributory Pension Fund. Bermuda as of the 1 st of August.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerBut is the review the report? That is the question. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Scott PearmanNo; it is the review. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That is what I was objecting to. [Crosstalk]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSo it is not the report. [Crosstalk]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSo it is not the report then. Hon. E. David Burt: Get it right!
The SpeakerThe SpeakerIt is the review of the report, but it is not the report.
Mr. Scott PearmanI know that the Premier is doing a wonderful job— [Laughter and desk thumping]
Mr. Scott Pearman—in trying to get the House— Hon. Zane J . S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, is he talking to you? [General uproar and l aughter]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerJust . . . come on, sit down; talk to me. Talk to me. [Laughter]
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberFocus, focus! [Laughter]
Mr. Scott Pearman—that this House is erupting in laughter when we have a $3 billion shortfall in our public pension.
Some Hon. Members Some Hon. MembersOoh. Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: I have corrected the Honourable Member on numerous times, and it is inaccurate to say that we have a $3 billion shortfall.
Mr. Scott PearmanHow much is it then? Hon. E. David Burt: I continue to state the facts that when you are referring to actuarial analysis it is taking into account liabilities that will accrue and become due in the future without taking access or knowledge or into account of contributions that will …
How much is it then?
Hon. E. David Burt: I continue to state the facts that when you are referring to actuarial analysis it is taking into account liabilities that will accrue and become due in the future without taking access or knowledge or into account of contributions that will go in. I told the Honourable Member the date that the fund is expected to be depleted if there are no changes, 2044, as I mentioned inside of my brief. I am not entirely certain why the Honourable Member continues to say that there is this shortfall. He can say that the difference between the future liabilities and the current assets are “X.” He cannot say that there is a shortfall. They are materially different.
Mr. Scott PearmanThe fact, Mr. Speaker, that this Premier said that I can say the difference between the future liabilities and the current assets, and not describe that difference as a shortfall, is absolutely mis-leading. The reality is that it is a shortfall. It is circ a $3 billion. And the fact …
The fact, Mr. Speaker, that this Premier said that I can say the difference between the future liabilities and the current assets, and not describe that difference as a shortfall, is absolutely mis-leading. The reality is that it is a shortfall. It is circ a $3 billion. And the fact that there may be monies coming into that fund and will be monies coming into that fund from social contributors —social insurance contributions —does not eliminate or erase that shortfall. The question is, will the monies as they come through for the people who are in the fund, sustain the fund? And I am afraid at the moment the answer is no.
Bermuda House of Assembly [Inaudible interjection]
Mr. Scott PearmanSo, Mr. Speaker, those are my expressions of concern on this area. [Inaudible interjections]
Mr. Scott PearmanI note that there are some people chirping in from the background. I am not sure that it is necessarily helpful. I do not think the Bermudian public is going to appreciate that we are not treating this issue with the seriousness that it deserves.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerI think they are asking questions.
Mr. Scott PearmanLet me say this, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to hear that the Government is, apparently, according to what the Premier has told this Honourable House, making progress in pension reform, because we welcome that. And we need to have it. And both the Government and the Opposition and former …
Let me say this, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to hear that the Government is, apparently, according to what the Premier has told this Honourable House, making progress in pension reform, because we welcome that. And we need to have it. And both the Government and the Opposition and former govern-ments and future governments are going to be held accountable for this issue. Not just by voters but by all Bermudians, and indeed, the future Bermudians who need to rely on this pension fund. So, I do respectfully suggest that we deal with it a little bit more seriously, that we stop playing games, that we stop trying to point to good numbers so we do not have to talk about bad numbers. [Inaudible interjections]
Mr. Scott PearmanAnd we realise . . . I hear the chirping coming from behind me.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerJust address me. You will be okay.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerJust address the Chair. You will be all right.
Mr. Scott PearmanWhen they say, What are you talking about? There is no problem . . . if there is no problem, why is the PLP Government progressing pension reform? The answer, Mr. Speaker, to my question is that they are progressing pension reform because it is much needed. Because otherwise there …
When they say, What are you talking about? There is no problem . . . if there is no problem, why is the PLP Government progressing pension reform? The answer, Mr. Speaker, to my question is that they are progressing pension reform because it is much needed. Because otherwise there will be people there who will have the handout that is needed, and they will not get it because the money will not be in the fund. So that is why pension reform is being progressed. And I would like to see it dealt with in a bipar-tisan way because—
[Laughter] Mr. Scott Pearman: —all of us are responsible for dealing with this. Now the Premier is now laughing at that suggestion. [Inaudible interjections]
Mr. Scott PearmanHe is laughing in this Honourable House at the suggestion— [Inaudible interjections]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMembers! Members. Let him talk. Let him talk.
Mr. Scott Pearman—because . . . I will tell you this. When pension reform is addressed, if it is addressed with any degree of seriousness, it is going to require all of us to persuade the Bermudian public that this reform is necessary because it is not going to be welcomed. [Inaudible …
Mr. Scott PearmanThat reform is not going to be welcomed because you have to find the shortfall —the $3 billion shortfall —somewhere. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerDoes any other Member wish to make a contribution? Thank you, Member, for your contribution. Does any other Member . . . MP De Silva. [Crosstalk] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Just . . . just . . . you just take it easy. Now, Mr. Speaker, let me …
Does any other Member wish to make a contribution? Thank you, Member, for your contribution. Does any other Member . . . MP De Silva. [Crosstalk] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Just . . . just . . . you just take it easy. Now, Mr. Speaker, let me start off here. All right? When was this pension fund star ted? Does anybody know? [Inaudible interjections]
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Decades ago, wasn’t it, Mr. Speaker?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Now tell me something. When it was started, how much money was in the pot? [Inaudible interjection] 1734 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: How much money? So it was unfunded from the …
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberCorrect.
Mr. Scott PearmanBecause it did not exist. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Okay. Unfunded from the very beginning. Why is that? Maybe rocket science law-yer over there, the Honourable Member, might be able to tell us.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerNow, now . . . direct it properly. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Right?
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberThat’s a bit personal.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerDirect it properly. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Thank you. Thank you. So, Mr. Speaker, you see that . . . that . . . maybe . . . because I hear the Opposition complaining. I have not heard one suggestion yet. Well, I have got one for you. …
Direct it properly.
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Thank you. Thank you. So, Mr. Speaker, you see that . . . that . . . maybe . . . because I hear the Opposition complaining. I have not heard one suggestion yet. Well, I have got one for you. Maybe what we should do is, this Govern-ment should maybe look at all the trust funds babies in this country —
Some Hon. Members Some Hon. MembersUh-oh! Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: —and how much money is in the coffers, and where it came from, and maybe we could make up $3 billion then and put it in the pot. I bet you that fund ain’t got no worries about running out. [Inaudible interjections] Hon. …
Uh-oh! Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: —and how much money is in the coffers, and where it came from, and maybe we could make up $3 billion then and put it in the pot. I bet you that fund ain’t got no worries about running out.
[Inaudible interjections]
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I would do it. [Inaudible interjections] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: And the Honourable Member Cannonier says, We won’ t do it. I tell you what — [Inaudible interjections]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMembers, let him talk to the Chair. Let him talk to the Chair. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: The Honourable Member says that we won’t do it.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerLet him talk to the Chair. Hon. Z ane J. S. De Silva: But I will tell you what. Maybe it needs to have a good looking at. Maybe it is part of that reform that the Honourable Member was talking about. Maybe that needs to be part of it. …
Let him talk to the Chair.
Hon. Z ane J. S. De Silva: But I will tell you what. Maybe it needs to have a good looking at. Maybe it is part of that reform that the Honourable Member was talking about. Maybe that needs to be part of it. Maybe certain law firms that are part of trust funds an d trust fund babies from hundreds of years ago from the beginning need to be looked at. Maybe they could contribute to this fund.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberThey ain’t saying nothing now.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberKeep talking. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: You know, sometimes things are better left a little quiet for a second or two.
Mr. L. Craig CannonierSolve our problems. Solve our problems. Come on. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Oh, we are solving the problems. —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerJust speak to the Chair. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: —Yes, we are. —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerDon’t get caught up in the side conversations. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: And the Honourable Member Pearman—
The SpeakerThe SpeakerJust direct it to me. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: —one of those trust fund babies —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerJust speak here. Speak this way. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: The Honourable Member Pearman, right?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSpeak this way. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: He said Solve the problem. We are solving problems. They had almost five years to jump into this problem, but they did nothing. They told our seniors that there was no money left.
An Hon. Member An Hon. Member[It was] 1998 when you started. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: What did they say? Oh, money doesn’t grow on trees. But wait a minute. They found $1.5 million for a commission of inquiry. They found $40 million for Cross Island. They found $100 million for the America’s Cup. …
[It was] 1998 when you started.
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: What did they say? Oh, money doesn’t grow on trees. But wait a minute. They found $1.5 million for a commission of inquiry. They found $40 million for Cross Island. They found $100 million for the America’s Cup. But seniors, we have nothing for you! Hon. E. David Burt: Aah!
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: We have nothing for you. [There was] $18 million at the Corporation of Hamilton. And the list goes on.
Bermuda House of Assembly An Hon. Member: They got an increase.
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: So, let’s put things in perspective. Right?
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberPlease do. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: As I say, that Honourable Member, who seems to have a problem with mathe-matics (to me) — [Laughter] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I mean, it is not hard mathematics, Mr. Speaker.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberIt is simple maths, too. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: It is like I said, when this thing started, there was not $3 billion in the pot. It had to be built up. And I will tell you what. There will come a time when we do have to …
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberYes, there will. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes, yes, there will. And guess what?
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberWhat? Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: It might be through three, four, five different governments by the time we are gone, Mr. Speaker, because we are on the other side, you and me. Right? And guess what? The other thing is that I look at this like a mortgage. …
What?
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: It might be through three, four, five different governments by the time we are gone, Mr. Speaker, because we are on the other side, you and me. Right? And guess what? The other thing is that I look at this like a mortgage. I have a mortgage, Mr. Speaker, right now. Guess what? It will not be paid off in my lifetime. And I have done the maths. It will not be paid off in my children’s lifetime. But wait a minute! Maybe I should get rid of the . . . get rid of the . . .
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberWhat? Hon. Zane J. S . De Silva: Get rid of that piece of property.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberWhat? What are you talking about? Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Oh! See! That one got his attention. But you see what I am saying, Mr. Speaker? I am not worried about that because I know in the future that mortgage will be funded. It will be paid. And …
What? What are you talking about?
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Oh! See! That one got his attention. But you see what I am saying, Mr. Speaker? I am not worried about that because I know in the future that mortgage will be funded. It will be paid. And as for that credit card example— [Laughter]
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: That Honourable Member will never have to worry about paying the minimum. I assure you, he will pay that thing in full every month. [Laughter]
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Because he has got the money.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWell, just speak to the Chair. Don’t get sidetracked on the personal note. Don’t get sidetracked personally. [Inaudible interjections] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, I am not getting personal. He brought up the example. Right? [Inaudible interjections]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerHe did not use himself, though. He did not use himself. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: —and said when the minimum is due, you pay the minimum, he said.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Well, as you [know], not everybody pays the minimum. Some people have the money to pay off their card in full each month. And he is one of those; I can assure you. I am sure he is not paying any 20 per …
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberStill have your bank account. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: So, Mr. Speaker, let me say this. Let me finish on this note, because I know the Premier wants to go and he has got a very important engagement to go to. I am going to finish here. This …
Still have your bank account.
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: So, Mr. Speaker, let me say this. Let me finish on this note, because I know the Premier wants to go and he has got a very important engagement to go to. I am going to finish here. This Government promised when we won the government that we would not leave our seniors behind. And for the Honourable Member Pearman to say that Oh, we have got to stop joking. It’s [not] a laughing matter. It is a laughing [matter] when you don’t understand it, to us. But trust me. Our seniors know that we are not laughing. B ecause we have shown that we are looking after them. And we will continue to look after them. We made a promise and we have kept it. And every year since we have been in power, we have taken care of our seniors with an increase, along with some other things. Look at the great legislation that Minister Hayward brought just recently with childcare allowance and whatnot. That is a caring Government, Mr. Speaker. That is what we are. And they can make all the noise they want, because you know what? The people of this country . . . that is why they put us in here 30 to 6. They have confidence in us. And I have confidence in us. And you know what, Mr. Speaker? They will continue 1736 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly to vote [for] us as long as we do not forget them. And we will not! We will never te ll them that money does not grow on trees. We will tell them that we will look after them as we promised we would. Thank you.
[Desk thumping]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Member. Does any other . . . MP Cannonier.
Mr. L. Craig CannonierThank you, Mr. Speaker. I think the challenge that the fund has, at the end of the day, [is that] we have a dwindling population. And we need to find a solution to this here. If you take the forecast of our population and our contributors to the fund, it …
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think the challenge that the fund has, at the end of the day, [is that] we have a dwindling population. And we need to find a solution to this here. If you take the forecast of our population and our contributors to the fund, it will continue to decline and that means it will continue to compound the challenges that the fund will have. So I will just take two more minutes to say [that] we need to concentrate in on what is going to be the solution here. Because certainly growing the population has become a massive, massive challenge for Bermuda. It is around the world, for that matter. But we have not gotten a solution to that yet. And until we—and I am hearing Yes, we do. And our population continues to decline, so—
[Inaudible interjection]
Mr. L. Craig Cannonier—you know, it is pretty pathetic. If we want to go at it here, the stats are showing that our population is declining.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberWhich ones?
Mr. L. Craig CannonierYes, which ones? Probably the ones that you are not speaking to. The S peaker: Just direct it here. [Inaudible interjections]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerDirect your comments here. Don’t get caught — [Crosstalk]
Mr. L. Craig CannonierSo that kind of interpolation of “what stats?”, the fact is that the seniors have grown and the population of Bermuda is declining at a rate that is not sustainable for the fund or other things. For the economy —period. So if the PLP Government wants to stick their head …
So that kind of interpolation of “what stats?”, the fact is that the seniors have grown and the population of Bermuda is declining at a rate that is not sustainable for the fund or other things. For the economy —period. So if the PLP Government wants to stick their head in the sand on that particular issue, that is on them. The whole [of] Bermuda knows this. They are feeling it. [Inaudible interjections]
Mr. L. Craig CannonierThey are feeling it. So, you know, we need to come to a solution to this here. We can go back and forth over whether we feel this $3 billion is fundable or not. It is an ongoing concern. But what we need to hear is what the Government plans …
They are feeling it. So, you know, we need to come to a solution to this here. We can go back and forth over whether we feel this $3 billion is fundable or not. It is an ongoing concern. But what we need to hear is what the Government plans on doing. Until we get to 2044 . . . what is it? [Is it] 2044 or 2045? Whatever that year is, we need to know what is going to happen.
Mr. L. Craig CannonierSo, you know, we do not need to . . . we need to hear from them. They are the Government! They need to show up with a plan on what they are going to do. They continue to say, Oh, well, the people of Bermuda are going to continue …
So, you know, we do not need to . . . we need to hear from them. They are the Government! They need to show up with a plan on what they are going to do. They continue to say, Oh, well, the people of Bermuda are going to continue to vote for us. Well, if they are going to continue to vote for them, tell them exactly what you are going to do about that pension fund. Tell them exactly how you are going to fund it. Any other interpolation, any other approach to this here is futile because we need a s olution to that. That is all we need.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberWe have one.
Mr. L. Craig CannonierAnd I am hearing, We have one. But no one is hearing it. No one is hearing it! [Inaudible interjections]
Mr. L. Craig CannonierAnd one of those major, major, major contributions to that is population growth. It is not happening under this Government. Let’s get a solution! Bermuda House of Assembly The Speaker: Thank you. Does any other . . . MP Simmons. You have your—
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMembers, I want to hear MP Simmons. I need to hear MP Simmons.
Mr. Jamahl S. SimmonsI . . . I . . . I really have some flashbacks to Opposition. And I th ink that it is very important that we reassure not just our seniors but the future generations that the fund will be in good hands. Because, Mr. Speaker, what we are expected …
I . . . I . . . I really have some flashbacks to Opposition. And I th ink that it is very important that we reassure not just our seniors but the future generations that the fund will be in good hands. Because, Mr. Speaker, what we are expected to believe today by some of the things that have been said and the way they have been said is that we just simply do not care about the safety and security of the pension. That is really what is being said, that we just —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER
Mr. L. Craig C annonierCertainly I have not intimated to that point at all. And I have not heard that from any-one else. We all know that . . . well, we are all concerned about the seniors which is why we are looking for a solution.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSpeak to the Chair. Speak to the Chair.
Mr. L. Craig CannonierPoint of order, Mr. Speaker. The Honourable Member is misleading the House.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMm-hmm. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Mr. L. Craig CannonierI am not sure what implication he is talking about. Maybe he can clarify himself. But no one has imp licated that anyone does not care about senior citizens. [Inaudible interjections]
Mr. Jamahl S. SimmonsI think the Honourable Member might be making my point for us. Because if we care about our seniors and we care about future generations of seniors , then of course we will protect the fund.
Mr. Jamahl S. SimmonsAnd I think it is very important . . . and he says, How? As the Premier has laid out —
Mr. Jamahl S. SimmonsIt is coming. Another Hon. Member: It is coming. Hon. Jamahl S. Simmons: Mr. Speaker, I think these guys . . . you know, it is the last day, and I recognise the Opposition gets a little excited because they do not have much time, anymore Fridays to come and …
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberCall an election.
Mr. Jamahl S. SimmonsLet’s be clear, though. Let’s be clear. I don’t think you all . . . do you all really, really want —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerDon’t get sidetracked, gentlemen. [Laughter]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWait! Wait! Wait! Don’t get sidetrack ed!
The SpeakerThe SpeakerNo, no, no, no. Come forward, go on. 1738 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. Jamahl S. Simmons: The man who couldn’t produce a full slate of candidates — [Laughter and desk thumping]
Mr. Jamahl S. Simmons—wants us to call an election! [General uproar and desk thumping]
Mr. Jamahl S. SimmonsWhat I am saying is this, right, and I think this is an important conversation to have because I think both sides recognise that the pension must be secured. Let’s establish that.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberThere you go.
Mr. Jamahl S. SimmonsWe agree. Both sides agree. What we do not agree on is the language they have chosen to talk about it. And the inadvertent (perhaps) attempt to scare people about the future. [Inaudible interjections]
Mr. Jamahl S. SimmonsPerhaps unintentionally. But I think the thing that I want to start with is to say that the pension will be secure because we care about our seniors, not just for today, but for tomorrow. And I think that is something that cannot be stressed enough. And I am saying …
Perhaps unintentionally. But I think the thing that I want to start with is to say that the pension will be secure because we care about our seniors, not just for today, but for tomorrow. And I think that is something that cannot be stressed enough. And I am saying that unambiguously. I am not going to play games with words. It is clear. I am not at pension age yet. Do you think I am going to sit up here and not get my pension because we don’t know what we are doing? Do you think I want to have my children not get theirs? So let’s be clear. The intention [of the PLP Government] is to make sure that this is preserved. Now, we have heard a lot today about how much we value our seniors from this side of the House. And we have heard a lot about the work that h as been done to preserve and protect our seniors. And for our young people, they may ask, Well, okay, you are taking care of the seniors. What does this have to do with me? Notwithstanding the Youth Development Strategy, not-withstanding the different progr ammes in place, the increase in summer students and internships, but where increasing the pensions is a benefit to our younger people is that it is slightly reducing the burden on you to care for your parents and give them some help in the cost of living. It gives them some help to be able to provide for themselves. It is not a lot. We recognise that. But we do recognise in this economy and in every economy, every little bit helps. And that is important. And to have kept this consistent —consistent —support, is laudable. I think it should be praised and be lauded because it has been something. You know, Mr. Speaker, what a lot of people do not realise? We often talk about things like financial assistance. And the biggest group on financial assistance is [who ]?
Some Hon. Members Some Hon. MembersSeniors.
Mr. Jamahl S. SimmonsSeniors. And do we know why seniors are the biggest group? Because many of them did not have the advantage of being able to participate in a pension scheme.
Mr. Jamahl S. Simm onsMany of them did not have the opportunity to be able to benefit from a pension scheme. Some had deductions taken [but they were] never paid into the pension scheme.
Mr. Jamahl S. SimmonsSo understand, there is a legacy that is primed to be addressed by providing these regular increases. But also, and speaking to our younger, non- pension- age folks as well, if you are getting money deducted from your pay cheque for your pension, remain vigilant. Because some folks are not …
So understand, there is a legacy that is primed to be addressed by providing these regular increases. But also, and speaking to our younger, non- pension- age folks as well, if you are getting money deducted from your pay cheque for your pension, remain vigilant. Because some folks are not doing w hat they are supposed to. And what we do not want is for you to be in a position where so many of our seniors are where when the time goes the amount is not what it should be. I think that is a very important point to raise. Mr. Speaker, I also want to say, as I wrap up, that we demonstrate by words and action our commitment to our seniors. The list is pages and pages and pages of what we have done. And this is the great part, Mr. Speaker. We are not content to stop there. We are not content just to sit on what has been done because we are in the what -have- you-done- for-me-lately business, Mr. Speaker. So, we will continue to push and advocate for our seniors, our young people, and everybody who calls Bermuda home. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Bermuda House of Assembly The Speaker: Thank you, MP Simmons. Premier, you had a spring in that Chair that time. I assume no one else wants to speak, Premier. You have the floor.
Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I have a . . . how would I say? I have an unfortunate ritual that I listen to, that I engage in, and this is typically on Wednesdays at 8:00 am Bermuda time, which equates to Wednesdays at 12:00 pm UK time , I listen to the House of Commons and the Leader of the Opposition questioning the Prime Minister of the Uni ted Kingdom. And there was a very funny statement that was said by the Prime Minister. I am going to repeat it to the Opposition. And it is very simple. It says, Will you please unstick yourselves from the fence?
[Inaudible interjections]
Hon. E. David Burt: Just unstick yourselves. Because it is either you are for the pension increase or you are against the pension increase.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberWe are for it. Hon. E. David Burt: Take your choice. Know this: They say they are for it. You would have never guessed that from any of their contributions, Mr. Speaker. Never, ever guessed it! [Inaudible interjections]
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberPlease! Hon. E. David Burt: No one said they support, no one said this. They went into question —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Mr. Scott PearmanThe Premier, perhaps inadvertently, is misleading the House. The Opposition Leader said expressly that we were supporting this. Thank you, very much. Hon. E. David Burt: I am happy that this is now confirmed, Mr. Speaker, because anyone listening who did not hear that would have been completely lost. But …
The Premier, perhaps inadvertently, is misleading the House. The Opposition Leader said expressly that we were supporting this. Thank you, very much.
Hon. E. David Burt: I am happy that this is now confirmed, Mr. Speaker, because anyone listening who did not hear that would have been completely lost. But here is the thing. Their statements ––despite the fact that they say they support it ––their statements and conversations and (how would I say?) scaremongering show where their heart is. [They] show the reason why when the Honourable Member from [constituency] 10, and the Honourable Opposition Leader and the Honourable former Premier were in Cabinet, they would not give seniors a pension increase. And it was not until election year in 2017 that they finally decided to say, Well, an election is coming up. Let us go ahead and do a pen-sion increase. [Inaudible interjections]
Hon. E. David Burt: Meanwhile . . . see? They go with an election is coming up. Guess what, Mr. Speaker? They are going to say an elect ion is coming up every single time we come to this House because every single time we come to this House we will deliver on our election manifesto, which is precisely what it is that we are doing today. Precisely! Now, let’s be very clear. I said inside of my comments what we will be doing to fix the fund. But we hear from the Honourable Members opposite, They won’t tell us what they are doing. I am going to repeat. There are only three options. Reduce benefits, increase contributions, or increase the retirement age. And as I said, there will a combination of all. But I am happy to hear that Honourable Members opposite say, We will support the Government in this. Guess what, Mr. Speaker? When that debate comes, trus t and believe they will not be able to unstick themselves from the fence. But let’s be clear. We —we, as we have demonstrated in the past —will make the decisions which are necessary to take care of the sen-iors today, and the seniors in the future, Mr. Speak er. That is what we will do. I repeat, as I close, for all the persons listening, all the persons who will be listening, there is a difference in approach between the parties of this country when it comes to dealing with issues of senior citizens. One pension increase by the party opposite, in 55 months. And today, Mr. Speaker, this Government will be delivering its fifth, ensuring that our seniors’ pensions, those persons on disability, their pensions will keep up with the rates of inflation. That is what we told the electorate we would do in 2017. That is what the electorate voted for us to do in 2017 and that is what we will deliver and that is what we will continue to deliver. And as I said, Mr. Speaker, if keeping our promises comes to the fact that t he Opposition will accuse us of getting ready for an election, then so be it! Because we will keep our promises every single day we come to this House. With that, Mr. Speaker, I move that the said draft Order be approved and a suitable message be sent to H er Excellency the Governor.
The SpeakerThe Speaker[Are there any] objections to that? The appropriate message will be sent and delivered. [Motion carried: Contributory Pensions (Amendment of Benefits) (No. 2) Order 2023 was approved.] 1740 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly The Speaker: Members, this brings us to a close of the items …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThat brings us to a close of [Order] No. 2. We will now go to [Order] No. 1. Deputy Premier, are you going to introduce this one for us? Hon. Walter H. Rob an: Yes, Mr. Speaker, I am introducing this matter on behalf of the Premier and Minister of …
That brings us to a close of [Order] No. 2. We will now go to [Order] No. 1. Deputy Premier, are you going to introduce this one for us? Hon. Walter H. Rob an: Yes, Mr. Speaker, I am introducing this matter on behalf of the Premier and Minister of Finance. I move that the Bill entitled the Investment Funds Amendment Act 2023 be now read a second time.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAny objections? There are none. Continue, Deputy Premier. BILL SECOND READING INVESTMENT FUNDS AMENDMENT ACT 2023 Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to present the Bill entitled the Investment Funds Amendment Act 2023. The purpose of this Bill is to amend the Investment Funds Act …
Any objections? There are none. Continue, Deputy Premier.
BILL
SECOND READING
INVESTMENT FUNDS AMENDMENT ACT 2023 Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to present the Bill entitled the Investment Funds Amendment Act 2023. The purpose of this Bill is to amend the Investment Funds Act 2006 to provide the following: • to clarify the obligations of operators of an investment fund; • to extend the use of late fees for non- compliance by operators of an investment fund with certain strict requirements of the Act or associ-ated rules; • to provide for extensions to certain filings to be made by the investment fund in line with the manner in which other financial sectors are regulated for such matters; • to extend the range of directions the Authority may issue in relevant circumst ances; • to require appointed auditors to communicate certain matters to the Authority and to introduce housekeeping updates.
Mr. Speaker, Bermuda’s financial sector is subject to the regulation and supervision of the Bermuda Monetary Authority [BMA]. The Authority was established in 1969 under the Bermuda Monetary Authority Act 1969. The Authority is authorised to act as an advisor t o the Minister of Finance on policy matters related to any financial institution. Accordingly, the Authority proposes laws where it can do so appropriately and consistently with its function under the BMA Act. Additionally, the Act provides the Authority with substantive licensing supervision and intervention powers to regulate the investment funds industry in Bermuda. Mr. Speaker, the House would be aware that the Authority is a member of the International Organi-sation of Securities Commissions, known as IOSCO . Mr. Speaker, for members of the public who may not be aware, IOSCO is an association of organisations that regulate the world’s securities and futures markets. And the IOSCO core principles underpin the funds regime here in Bermuda. Mr. Speaker, core principle 11, setting expectations for enforcement of securities r egulation prescribes that regulators should have comprehensive enforcement powers. The core principle suggests the enforcement powers should be broad enough to cover the range of regulatory breaches that may occur. The enforcement powers that are currently stated in the Act tend to prioritise several breaches such as those that will likely cause the Authority to petition the courts to wind up the non- compliant fund. However, as previously stated, the enhanced supervisory powers in the proposed amendments strengthen the Authority’s ability to take targeted, corrective action that is proportionate to the nature of the breach identified. Such breaches may not, in isolation, be severe enough to warrant winding up, but do require some lengthy regulatory intervent ion such as the imposition of a late fee or the nuisance of a direction to facilitate compliance. Mr. Speaker, key highlights of the amendments are as follows: • The Authority’s powers to issue directions to an investment fund will be expanded by granting the Authority a power to issue directions to authorised designated and registered funds, similar to the powers it exercises in relation to other regulated entities. • Provisions for filing extensions will be included within the Act to allow a fund to apply for an extension to the timeframe for filing in its annual certification. • Late fees will be introduced which will be payable where an operator fails to comply with a requirement within the timeframe stipulated under certain sections and the Authority will be empowered to recover any unpaid late fees as a civil debt. Requirements will be introduced which require appointed auditors to communicate certain matters to the Authority, similar to the requirements for appointed auditors of other regulated entities. Mr. Speaker, the amendments outlined in this Bill are aimed at ensuring the Authority continues to possess the appropriate range of supervisory powers that can be applied proportionately and effectively, should regulatory considerations warrant. Mr. Speaker, in addition to the deterrent benefits associated with the proposed late fees expanding
Bermuda House of Assembly the range of directions, the Authority may issue and require auditors to notify the Authority of certain infor-mation [which] allows the regulator to take swift, tar-geted action that is commiserate with the nature and scale of the breach and ensures the interest of fund participants are appropriately safeguarded. Mr. Speaker, it should also be noted that the proposed outline in this Bill ensures that the Act is ap-propria tely aligned with the supervisory powers of the Authority outlined in other local financial regulatory leg-islation. Mr. Speaker, these enhanced supervisory powers will strengthen the Authority’s ability to take targeted, corrective action when breaches of the regulatory requirements are identified and, in [so] doing, maintain Bermuda’s reputation as a well- regulated jurisdiction for conducting investment fund business.
The International E nvironment
Hon. Walter H. Roban: Mr. Speaker, to gather data on the reign of regulatory powers utilised by other invest-ment fund regulators, research was conducted on the frameworks of comparable jurisdictions. The research identified certain targeted powers that regulators across these jurisdictions might exercise to proactively address fund- related non- compliance issues, many of which already exist across the Authority’s other regula-tory frameworks such as late fees and broader direc-tion-giving powers. Mr. Speaker, in relation to the European Directorate- General for Taxation and Customs Union, in addition to maintaining compliance with international standards, Bermuda has remained committed to open communication and dialogue with the tax branch of the European Union, the Directorate- General for Taxation and Customs Union, also known as DG TAXUD. To that end, the Authority engaged the Directorate through the process of public consultation and no immediate concerns were raised. Mr. Speaker, it is anticipated that Bermuda’s oversight of its investment fund sector will shortly be assessed with similar exercises being conducted in other relevant jurisdictions as part of the EU’s Code of Conduct Group 2023 economic substance monitoring process related to collective investment vehicle re-gimes. The proposed enhancements to the Act will only have a beneficial impact on the potential outcome of this assessment and confirm that Bermuda consistently maintains high standards for our licensed financial sec-tors. Trend analysis, Mr. Speaker. As of December 31, 2022, Bermuda’s fund sector consisted of a total of 804 funds with a combined net asset value of ap-proximately $292 billion, a 33.29 per cent increase from the previous year, which was mainly driven by the in-crease in professional closed funds regis tered in that year. With the recent changes to the funds legislation in 2019, which amongst other things included an expansion of the investment funds definition, there was an increase in the total number of funds on the register. With the widening of the investment fund definition and the various other changes to the funds legislation, the Authority has increased its outreach in order to promote awareness of the regulatory framework here in Ber-muda. In addition to arranging regular touch points with indus try associations like AIMA (or Alternative Investment Management Association), the Authority or-ganised a presentation to the industry in [the] second quarter, and the session was well attended by 100- plus attendees. The presentation covered the funds regul atory framework, funds application processes, and mat-ters to be communicated to the Authority. Mr. Speaker, these are just a few examples of steps the Authority has taken to enhance its engagement with the sector in re-spect of regulatory and supervisory matters. Mr. Speaker, funds determined to be noncompliant are placed under enhanced monitoring by the Au-thority’s fund supervisory team. Of the total number of funds in Bermuda, 53 funds are currently being moni-tored for issues of noncompliance based on the Authority’s records. Most of the funds that are subject to enhanced monitoring have been late ordered and/or other late filings. In some cases, the issues of noncompliance are directly attributed to the conduct of service provid-ers, operators, or officers. These observations have formed the basis of the scope of the amendments that have been proposed in this Bill. Mr. Speaker, when determining the appropriate levels of respective late fees proposed, considera-tion was given to the fee structures in existing local reg-ulatory frameworks such as the Investment Business Act 2003 and the Insurance Act 1978, the fee structures and methodologies used in comparable jurisdictions, and the scale of funds that make up the Bermuda market. The proposed amendments are in the lower end of the scale when compared to other local sectors. How-ever, in analysing the cost of doing similar business, the proposed late fees will land Bermuda in the midrange when compared against other jurisdictions. The issue of consultation. Mr. Speaker, in accordance with the Authority’s normal custom and practice, the relevant consultation papers and stakeholder response letters were published on the Authority’s web-site, www.bma.bm , as follows: • Consultation Paper: Proposed Enhancements to Supervisory Powers within the Investment Funds Act 2006 published in April 2023, • Stakeholder letter published on the 30th of June 2023 highlighting the substantive feedback achieved through the consultation of the Au-thority’s response. Mr. Speaker, I wish to express my sincere thanks to the Authority’s regulatory unit within the Min-istry of Finance, the Ministry of Legal Affairs, and the various investment fund stakeholders, including the Al-ternative Investment Management Association, for their assistance with this Bill. And I would also like to thank, 1742 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly certainly for myself in preparation for this debate, Mr. Speaker, the personnel from the BMA who are here today who gave assistance to the preparation for this Bill’s presentation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Deputy Premier. Does any other Member wish to make a contribution at this time? Opposition Leader, you have the floor. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to confirm our support for the amendments. We see why it is being done. …
Thank you, Deputy Premier. Does any other Member wish to make a contribution at this time? Opposition Leader, you have the floor.
Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to confirm our support for the amendments. We see why it is being done. Our having said that, though, there are still comments I would like to make that can enrich this debate, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, let me start by saying the Deputy Premier indicated . . . well, before I go there, let me go back to this. As the Acting Minster indicated, we have reviewed the extension details, the fees for the exten-sions , or late filings, and the Auditor’s requirement to file irregularities found during the audit to the BMA, and the issue in regard to other filings that are required because of our presence in other jurisdictions, i.e., FATCA common reporting standards and economic substance. So, I understand why it is being done and so we support this. And I think the legislation that we are putting through today, in essence, is a catch- up legislation because the other jurisdictions are ahead of us in this space, Mr. Speak er. Mr. Speaker, I do not know if you realise this. The Deputy Premier indicated that Bermuda had [804] funds with an NAV value of $292 billion. And that was drawn from the BMA’s 2022 annual report. Mr. Speaker, let me share with you what our competitors are doing. Just remember, Bermuda has 804 funds with a value of $292 billion. Now let’s look at our friends to the south. Mr. Speaker, the Cayman Islands has 13,000 open- end funds and 16,000 close- end funds. That is 29,000 funds in total. And that is at J une of this year based on [the] Cayman Islands Monetary Authority statistics. Compare the 29,000 to the 804 that Bermuda has. Let’s look at our friends also in the south, the BVI [British Virgin Islands]. BVI has 2,400 registered funds versus Bermuda’s 80 4. BVI has one quarter of all offshore hedge funds worldwide. Mr. Speaker, Cayman has two thirds of the world’s entire hedge fund population. So, Mr. Speaker, what are we doing wrong? Now, I will go further afield, Mr. Speaker.
[Inaudible interjection]
Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Mr. Speaker, I will go further afield. [Inaudible interjections] Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Guernsey has 832 closedend funds, 139 open- end funds, and 11 green funds, a total of 1,092 funds. Again, Mr. Speaker, we have 804. Mr. Speaker, if we look at another offshore centre like Ireland, Ireland has 3,200 investment funds, and they have 40 per cent of the global hedge funds registered in Ireland. And lastly, Luxembourg, they have 14,445 funds. Again, this information is from their Regulatory Authority. Why am I showing these comparisons, Mr. Speaker? Because if we went back maybe two decades, Mr. Speaker, we were leading in this space. We were leading in this space, and we took our eyes off the ball and shifted towards insurance and captives. And instead of continuously encouraging the development of the industry . . . I know that I worked in this industry for many years along with my friend who is present here today —for years. We were in the mutual fund administration. And we were busy, and the business was coming in, and coming in, and coming in. And all of a sudden, we lost the plot, Mr. Speaker. We are now an outlier. We recognise the contributions that were made by the fund managers, the fund sponsors, Mr. Speaker. We had C -Suite executives coming into this country spending money. They were in our hotels. They had the large shareholders and sponsors here. And the footprint was rather small. And we provided custody services, management administration, accounting, and evaluation s ervices. And that business right now has almost evaporated. We may just have the management of the companies here. And to me it is a shame that more was not done to preserve the position that we held 20 years ago. You know, we took our foot off of the meta l of the pedal, and as a result we are an outlier. When we were the OBA Government, we recognised this problem, and we decided, Let’s see if we can recover more business. So, we would send a team of people from the Ministry and some of our politicians to investment fund attorneys in New York and in London. And we went and just sat down with them to see what we could do to put Bermuda back on the map and be an attractive jurisdiction from which to register and operate our investment funds. We invited them to recommend legislative changes to ensure that we tried to regain the prominence that we once had in the space, Mr. Speaker. So, Mr. Speaker, it disheartened me when I did this research to find out where we are com-pared to other offshore financial services [jurisdictions]. And we are almost non- existent. And it hurts because, as I said, I worked in that career for 20 years, almost. And we did well. We had funds from Hong Kong. We had funds from Japan, from Luxembourg, from Cayman— everywhere, Mr. Speaker. And it was a fun industry to be in, and we were part of the pacesetters. Mr. Speaker, I remember when the Orbis funds came here, and I was a relationship manager. And they made us . . . no, they did not make us. They demanded
Bermuda House of Assembly excellence. And as service providers we did our best to provide that excellence. In the end, we did meet their standards. And in the end, guess what, Mr. Speaker. As a jurisdiction, we improved our game because these fund managers were more demanding and com-manded excellence. And so, I am saying this because we were providing excellent services in the fund administration business. And they employ many people that have gone on to do great things given that the industry has shrunk dramatically. So, I would encourage the Ministry, the Minister, to see what we can do to make this a priority again on our financial service industry, Mr. Speaker, because at the end of the day this is a lucrative business, and it does well for Bermuda’s reputation. Mr. Speaker, I know that most of the jurisdictions that I have showcased thus far —Cayman, BVI, Guernsey, Ireland, and Luxembourg— at the end of the day we all provide the same level of service. But I think the main difference is speed of service, speed of incorporation of funds, speed of legislation, speed of immi-gration processing, [and] the presence or non- presence of local directors. Right now, with the economic substance, as long as we can demonstrate that we have a local rep-resentative that can represent the company, that may meet our requirements. Mr. Speaker, there is no reason why we cannot be up in the top tier jurisdictions when it comes to these funds. And I would encourage that the Government provide the resources to make this happen. Mr. Speaker, in regard to the extension for filings for y ear-end financial statements and regulatory filings, again, most of the other financial jurisdictions have agreed to the six -month extensions. BVI basically goes with six months. Cayman goes with six months. Yet, Jersey, the Channel Islands, they have basi cally gone with five months extensions to file audited financial statements and two months for any other statutory filings (i.e., if you have statutory filings for December 2022, they have to be in by the end of February.) Mr. Speaker, the other questions that I have when it comes to the filings are the filings in regard to common reporting standards for these funds and FATCA reporting status. Now in Cayman, those filing report, the filing of the CRS reports and FATCA reports, basically take a period that allows a period of seven months for an extension for those two, i.e., common reporting standards and FATCA reporting deadlines. In other jurisdictions, they go to September. So again, there is some inconsistency in other jurisdictions. In Jersey, the fina ncial statements have to be in by May; so again, they have five months versus six months if they want an extension. Again, we are in line with our competitors. So, as I said, we support those endeavours. Mr. Speaker, in regard to the exemptions, or if the funds know that they are going to require an extension, they should advise the regulators three months before the required filing deadline approaches. They cannot wait until the deadline is here and say, We want an extension, because we have to give the Regulatory Authority the time and ability to review the files and come up with an agreement or a rejection. So, three months would be a definite requirement prior to any filing for a deadline extension. As for fees, most of the jurisdictions in essence charge a fee. So, we are in line with that. Mr. Speaker, those are my comments, but I would end as I began. We took our eyes off the prize. Cayman came in and took our bread and butter, and now they are probably with the top investment fund jurisdictions in the world. And it is very, very disheartening. You know, what someone told me? He said that when they go to Cayman on business trips, they do not say anything negative about Bermuda. They see Ber-muda as a partner, but their sales spiel is this: We know you have done business in Bermuda. We know you used to do business in Bermuda, but come with us. Give us a try, and we will show you what we can do. Well, they have truly shown us what they can do, and they have basically desecrated our mutual fund industry. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Opposition Leader. Does any other Member wish to make a contribution at this time? None other? Minister Hayward. Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, good afternoon. I thank the Deputy Premier for bringi ng this Bill today, but I just want to provide clarification to the Opposition Leader as …
Thank you, Opposition Leader. Does any other Member wish to make a contribution at this time? None other? Minister Hayward.
Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, good afternoon. I thank the Deputy Premier for bringi ng this Bill today, but I just want to provide clarification to the Opposition Leader as it pertains to the opposition. It is not fair to compare the volume of funds that are in the Cayman Islands or other jurisdictions with the funds that are in Bermuda. Bermuda has never been a jurisdiction that goes after a high volume of funds. But we certainly go after value of funds. And basically, based off our regulatory environment, some of the funds that are in these other jurisdictions would not meet the regulatory standards of the funds that are in Bermuda. Mr. Speaker, when we embarked on developing the Economic Development Strategy and I asked industry for their feedback in terms of areas of expansion, one of the areas of opportunity posed was in fund management and increase in fund administration: 1) in-creasing the number of funds that are coming through Bermuda as a jurisdiction; 2) increasing the number of companies that actually manage funds in Bermuda. I have been having stakeholder meetings with industry stakeholders, which include fund administration companies, fund management companies, law firms, and professional services firms as it pertains to collective solutions. The second meeting was primarily to meet with the fund managers, and the third meeting will be primarily to meet with the lawyers who actually 1744 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly have a lot of say in terms of where some of the trust money and institutional funds actually . . . the jurisdictions that they actually get domiciled in. And so, the work has been done. And it is being done as it pertains to Bermuda improving on i ts market share of investment funds. Bermuda just does not have investment funds. We are a global leader in insurance- linked securities. And so, it is important that we provide a balanced picture. But while we are not a leader in investment funds anymore, where we did have a strong market position, we are a leader in insurance- linked securities funds. And we also got a significant stake in private equity funds as well, but areas in which we want to continuously improve. Mr. Speaker, I know this because as set management is a key area of the Economic Development Strategy that the Bermuda Government just put forward. And the recommendations that the Opposition Leader spoke to were spot on in terms of the activity that needs to take place. We need—
[Inaudible interjections]
Hon. Jason Hayward: I . . . it was . . . it is spot on in terms of the . . . If you look at the action items that are set out in the Economic Development Strategy, it is very simi-lar in terms of we need to ensure we have the proper legal and regulatory framework to support the expansion of the industry. We need to ensure that we identify what are some of the barriers and competitive disadvantages and remove those as much as we possibly can. And we need to identify key law firms and asset allocators and get out in the world and go and meet those individuals where they are at. We tak e for granted that the world knows what Bermuda has to offer. And what I am finding out, Mr. Speaker, on my business development missions is that the world does not fully understand Bermuda’s value proposition, and we need to do a better job at marketing the jurisdiction. And that is why it is a key feature of the strategy. What helps, and what is the greatest selling point for Bermuda as a jurisdiction, is the Bermuda Monetary Authority, the regulatory environment that we do provide. And those funds that w ill be in alignment with our regulatory environment, that is the funds that we will actually seek. But we are not resting on our laurels. We understand that there was a bit of market position lost, and this Government actively has a plan and is embarking to engage a strategy to ensure that we reverse that position. And so, while the Opposition Leader may have shock and awe as to where we currently are, I hope that he fully understands that this is a key feature within the Economic Development Strategy. The Government has the eye on the ball. We are continuously meeting with industry regarding this particular matter, and we will ensure that we improve our position in re-gard to our funds. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister Hayward. Does any . . . MP Famous, would you like to make a contribution at this time?
Mr. Christopher FamousYes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. [Good] afternoon, colleagues and listening public. I will be very brief, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, you amongst others would know that very rarely do you hear certain people from one side of the aisle speak so glowingly of the Caribbean. Usually, it is always in …
Yes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. [Good] afternoon, colleagues and listening public. I will be very brief, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, you amongst others would know that very rarely do you hear certain people from one side of the aisle speak so glowingly of the Caribbean. Usually, it is always in the negative, like, We should not be like them. We should not be associated with them. Yet today we hear these glow ing remarks about the Cayman Islands or the Virgin Islands — [Inaudible interjection]
Mr. Christopher FamousYes, exactly. Money, money, money. Mr. Speaker, my sister has a house in the Virgin Islands and it used to have a very nice view of the harbour, but then a big building was built that blocked her view. That building has on the side of it “Conyers.” Does anyone …
Mr. Christopher FamousAnyone? Someone? Anyone? The point I am making, Mr. Speaker, people go . . . some people are loyal to Bermuda; some people are loyal to money, money, money. Mr. Speaker, this Government under the present administration and under the Minister of Economy and Labour is making concerted efforts to …
Anyone? Someone? Anyone? The point I am making, Mr. Speaker, people go . . . some people are loyal to Bermuda; some people are loyal to money, money, money. Mr. Speaker, this Government under the present administration and under the Minister of Economy and Labour is making concerted efforts to rebuild our economy on multiple fronts. If the Honourable Minister has said that this is part of the plan, he is not s peaking idly. So I just want to support him and support the Fi-nance Minister in what they are doing. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Member. Does any other Member wish to make a contribution? Looks like none. Deputy Premier. Hon. Wa lter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate the contributions made by Members today on this Bill. I must say I am a little saddened by the introductory comments some …
Thank you, Member. Does any other Member wish to make a contribution? Looks like none. Deputy Premier. Hon. Wa lter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate the contributions made by Members today on this Bill. I must say I am a little saddened by the introductory comments some of which came from the Opposition’s principal spokesman on this particular matter because it seemed to lay the implication that somehow Bermuda has done something wrong. And the question that the Honourable Member asked, What are we doing wrong? because it presumes that Bermuda starts from
Bermuda House of Assembly a position . . . although I fail to . . . I ha ve not heard anything from the Honourable Member about this particular Bill that we are discussing today. And just for the edification of the listening public, the Investment Funds Amendment Act 2023, the Honourable Member spoke little about the Bill. But he spoke about issues which . . . I would say he sadly seemed to label Bermuda, one, as an outlier, that Ber-muda has done something wrong; and [two] somehow we are just almost anaemic. And he actually said an even more distressing word —that we failed in this area. That is suggested. And I think that is unfortunate because we do live in Bermuda. I last thought, Mr. Speaker, I do not live in Cayman. But the Honourable Member seemed to do more promoting [of] what Cayman is doing and what another jurisdiction is doing than what Bermuda is doing. And that is unfortunate because that is not how we should be approaching matters related to initiatives such as this, frameworks such as this that maintain good regulatory oversight of some key areas of our business. A nd I wish to, of course, thank the Honourable Member who sits in constituency 17, the Honourable Minister of Economy and Labour, for getting up and giving his own presentation. As we know, he is actively on the front line of discussing the issues of our fi nancial service industry in Bermuda with the actual people who are work-ing in it. And his perspective is shaped by those daily conversations that he has in all aspects of our financial services industry. And certainly, my presentation also talked about [how] this particular Bill, and what it seeks to do, references the other standards that we have in other key sectors of our financial services industry, which seemingly the Honourable Opposition Leader missed, [and] is highly regarded, highly robust and has put Bermuda in good stead. Now, certainly there is no one who is suggesting . . . and certainly even the Honourable Member who I just referenced, the Honourable Minister of Economy and Labour, did say that this is a work in progress for our jurisdiction as to the types of funds and the different opportunities that might exist in the funds sector for Bermuda to further expand. But let me perhaps correlate our experience . . . and I will go to specifically answering some questions in a moment. This may be a case of where you [ask]: Do you want Kobe beef or do you want just a regular cut of steak? Anybody who understands (and I am dealing with an agricultural analogy here) knows that there are very specific types of methods and practices that actually go into the cultivation of Kobe beef, methods that are not shared in other aspects of animal husbandry and those that are in the beef industry internationally. There are things that those who cultivate the Kobe variety of cow do that are not done anywhere else. But guess what. And they do not even actually produce as many Kobe cows globally as are [produced] in the regular sort of contemporary beef market. But they take great care in what they do to produce a very good product while others just want to, you know, produce beef and sell it wherever they want, as much as they can, to whomever will buy it. In some cases, they do not even care what they put in the beef —hormones and other types of additives and preservatives that many people do not want. But hey, they ar e just producing beef and making money producing beef while some others prefer a Kobe beef variety —a carefully cultivated, a carefully crafted, you know, a carefully re-alised product. Bermuda is Kobe beef, Mr. Speaker. That is what we are. And when it comes to our industries that we have chosen to push ourselves, we have opted for quality, Mr. Speaker. Unfortunately, the Honourable Opposition Leader seems to be an advocate of quantity because—
[Inaudible interjection]
Hon. Walter H. Roban: And I hear a c hirping in the background: No, that is not what . . . . No, actually, that is what he said. Because the Honourable Opposition Leader took time to talk about how many funds BVI [British Virgin Islands] has, how many funds the Cayman [Islands] has. They have thousands of funds. We only have 800. That must be a problem from the perspective of the Opposition Leader as he spoke. Right? That is the problem. We only have 800. They have thousands. Right? As if somehow having that big number makes them better than w hat we are doing, makes them more highly regarded than what we are doing. And as if somehow more people going to those juris-dictions and setting up whatever funds they do . . . I am not an expert around funds. But [the Opposition Leader is saying] what we are doing here, there is something wrong. Now, I know the Opposition Leader. And the Opposition knows that . . . because I just heard somebody suggest I do not know. The Opposition Leader knows that I know something about funds. I worked with the Opposition Leader in private banking. So, Opposition knows that I am familiar with this area of business just as I know he had exhaustive experience as a private banker in it. We worked together in the same area. So, we had to have knowledge of these issues. I certainly am not an expert. But I am familiar because of the work I did in the same banking area as the Honourable Opposition Leader when he was a banker dealing with all types of financial products. And the Honourable Opposition Leader knows this. So I know t hat he knows that I do not speak with a total nonunderstanding of the area. But I do know, even as we were working together, the issues of how we expand Bermuda’s opportunities in the fund industry were actively discussed and dealt with even where he and I once sat as private bankers. It was discussed. And many things were discussed about how Bermuda continues to shape herself 1746 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly as a place where fund administration and funds will be seen as a place to house them in a variety of areas. So, this is understood. And as the Honourable Member who is the Minister of Economy and Labour said in this debate, Bermuda is continuing to shape herself in there. But I reject solidly the assertion by the Opposition Leader that we are doing something wrong. And perhaps the Honourable Opposition Leader, since he is a private citizen now, should go to Cayman and perhaps get a job as a consultant to promote their business because that is what he was doing today rather than promoting Bermuda and the steps that we are taking through things like amendments in this Bill, Mr. Speaker, to improve the work, to anticipate the scrutiny that we will face with the ongoing regulatory oversight that we have, and that comes from other jurisdictions or other agencies so that Bermuda is placed and continues to have a good reputation in this space. Now, Mr. Speaker, I will now go to answering some of the questions that were posed by those who participated. Again, there was a question of quality, not quantity. Now, all financial sectors, not just the investment fund sector, have this approach, Mr. Speaker. As I made the Kobe versus non- Kobe comparison, Bermuda, I believe, is Kobe. Perhaps the Opposition Leader prefers a different type of beef. I do like Kobe if I do eat it.
Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: I am vegetarian.
Hon. Walter H. Roban: I know that is not true. But that is okay. He can say that if he likes. The goal is to be the most credible and reputable jurisdiction that we can be in whatever financial services sector we operate in. But particular ly since we are discussing investment funds for the purpose of this debate, that is what we seek to be. Now, other jurisdictions were mentioned. But let’s be very clear here, Mr. Speaker. I do not wish to intentionally disparage any jurisdictions because I am familiar with Cayman. I have contact with persons in Cayman and certainly elsewhere, BVI. The Honourable Member who sits in constituency 11 has strong ties to BVI, my good brother who sits just over the hill from Devonshire with me. So, we do not bring any disparaging comments to the identity of other jurisdictions that we are familiar with. But some jurisdictions, Mr. Speaker —the ones named here— have other reputational problems. These are not unknown to us. And we know that Bermuda has a very strong reputation in areas where those jurisdictions do not have a good reputation. We know about our AML [anti - money laundering] assessment. We know about where we stand with the OECD [Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development] with certain ratings. And other jurisdictions are either not even trying to meet those standards or have failed to meet them, but Bermuda has. So, if Bermuda has to not go for the number of 10,000 and maybe we just have a 1,000—but we have a very good, we ll-regulated, highly regarded quality list of 1,000 funds, whereas there are some others that have 10,000 funds and they have everybody from the IMF [International Monetary Fund], OECD, the FBI and whoever else they can find chasing them because of financi al propriety —I believe Bermuda makes the choice to have the 1,000. We want to be a quality juris-diction in every area, Mr. Speaker. And I believe with the support of the BMA, the Ministry of Finance and all those who work in this space including the private sector participants who we work with, that is what Bermuda’s goal is. Mr. Speaker, Government is committed to sustainable growth in our funds sector. Things like economic substance considerations cannot be ignored. Supervisory rigor must be present. It will be assessed by all those who constantly assess our regulatory framework. And this Bill respects these realities. Mr. Speaker, some other questions were brought up: Filings. Filings include net asset value, audited accounts, confirmation of compliance, notification of material changes. Reference to the extension issue. The extension request will explain reasons for the delay so the BMA can escalate as appropriate, three months’ notice not required. Service standards. The speed to market is key. Six- to eight -day processing for applications is the average. So, certainly the BMA looks to be very prompt and efficient with any applications while still maintaining high service standards in its delivery. And clearly, everybody here has to at least acknowledge equally on both sides that BMA is a highly regarded regulator in this space and other spaces. So, certainly we know that they will always do their best to adhere to the global standard of every aspect of their operation in processing, filings and applicat ions, but they will also ensure that the highest level of enforcement is afforded. With that, Mr. Speaker, I believe I have answered all the questions and I move that the Bill be committed.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Deputy Premier. Deputy Speaker. House in Committee at 3:41 pm [Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr., Chairman] COMMITTEE ON BILL INVESTMENT FUNDS AMENDMENT ACT 2023 Bermuda House of Assembly The Chairman: Honourable Members, we are now in Committee of the whole [House] for further consideration of the Bill entitled …
Thank you, Deputy Premier. Deputy Speaker.
House in Committee at 3:41 pm
[Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr., Chairman]
COMMITTEE ON BILL
INVESTMENT FUNDS AMENDMENT ACT 2023
Bermuda House of Assembly The Chairman: Honourable Members, we are now in Committee of the whole [House] for further consideration of the Bill entitled Investment Funds Amendment Act 2023 . Deputy Premier Roban, you have the floor.
Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I will now give the clause- by-clause analysis to the Bill entitled the Investment Funds Amendment Act 2023. Clause 1, Mr. Chairman . . . I’m sorry, Mr. Chairman. I wish to move clauses 1 through 10.
The ChairmanChairmanContinue, sir. Hon. Walter H. Roban: May I do that with your permission as head of the House?
The ChairmanChairmanYes, you may. Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you. Mr. Chairman, clause 1 provides the citation for the Bill. Mr. Chairman, clause 2 amends section 2 of the principal Act to delete the definitions of “fund pro-spectus rules” and “participant” and to insert a definition for “late fee.” Mr. Chairman, …
Yes, you may.
Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you. Mr. Chairman, clause 1 provides the citation for the Bill. Mr. Chairman, clause 2 amends section 2 of the principal Act to delete the definitions of “fund pro-spectus rules” and “participant” and to insert a definition for “late fee.” Mr. Chairman, clause 3 amends section 2B of the principal Act to ensure that the section also applies to funds that are “registered.” Clause 4, Mr. Chairman, amends section 5 of the principal Act to ensure that there is clarity regarding the alignment of the obligations for both registered and authorised funds. Mr. Chairman, clause 5 amends section 5B of the principal Act by repealing and replacing subsec-tion (1) to allow for an Overseas Fund to seek an extension to the timeframe for filing its annual certification to indicate that it meets fund requirements. The section is further amended to impose a late fee that will be applied when the filing is not completed within the deadline taking into consideration any extensions granted by the Authority. Clause 6, Mr. Chairman, amends section 5E of the principal Act to correct the section heading so that it aligns with the provisions of the section. Mr. Chairman, clause 7 amends section 6 of the principal Act to allow a private fund to seek an ex-tension to the timeframe for filing its annual certification to indicate that it meets fund requirements. The section is further amended to impose a late fee that will be ap-plied when the filing is not completed within the deadline taking into consideration any extensions granted by the Authority. Mr. Chairman, clause 8 amends section 6A of the principal Act to correct the section heading so that it aligns with the provisions of the section. Mr. Chairman, clause 9 amends section 6B of the principal Act to allow a Professional Class A fund to seek an extension to the timeframe for filing its annual certification to indicate that it meets fund requirements. An obligation is being introduced for such funds to pro-vide copies of their offering documents reflecting all material changes at the time of filing their annual certi-fication to the Authority. The section is further amended to impose a late fee that will be applied when the fil ing is not completed within the deadline taking into consideration any extensions granted by the Authority. Mr. Chairman, clause 10 amends section 8 of the principal Act by deleting references to an invest-ment fund’s “prospectus” and substituting references to “offering document” in line with updates to the Act. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you, sir. Any further speakers to clauses 1 through 10? The Chair recognises the Honourable Member Cole Hedley Simons. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, I would like to direct the Minister to [clause] 3, [Amends] section 2B, and then you have section 2B(1) …
Thank you, sir. Any further speakers to clauses 1 through 10? The Chair recognises the Honourable Member Cole Hedley Simons.
Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, I would like to direct the Minister to [clause] 3, [Amends] section 2B, and then you have section 2B(1) [is amended] (b) “by repealing paragraph (c)(i)”. This is strictly administrative, nothing substan-tive. Once you repeal this I do not see an adjustment to renumber the successive ones in the legislation, so ad-ministrative. Can you renumber the remaining items that are in that section of the legislation? Because the renumbering is not accounted for. Mr. Chairman, I then go to [clause] 7, [Amends] section 6, and [also clause] 9, [Amends] section 6B. Can the Minister provide justification for the extension of nine months versus six months? And that is where I see most of the extensions —for nine months. What is it that makes nine months the special number? To me, with an extension of nine months you might as well ask for an extension of a year. Six months is acceptable to other jurisdictions, and I thought six months was reasonable for Bermuda. So what can be done in nine months that cannot be done in six months? My question is: Can you substantiate why the nine months versus the six months? And that is for all of them where you have the nine months showing. Thank you.
The ChairmanChairmanAny further speakers for clauses 1 through 10? There appear to be none. Minister. Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Just oblige me as I get the answers from technical persons to the questions raised.
The ChairmanChairmanYes. Hon. Walter H. Roban: It was a pretty straightforward question. Why nine months rather than six months? It 1748 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly is an extension of three months to nine months, the experience of the regulators suggests that a three- month extension …
Yes. Hon. Walter H. Roban: It was a pretty straightforward question. Why nine months rather than six months? It 1748 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly is an extension of three months to nine months, the experience of the regulators suggests that a three- month extension is adequate. So based on experience of the regulator within this sector, it is believ ed that the extension is appropriate and adequate. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The ChairmanChairmanContinue. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: So, is he saying that come December 31, I ask for an extension of six months . . . are we saying that the business providers or the managers of these funds have said they cannot get the work done within six months? And …
Continue. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: So, is he saying that come December 31, I ask for an extension of six months . . . are we saying that the business providers or the managers of these funds have said they cannot get the work done within six months? And if they cannot get the work done in six months, then why do we not just change the legislation to a six - or nine -month period? I am stuck. I just cannot get it. Because if you are working on financial statements you cannot produce a financial statement for a company at the year - end for nine months’ time? That is what we are saying. Mr. Regulator, I am sorry I cannot produce the financial statements within six months. Maybe I can have it done in nine months. So, as a regulator, I say, Well, why is it taking you so long to produce financial statements in nine months? And that is what I want to know. Why are they taking so long to produce their financial statements af-ter the year -end?
The ChairmanChairmanGot you, Hedley. Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Extension requests are typically done in May or June and are usually driven by your audit delays and valuations. That is why these things may happen. There may b e some delay or something else that requires an extension. …
Got you, Hedley.
Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Extension requests are typically done in May or June and are usually driven by your audit delays and valuations. That is why these things may happen. There may b e some delay or something else that requires an extension. So, I hope that is helpful, Mr. Chairman. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: It is. It is.
Hon. Walter H. Roban: Okay. Thank you.
The ChairmanChairmanAny further speakers to clauses 1 through 10? There appear to be none. Minister, do you want to move clauses 1 through 10 for approval? Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I wish to move clauses 1 through 10.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been move d that clauses 1 through 10 be approved. Are there any objections? There appear to be none. Clauses 1 through 10 are approved. [Motion carried: Clauses 1 through 10 passed.] The Chairman: Continue, Minister. Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Chair man. I wish to …
It has been move d that clauses 1 through 10 be approved. Are there any objections? There appear to be none. Clauses 1 through 10 are approved.
[Motion carried: Clauses 1 through 10 passed.] The Chairman: Continue, Minister.
Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Chair man. I wish to now move clauses 11 through 20. [Pause]
Hon. Walter H. Roban: If that pleases you, Mr. Chairman.
The ChairmanChairmanContinue, sir. Hon. Walter H. Roban: Clauses 11 through 20.
The ChairmanChairmanYes, [clauses] 11 through 20. Sorry, sir. Hon. Walter H. Roban: It’s all right.
The ChairmanChairmanYou can continue. Hon. Walter H. Roban: In other words, it is not just you but the public we are speaking to. I do not want to confuse them.
The ChairmanChairmanYes. You are correct. Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Clause 11 amends section 8A of the principal Act to correct technical oversights by repealing subsec-tion (4); allowing for a Professional Class B fund to seek an extension to the timeframe for filing its annual certification to indicate …
Yes. You are correct.
Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Clause 11 amends section 8A of the principal Act to correct technical oversights by repealing subsec-tion (4); allowing for a Professional Class B fund to seek an extension to the timeframe for filing its annual certification to indicate that it meets fund requirements; in-troduce an obligation for such funds to provide copies of their fund offering document reflecting all material changes at the time of filing their annual certification to the Authority; and impose a late fee that will be applied when the filing is not completed within the deadline taking into consideration any extensions granted by the Authority. Clause 12, Mr. Chairman, amends section 8C of the principal Act to allow a Professional Closed Fund to seek an extension to the timeframe for filing its annual certification to indicate that it meets fund requirements; introduce an obligation for such funds to provide copies of their fund offering document reflecting all material ch anges at the time of filing their annual certification to the Authority; and impose a late fee that will be applied when the filing is not completed within the deadline taking into consideration any extensions granted by the Authority. Mr. Chairman, clause 13 seeks to amend section 9A of the principal Act to ensure the obligations of registered funds under the section apply to the appropriate investment funds. Clause 14, Mr. Chairman, seeks to amend section 10 of the principal Act to ensure the section makes correct cross references.
Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. Chairman, clause 15 amends section 17 of the principal Act to ensure the section makes correct cross references for purposes of the fee obligations and to introduce the requirement for a fee to be imposed for the making of a filing extension or complying with requirements by an investment fund prior to submission of an annual certificate, if required. Clause 16, Mr. Chairman, amends the principal Act to insert section 17A to provide substantively for the late fee, which is payable where an operator fails to comply with a requirement within the timeframe stipu-lated under certain sections. The late fee applicable with respect to a requirement shall be such fee as shall be set out in the Fourth Schedule to the Bermuda Monetary Authority Act 1969. The new section further empowers the Authority to recover any unpaid fee as a civil debt. Mr. Chairman, clause 17 amends section 19 of the principal Act to cause the section to apply to registered investment funds. Clause 18, Mr. Chairman, amends section 25 of the principal Act to provide for the imposition of a late fee for non- compliance with timeframe obligations under the section by operators of the investment fund. Clause 19, Mr. Chairman, amends section 26 of the principal Act to all ow operators of authorised funds to seek an extension to the statement to be made indicating that the fund has complied with certain re-quirements and to impose a late fee that will be applied when the filing is not completed within the timeframe under the section taking into consideration any extensions granted by the Authority. Clause 20 amends section 30 of the principal Act by repealing and replacing subsections (1) and (2) to empower the Authority to issue directions to authorised, designated and regist ered funds, similar to the powers it exercises in relation to other regulated enti-ties. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And that concludes my presentation of [clauses] 11 through 20.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you, Minister. Any speakers to clauses 11 through 20?
Mr. Pearman.
Mr. Scott PearmanYes, thank you, Mr. Chairman. And thanks to the Minister. There is a saying that when lawyers tell you not to give them money, it is worth listening. I think it is important for our laws to be clear. Right? Because mem-bers of the public should be able to read …
Yes, thank you, Mr. Chairman. And thanks to the Minister. There is a saying that when lawyers tell you not to give them money, it is worth listening. I think it is important for our laws to be clear. Right? Because mem-bers of the public should be able to read something and understand it without having to go give money to lawyers. And I just note that clause 19 under 19(a)(i), our Bermuda law says, “in the chapeau of paragraph (b).” Now, Mr. Chairman, I know you are a knowledgeable man. So am I. But I had to go look that one up. It is a French word. “Chapeau” is here. “[I]n the chapeau of paragraph (b).” I thought it meant “hat” in French, but apparentl y if you go back to the history, it means “top hat and tails” which means “top” which means “head.” And really what it should say there is just “introduction” or “head” or even “top.” So, I would invite whoever is drafting this to perhaps say no to “chapeau” so we can just have laws that anyone can understand without hav-ing to pay me to look it up. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The ChairmanChairmanYou’re fine. Any further speakers to clauses 11 through 20? Minister, you want to — Hon. Walter H. Roban: Certainly, h is suggestion will be taken under advisement, Mr. Chairman. But I wish now to move on to clauses 21 through 30.
The ChairmanChairmanLet’s approve— Hon. Walter H. Roban: I’m sorry. My apologies, Mr. Chairman.
The ChairmanChairmanThat’s all right. That’s all right. Hon. Walter H. Roban: I wish to move that we approve clauses 11 through 20.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that clauses 11 through 20 be approved. Are there any objections to that? There appear to be none. Clauses 11 through 20 have been approved. [Motion carried: Clauses 11 through 20 passed.]
The ChairmanChairmanContinue, Minister. Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I thank the Member for a slightly softer comment in our debate today. Clause 21, Mr. Chairman, amends section 37 of the princi pal Act to empower the Authority to impose a late fee for [non- ]compliance with fund rules …
Continue, Minister.
Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I thank the Member for a slightly softer comment in our debate today. Clause 21, Mr. Chairman, amends section 37 of the princi pal Act to empower the Authority to impose a late fee for [non- ]compliance with fund rules made under subsection (2) and for such late fees to be set out in the Fourth Schedule to the Bermuda Monetary Authority Act 1969. Clause 22, Mr. Chairman, amends section 38 of the principal Act to empower the Authority to impose a late fee for failure, among other things, to publish up-dated offering documents in accordance with the rules made under the section and for such late fees to be set out in the Four th Schedule to the Bermuda Monetary Authority Act 1969. Mr. Chairman, clause 23 amends the principal Act to insert [new] section 63A, which requires ap-proved auditors to communicate certain matters to the Authority, similarly to requirements for approved auditors of other regulated entities. 1750 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly Clause 24, Mr. Chairman, amends section 64A of the principal Act to empower the Authority to investigate where an investment fund fails to comply with any requirements under the principal Act or under rules made under s ections 37 or 38. The section is further amended to revise its application to investment funds and intermediaries, such as by removing licensed fund administrators from the application of the section as they are now licensed under a separate legislative framework. Clause 25, Mr. Chairman, amends section 65 of the principal Act to remove licensed fund administrators from the application of the section. Clause 26, Mr. Chairman, amends section 67 of the principal Act to remove reference to a repealed provision . Clause 27, Mr. Chairman, amends section 67A of the principal Act to provide a cross reference to the new section 17A providing for the late fee. Clause 28, Mr. Chairman, amends section 67C of the principal Act to remove licensed fund administrators from the application of the section. Clause 29, Mr. Chairman, makes consequential amendments to the Fourth Schedule to the Ber-muda Monetary Authority Act 1969 to provide for the late fee payable under the Act and the rules. Clause 30, Mr. Chairman, provides for the commencement of the Bill. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you, Minister. Are there any speakers to clauses 21 through 30? The Honourable Member Cole Hedley Simons, you have the floor. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I would like to direct the Minister to [clause 23, new section] 63A on page 8, “Auditor to communicate …
Thank you, Minister. Are there any speakers to clauses 21 through 30? The Honourable Member Cole Hedley Simons, you have the floor. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I would like to direct the Minister to [clause 23, new section] 63A on page 8, “Auditor to communicate certain matters to the Authority.” Mr. Minister, my question is simple. These are the criteria for reporting to the regulator: insolvency, suggested fraud, theft or misappropriation of assets, weaknesses in the governance framework, et cetera. This requirement is required for possible Companies Act, Charities Act, [and] Partnerships. Why is this being included here specifically under this fund when the auditors have the responsibility to do it regularly in regard to reporting these improprieties, for a generic term, under companies that fall under the purview of the Ber-muda Monetary Authority? Do you understand what I am saying? Because I would have thoug ht this might be a requirement under some auditors’ Act that on their code of conduct they must report these infractions or these improprieties to the required regulator. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you, Mr. Simons. Minister. Hon. Walt er H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I am just awaiting the answer so I can appropriately com-municate it. [Pause] Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you for your indulgence,
Mr. Chairman.
The ChairmanNo problem. Hon. Walter H. Roban: The requirement is consistent with the requirement under the Insurance Act, regula-tory consistency, and the obligation is to report to the BMA, not to the Registrar of Companies [ROC]. I think it has been communicated through this presentation that there is an effort to …
No problem.
Hon. Walter H. Roban: The requirement is consistent with the requirement under the Insurance Act, regula-tory consistency, and the obligation is to report to the BMA, not to the Registrar of Companies [ROC]. I think it has been communicated through this presentation that there is an effort to standardise these requirements across all different regulatory sectors. This is no different. And that is what is being done. So, I appreciate what the Member said. But there is an effort in this Act, as is stated in other Acts, to standard ise these provisions. And that is what is being done today.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you, Minister. Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Supplemental. So, will this type of language be in the Insurance Act, in the Gaming Act, or any other industry where auditors are requi red to produce reports? And if they find any maleficence, will they automatically advise the appropriate regulators? Hon. …
Thank you, Minister.
Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Supplemental. So, will this type of language be in the Insurance Act, in the Gaming Act, or any other industry where auditors are requi red to produce reports? And if they find any maleficence, will they automatically advise the appropriate regulators? Hon. Walter H. Roban: I think I can say yes to that. Clearly, the responsibilities of the BMA are separate from those of the Registrar of Companies. So, the effort is to ensure that the lines are clear, but the standardisations and requirements and standards are the same irrespective. It is explicit in this Act because it needs to be because responsibilities around other types of structures or companies are different under the ROC or some other regulatory body. I think that is the answer to that question.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you, Minister. Are there any further questions to commence to the Minister for clauses 21 through 30? There appear t o be none. Minister. Hon. Walter H. Roban: With that, Mr. Chairman, thank you very much and for everyone who raised their ques-tions. I wish to move clauses 21 …
Thank you, Minister. Are there any further questions to commence to the Minister for clauses 21 through 30? There appear t o be none. Minister. Hon. Walter H. Roban: With that, Mr. Chairman, thank you very much and for everyone who raised their ques-tions. I wish to move clauses 21 through 30, Mr. —
Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: You did not do the Schedules.
Bermuda House of Assembly The Chairman: And the Schedules.
Hon. Walter H. Roban: No. I mean those were the final clauses. I was going to go to that next. I am asking—
The ChairmanChairmanYes. Continue. Hon. Walter H. Roban: —to be approved, for the ones I just read to be approved.
The ChairmanChairmanMm-hmm. Any objections? There appear to be none. Approved. [Motion carried: Clauses 21 through 30 passed.]
The ChairmanChairmanNow you can move the Schedule. Hon. Walter H. Roban: Mr. Chairman, I now ask that the Schedule be approved.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that the Schedule be approved. Are there any objections to that? There appear to be none. Approved. [Motion carried: The Schedule passed.] Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I move that the preamble be approved.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that the preamble be approved. Are there any objections to that? No objections. Approved. Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I move that the Bill be reported to the House as printed.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that the Bill be reported to the House as printed. Any objections to that? There appear to be none. The Bill will be reported to the House as printed. [Motion carried: The Investment Funds Amendment Act 2023 was considered by a Committee of the whole House …
The ChairmanChairmanMr. Speaker. House resumed at 4:07 pm [Hon. Dennis P. Lister, Jr., Speaker, in the Chair] REPORT OF COMMITTEE INVESTMENT FUNDS AMENDMENT ACT 2023
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMembers, are there any objections to the Bill entitled the Investment Funds Amendment Act 2023 being reported to the House as printed? There are none. The Bill has been reported. Thank you. Members, this brings us to a close of the Orders of the Day. However, before we go to …
Members, are there any objections to the Bill entitled the Investment Funds Amendment Act 2023 being reported to the House as printed? There are none. The Bill has been reported. Thank you. Members, this brings us to a close of the Orders of the Day. However, before we go to the third reading, Deputy, I am going to seek the House’s indulgence to allow Madam Attorney General to put a Notice of Motion on for the next order. Do I have the indulgence of the House? Yes. Thank you.
Hon. N. H. Cole Simons: Is that Fairmont Southampton? Hon. Kathy Lynn Simmons: Don’t get excited.
SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDER 14
Hon. Kathy Lynn Simmons: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move that Standing Order 14 be suspended to allow me to give notice of a motion that I proposed to table in the House. Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice . . . Do I have to wait for you to ask?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerContinue. There were no objections. [Motion carried: Standing Order 21 suspended.]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGo forward. NOTICE OF MO TION ASSESSMENT OF SELF -GOVERNANCE SUFFICIENCY IN CONFORMITY WITH INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNISED STANDARDS —BERMUDA Hon. Kathy Lynn Simmons: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I hereby give notice that on the next date of meeting, I will move the following motion that this Honourable House approve the findings …
Go forward.
NOTICE OF MO TION
ASSESSMENT OF SELF -GOVERNANCE SUFFICIENCY IN CONFORMITY WITH INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNISED STANDARDS —BERMUDA
Hon. Kathy Lynn Simmons: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I hereby give notice that on the next date of meeting, I will move the following motion that this Honourable House approve the findings of the Carlyle G. Corbin report entitled “Assessment of Self -Governance Sufficiency in conformity with internationally recognised standards —Bermuda,” which was tabled in this House on December 2, 2022. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Madam Attorney General. Deputy Premier. SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDER 21 1752 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Walter H. Roban: Yes, Mr. Speaker. I move that Standing Order 21 be suspended to enable me to move the Bill entitled the Investment Funds Amendment …
SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDER 21 1752 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Walter H. Roban: Yes, Mr. Speaker. I move that Standing Order 21 be suspended to enable me to move the Bill entitled the Investment Funds Amendment Act 2023 be now read a third time by its title only.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAre there any objections? There are none. Continue, Deputy [Premier]. [Motion carried: Standing Order 21 suspended.] BILL THIRD READING INVESTMENT FUNDS AME NDMENT ACT 2023 Hon. Walter H. Roban: Mr. Speaker, I move that the Bill be now read a third time by its title only and passed.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThe Bill has been read a third time by its title only and is now passed. [Motion carried: The Investment Funds Am endment Act 2023 was read a third time and passed.]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Members, for taking care of the business of today. Deputy Premier. ADJOURNMENT Hon. Walter H. Roban: Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn until . . . [Crosstalk] Hon. Walter H. Roban: I’m sorry, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerUntil September 15. Hon. Walter H. Roban: Until September 15, Mr. Speaker. I do now so move.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWould anyo ne wish to speak to that? Mr. Famous, you are standing. Are you standing for my attention on this matter?
Mr. Christopher FamousYes, indeed, Mr. Speaker. I would not want you to say that you did not see us.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMr. Famous, you have the floor. You have your 20 minutes. NOT SUPPORTING EMANCIPATION DAY
Mr. Christopher FamousI will not be long, Mr. Speaker, because others want to speak. Right, others? [Laughter]
Mr. Christopher FamousMr. Speaker, earlier today you made mention of something that happened In Lon-don 190 years ago —
Mr. Christopher Famous—in the world’s oldest parliament called the (what do they call that?) Palace of Westminster where they passed legi slation, I might say reluctantly , to abolish slavery in the British colonies. And some might say, You know, that was so great, so nice. But they reluctantly did it because …
—in the world’s oldest parliament called the (what do they call that?) Palace of Westminster where they passed legi slation, I might say reluctantly , to abolish slavery in the British colonies. And some might say, You know, that was so great, so nice. But they reluctantly did it because on the table they also passed legislation to pay slaveowners. In 1834, they said that slavery was abolished. But that was not true, Mr. Speaker, because for four more years those who were enslaved—not slaves but those who were enslaved —had to give apprenticeship to their masters. Apprenticeship. I have been cutting sugar cane for the last 40 years and now you want me to be an apprentice. Start again. It’s like Monopoly. Go back to zero. You see, Mr. Speaker, the British have a way of . . . well, they invented the English language. And they have a way of reinventing words to make you do the same thing over and over. Mr. Speaker, from 1834 until the 1960s, the British still held on to many colonies in the Caribbean and they even had colonies in Africa and Asia and other parts of the world. So for anyone who thinks that 1834 was some watershed moment where the British had this great enlightenment that, Hey, we should just let everybody be free and let everybody be equal, they are sadly mistaken, Mr. Speaker. Because you see, what happened with the British is that they continued to position themselves so that they were still dictating to us. Even in many of these independent countries, Mr. Speaker, somehow the Crown is still the Head of State. People in independent countries have to swear allegiance to the monarch of the day. It was Queen Elizabeth [II]; now it is her son, King Charles III. So, how independent are they really if they are swearing alle-giance to a foreign power? They positioned themselves so that the Monarch is the Head of the Commonwealth. Hundreds . . . well, I shouldn’t say hundreds, but many scores of independent countries are in this thing called the Commonwealth, still with the Monarch, the Head of State, the Head of the Commonwealth. Are we still free, Mr. Speaker? Mr. Speaker, in the year 2023, the same parliament that sits in the palace of Westminster, the oldest parliament in the world, is still dictating to six overseas territories —that is a nice word. As I say, they like to reinvent the word. “Overseas territory” really means “colony,” but, you know, we have to say nice things now. In our sister territory in which there is a Conyers office, called the Virgin Islands, the British are
Bermuda House of Assembly telling them that if they do not do exactly what they say they will suspend their constitutional order. In a country called Montserrat, they are telling them that if they do not do what they say, they are going to stop funding their docks. In our country (and I say “our” because li ke Bob Marley said, “Didn’t my people before me slave for this country?”) we have a lady sitting in the biggest house in Langton Hill telling us —the elected people of this parliament —that she is not going to give assent to what the people voted for and what we as legislators pass. So you see, Mr. Speaker, while some people may go to City Hall and celebrate that event from 190 years ago, I will not be there. I do not believe in giving legitimacy to colonialism, Mr. Speaker. We have to call it for what it is . Mr. Speaker, you are perhaps one of the leaders and an elder statesman in the remaining colonies. You refuse to wear that stuff on your head. Others still do it because they are (what is the word?) institutionalised, feeling that in order to be the Speaker they have to wear this on their head. Mr. Speaker, on the eve of what is our emancipation, we have to understand we are not free. We are not free, Mr. Speaker.
PLP STAYS WITH THE PEOPLE
Mr. Christopher FamousLet me move on, Mr. Speaker. Six years ago, the majority of Bermudian voters voted for this administration. They endured four and a half years of what could easily be called the worst Government in modern history —a Government that did not give seniors money, had cut down on funding …
Let me move on, Mr. Speaker. Six years ago, the majority of Bermudian voters voted for this administration. They endured four and a half years of what could easily be called the worst Government in modern history —a Government that did not give seniors money, had cut down on funding for education, left many places . . . people complain about cane grass now. Go back six years ago. Cane grass was halfway in the road in some areas. [That Govern-ment] defunded public works, lost 2,000 — [Inaudible interjection]
Mr. Christopher FamousWell, it was 1 ,842, but we will round it off to 2,000 jobs. And these are the same people that . . . let’s just say a chain of events led to seniors being pepper sprayed. The people had enough so they voted for us. Mr. Speaker, during that …
Well, it was 1 ,842, but we will round it off to 2,000 jobs. And these are the same people that . . . let’s just say a chain of events led to seniors being pepper sprayed. The people had enough so they voted for us. Mr. Speaker, during that time we did much those first three years. We started off with education reform. We started to take a new and renewed approach to the realities of climate change. We started putting focus on electrifying our bus fleet. And we reinstated yearly increases to our seniors. We also reinvigorated our connection with our blood family in the Caribbean, Mr. Speaker. In October 2020, the people put more faith in us. Why? Because we were on the right path. Mr. Speaker, we did not stop. We have built more affordable housing. We have put in more la ws protecting labour. We have put in a minimum wage. [We have put] through [legislation for] seniors, child and health, revenge porn. We have a way to go, Mr. Speaker, a way to go. Mr. Speaker, contrary to the popular belief of the 36 of us sitting here, the average person does not sit up and listen to legislation. They don’t. They may read the headlines in the Royal Gazette. They may read the headlines in TNN. But they are not sitti ng up there listening to 12 hours of legislation. So, I say to my fellow legislators —those in this House and those in another place—go on, get out there. Knock on the doors. Stay connected to the people. Go to community events. Stay connected to the people. Go to funerals. Stay connected to the people. Because as one of the greatest legislators ever in this House has said, Mr. Speaker, “Stay with the people and they will always stay with you.” So, when that bell rings for the next election . . . are you li stening, Craig? When that bell rings for the next election, Mr. Speaker, the PLP shall remain the Government of the day because we stay with the people. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, MP Famous. The Deputy Speaker actually jumped real quick that time. I am going to go with the Deputy Speaker then, MP Dunkley. Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr.: Thank you. I am a little younger than Dunkley.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: And what does that have to do with anything? Hon. Derric k V. Burgess, Sr.: I got up quicker. [Crosstalk] APPRECIATION FOR SANITATION WORKERS Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr.: No. He didn’t mean that. Mr. Speaker, first, I want to go where [Honourable Member] Famous …
Okay.
Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: And what does that have to do with anything?
Hon. Derric k V. Burgess, Sr.: I got up quicker. [Crosstalk]
APPRECIATION FOR SANITATION WORKERS Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr.: No. He didn’t mean that. Mr. Speaker, first, I want to go where [Honourable Member] Famous was, but before I go there, there have been many complaints over the last couple of weeks about grass not being cut, trees not being trimmed back. And while that could be a justifiable com-plaint, there is good reason—the rain. Good rain. In fact, we are just over 10 inches ahead year to date of our rainfall last year. So, that eased all of us up in the pockets as far as those who have to buy water, and this is good. So, I say that in order to go to the next point. One thing I must say and all of us here will acknowledge that we have some workers in this country that work rain, blow or shine, and that is those guys who pick up our garbage. Right? They work, and they are some of the best workers you can find in the world. 1754 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly And I would hope that my colleagues would reward them every year around Chris tmas, give them a monetary gift. Because I do see some awards that have been given to civil servants —predominately civil servants — which is good. That is not a criticism. But I just hope that these workers who work through rain, blow or shine . . . they do not stop. They get wet and they will keep going. And then the garbage that our people put out, some people are not considerate of the weight of those bags and what they put in those bags. So, I would just hope that each year around Christmastime our worker s in that area are rewarded with a monetary gift. I am sure they would appreciate it. And I am sure everybody in this country would agree that those guys do a good job. Even though sometimes their equipment breaks down, they still get out there nights and weekends.
BERMUDA’S HISTORY WITH THE UK Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr.: Mr. Speaker, on this Emancipation . . . I have always spoken against it because of the history. Mr. Speaker, I, again, like my honourable colleague, Mr. Famous, will not be there.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberYou are not going? Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr.: No, I am not scheduled to be there, and I will not be going there out of any type of interest, because when you look at the history, Mr. Speaker . . . and I know some people do not l …
You are not going? Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr.: No, I am not scheduled to be there, and I will not be going there out of any type of interest, because when you look at the history, Mr. Speaker . . . and I know some people do not l ike the history when I bring it up. Right? But I am going to be reading what I read, and I do not want people to forget this history because some people have forgotten their history and fallen into the trap of our masters, Mr. Speaker. Now, even though in 1833, the Bill was passed, and it went into effect 1834, we are supposed to be free, and we are not free because those folks that were appointed to the largest house on Langton Hill perpetuated racism in this country. Not only that, Mr. Speaker, those gov ernors . . . and I could name them: in 1837, Governor Chapman, in 1839, Governor Reid, Governor Murray in 1860. These guys were no friends of the newly freed people in this country. They were not friends. Even Willcocks in 1920, he did not like the makeup of the number of Blacks that were in the police force, so he went about and finally got support of the Legislature to bring in policemen from overseas and paid them more. And that is when we started having policeman live up [at] Prospect, because those ho uses up in Prospect were predominately residents who were policemen from the mother country, Mr. Speaker. And not only that, Mr. Speaker, they try to control the wages of our people. In fact, they went as far as in the church. And I am so glad now that in the Anglican Church I have one of my cousins as the bishop. And I do not say that as a joke. He is a good fellow. I like him. Bishop Nicholas Dill. He is a good fellow. But even in the church, they went about, just prior to slavery, and they started preach ing because they came up with a plan: I have to preach to the slaves. Let them not forget who gave them this freedom because if they act up, we will take it from them . And they preached this in the church, Mr. Speaker. In fact, my cousin Bishop Dill told me that at one time if Blacks did not attend the Anglican Church they could be fined. And people wonder why the Anglican Church is the largest church registered in the coun-try. Well, it is obvious. People got used to that. That was in their DNA, so they kept going there. And they got $12 billion plus in London in investment —a lot of it is from slave money, you know. So, the history is not good. The UK does not seem to have tried to eradicate some of this action because now you hear about this SOG. Right? N ow, I am wondering if the SOG . . . they called it . . . what do they call it? I know it is oversight. It could be Select [sic] Oversight Group .
Mr. Christopher FamousSlave Oversight Government . Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr.: It could be that too. Or it could be Secret Oversight . And these people sit up on the largest house on Langton Hill and they determine who is going to be investigated and prosecuted. And I am not making this …
Slave Oversight Government .
Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr.: It could be that too. Or it could be Secret Oversight . And these people sit up on the largest house on Langton Hill and they determine who is going to be investigated and prosecuted. And I am not making this up, Mr. Speaker. I have . . . and if anyone wants it tabled, I will table it. I have memos from them, and this committee is chaired by the Deputy Governor. And they have the representative from the FCO [Foreign and Commonwealth Office]. They were up there determining who would be prosecuted. Those are the same ones who determined that Zane De Silva and my niece Zarah were going to be prosecuted. And they went up to Zarah’s house when her children were home early in the morning to try to arrest her —I will never forget that; I will never forgive them —like she had done something wro ng. She did nothing wrong; broke no law. [They] sent her before the courts of her peers, unanimously found not guilty along with her father. But they did this for political reasons. Yet, we have seen others, who . . . one highranking police officer broke the law —COVID -19 laws. Files were sent to the DPP [Department of Public Pros-ecutions]. The DPP said it is not in the public interest to prosecute. But they can prosecute others, and I say “others,” other Blacks and Whites had to go to court and answer the charge of breaching the laws, but not this high-ranking police officer. Then, Mr. Speaker, you had an auditor of this country who was found with stolen police files in his possession at his home. He was not prosecuted. I guess the SOG said, No, we are not out for him. We are out for people like Dr. Brown, Zane and probably Christian Derrick Burgess. You know, people like that.
Bermuda House of Assembly And so, he was not prosecuted. We had a former Attorney General obtain documents illegally and was not prosecuted, Mr. Speaker. You know, you want to feel good about this — Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr.: He can point -of-order. That’s fine.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Can the Honourable Member please provide proof of that last comment that a former Attorney General obtained documents illegally? Because that comment is misleading and incorrect and needs to be withdrawn. Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr.: Okay. Let me …
Point of order.
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Can the Honourable Member please provide proof of that last comment that a former Attorney General obtained documents illegally? Because that comment is misleading and incorrect and needs to be withdrawn.
Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr.: Okay. Let me say this here. That was revealed in this Parliament by the Premier of today, revealed in this Parliament while he was in Parliament.
[Inaudible interjections]
Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr.: Oh, yes. Oh, yes, it was. That is the truth. I can recall that. That was ri ght up the hill up there.
Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Mr. Speaker, I am asking for the document that shows —
Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr.: I don’t have to have a document. Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: He says he doesn’t have to have a document. That’s all it needs.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWait. Wait. Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr.: I’m sorry.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYou are making a point of order? Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Yes, sir.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYou made your point of order. Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Yes, sir.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr.: Mr. Speaker, yes. And that is on Hansard, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerJust move forward. Move forward. Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr.: Yes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And, Mr. Speaker, you know, this is part of a letter sent to the Governor about the meeting. So we showed that this thing went high up. I understand the rules, Mr. Speaker, and I …
Just move forward. Move forward. Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr.: Yes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And, Mr. Speaker, you know, this is part of a letter sent to the Governor about the meeting. So we showed that this thing went high up. I understand the rules, Mr. Speaker, and I want to respect the rules. But when certain things like this go in the publi c domain, I do not think it gives me the licence to name these folks, Mr. Speaker, because you have got innocent people before the courts. And I am wondering, is the DPP going to prosecute Robert Brockman? He ran an illegal scheme in Bermuda. In fact, his assets are frozen in Bermuda and in Switzerland. And some prominent Bermudians benefited from that. Now, he has since died and gone to heaven, you know. But I wonder if they are going to investigate him, Mr. Speaker. We wonder this here, Mr. Speaker. And things like that really, really concern me because at that level when they are up there deciding whom they are going to prosecute . . . because in one of these cases the charge against one of the people whom I named was initiated by the Governor. And then the Governor in the same case decided on the investigation and the prosecution. I have got it right here. It is here. And you say, Is there any fairness in that? None whatsoever, Mr. Speaker! And then I know I made a statement here about banks one time. O ne Member told the press that basically (and these are my words) foolishness, that is absurd, right? But, Mr. Speaker, here it is in the Mother Country, in England, MEP [Member of the European Parliament] Nigel Farage, he has been kicked out of the bank in England! And some of the reasons they give in this article are that he made controversial statements as an MP. What is not controversial? It depends how the press writes it up. They will tell you it is controversial. And some disagree. Some are saying it is because of his political views. Some are saying that he did not have enough money in the bank to remain there because it is one of the banks that you have to have at least a $1 million mortgage or savings of $3 million. It is the eighth oldest bank in the world. So what the MPs in England are doing, they are talking about possibly putting conditions on banking permits so that if they do that, they have got to make public why they are kicking this or that person out. This is what they are talking about in England. So when the Royal Gazette (I hate even calling their name) can write about Derrick Burgess and talk about the comments that I made . . . I wrote it down last night. One second, Mr. Speaker. I want to be clear when I quote this here. They said, “Mr Burgess in the first place speaking from his pulpit protected by parlia-mentary privilege, these stories and the suspicions do not exist —or sprout legs. ” Well, I guess they said that because I would never name who was kicked out of the 1756 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly bank. I would never do that. So they have a way of trying to go backwards and tell you , you are a liar so you can reveal . . . I am not a liar. It was Joe Benny and Micky Twin, you know. You could not get me like that. You write what you want. I am so used to that; I get a little worried if they do not write some bad things about me. So it is fine with me. I know the editor. I am one of his favourites. I am sure I am one of his favourites, Mr. Speaker. So, all we are just asking for is fairness, fairness. If you are goin g to sit up there under the SOG [Strategic Oversight Group] and decide who you are going to prosecute politically, you make a statement right from that big house up there to say it is untenable for this lady to be the DPP. And then when they finally give i t to her, within five days you have got charges in the court for Dr. Brown. It does not go down too well with right -thinking people. Was this a deal struck? If you do this, you can get this. I do not know. It makes me wonder, Mr. Speaker. And as a politic ian we have to address these things. Whether people like it or not, that is our duty to make sure everybody is treated equally. Regardless who they are, regardless what party they are, regardless what church they belong to or club, whether they belong to t he soon- to-be losers of the Cup, Somerset, or whether they belong to the soon- victorious St. George’s, right?
[Inaudible interjections and laughter ]
Hon. Derrick V. Burgess, Sr.: But, Mr. Speaker, we just want fairness. And it is no way the SOG comprisin g of the DPP, the Police Commissioner, who should work together, a representative from the FCO [Foreign and Commonwealth Office] who comes down here and de-cides, makes political decisions, and the Deputy Gov-ernor, and invited at that time during the previous Government two Members, to a meeting of that SOG committee. And this was in the public domain in the courts recently. So, Mr. Speaker, that is why I have a problem with this Emancipation. We are not free! Because they do what they want. They perpetuate racism, and they say, Oh, he’s talking foolish. Look at their history. And it continues, Mr. Speaker. It continues. Unfortunately, that is what happens. So, Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me those few words.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Does any other Member . . . MP Dunkley, you have your 20 minutes. THE SPIRIT OF CUP MATCH Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, three things I would like to speak about tonight. First off, the Honourable Member who just spoke before me …
Thank you. Does any other Member . . . MP Dunkley, you have your 20 minutes.
THE SPIRIT OF CUP MATCH Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, three things I would like to speak about tonight. First off, the Honourable Member who just spoke before me did not really have me during his comments, but I was listening intently. And he really lost me when he started to talk about Cup Match. In case I run out of time during my presentation, I want to wish everybody an enjoyable Cup Match and a safe Cup Match. And I would hope that at the end of Cup Match the team from the East End, who were gladly and happily waving their colours in the hal lway of Parliament today, still have some joy after the Cup goes West again, Mr. Speaker. And you know what really amazes me, Mr. Speaker, is the banter about Cup Match shows the strength of the tradition and the history and, as an Honourable Member said behind me, the camaraderie about it. It does. And I look forward to that banter be-cause it has no boundaries to it. I recall last year, Mr. Speaker, how fervent the St. George’s supporters were about their chances —not their chances , about winning the Cup. And then when it was all said and done, they meekly came to the next session of the House and begrudgingly offered congratulations, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerIt will be a repeat this year. Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Mr. Speaker, and you are wise in your judgment, Mr. Speaker. And there is no point of order can be called on that, Mr. Speaker. [Laughter] Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: But, Mr. Speaker, let us reflect. Let us reflect …
It will be a repeat this year.
Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Mr. Speaker, and you are wise in your judgment, Mr. Speaker. And there is no point of order can be called on that, Mr. Speaker.
[Laughter]
Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: But, Mr. Speaker, let us reflect. Let us reflect on the spirit and the hope of Cup Match and how one side— and it has mainly been the people from the East End of the Island who have had that hope dashed, but they will rebuild it for the next year. So I am pleased to see that the St. George’s fans, in spite of nothing really changing in the Eas t End of the Island, they have rebuilt their spirit. And I hope they pre-pare the grounds to the best of their ability. And I hope their prayers for rain do not work, Mr. Speaker, because we want to have good game of cricket.
OBA’s RECORD IN OFFICE
Hon. M ichael H. Dunkley: Mr. Speaker, there are two other items I want to speak about tonight. The Honourable Member from a neighbouring constituency took aim at the OBA’s record in office. And, Mr. Speaker, I do not want to spend much time about it tonight because I have another important subject to talk about. But I will say two things. The first thing is I will admit that the OBA, like any administration, made mistakes. And we made decisions that, on reflection, you would like to have made different decisions. But . . . but, Mr. Speaker, the sincerest form of flattery is imitation. And, Mr. Speaker, if you look at the PLP economic strategy which was tabled and debated in this House a few short days ago and supported— I spoke in support of it, Mr.
Bermuda House of Assembly Speaker —it says on page 36, “ Sophisticated Island Lifestyle.” And the last paragraph on that page says, “Bermuda has world class infrastructure and hospitality resources including a new airport terminal and top class hotel resort properties.” Well, that airport terminal has been bashed by the PLP, but it makes their plan. Mr. Speaker, they talk about top- class hotel resorts, Mr. Speaker, when under the OBA The Loren was built, Rosewood was pur-chased and renovated, St. Regis broke ground, Hamilton Princess renovated. And under the PLP the Fairmont Southampton has been closed for four years, Mr. Speaker. So let us not get into talking about records, Mr. Speaker, because every Government makes decisions that they would like to have changed, but time does not offer you the b enefit. And every Government —every Government —has some good policy that becomes effective. And I think people get frustrated. The people who vote us into this place get frustrated because all we do is compare records back and forth. We create a lot of hot air by comparing records back and forth, Mr. Speaker, when really what they want is action. [Inaudible interjections]
Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: So, Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to see that the chief interpolator is in the House tonight, and he will have an opportunity to speak.
PROMISES MADE AND PROMISES NOT KEPT IN HEALTH CARE Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: I want to spend my remaining time on my feet to speak about some of the promises made and promises not kept, because we are at the end of a session. We come back in September, but theoretically this is the end of this session of Parliament, the last day o f summer before Cup Match, Mr. Speaker. And the big area that I refer to is health care, Mr. Speaker, health care. Promises have been made and promises have not been kept. Health costs keep rising. Health insurance costs keep rising. The lack of reform, t argeting the real challenge in health, has not taken place. We have challenges at our only hospital with leadership, with staffing, with financing. Mr. Speaker, health care is the elephant in the room that we must address. And it has not been given the at tention it needs. Now, I admit that COVID -19 consumed three years, earlier in this decade, pretty much. But that does not mean that the lack of progress needs to be overlooked because of COVID -19. We now need to play catch- up because the community is strug gling. In fact, talking to a professional in the industry just a couple of days ago, who was being interviewed by AM BEST, and they were asked a direct question about insurance. The question was, Do you believe Bermuda is falling behind with insurance reform and pricing your-self out of the market in that area? (Those are my words from the conversation.) That is concerning when we hear people starting now not only to reflect on our challenge in Bermuda, but to reflect on that challenge from outside sources, Mr. Speaker. And I think, Mr. Speaker, you will recall because you listen attentively to every debate in this Chamber, that during the debate on the economic strategy imposed by Government, which this side generally support, I raised five (what I consider ) obstacles to the implementation of that plan. And I am not going to get in and regurgitate that debate. But for the sense of what I say here tonight, those five obstacles were obstacles to implementing the plan and being successful on the plan, Mr. Speak er. I listed leadership. I am not talking about that tonight. I listed education, the need for education reform. I am not talking about that tonight. I listed infrastructure, Mr. Speaker. I am not talking about that tonight. I listed immigration. I am not talking about that tonight. What I am talking about is health reform, Mr. Speaker. If we manage to in some meaningful way deal with those obstacles, which I also referred to [as] challenges, we can see some good success on that economic strategy. And I w ant to talk about health care tonight because, while the Government says that prom-ises made have been kept, in the area of health reform we do not see it, Mr. Speaker. If you talk to the man in the street, if you talk to those people employed, they will te ll you, and we know it ourselves because we all pay insurance and insurance rates have continued to rise year over year over year. Many years it has been double- digit increases. Now, reflect on that, Mr. Speaker. When we talk about the cost of living, if you are having doubledigit increases in insurance, it is a scary walk to a precipice, Mr. Speaker. And at the same time, when we look at that we see the Honourable Minister of Health has said the hundreds of millions of dollars that are spent on health care every year in Bermuda. I think the last figure given was about $775 million, Mr. Speaker. Those costs continue to rise. It is simply unsustainable. We had this debate today about the pension fund and how we need to make some changes to make that sustai nable in the future. But here we have something that is staring us right in the face. Each and every one of us faces it every week when we see our pay slip, or every month when the pay slip comes out, what you pay for insurance. And it increases, Mr. Speak er. It is unsustainable. The cost of health insurance is unsustainable, Mr. Speaker. The lack of reform has made those challenges even manifested greater than that. And when you couple that, Mr. Speaker, with the challenges that we are facing in the hospi tal, the financial challenges that we have referred to in this place—and I am pleased to see that Members in another place have also talked about 1758 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly it—it is an item that we need to deal with because we only have one hospital. When we need care, we go to Point Finger Road, Mr. Speaker. And when you put all of this together, you have concern for the future, but you want to have confidence in the ability to provide care. Now, let me say very clearly, Mr. Speaker, that I believe that the quality of care attained in Bermuda matches up with most other jurisdictions in the world that provide good quality care. But if we do not deal with the challenges I have talk about —the increasing costs and the challenges at the hospital —we will slowly see that ebb away. And the re are some concerning things that have taken place over the past couple of months which do not lead me to believe that we are addressing the matter or going in the right direction. Let me just name a couple of them, Mr. Speaker. So the annual report for the hospital was tabled in this Chamber a couple of sessions ago for the year 2018/19, I believe, Mr. Speaker. I could be wrong; it could be 2019/20. (Let me take a look at it.) It is 2019/20. It was tabled late. There are still two more out there that are late. I have spoken on this a number of times. Late financial reporting does not do well in any establishment. It is no different in the hospital. Late financial reporting in the hospital does not do well when the Minister stands in this Chamber and says the cash reserves have been depleted to almost nothing, from $100 million to almost nothing. This means that money going in is not equalling the money going out. And, Mr. Speaker, I say that not saying that money is not being handled correctly. I say that as that our costs are running ahead of our revenue. And I hear the honourable chief interpolator saying, It has been that way forever. That is not correct. But if it has been that way for some time, we need to change it! Because we cannot keep funding it. So what happened? The Progressive Labour Party in their wisdom in June of 2019 introduced a new funding model for the hospital. They introduced a new funding model of a block grant. And I will read from the report, a message from the Chairman in that report. It said, “In June 2019, Government introduced a new funding model, which capped BHB’s annual revenue at $322 million.” (Capped it, that is all they could get) “It was designed,” (Mr. Speaker, I am reading from the report) “to cover the costs of the MW I grant, hospital subsidy, long term care, dialysis and standard health benefit services.” (It was designed to cover all of those costs.) “Under this new funding model, BHB’s revenue was no longer reflective of community usage . . . .” They got their money , that is all they get. No fee- for-service. They got their money and that is all they get. And it goes on to say, a second concern from the Chairman of the Bermuda Hospitals Board at the time, “Unfortunately, the funding cap did not consider capital spending needs or the impacts from inflation.” So what are we seeing? We have seen inflation get rampant, it has happened all over the world. So I am not blaming the PLP necessarily about that, Mr. Speaker. And we have seen capital costs continue to have to be met. So here we have, Mr. Speaker, we have a block grant that the Government introduced in their wisdom out of the Mutual Reinsurance Fund. And the Chairman of the hospital is saying, It’s not working. But what is done? I am not aware of anything that has been done, Mr. Speaker. And that is dangerous. But what we know was done is in the three previous years up until earlier this year, it was relayed to this Honourable House in a Statement by the Honourable Minister that $15 million of the block grant was not paid. Now, Mr. Speaker, how could a block grant be promised and not paid? Who is keeping track of that on both sides of the equation, at the hospital or in the government offices? We have been given no explanation for that, Mr. Speaker. And to understand how that grant should work, I think the House is owed an explanation, Mr. Speaker. So here we have a hospital where funding is struggling, where fee- for-service has been taken out of the equation. And, Mr. Speaker, I am going to make a suggestion tonight that this Government needs to go back and revisit the block grant, because it is not working. And more than likely, less money is being put into the Mutual Reinsurance Fund than anticipated because of emigration and things like that. So there is less money available to come out of that fund. And the grant is becoming short at the hospital over the past couple of years in spite of the hospital’s best intent to save money, which they have illustrated they have had some success. The Government needs to get rid of the block grant, go back to fee- for-service. Incentivise the hospital to actually bring revenue in the door. Improve their standards of service. Cut the waiting times at the emergency department. Get people into rooms quicker. Hire nurses. And I am not putting the blame anywhere in the immigration process or whatever. But our only hospital needs to have the professionals required to run it, doctors and nurses. If we are 50 nurses short in a hospital, Mr. Speaker, if you are 50 nurses short in a hospi tal, it is a huge problem. Because not only are you short the 50 nurses, you are short the holiday time and the sick time. You get burnout, Mr. Speaker. It is not good. We need to make sure we have strong leadership at the hospital to deal with the challe nges we have and also to hire the professionals that are necessary. We have been short of ENT [ Ear, Nose and Throat] doctors for months, if not years. It is dangerous! We are putting the safety of our community at risk, especially our young children, Mr. S peaker. Those are suggestions that this Government should take back on board. Get rid of the block grant. Bring back fee- for-service. Incentivise the hospital to bring revenue in. Get them to open up all of their operating rooms. Get them to hire the nurses who are required, qualified nurses who are required. I am sure the Government would work with
Bermuda House of Assembly them to get them through the immigration process in an appropriate way. But most importantly, provide the leadership that the hospital requires to be run in a most appropriate way as our only hospital, Mr. Speaker. Now, Mr. Speaker, one other concern that really troubled many in the community was the changes that were made by the Government in the budget that was debated at the end of March this year, where on April 1, ambulance service was reduced. So at nighttime, from April 1 ambulance service only came out of the hospital during the hours of 8:00 to 4:00. Ambulance could go from the West End of the Island to the hospital and the East End. I think it ran from Lamb Foggo Clinic. If you put the safety and security of Bermudians first, this was not an appropriate move to save money. I applaud the Minister for National Security for re-implementing the service because people were uncomfortable. The quickest, the most important thing, Mr. Speaker, when an accident happens or somebody calls and needs acute care, it is not only the time it takes for a service to get to the patient in the street, in the home, wherever they might be. But the most critical thing is, because triage onsite is relatively limited in most severe cases, the most critical thing is transport from the site to the hospital. By reducing that ambulance service, you made those response times from the site to the hospital longer, and we put at risk the health and safety of our community. Ask any doctor. They will support that same thing. Now, Mr. Speaker, if we are having challenges within the emergency department with wait times, let us rectify it. We are proud of our country. But I do not want to see my mother, your mother, your grandmother, your brother, your sister waiting in the hallway for 20 hours to get a bed. That is not what Bermuda is all about. We can do better. We need to stop making excuses about it. And I am not pointing fingers to blame anybody. I do not want anybody’s head. I want it fixed! Because in the real world, if you do not give service, you struggle and go out of business. We cannot afford our only hospital to continue to struggle. So, Mr. Speaker, I have talked about my concerns about the hospital. And I will end on the lack of reform by the Government. We are going to hold the feet to the fire, Mr. Speaker, and one way they can do it is to have true collaboration with everybody in the medical industry to talk about ways to reduc e the expenses. And I often have not agreed with former Premier Dr. Brown. But I remember one thing that the former Premier said, and I do not think he was a Member of the House at the time. But he said, If you want to reduce health care costs, cut all medical- associated fees and services by 10 per cent. You will save a lot of money. Everybody will be unhappy in the industry, but they will still make money and stay in business. So, Mr. Speaker, the time for action is now. I am not saying that this is the approach. But we need to go to the doctors and those in the profession and say, What can we do? We need to do it. Time is running out. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, MP Dunkley. Minister of Education, I think you caught my eye first that time. EDUCATION SYSTEM REFORM Hon. Diallo V. S. Rabain: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And thank you, colleagues, who have spoken thus far. Mr. Speaker, I do want to have a serious conversation about education in …
Thank you, MP Dunkley. Minister of Education, I think you caught my eye first that time.
EDUCATION SYSTEM REFORM Hon. Diallo V. S. Rabain: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And thank you, colleagues, who have spoken thus far. Mr. Speaker, I do want to have a serious conversation about education in Bermuda today. And I want to talk about the earnest efforts that are taking place to reform our education system. Because based on the nearly daily comments that I hear on the street, read in the blogs, read in the daily comments and the like, it is clear to me that education is one of those important topics because it actually affects virtually every single Bermudian in Bermuda in some way or another. Mr. Speaker, yesterday I passed [the] milestone of six years as the Minister of Education. And I have seen or heard nearly every single type of comment that could be said about education and about myself. There have been ups and downs. There have been congratulations. There have been calls for my head from friends and foes alike. These have been some trying times, Mr. Speaker, but this Government is steadfast in its resolve to reform our education system and provide our children with the necessary opportunities to reach their potential. Mr. Speaker, my time as the Education Minister has exposed me to situations that have left me won-dering, What reall y are the motives of those around me? However, Mr. Speaker, I take solace reminding myself that as long as we continue to have a solid foun-dation for the critical work that we do, neither foes nor loving friends can hurt me. Since 2017, despite the narrat ives that some may want to push, we cannot deny that we are making progress. We can argue theories, Mr. Speaker, but we cannot dispute the facts. Since 2017, our schools have unbelievably moved from dial -up Internet to high- speed fibre-optic Internet. We navigated the COVID -19 pandemic better than jurisdictions much larger than ours. Our system has moved to embrace more 21 st century learning such as the use of Chromebooks, Schoology and Google Class within our system. We successfully introduced signature programmes at the Berkeley Institute and CedarBridge Academy. The first parish primary schools will open in September in Hamilton and Warwick Parish. Over the last three- plus years we did a number of things to improve the curriculum, classroom outcomes and what teacher professional development should be in a 21st century education system. The development of the Education Authority is well underway. 1760 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly Scholarships and awards have increased from $1 million in 2017 to $1.95 million in 2023. Well, Mr. Speaker, I could go on and on about this list of things here. But I want to use this time to better address the other stuff around education reform that seems to get more of the press. Those are the things that we can do better to address the challenges we have, and also they talk about the narrative that there are some out there who wish to have regardless of what we do to move our education system along, no matter how illogical or purposefully misrepresenting the facts they want to be. Mr. Speaker, it takes such fortitude to embrace some of the things that I do hear people say, especially those things that are obviously mischievous at a mini-mum and outright purposeful mistruth at the worst. With this job you have to be ready t o bear to hear the truth that you have spoken twisted by knaves for sure.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberOkay. I see what you are doing. Okay. Hon. Diallo V. S. Rabain: Mr. Speaker, I am encouraged by recent events that have seen groups reach out to the Ministry and ask to be involved in education and express their thoughts about what is going on. We al-ways look forward …
Okay. I see what you are doing. Okay. Hon. Diallo V. S. Rabain: Mr. Speaker, I am encouraged by recent events that have seen groups reach out to the Ministry and ask to be involved in education and express their thoughts about what is going on. We al-ways look forward to meeting with, listening to and speaking about education reform in its entirety. And when I say “its entirety,” Mr. Speaker, it is because education reform is so much more than clos-ing school sites. Mr. Speaker, we realise and under-stand the reaction from some sectors when we talk about the consolidating of schools and moving in that direction. But, Mr. Speaker, our system needs to be rightsized so our children can be the beneficiaries of what it is that we have to do in order to improve their educational outcomes. And when it comes to speaking about education reform, it is not just about school clo-sures. Since the beginning of this education reform journey in 2017 we have held hundreds of consultation engagement and socialisation meetings. We have re-ceived thousands of individual submissions from par-ents, educators, students and other community mem-bers. Most consultation submissions and the Ministry’s responses can be found on our website because we publish them to support the transparency of our process. Most recently, Mr. Speaker, we received a letter from the St. George’s Prep School PTA that contained a sentence, and I quote, Mr. Speaker, quote, “We believe the criteria cannot just focus on the facility, but must also look at instructional quality, student outcome, administration and other qualitative items,” end quote. Mr. Speaker, we cannot agree more, because that is exactly what we have been doing since 2017. Since 2017 we have worked hard, and these are all public documents that people can go on our website and see. We have published “A Case for Change,” which talks about why we need to change ed-ucation. We have had open conversations about our research and the community engagement necessary to develop what the 10 signature programmes would look like. The two years of work that went into developing the signature programmes, then the implementation of them within our senior schools. The 12- plus months that we had to take to design and develop the first two parish primary schools, and that was before we started talking about what the infrastructure requirements should be for those schools. The two- plus years spent establishing the Education Authority. The creation of Learning First to drive our education reform forward, and the now reincarnation/transformation of that into the Education Reform unit. Again, the hundreds of engagement sessions that we have had to date. And the listing on our website, www.learningfirstbda.com of nearly 700 frequently asked questions that gives the answer to any question anyone could have. And this is a result of the 40 en-gagement sessions we did in April in order to find out and get the feedback from the community. So, Mr. Speaker, I realise and I fully acknowledge that if in 2023, after six years, that we are now encouraged to consider something that has been a part of our narrative since 2017, we have not reached everyone, we need to do better. And we will do better. We will continue to host community meetings. We will continue to invite any and everyone to join this team. We will continue to push out social media posts and the like. But m ore important, we will continue to engage anyone or any group that reaches out and wishes to dis-cuss education reform. Our country and our children need us to move in the same direction. However, Mr. Speaker, this now brings me to what I consider the most unfortunate criticism we get around education reform. And that is those comments from those who wish to drive a narrative not necessarily supported by the facts we have in front of us. I have spoken countless times in this House, Mr. Speaker, and in the public [about] the need for education reform to be bipartisan and devoid of political bias. To make this point, Mr. Speaker, in March 2021, I created a WhatsApp group called the OBA Education Team. This group includes Members of the Opposition such as the Honourable Opposition Leader; the Opposition Whip; Shadow Minister for Education, Senator Ben Smith; spokesman for Education in the House, MP Susan Jackson; and OBA candidates Dwayne Robinson, Glenn Tucker and Thomas Harvey. I post in this group regularly about education updates and what is happen-ing in education. [Inaudible interjection] Hon. Diallo V. S. Rabain: And I will add MP Dunkley as well.
[Laughter and inaudible interjection]
Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Diallo V. S. Rabain: Mr. Speaker, the purpose of this is, instead of depending on Members opposite to perhaps see something in the daily or see something in any of the media or see something on our social media posts, which we post virtually three or four times a week, I want to bring the information directly to them. And I have made it repeatedly clear that I am only a WhatsApp message away, or a phone call away, or an email away, for any questions they may have about what is going on with education. So, Mr. Speaker, you can imagine my surprise whenever I see an op- ed or a comment, typically from the Member who sits in the other place, asking ques-tions about education in the media, releases that seem created to cause confusion, cast doubt or at times simply . . . are just simply untrue. If they genuinely care, and I believe they do, Mr. Speaker, they would then use the official channels that I have offered to them to just simply ask the questions before they make comments. One has to question motives if they continue along thi s way. As elected and desire -to-be-elected members of the One Bermuda Alliance, I would expect at a mini-mum proper research would be done before speaking. Mr. Speaker, one more recent example (and there are many, but I will only point out one of them) is on July [24] MP Susan Jackson wrote, and I quote, Mr. Speaker, “ A number of parents who applied for their children to attend Purvis Parish Primary have been left hanging after their applications have not only been rejected, but have not been offered an alt ernative entry elsewhere. This is deplorable. Again, how can anyone plan for September like this?” Mr. Speaker, this is a complete fabrication! The placements for P1 were sent to all parents in May of this year, Mr. Speaker, and the confirmation of placements was completed by June 14. But yet we have an article published July [24] saying something that is completely untrue. Mr. Speaker, there is an appeals process for persons who are unhappy with their placement. And that process is taking place, and that is normal. But, Mr. Speaker, to say that there are parents who have not [received a confirmation of placement] is blatantly untrue. Mr. Speaker, more parents have applied for our proposed parish primary schools than we have placements for. That is a fact . We have received 76 total applications for 30 spaces each at Purvis Primary and Francis Patton. As a matter of fact, Mr. Speaker, those 76 applications represent 24 per cent of all of the applications we received for (at that point) 18 primary schools. Mr. Speaker, 2 [schools] out of 18 received a quarter of the applications. Now, I mention that because there are some who say, No one believes in what you are doing. No one feels that you are going in the right direction. But the parents who are engaged . . . because, Mr. Speaker, what I have found in this job is that parents speak to parents. They do not necessarily speak to the Ministry or the department or go on the tours and that. They speak to other parents because they want to know what is going on. And it appears that those parents are saying, This is where you might want to be because this is where the reform is really happening. So, Mr. Speaker, these data show that despite what is being said out there, there are persons who believe in what we are doing. Again, Mr. Speaker, we can debate theories, but we cannot dispute the facts. Mr. Speaker, this Government’s commitment and priority to reform our system is above reproach. Our education system has suffered for decades under the weight of politicall y motivated and expedited decisions versus what is right for our children. As a result, while the world has changed, our education system has remained stagnant and has not kept pace. As a result, our children are not leaving our system equipped as they should be to tackle the complex world we now live in. The work to change those outcomes started in 2017, and we will continue until that job is done. Our children and our Island’s future deserve nothing less. Mr. Speaker, I want this motion to adjourn to be taken in the spirit of reaching out and endorsing collaboration. I do not want us to argue or take political shots or focus on areas of concern that only are the concern of our personal wants. I want us to fully embrace the notion that education reform needs all hands on deck and for all of us to be moving in the same direction. Once again, Mr. Speaker, I sound the clarion call for everyone to join us. Let us move forward. We will only achieve the public education system our children deserve if we come together, put our petty differences aside and sit down. And let us get this train mov-ing forward as it should be, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.
[Desk thumping]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. MP De Silva, would you like your 20 minutes on the clock? Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I would. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGo right ahead. HOSPITAL FUNDS Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, before I start on my presentation tonight, I wanted to just mention one thing with respect to the Honourable Member Dunkley’s comments about the hospital. All I want people to remember is that before they left office, …
Go right ahead.
HOSPITAL FUNDS Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, before I start on my presentation tonight, I wanted to just mention one thing with respect to the Honourable Member Dunkley’s comments about the hospital. All I want people to remember is that before they left office, the year before they left office, I think they raided the hospital’s funds of about $25 [million] to $30 million, if I remember correctly. So when the Hon ourable Member talks about these finances, it was started back just before they lost the Government.
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Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: The Honourable Member needs to give a full picture, because if he does not, he is misleading the House. At that time there were still $75 million in cash reserves. And the financial position of the hospital was much …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: One hundred less twenty - five is seventy- five. Now, Mr. Speaker — Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Well, that is really good math for the Honourable Member. But the most relevant point, Mr. Speaker, in the point of order is that —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMember, you did not ask for a point of order. Make your point of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Point of order. The point of order, the most important point is the hospital’s financial position was much stronger then. It has deteriorated.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAll right. You made your point of order. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Well, if the Honourable Member was honourable, he would have probably made his presentation about the hospital . . . he would have made the presentation about the hospital when the Minister …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes. Let us move on. Move on to what you— Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: So, Mr. Speaker, when I was a child— Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Now, Mr. Speaker, I ask him to withdraw that comment. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: This is the Member calling me …
Yes. Let us move on. Move on to what you—
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: So, Mr. Speaker, when I was a child—
Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Now, Mr. Speaker, I ask him to withdraw that comment.
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: This is the Member calling me chief interpolator all day!
Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: You cannot say “If the Honourable Member was honourable.” We are all honourable in this place. I ask that comment to be withdrawn.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThat part, yes, we all are Honourable Members. Very much. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I will withdraw that. I w ill withdraw that comment.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Talk to the Chair now. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: If, if— [Inaudible interjection] REPORT ON THE RESIGNATION OF FORMER COMMISSIONER OF POLICE Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes. Let me go. Mr. Speaker, when I was a child, right? When I was a child my …
Thank you. Talk to the Chair now.
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: If, if— [Inaudible interjection]
REPORT ON THE RESIGNATION OF FORMER COMMISSIONER OF POLICE
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes. Let me go. Mr. Speaker, when I was a child, right? When I was a child my mother used to tell me, and she would tell me many times, What’s good for the goose is good for the gander. She told me that many times. Now, Mr. Speaker, that phrase came from a gentleman by the name of John Heywood. He coined the phrase in 1562. Now, what does that phrase ultimately mean? It is based on the principle of fairness. It is based on the principle of transparency. So, Mr. Speaker, if I were to make a decision, for example, if it is good for the Back o’ Town, it is good for Tucker’s Town. What is good for the goose is good for the gander. Mr. Speaker, what is good for CedarBridge is good for Saltus. What is good for the goose is good for the gander. Let us talk about golf for a minute. What is good f or Ocean View is good for Mid Ocean. Mr. Speaker, if something is in the public interest for one, it must be in the public interest for all. If one is going to pull out the sword for public interest for one, one must pull out the sword for public interes t for all. What is good for the goose is good for the gander. Mr. Speaker, if public interest is good for Dr. Brown and Zane De Silva, it must be good for Nick Pedro and Stephen Corbishley.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberUh-oh! Uh- oh! Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: What is good for the goose is good for the gander. Mr. Speaker, you have a high- ranking police officer responsible for COVID -19 supervisions, who is caught during COVID -19 by another police officer and a file sent to the …
Uh-oh! Uh- oh! Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: What is good for the goose is good for the gander. Mr. Speaker, you have a high- ranking police officer responsible for COVID -19 supervisions, who is caught during COVID -19 by another police officer and a file sent to the DPP, who, by the way, is appointed by the Governor. What is good for the goose is good for the gander. You have an expatriate former police commissioner on contract, again appointed by the Governor, responsible and answerable only —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMember, as you move along just remember there are some parameters that you have to be guided by, okay? Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The police commissioner is responsible and answerable only to the Governor, paid for out of …
Member, as you move along just remember there are some parameters that you have to be guided by, okay?
Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The police commissioner is responsible and answerable only to the Governor, paid for out of the public purse. There are allegations of misconduct made against him, the former commissioner, in the civil courts. The Governor orders an investigation. What is good for the goose is good for the gander. The Governor orders an investigation into these alleged — [Inaudible interjections ]
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: The Governor orders an investigation into this alleged misconduct by the then- police commissioner to be done by Mr. Andrew Bermingham. Good for the goose, good for the gander. A lot of investigations going on. Now, let me just give y ou a little quick history on Mr. Bermingham. He was on the PCA [Police Complaints Authority] Committee for 13 years. He served as a lay acting magistrate for over a decade. Police officer for many, many years, impeccable record. He writes a report, and he gives his findings to Government House. That is where the transparency ends and the fairness ends. No goose, no gander there. No goose, no gan-der. So let us summarise for just a minute. A report is given to Government House. A police commissioner appointed by the Governor resigns. No reason is given to the public. No reason is given to the 200 to 300 police officers who work under him. A process is started for a new commissioner. And still no one knows why the old commissioner left. A request is made to t he PATI Commissioner appointed by the Governor. She rules it is not in the public interest for the content of the report to be made public. What is good for the goose is no longer good for the gander. How much did we pay for the car? And when I say “we” I am talking about the taxpayers. How much did we pay for the commissioner’s salary? Two hundred- plus, more than the Premier, more than any Minister. What was his severance package? What did it cost the taxpayers of this country? I was told, and I have it on good authority (I may get a point of order on this one) that even his children got a discount for attending one of the local private schools. So is this not in the public interest, Mr. Speaker? Severance pay ; cars? Did he get a year’s salary? Did he get two years’ salary? Did he get three? What was the package? The police have been investi-gating Dr. Brown for 13 years, and at last count in this House I believe it was reported [at a cost of] over $10 million. But that is in the public interest, correct? Yes! What is good for the goose is good for the gander. Now, let me highlight a couple of things, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Bermingham is an independent party, in-dependent (supposed to be). Allegations of serious misconduct by the then- commissioner who was a public officer. We do not know if there is a recommendation to prosecute. We do not know if there is a recommen-dation for exoneration. But what I do know, Mr. Speaker, is that the public of Bermuda have a right to know because what is good for the goose is good f or the gander. Now, Mr. Speaker, I implore Government House to release this report on the commissioner of po-lice. I implore the severance package for this commissioner, who pulled up stumps in the middle of the night and just left Bermuda. The commissioner of police, who was under investigation pulled up stumps (pun in-tended) and left the country! And not a dicky bird! Surely, as we heard Opposition Members talking about the Auditor General earlier and all the reports that have been given over the last sev eral decades, especially under this Government, surely the Auditor General might be a little concerned. Would she not be? What is good for the goose is good for the gander. So where did the money come from for this severance package? Did it come from the Minister of National Security? Did it come from his budget? Especially when we are told in this House over the last several weeks, Mr. Speaker, that we need money for firemen, hardworking firemen in this country. We need money for our hardworking policemen in this country. We need money for our hardworking customs officers in this country. We need money for our prison officers, hardworking prison officers in this country. Was that severance package taken from that budget for our people and given to this expatiate , who left the Island? I am not going to say under the cloak of darkness, but he left kind of quick.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberPulled up stumps. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Pulled up stumps, pulled up stumps and left. So, Mr. Speaker, I implore Government House to release the report. I implore them to do that, and also to inform the taxpayers of this country what that severance package was. We have …
Pulled up stumps.
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Pulled up stumps, pulled up stumps and left. So, Mr. Speaker, I implore Government House to release the report. I implore them to do that, and also to inform the taxpayers of this country what that severance package was. We have heard Minister after Minister after Minister, Opposition Member after Opposition Member. The Honourable Member Dunkley said tonight, he said earlier, Look. The hospital, we should have 50 nurses. If we need 50, we need to get them. I wonder what that severance package was. Where could that money have gone?
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberIt’s a lot of nurses. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: It is a lot of nurses, is it not? Especially if it was a package worth maybe (I am just doing the quick math) . . .oh, he makes more than the Premier. I know what the Premier makes. …
It’s a lot of nurses.
Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: It is a lot of nurses, is it not? Especially if it was a package worth maybe (I am just doing the quick math) . . .oh, he makes more than the Premier. I know what the Premier makes. If he gets a couple of years, that is a nice package. Could have paid a lot of nurses, could it not have, Honourable Member Dunkley?
Hon. Michael H. Dunkley: Amen. 1764 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Thank you. Thank you very much. But, Mr. Speaker, I just want to finish. And I hope those who are listening are taking my words seriously. What is good for the goose is good for the gander.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, MP De Silva. MP Swan, I see you moving.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYou have your 20 minutes on the clock. EMANCIPATION DAY
Mr. Hube rt (Kim) E. SwanThank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I will follow on from the Honourable Member who I know is very passionate about the game of golf. As I mentioned during congrats and obits, his company, along with Puma and Cobra, are now sponsoring. If I could ask the Honourable Member just …
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I will follow on from the Honourable Member who I know is very passionate about the game of golf. As I mentioned during congrats and obits, his company, along with Puma and Cobra, are now sponsoring. If I could ask the Honourable Member just to . . . Honourable Member Dunkley, can you just pause here while I am trying to speak? Can I get my 30 seconds back, Mr. Speaker?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerNo. [Inaudible interjections]
Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. SwanMr. Speaker, the Honourable Member De Silva is sponsoring a very worthwhile event in honour, and I say in honour of the legacy of Brian Morris who did a lot in this country and succumbed to cancer and showed us how to live amidst adversity, and I am very grateful …
Mr. Speaker, the Honourable Member De Silva is sponsoring a very worthwhile event in honour, and I say in honour of the legacy of Brian Morris who did a lot in this country and succumbed to cancer and showed us how to live amidst adversity, and I am very grateful to that, at Ocean View. And unfortunately, I am unable to be there, though I went there yesterday. I am going to speak in that vein because the legacy of Ocean View segues very nicely into this pe-riod of celebration that we are entering into right now, and that is Emancipation Day, the legacy of Mary Prince and the freedom, legislated freedom that took place leading up to 1834 that we know through [the time of] Jim Crow laws in America and overt racism and legislated policy allowed racism to t ake hold even more dangerously.
Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. SwanMr. Speaker, the Honourable Member De Silva is sponsoring a very worthwhile event in honour, and I say in honour of the legacy of Brian Morris who did a lot in this country and suc-cumbed to cancer and showed us how to live amidst adversity, and I am very grateful …
Mr. Speaker, the Honourable Member De Silva is sponsoring a very worthwhile event in honour, and I say in honour of the legacy of Brian Morris who did a lot in this country and suc-cumbed to cancer and showed us how to live amidst adversity, and I am very grateful to that, at Ocean View. And unfortunately I am unable to be there, though I went there yesterday. I am going to speak in that vein because the legacy of Ocean View segues very nicely into this period of celebration that we are entering into right now, and that is Emancipation Day, the legacy of Mary Prince and the freedom, legislated freedom that took place leading up to 1834 that we know through [the time of] Jim Crow laws in America and overt racism and legislated policy allowed racism to take hold even more dangerously. And I say “even more dangerously” because it became something that became camouflaged very nicely and regularised, unfortunately. I am just going to give examples on how it manifests itself in the trade in which I occupy and the field in which I love. I declare my interest. My job and trade for the last 40 years and my lifelong joy has been realised through being introduced to a game called golf, which won over boating, f ishing and sailing where my family is very prevalent. And golf with my family was also very prevalent. I pledged myself to the land after almost being lost at sea in the early 1970s in that boat off of Church Bay with Jazzy Trott . And I swore to God I will stay on land and do my best. And I have done so.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerFalling off of your horse, you are supposed to get back on, you know.
Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. SwanMr. Speaker, I speak to the experiences in golf from a position of knowledge firsthand. When I reflect on how Jim Crow laws and outright legislated segregation had its roots far beyond when the legislation or the rules were repealed, I have a living example of it. In the 1900s, …
Mr. Speaker, I speak to the experiences in golf from a position of knowledge firsthand. When I reflect on how Jim Crow laws and outright legislated segregation had its roots far beyond when the legislation or the rules were repealed, I have a living example of it. In the 1900s, early 1900s, St. George’s Parish . . . Bermuda always punches above its weight. We have more golf courses per square mile in Bermuda than anywhere in the world today. We also had more golf courses per square mile than anywhere in the world in the early 1900s with the emergence of Mid Ocean and Castle Harbour, and even just before that. Because in St. George’s Parish, we had three golf courses functioning for tourists. We had Shore Hill over in Ferry Reach, which is now BIOS [ Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences] . We had the St. George’s Hotel, which is now part of the St. George’s Golf Course. And we have the Garrison Golf Course, which is also part of the St. George’s Golf Course. We had Frascati up in Flatts. And then we had the Tucker’s Town courses. We had Ocean View, which was the Garrison Course, which was conveniently located. We had Belmont and Riddell’s Bay built in the 1900s. Even in the 1920s when Belmont was introduced we had one of the US Open Champions participate in the Bermuda Open in 1925, I believe. I owe this information to Professor
Bermuda House of Assembly Dr. Jeffrey Sammons, retir ed from New York University, because, Mr. Speaker, his realisation of Bermuda and his interest in Louis Rafael “Kid” Corbin, who was the pro at Ocean View in 1993, a St. Georgian who first left Bermuda in 1921 on the SS Victoria has helped us unearth the t ruth about Bermuda’s involvement in this historic game. And we punched above our weight in many ways. In regard to the emergence and the importance of golf as it related to business, in 1933 you had the establishment of a very famous golf course called Au-gusta National. In 1934 you had the establishment of one of the biggest major tournaments of the four majors called the Masters. They were both formed by Bobby Jones, the legendary Bobby Jones. And I will never forget my uncle telling me how he will not go to Belmont and watch that video of Bobby because he kept him and others out of the Masters. And I say that because that rule came with a PGA Caucasian- only rule from 1934 to 1961, a rule that prevented non- Whites —not only Blacks, non- Whites —from playing i n the Masters. When that rule was lifted in 1961 it took another, more than a decade, in 1975 for the first person of African descent to play in the Masters. And that was Lee Elder. Prior to Lee Elder’s getting admitted, you had Charlie Sifford and Pete B rown winning multiple PGA tour championships and not being allowed to play [in the Masters]. When you lift rules that openly discrim-inate and that give people a licence to do wrong to others, the legacy of noncompliance to the repealing of it has a devastating impact on communities, particularly those communities who are adversely impacted. I was just googling something the other day where the PGA of America were listing some of the things of note for African Americans. And the history of the African Ameri can and the African experience in golf in America is incomplete and needs to be truly told. Be-cause when I looked at it, you would think that there were not persons of African descent, Black people, playing golf at the amateur level or professional level prior to a Tiger Woods or a Lee Elder getting admitted. It glosses right over the impact of that period of Jim Crow laws and legislated segregation. And it is wrong. And it causes people to think that everything is Okay, Jack, in much the way we adopt that same mind- set in Bermuda. I am here today to pay homage to Clarence Jones from Jamaica and Miami FIU [Florida International University], the best of the Black golfers in the 1970s in my era. Vernon Lockhart, the uncle of a former Opposition Leader’s wife in this country from Bahamas and Miami. My good friend, Dwayne Sears, from Freeport, in the Bahamas, played for Indian River. A lefty from Western Kentucky whose name escapes me. Danny Green from the University of California Northridge. Two sisters from Jamaica, the Ayers sisters. Beautiful young ladies, one played for Florida At-lantic and PVJC and . . . You know, Mr. Speaker, and that little fellow from Bermuda. That was it! Run around. Golfers of the Caribbean, like we. But history would do well to remem ber some of the things, and the others who were a part of paving the way. What does that have to do in modern context? I remember, thanks to the Honourable Member sitting right before me having the opportunity to hit the first ball at a PGA tour event in 2019 at Port Royal, where I won three Bermuda Open Championships! Thank you, Mr. Zane De Silva! Thank you, P. H. Horgan. Thank you for giving me that opportunity. But guess what? Not a dicky bird was written about it in the media. And although it was televised (and I have the tape), not once . . . a thing appeared on the Golf Channel. Not one question! And when I spoke, I paid homage to Louis Corbin who played in the 1937 Canadian Open, who played in the 1948. But if you look at the history books, you woul d not hear about Corbin, who taught the great Joe Louis how to play golf. But when you google it, they will say a 65- year-old shot a high score when he played. But I have seen 65- yearolds do the same thing in the Masters and they talk about what caused th em to get that invitation. They do not talk about the young fellow when he went to Europe as a 22- year-old and they took him at gunpoint out of Faro airport. And yet he came back and was still leading the tournament and qualified easily! They do not talk about how many times that young fellow was profiled racially as a Black man, a young Black man in the early 1980s or how difficult it was walking around the South, carrying the flag of his country, proudly talking about it. They do not talk about that. No! They would easily tell you a lie. But sometimes when you are trained by great people in this country, you know how to carry yourself. When you have to latch on . . . trying to hold onto your hand no matter what, you know how to bite your tongue. When you are alone, you know. When your parents and grandparents are praying for you—praying for you that you can be protected in the Valley of the Shadow of Death! Because you will fear no evil. And you will walk into Charleston Country Club founded in the 1700s and hold your head up, because the connections between Bermuda and Charleston are strong, and play like you own the place! And beat the top amateurs of America. That is my experience! But it is the experience of many other Blacks because they would sooner tell a lie about us or say nothing about us than to tell the people the truth about what really is go-ing down and how the impact of slavery and the impact of Jim Crow laws and the impact of telling lies about us and ignoring that in America and other socie ties, we are still being beaten down! It is true!
[Mr. W. Lawrence Scott, Acting Speaker]
Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. SwanAnd yet when we try like other communities to lift ourselves up and to celebrate ourselves, they would act like, What’s wrong with you 1766 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly for doing that? Something is wrong with that picture, too. [There] is something very wrong …
And yet when we try like other communities to lift ourselves up and to celebrate ourselves, they would act like, What’s wrong with you 1766 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly for doing that? Something is wrong with that picture, too. [There] is something very wrong with that picture, Mr. Acting Speaker. I am taking this opportunity to celebrate some of those because, as we talk about these legacy events, we easily ignore how the p eople who write, write from their lens! I write, and I write from a lens of experience. And I know that our people, people of African descent who, on many fronts are cross threaded with many other cultures, have an acute appreciation for our own and others because we are a fair - minded people. So when we formed Ocean View in 1950 . . . not 1950. In 1950 it was opened by the Governor of Bermuda with [David] Tucker as president of the club. And Mr. Place the secretary from the Bermuda Re-corder and people like Llewelyn DeRosa and people like George Lowe and people like Mr. Harry Webb present. It was opened not too dissimilar to the Berkeley, for everyone! That is the legacy of our people in spite of 400 years of slavery. In spite of those who have be en enslaved watching their slave masters get reparations for giving them up! Think about it! And then the beneficiaries of that would come here and say something is wrong with me for telling the truth! But I am not afraid to tell you that I went to Blair Gallery in Perth, and I saw persons who were of Ratteray descent that looked like me. They had big ears like me. They had a little bit shape . . . I saw it. But I can tell you I have been to Uganda and have seen people who looked like me, too. How many people of diverse communities are prepared to be as all -embracing as the Black man in this world? Not too many. And that is a problem! And until the day when we as a people can look at Emancipation Day for what it truly means, that holiday, for what it truly must start to mean for our people, a greater understanding for younger people, a greater appreciation for people who are the beneficiaries of the reparations that came and an appreciation for the people who, notwithstanding all of that, still are innovati ve. The most creative! That is the tragedy that we have to live with in this country still. That is the tragedy when we look at the income disparity that exists in this country. Because people would say, Something is wrong with you because you can’t afford cheese. Something is wrong with you because cheese went up from two dollars in 2012 to about eight dollars now. Something is wrong with you because you like macaroni and cheese and salt fish. That was our legacy of culture, that we learnt how to make mor e with less all our lives! We learnt how to take parts of an animal and make it into a delicacy so that now people are taking all of these types of things and making them the latest fad of what you . . . that is what our grandparents did out of necessity! I am not accepted as a man who played alongside of the man who is the chairman of Augusta to allow persons today not to appreciate the true history of the African man in this world and in sport, and not only in golf. Althea Gibson in tennis and in golf. Y ou know, I hear people reading stuff and writing stuff, and they will say, Oh, Arthur Ashe (whom I love) was the first African to win at Wimbledon. No! Althea Gibson in 1957 was the first African to win at Wimbledon! She won the Wimbledon singles!
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberYes. [Inaudible interjection]
Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. SwanThank you. And she also was the first African American to be a member of the LPGA [Ladies Professional Golf Association] Tour! I implore persons to employ persons like retired Profess or Dr. Jeffrey Sammons from New York University and others like him who, when commissioned by the USGA to …
Thank you. And she also was the first African American to be a member of the LPGA [Ladies Professional Golf Association] Tour! I implore persons to employ persons like retired Profess or Dr. Jeffrey Sammons from New York University and others like him who, when commissioned by the USGA to write about someone named Jimmie DeVoe, who was the first African American to walk through the door of the PGA after the segregation rule was lifted. [Dr. Sammons] had to research, and in his research he discovered a man called Louis Rafael “Kid” Corbin, who amazed him so much so that this writer has dedicated the rest of his tenure to writing a book about this man. And we have a documentary that captur es it thanks to former Minister Lovitta Foggo, when she was the Minister, for doing so. Why? Because persons who research focus on truth! And they see that persons would ignore the truth to perpetrate how they want to pervade the narrative for their economic gain, displacing Africans out of a sport like golf came with also doing so for tennis as well! Quite wittingly because most of the tennis clubs existed as golf clubs. So when you froze us out of golf, you were also freezing us out of all other social graces. Economic displacement done so at the stroke of a pen. And by un- striking the pen you could still, once you put it in place for a few decades, you have changed the nation and you have changed the world. We have got to change that back with all people looking at all people. And take Marley’s song that captured the words of the great Emperor Selassie, “Un-til the philosophy . . . Until the colour of a man’s skin is of no more significance than the colour of his eyes.” Thank you.
The Acting SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Honourable Member. Minister Vance Campbell, you have the floor. NEED TO EMBRACE TRUE SPIRIT OF POLITICS BY CONSIDERING THE LONG -TERM IMPACT OF OUR ACTIONS Hon. Vance Campbell: Thank you, Mr. Acting Speaker. Mr. Acting Speaker, I have a book that contains notable sayings from one of the …
Thank you, Honourable Member. Minister Vance Campbell, you have the floor.
NEED TO EMBRACE TRUE SPIRIT OF POLITICS BY CONSIDERING THE LONG -TERM IMPACT OF OUR ACTIONS
Hon. Vance Campbell: Thank you, Mr. Acting Speaker. Mr. Acting Speaker, I have a book that contains notable sayings from one of the greatest civil rights leaders in history, Dr. Martin Luther King. Mr. Acting
Bermuda House of Assembly Speaker, in reading through this book recently, one quote in particular caught my eye. That quote reads, “Vanity asks, is it popular? P olitics ask, will it work? But conscience and morality ask, is it right?” Mr. Acting Speaker, it is my belief that these words are not only relevant within the realm of civil rights, but also resonate within the world of politics. Mr. Acting Speaker, today I would like to examine the meanings behind the words “vanity,” “politics,” “conscience” and “morality” and their relevance to the decisions we as politicians in the Westminster system make on a regular basis. Mr. Acting Speaker, let us start with “vanit y.” “Vanity” refers to the excessive concern for one’s appearance, achievements or opinions. It is the desire to be popular, to be liked by others and to gain their approval. Dr. King highlights the dangers of vanity in politics because political leaders w ho act out of vanity may make decisions solely based on what is popular, disregarding long- term consequences or the ethical implications of their actions. Mr. Acting Speaker, as politicians we must guard against adopting a vanity -driven approach that focus es on winning the favour of the people at any cost. It tempts us to disregard the ethical implications of our actions, focusing instead on short -term gratification and the applause of the masses. Mr. Acting Speaker, politics represents the mechanism through which a society governs itself. It encompasses the art and science of decision- making, policy development and the allocation of resources within a community. In the context of Dr. King’s quote, this signifies the methods by which we act to obtain power, preserve the power and utilise it for the betterment of our society. And Dr. King cautions against be-ing solely driven by the question, Will it work? Mr. Acting Speaker, as politicians our role is far greater than mere effectiveness. Rather, we must embody the spirit of public service and consider the morality and ethics underlying our decisions. Policies should not be about being pragmatic alone but should serve as a channel for positive change fuelled by justice and fairness. Mr. Acting Speaker, consci ence refers to our inner moral compass, that voice within that guides us to what we perceive as right or wrong, urging us to act ethically and justly. Mr. Acting Speaker, morality on the other hand is a set of principles or values that society deems necess ary for the well -being and the welfare of its members. It encompasses the values, principles and standards by which we judge actions as good or bad, right or wrong. Mr. Acting Speaker, Dr. King reminds us that politics should be grounded in both conscienc e and morality. We must assess whether our actions align with our own ethical compass and the moral fabric of our society. As politicians, we have a responsibility to make decisions that uphold justice, fairness and the well-being of all. Mr. Acting Speak er, in conclusion, Dr. King’s quote provides valuable guidance for us as politicians in the Westminster system. “Vanity asks, is it popular? Politics ask, will it work? But conscience and morality ask, is it right ?” We must resist the allure of vanity, making decisions solely based on popularity and short -term gain. Instead, we must embrace the true spirit of politics by considering the long- term impact of our actions and evaluating whether they align with our conscience and the moral fabric of our society. Mr. Acting Speaker, by doing so we can effectively create a future that is not just politically successful, but also a future that is right, just and fair. Thank you, Mr. Acting Speaker.
The Acting SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. And I recognise MP Neville Tyrrell.
Mr. Neville. S. TyrrellThank you, Mr. Acting Speaker. Mr. Acting Speaker, I will be brief because I only have two points that I wish to elaborate on tonight. But I intended opening my remarks with a quote from Proverbs, but I think I w ill probably end with it.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberCome on now. [Inaudible interjections ]
Mr. Neville. S. TyrrellThank you. But before I get to my two points, Mr. Acting Speaker, let me say that I want to support much of what my colleagues have said on the m otion to adjourn tonight. It has been enlightening. I would certainly say that the remarks by the Minister of …
Thank you. But before I get to my two points, Mr. Acting Speaker, let me say that I want to support much of what my colleagues have said on the m otion to adjourn tonight. It has been enlightening. I would certainly say that the remarks by the Minister of Education, whom I will publicly admit that I have followed his reform of education from the start, and I have supported him. Yes, I am sure he wou ld probably be one of the first to say that he has made some mistakes along the way. But I still think that what he is attempting is in the best interest of our children in Bermuda. So I certainly want to thank him for sticking to it, and I encourage him t o stick to it. One of the other speakers in his dissertation used the slang or the words What is good for the goose is good for the gander , which I think we should all understand the meaning. The only difference I would have used is, What is good for the goose, should it be good for the gander? That is the only way I would have changed that. So again, I think he sent us a message. And as I said, it was certainly enlightening to me. Another speaker took us down history lane on the memory lane of golf. And again, a lot of it hit home in terms of how we as Bermudians have been treated. And you can see it is certainly international as well. So again, MP Swan, thank you for that. And then the last speaker just before me actually gave us what the responsibi lities of us as MPs are. So I would hope that we all certainly took his word on that.
PRIDE IN BEING BERMUDIAN
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Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. Neville S. Tyrrell: But let me get to the first of my two points. And it is something that has sort of bothered me for a while. And I woul d describe it as the negative projection of Bermuda. I am a Bermudian. I was born here. It is probably the only place that I will end up, dy-ing here, I hope. I love the place. I think Bermuda, there is a slang that says Bermuda is another world. You can take it in many different ways, but I certainly think that we are a lot better off than a lot of people in different worlds. So I find it difficult when I hear my fellow Bermudians criticising everything. You know, it seems like it has taken in the last 18 months where everything is negative about Bermuda. And Bermuda has been very kind to me and my family. I can remember my mother telling me a long time ago, You know, you do get out what you put in. And I am not saying that a lot of people have not put in to get out, but you have to play your cards. Play the cards that you have. And it really worries me that we stand up . . . And in fact, let me say that there have even been some examples in this House where people are (if I can use the word) dissing Bermuda. This is our home. We should be building it up in terms of what we have. Yes, we are going through some tough times right now maybe financially, yes. But at the same time, I still think Bermuda has a lot to offer. A lot of people have taken root where the y think the grass is greener on the other side. I hope it is greener for them. But I certainly know that some of them have come back, very quietly, and come back. And I think that Bermuda, as I said, has a lot to offer. I think the future of Bermuda is good. And I certainly know it is certainly going to get better under this Government because we have the people at heart. And that is really the basis of where we make a lot of our decisions. So the point I am making is that we are all Bermudians. We should be more supportive of our country. And that is the point that I think I want to make. I do not want to go into examples other than the fact that (and let me be careful here with the word I use) I scroll on Facebook a lot. Somebody thought I said I troll on Facebook; I scroll (with an “s”). And I find out things. You know, I am not in every circle, I can assure you. But some of the comments that I see on Facebook (I’m old fashioned, Facebook) are unbelievable when you read the comments of some of the people. And you wonder: Are they really Bermudian? And that is the point I am trying to make. So I want to end that point on, I think we need to be a lot more supportive of each other as Bermudi-ans. And I certainly look forward to better times and certainly under this Progressive Labour Party Government.
RUDE BEHAVIOUR ON ROADS
Mr. Neville S. TyrrellMy next point I wanted to speak about . . . because a couple of weeks ago my wife threatened to take the bike key from me. I am a rider of bikes. I love riding my bike. It is one of the easiest ways to get around. I have …
My next point I wanted to speak about . . . because a couple of weeks ago my wife threatened to take the bike key from me. I am a rider of bikes. I love riding my bike. It is one of the easiest ways to get around. I have to come into the city a lot. And it is easy to find a parking space. But she certainly hears and reads about the tragedies on the road, and of course she does not want it to happen to her lovely hus-band. So as I said, she threatened to take the bike key from me. But, Mr. Acting Speaker, I would imagine everyone in this room right now probably has a story that says, What are you people doing on the road? What are you doing? Like I come out of my gate, which you know you have to creep out. And you have to do it very , very carefully because as I said you could look left, look right, and you come out. And you think it is clear, and all of a sudden there is this vehicle coming up on you. Where do they come from? Because they are speeding, that is why. Because you should be able to . . . I know how long it takes me to get out of my gate, and within milliseconds there is a car coming up on me or a bike coming up on me, that kind of thing. I certainly think the road users today . . . I just do not know. I do not know the word, but they certainly are not abiding by the rules of the road that I was taught very early on in life, because I started learning to drive at the Bermuda Technical Institute at the age of 14. I took the road test, the British road test. So I know a lot of the rules of the road. And I follow them up to this day. Give three car lengths at least for the car in front of me so that I have enough time to put my brakes on or change direction if I am going to, that sort of thing. I just do not think enough of our road users are basically . . . I just think they are rude. I am going to use that word. Some of them are just plain rude. But we need to do better on the roads because it is dangerous. And as I said, my wife is threatening to take the keys for my bike. I really do not want that to happen to me. So I am just going to end on that point. That is my second point. But let me finally ask —
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberThis is your fifth point. CUP MATCH
Mr. Neville. S. TyrrellYou are counting. Thank you. Well, at lea st someone is listening. That is what I want to make sure. Someone is actually listening. But we are now approaching one of the most favourite holidays in Bermuda, Cup Match. Of course there is going to be, there already has been …
Mr. Neville. S. TyrrellI think it is St. George’s, sir. So I just want to wish all of my fellow Bermudians to take the opportunity to chill out. Because I know there is going to be a lot of social activity over that h oliday period. And I do wish people to enjoy …
I think it is St. George’s, sir. So I just want to wish all of my fellow Bermudians to take the opportunity to chill out. Because I know there is going to be a lot of social activity over that h oliday period. And I do wish people to enjoy it. Remember
Bermuda House of Assembly what the reason for the holiday is. But certainly I wish them enjoyment. Of course, I do support the best team winning, I think from the East, is it, Kim? [Inaudible interjection]
Mr. Neville. S. TyrrellFrom the East. Thank you, thank you. But at the same time, I just hope everyone gets to enjoy themselves. I did say from the beginning that I would end with a Proverb. I am just probably going to give the position of it. It is Proverbs 10:16. Look it …
The Acting SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Government Whip. The Chair recognises MP Caines. CONNECTION BETWEEN CUP MATCH AND THE ABOLITION OF SLAVERY
Mr. Wayne CainesThank you, Mr. Acting Speaker. Mr. Acting Speaker, it was George Santayana who said, “ Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it .” [Again,] George Santayana said, “ Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it .” Two day s ago I was …
Thank you, Mr. Acting Speaker. Mr. Acting Speaker, it was George Santayana who said, “ Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it .” [Again,] George Santayana said, “ Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it .” Two day s ago I was in a conversation over at a friend’s house with some young Ber-mudians. And as it is getting to Cup Match, Mr. Acting Speaker, we were talking about the holiday. Some of us a little older were talking about the holiday and the teams that we are for and the pursuits around Cup Match and spending time with our families and going to the match, the Crown & Anchor, the local drinks, going out on the boats. And they shared with me, when asked, what are their teams? They said, We don’t have a team. I said, What do you think about Cup Match? [They said,] I’m not into Cup Match. As a matter of fact, I try to leave Bermuda and go on vacation as often as possible. I was befuddled. I was confused. I said, You don’t have a team for Cup Match? They said, No. I ’m not into Cup Match. And if this was one person, I would have been shocked. Out of the 10 or 11 kids who were there, the majority of them had no interest in Cup Match! They do not wear the colours. They would not don red- and-blue or blueand-blue. They s hared that they were not connected to the holiday. They were not connected to the game. They were not connected to the traditions. I was immediately saddened. I was not saddened for the game of cricket. I was not saddened because of Crown & Anchor. I was saddened because we have not taught the significance of that holiday. I am sure if those people, those young people, those seed of all of our loin, if they understood the difficulty, the pain, the struggle, the torment of our people and the significance of the holiday, they would have a different opinion. W. E. B. Dubois said that a conservative estimate is that 100 million Blacks died in the Middle Passage. Just think about that: in the Middle Passage, 100 million people died during the duration of slavery in the Middle Passage only. [We] are people of African descent, we the sons and daughters of former slaves are resilient. Our forefathers suffered being shackled like sardines in the belly of a boat going from West Africa, stopping in a country somewhere in the Atlantic and then coming on to Bermuda. We suffered not only the indignity of having our culture, our religion, being beaten, being separated for hundreds of years. Even our last names bear testament to the fact that we are the sons and daughters of slaves. For years we tilled the soil in this very country for no recompense, for no aggrandisement, working hard for no money. And in 1834 an Abolition Act was passed and it came to the Colonies. And we, our forefathers, our foremothers, were emancipated. Understand the significance of that for people of colour in this country! Imagine the entire British Caribbean, known for rum, known for cotton, known for all manner, built up on the backs of people of colour as slaves. And we in Bermuda recognise this fact: Two friendly lodges getting together and having a game of cricket that started in 1902 that was formalised in 1947. Now, many people do not know that before 1947 people of colour attended Cup Match against the wishes of their bosses, against the wis hes of the people in their neighbourhoods. So going to Cup Match was an act of defiance! Being present at Cup Match was an act of defiance. Many people who attended that match were not going for the cricket. They were not going for the food. They were going as an act of solidarity, a symbol of defiance to the oppressor who had oppressed them for hundreds of years, [to show] that we are still standing! That we are proud, that we have traditions, that our love, that our hard work, that our dedication that kept us through the darkest periods of our existence, that keep us to this day. So when we attend Cup Match . . . and the match is important. It is significant. And we all go to Cup Match and don our colours and sit in our camps and walk around. But understa nd it is not only about the temporal. It is about those things that we cannot see. It is about our forefathers and our foremothers dying, being held without pay and still standing, still going and giving an honest day’s work, afterwards for less than with their counterparts. Being in a country that did not give one man and one vote, being in a country that had segregated schools, that had a segregated military. And we still saw the best in who and what this country should be. And for many years when we wer e not treated fairly, we still believe in this country and the ideals of still being under colonial rule, still had a sense of pride, still had a sense of self, still had a sense of wanting better. Sometimes you get so successful, you get so 1770 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly professional, you become so educated that you forget from whence you have come. So, to many it might just be a game of cricket. It might be a simple pursuit of being at a hot field at 80 degrees, shoulder to shoulder with your brothers and sisters. To some it might not have any significance. But to anyone who is the descendant of a slave, it is the epicentre of who we are. It is a constant reminder of what we have overcome. All of the successes that we have in business and politics we owe it to our forefathers who did what they did with nothing, without education, and still achieved to make this country great! Mary Prince, she is an effigy throughout the Caribbean of a woman who would not stand down or back down. We celebrate our emancipation not because we are tethered to looking back. We are tethered to understanding better who we are, what has made us strong, what has given us the DNA to give us the ability to fight through over 300 years of oppression, taking our history, taking our culture, taking our language and adopting everything that was foreign to us and still suc-ceeding. We in Bermuda have much to be proud of. Cup Match is that opportunity where we can celebrate it, where we can laud it, where we can look at each other proudly and celebrate our history. It is not about cricket only. It is about who we are as a people. Mr. Acting Speaker, I thank everyone who is involved with this Cup Match holiday because if it were not for the people at the St. George’s Cricket Club, at the Somerset Cricket Club, all of those ancillary organisations that make this day possible, like those young people, this part of our history will go unnoticed. Every day I meet another person who does not understand that there is a direct connection between Cup Match and the abolition and the emancipation of slavery. That is not their responsibility to educate them-selves. That is not their responsibility to know from whence we have come. It is our responsibility to tell them the significance of the holiday. And I forgot to say this, Mr. [Actin g] Speaker. When I asked the young people, Was this a conversation that they had at home with their mothers and their fathers?, the answer was no. When I asked them, Did anyone share with them the history of the Black slave movement in Bermuda, how we got here today, how we went through, how we got one vote, how we had [changed] double- seat constituencies in this country to single seats? Did they understand about the landowners having two votes or a vote in every parish in which they owned land?, all of them said no. Did they under-stand that our armies, the Regiment was segregated? Did they understand that our schools were segregated? They knew none of that history! And we are wondering why there is a waning sense of pride and a waning sense of self, how we are easily beset and besotted with any old thing. To quote George Santayana again, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” It is our responsibility not only to rub shoulder to shoulder, to dance Gombeys, to drink Swizzle, to walk around the field and have a good time at Cup Match. That is important, but that is not our only respon-sibility to enjoy the day, Mr. Acting Speaker. It is our responsibility to share our history line by line, precept upon precept, jot upon jot. It is our r esponsibility to let our young people know that this is our country, this is our legacy, this is our holiday, this is our Bermuda, Mr. Acting Speaker. This is our Cup Match. [Desk thumping]
The Acting SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, MP Caines. Minister Hayward, you have the floor. A DIVIDED BERMUDA Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. [Acting] Speaker, I thank the Honourable Member Caines for his words. Certainly a part of what he says has to resonate with us all. And I think I am going to start where …
Thank you, MP Caines. Minister Hayward, you have the floor.
A DIVIDED BERMUDA
Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. [Acting] Speaker, I thank the Honourable Member Caines for his words. Certainly a part of what he says has to resonate with us all. And I think I am going to start where MP Caines left off. You see, because it was a part of that equation that was just spoken about that we are clearly missing. Whether you were the house Negro or the field Negro, the Christian Negro or the Muslim Negro, the light - skinned Negro or the dark -skinned Negro, the educated Negro or the uneducated Negro, the Englishspeaking Negro or the non- English -speaking Negro. In Bermuda context, whether you are a town Negro or a country Negro, a blue- collar Negro or a white- collar Negro. You see, whether you go to a public school or you attend a private school. All of these things we use to divide ourselves as Black people. But at the end of the day, guess what? We are all still Negroes. And that is fundamentally part of the problem that we have in this country. We are too divided as a people. And as a result of that particular divide, we cannot make the necessary progress we require to benefit us all. And when you lose your history, as MP Caines spoke about, then you are no longer guided and rooted by a sense of principle. So if we lose the importance, the cultural significance of the holiday, then what commonalities do we now have when we live in a world that tells us we should be divided based off of a number of factors? And you see, this is where politics is important. I come from a union, and unions are guided by a common set of principles. When I join a political party, the political party, the members of the political party work together to obtain a common set of goals. Both the enemies of the unions and the enemies of the political parties use the exact same method to hinder progress of those organisations. And that is to divide the individuals within. Not just divide the individuals within, they work to turn the population against those organisations. So unions become a bad thing in society, just as those who paint the picture about the Progressive Labour Party. And the Progressive Labour Party becomes a bad thing in society.
Bermuda House of Assembly You see, I am happy to go to the polls any day of the week if you judge us by our actions. Ho ld me accountable for the work that I have done or the work that I did not do. That is fair. But the Opposition know that it is not just about the work that the PLP did or did not do. It is about how they influence misinformation that divides the voter bas e. So because persons have been using quotes today, I will read a quote.
[Inaudible interjections ]
Hon. Jason Hayward: “Our roads are the number one cause of death in Bermuda . . . .” By none other than the Honourable Susan Jackson. That is political misinformation at its finest. And to put it in context, we have just under 600 persons who die in this country per year. Less than 20 individuals die from road fatalities per year in this country. And on June 21, the quote is, “Our roads are the number one cause of death in Bermuda . . . .” Deliberate misinformation from the Honourable Mem-ber, MP Susan Jackson from the OBA. I wonder how many persons within her caucus corrected her? Or were they even interested in correcting her? You know why that statement was put out there? Deliberately to mislead. There is no way she believes in the statement that she articulated. This is just one example. But there are a plethora of examples that can be found if one has the patience to read through OBA statements. But it is important because this statement then translates into the Bermuda Government does not care about people because the Bermuda Government is not fixing our roads . And it gets into the hearts and minds of individuals that the Government is actua lly negligent and responsible for a person’s death. That is gutter politics! That is what they engage in. It is no secret that the Progressive Labour Party wants to remain in Govern-ment. It is also no secret that the One Bermuda Alliance want to obtain the Government. But they are not prepared to be honest brokers in doing it. And you see, they know that misinformation works because we have lost focus on the common set of principles that guide us. They are taking advantage of a society that has historically been raped of its culture, raped of its reli-gion, raped of its heritage, raped of its history. And the people who are trying to put all of that back together remain under attack because we cannot have people rally around a common set of principles which are in their best interest. It does not work for them from a political standpoint. So we must divide. The Honourable Member Caines spoke about where we have been, where we have come from, from having our ancestors and relatives perish during the Middle Passage, to where we are now as some of the most affluent Black people in the world. See, in Ber-muda we have a lot to be proud about. And that is what MP Tyrrell was actually speaking about. We have so much to be proud about as a people. We have been extreme ly resilient. We cannot take all of the gains we have made for granted. Why do some continually talk about the Progressive Labour Party’s 25 years in Government without talking about the 400- year Black struggle in Bermuda? The race has already been started . And there are a lot of expectations put on the Government. Anybody actively canvassing their con-stituencies, the general feedback is positive. There are concerns. And it is our responsibility as a government to put a plan in place to work on those concerns. It is said that the Progressive Labour Party [won] a political majority of 30 to 6. And because the public places confidence in the Government, we are then accused of trying to move Bermuda into a dictatorship. You see, these are the types of mind games that are being played in our society. There is no acceptance that there was a blanket rejection of the One Bermuda Alliance governing this country. There is no acknowledgement. Even when it pertains to me, Mr. [Acting] Speaker, I have been accused of t elling people, I don’t want your vote. Taken out of context, soundbites being made, all of that. Political points. But when you fail to put an Opposition Member in my constituency to run for an election, what are you telling the voters of that constituency ? You must be telling those voters that the OBA does not want your vote in this constituency! And a Member said, My seat is in jeopardy. I live with the fate of the voters. But the persons of constituency 17 will not have amnesia and will not forget that y ou did not even bother putting a candidate in that constituency in the last election. Let me make that clear. Mr. [Acting] Speaker, what we are going to find over the next few months is continued articles discred-iting the Government, continued media stori es discrediting the Government. You have a party that comes and generally says the Economic Development Strategy is a good thing in the House of Assembly. They were pleasantly surprised by the quality of it. And then you have media coverage which says something completely different than what was said in this House. The only people they are fooling are themselves. Then not just attacking policy, they go after and they continue to try to attack certain individuals. Mr. [Acting] Speaker, I have thick skin. The y can bring it on all day. People are asking me how they do it. Mr. [Acting] Speaker, I am not worried about the OBA in terms of their attacks . You know, some people listen to Bob Marley’s songs. So do I. And there is one song in particular called “Bad Car d.” You see? You have to dig deep into your dub box when you get into bad card. [Inaudible interjections and laughter ] Hon. Jason Hayward: Because he is basically telling his opponents, who do not want to see his face, that they will continue to see his face. And he waits for them to draw a bad card. And that is what the OBA continu-ously does. That is what the opposers of this Government continually do. They continue to draw bad cards, 1772 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly because this Government has demonstrated that we are fiscally responsible. This Government has demon-strated that we are excellent stewards of the economy. This Government has demonstrated that we can re-store jobs in this country. We are attracting investment. We do have plans. We will continue to work hard for the people of Bermuda. But more important than all of that, this Government continues to demonstrate that we care. And we show it through our actions. We put a pension in place for seniors today. And the fearmongering starts in terms of the next generation not being ab le to get a pension. We support those who are in need. We have demonstrated this through Financial Assistance reform. We have supported our workers. We have demon-strated this through amendments that we have made to Labour legislation, through the implementation of Ber-muda’s first minimum wage, ensuring our young people have access to child day care allowance, working hard to reform our education system. And we knew that was going to be a difficult journey. But we are prepared to engage on that journey because we know the out-comes would undoubtedly be in the best interest of future generations of Bermudians. People continue to ask when the next election will be called or [why] we are electioneering. Premier, call it now and let us be judged by the work that we have done! Seriously, call it now and let us be judged by the work that we have done. I am proud of the performance of the Progressive Labour Party Government. There is always going to be more work to be done. And this Government has a plan to carry out the work that is required. I am confident that when the con-versations that we have in the caucus, the conversa-tions that we have at Cabinet, we have a capable group of people who have the best interests of Bermuda at heart. The people of Bermuda know what they have with the Progressive Labour Party Government. They tried change already, and it did not work for them. They did not know what they were going to get. But they have had a taste of that now, and they have no interest. From what I hear, I do not k now what is happening, but from what I hear they have no interest. So because they are now a non- factor, we need to ensure as the Progressive Labour Party that we are putting our best foot forward to guarantee the outcomes that the population desire. Thank you, Mr. [Acting] Speaker.
The Acting SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister Hayward. The Chair recognises the Honourable Premier David Burt. 3 Bermuda Progressive Labour Party Marks Six Years of Prog ressive Achievements - PLP PLP— A GOVERNMENT WITH A HEART FOR THE PEOPLE Hon. E. David Burt: Good evening to you, Mr. Acting Speaker. How are you doing? …
Thank you, Minister Hayward. The Chair recognises the Honourable Premier David Burt.
3 Bermuda Progressive Labour Party Marks Six Years of Prog ressive Achievements - PLP PLP— A GOVERNMENT WITH A HEART FOR THE PEOPLE Hon. E. David Burt: Good evening to you, Mr. Acting Speaker. How are you doing? Mr. Acting Speaker, I have been away attending the funeral of one of my constituents. So I have cer-tainly missed a lot of the motion to adjourn. So I do not want to tread on ground which may have been tread on already, but I do want to cover a few topics because it is important to understand and to recognise where we are right now as a country and a government. And, Mr. Acting Speaker, you would know that six years ago yesterday the new Progressive Labour Party Cabinet was sworn in, and six years ago on the 18 th we all won an election. And it was a fun day and a jubilant day. And I still remember the comments that I made that night on Court Street where the Progressive Labour Party supporters were jubilant. It was, Tonight we celebrate, and tomorrow we get to work. And we have certainly been working, working hard day in and day out. And there have been persons who have con-tributed in all aspects of this. Yesterday the Progressive Labour Party put out a statement. And I would hope that you will allow me, Mr. Acting Speaker, to read it into the record because I think that it is important, because the Royal Gazette will not print it. But maybe they will print it if it is on here. So we will go. It says, “ 3Six years ago” ( today ) “the new PLP Cabinet was sworn in after its General Election victory of 2017. The PLP Government has not only successfully guided Bermuda through a global pandemic but has also implemented a series of reforms and initiatives that have delivered on its promi se of building a better and fairer Bermuda.” I want to stop there because a lot of people forget that we have been through a global pandemic. I do not know how, but they do. It seems like people on the other side especially, when they talk about the econ-omy and other things, despite the fact that unemployment is lower than it was before the pandemic, despite the fact that there are jobs when jobs were nowhere before the pandemic. We are pressing ahead, moving forward. But [consider] the issue of delivering on its promise to build a better and fairer Bermuda. I can speak to our first budget when dividends, local company dividends were taxed for the first time in history and we rerouted that money to seniors, health care and also education and the investments of which we made there. How the fact that we have lowered the tax burden for businesses, lowered the tax burden for workers and continue to do so. We have done many things that have made Bermuda a better and fairer place because that is what we were elected to do.
Bermuda House of Assembly And sometimes when you hear the complaints, it is for those who are in the minority who lose out. First it is those in the majority who are the ones who need additional fairness. Let me continue with the statement if you will: “Under the PLP Government , Bermuda has seen a robust economic recovery since the Pandemic , with growth exceeding expectations at 5.4% in 2021 . This success is largely due to the implementation of Bermuda’s Economic Recovery Plan, which has fostered a conducive environment for entrepreneurship and business growth. “In a move to make this tax system more equitable, the PLP Government has cut taxes for 86% of workers and local businesses, providing much- needed relief and stimulating economic activity. This tax reform has been instrumental in rebuilding the economy, making it more resilient and inclusive. The PLP Government has shown a strong commitment to ensuring that [Bermuda’s ] tax [system] is fair and equitable, providing relief for workers and small businesses and stimulat ing economic growth. And this has resulted in more dispos-able income for workers to utilise for family expenses.” Now, here is a challenge. And I remember, Mr. Acting Speaker, you know, a while ago you said, Economic storms are coming. I think it was 18 months ago we were having a chat. And it is kind of like, We need to make sure to make it clear about what Bermuda con-trols and what Bermuda does not control. And what is important is to recognise and understand that we can-not control the price of food that we import. We cannot control the price of fuel that we import. What we can control is how many taxes that we charge on those particular items and what relief we can provide to put more money in people’s pockets to cope with that. That is the standard tex tbook definition. And international organisations will say, That is what you do. That is what we have done. And I know that persons will say, Well, the Government is saying the economy is feeling better, but people aren’t feeling it. What’s going on? It i s difficult to feel it when costs are going up, when those pressures are there. I get that. Everyone gets that. But the question is, What can the Government do in response? And from the perspective we have done the response that is the best to provide as much additional disposable income to persons as we can do while relieving the burden of taxation. I will move on. “Education has been a key focus area for the PLP Government. We have doubled scholarship funding,” (Remember the other people cut it in half.) “providing more opportunities for Bermudian students to pursue higher education and achieve their full potential while ensuring all Bermudians can attend Bermuda College despite their financial circumstances.” (Something else that the One Bermuda Alliance got rid of. We brought it back.) “Furthermore, we have kept our promise to introduce signature schools , a reform that is set to revolutioni ze public education in Bermuda. T his initiative is designed to cater to the diverse learning needs of our students, preparing them for a successful future in the global economy.” (It is important to note.) “Six years ago, our public schools did not have Wi -Fi.” Let us not forget in a technological society, we had money for Cross Island. We had money for a lot of things. We had money for a commission of inquiry. But we did not have money to put Wi -Fi in the schools. Six years later, however, “[today] all of our schools have high-speed Wi -Fi and all of our students have laptops for learning use. ” That is the difference that it makes when you have a government that has a heart for the people and is focused on carrying out its election pledges and making sure that we invest in Bermudians and their future. I will continue , if you will allow me, Mr. Acting Speaker. “The PLP Government has also made significant strides in social welfare. We have increased the child day care eligibility to households with incomes up to $130,000 [or less] , providing additional support for worki ng families.” Let us remember: The One Bermuda Alliance reduced that benefit. It was at $70,000 when it was introduced on an individual basis. The $70,000 was introduced in 2008/09, and they, the One Bermuda Alliance, cut it to $55,000. And we have fixed i t. Providing additional support for working families. “Additionally, we have assisted the Bermuda Housing Corporation in providing 66 new affordable units, increased the availability of affordable housing for renters and first -time homeowners, with more units set to come online in the next few months.” And the Minister of Public Works, when we come back in September, will give an update on the additional items for housing. Because let it not be forgotten that we committed to putting an additional $15 millio n into affordable housing. That is a Government with a heart for the people. Important. I will continue, Mr. Acting Speaker. “Our commitment to creating a nation of owners is evident in launch ing the M ortgage Guarantee Programme reducing down payments and interest rates for first -time homeowners , which has paved the way for 29 Bermudians to receive mortgage approval to purchase their own home.”
[Desk thumping]
Hon. E. David Burt: [This] did not exist before. Heart for the people. That is what it is. It is about a difference. We heard the One Bermuda Alliance talk about, Oh, we need to deal with interest rates. Oh, we need to do this. Oh, we need to make it better. Guess what? We have delivered, and we will continue to deliver. “In the area of sports and recreation, we invested over $1.5 million in 22 local sporting bodies and provided additional funding for high- performing athletes, the High- Performance Scholarship Programme, 1774 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly and installed fitness equipment in public parks. These investments have not only promoted physical fitness but have also fostered a sense of community and national pride.” (Some people forget. This is what we have done. I will go on.) “The PLP Government has shown a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. We com-pleted the solar project at the airport finger, electrified Bermuda’s bus fleet,” (Something that you know very well, [Mr.] Acting Speaker.) “ and are installing solar panels on Government building s. The PLP Government has also [started the process of adding] EV charging stations around the i sland. Most importantly, we ’ve upgraded the sewage infrastructure in St. George’s, which will see the end of sewage being dumped in the waters of the East End. . . .” Yes, Mr. Acting Speaker, this is what we have accomplished. We continue to press on delivering for the people, executing on our promises and our pledges. “We have also made significant strides in infrastructure development . . . .” Whether it is the marina that has opened on the East End, whether it is the piped water to the East End, whether it is all of the work of which we are doing to prepare the infrastructure for the future, piping water, putting new power lines underground, working with BELCO. And the CCTV installation that is tripling the number of cameras in our community. “And there are more infrastructure upgrades to come with the highest capital investment budgets in 15 years to upgrade our schools, build new clinics, repave our roads, and refit our ferries and their docks .” That is what we are doing. And we will continue to do so. And so, what I said at the end of this press release was: “As we celebrate these achievements, we would like to ext end our deepest gratitude to all of those who have contributed to our success. We thank our Government Ministers, past and present, for their unwavering dedication and service. We remember with respect and admiration the late Walton Brown, who was sworn in six years ago yesterday, and whose contributions continue to inspire us. “We also express our gratitude to the MPs who have supported the Government from the backbench, providing invaluable insights and guidance.” (And sometimes a laugh and sometimes a li ttle pain. But that is okay. That is the role of the backbench.) “Their com-mitment to serving the people of Bermuda has been in-strumental in our achievements. “Finally, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers who assist the party as they assi st Bermudians in their communities.” And it should be known: We are the Progressive Labour Party Government. But the Progressive La-bour Party works in our communities around the year, not just at election time, standing out on a roundabout, waving hands, and asking people to honk horns. No. We are delivering food to our seniors, checking on our seniors, supporting entrepreneurship inside of our various constituencies and our communities, taking care of young persons, whether it be back -to-school events, going to their schools, doing all of those things. And you know, you know what we get from the One Bermuda Alliance? Complaints that we are politi-cising schools because we were there supporting our students and our teachers. Nonsense! This is what the Progressive Labour Party does. So, Mr. Acting Speaker, I closed by saying this: “There is much more to be done. But we are on the right path. The pandemic was an interruption but even through those challenges, we ensured our people received the financial assistance necessary to maintain their [homes]. Now that the pandemic is over, we have picked up where we left off; our country is on the path to a balanced budget. . . .” (This year we are reducing our debt.) “And . . . vital signs are [that we are] headed in the right direction. We recognise, however, that all do not share in the prosperity, and we will continue to provide assistance where [our] people require.”
[Hon. Dennis P. Lister, Jr., Speaker, in the Chair]
Hon. E. David Burt: And that is the point, Mr. Speaker. Because when you hear about what is happening, what we spoke about earlier, making our social insurance fairer, continuing to make our system of taxation fairer, these, Mr. Speaker, are the things of which we want to make sure that we advance and complete. “So as we look forward to the future, remain committed to serving the people of Bermuda, we are grateful for the trust and support of Bermudians as we pledge to continue working tirelessly to build a brighter future for all.” Now, Mr. Speaker, now that you are back in the Chair, that was a release that was put out yesterday from the Progressive Labour Party. Now, why do I bring up that release, Mr. Speaker?
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberWhy? Why now? Hon. E. David Burt: Why do I bring up that release? I bring up that release because I got home late last evening and the Public Relations Office (the PRO) got an email at 10:58 pm (I thought newspapers had gone to print already) from none other …
Some Hon. Members Some Hon. MembersOoh! Hon. E. David Bur t: And it says, and I quote, “Hi. I appreciate that this is very late. But just got this from the OBA on their view of the PLP’s House agenda for Friday. Could I get a response, please?” “Scott Pearman, Shadow Minister of Home Affairs, …
Ooh!
Hon. E. David Bur t: And it says, and I quote, “Hi. I appreciate that this is very late. But just got this from the OBA on their view of the PLP’s House agenda for Friday. Could I get a response, please?” “Scott Pearman, Shadow Minister of Home Affairs, told the Royal Gazet te, ‘David Burt’s Progressive Labour Party have completely run out of steam. They
Bermuda House of Assembly have lost the will to govern. At the last two sessions of the House there has been only one Bill debated on each occasion. Where are the ideas? Where are the solutions to Bermuda’s problems? The PLP has run out of gas.’ Thanks. Shaun.” Now, Mr. Speaker, let me be clear. I know how media works, right? And I know the One Bermuda Alliance has two political candidates who happen to be married to the news editors over there at the Royal Gazette.
Some Hon. Members Some Hon. MembersOoh! [Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: So I know how they can just sneak things in at the end, sneak things at the end and send this email from what’s -he-called so they can say, Oh, the PLP won’t have an opportunity to respond. But guess what? We were …
Ooh!
[Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: So I know how they can just sneak things in at the end, sneak things at the end and send this email from what’s -he-called so they can say, Oh, the PLP won’t have an opportunity to respond. But guess what? We were working on something that night, so we wer e able to respond. So I am just going to share the response, because, guess what? The Royal Gazette did not print it all.
Some Hon. Members Some Hon. MembersOoh! Oh, no! Oh! They didn’t print it! Hon. E. David Burt: And so I go. And I say this. I will read it in full, M r. Speaker. “Mr. Pearman knows that governing does not only require the amending of Bills but also changes to policies and regulations. . …
Ooh! Oh, no! Oh! They didn’t print it! Hon. E. David Burt: And so I go. And I say this. I will read it in full, M r. Speaker. “Mr. Pearman knows that governing does not only require the amending of Bills but also changes to policies and regulations. . . .” “Tomorrow in the House, the PLP will keep our promise to increase pensions by the rate of inflation, which is in stark contrast to the One Bermuda Alliance who told our seniors, Money doesn’t grow on trees, awarding only one increase to our seniors in their 55 months in office. And tomorrow the PLP will pass its fifth pension increase. “Additionally, the PLP will t able regulations to deliver expanded day care assistance to working parents who saw their benefits reduced under the OBA. Tomorrow the PLP will upgrade our investment funds legislation to grow Bermuda’s funds business, which is part of our Economic Development Strategy. Addition-ally, there will be two Bills introduced. One new Bill will allow a distillery business to open in Bermuda, furthering the PLP’s commitment to diversifying our economy. Six years ago the new Progressive Labour Party Government started on its journey, and tomorrow in the House the PLP will continue to keep its election prom-ises while delivering for the people of Bermuda. Today our economy is growing, unemployment is below prepandemic levels, jobs are increasing and inflation is falling.” “As usual, the OBA offers no ideas or solutions and only wants to launch silly attacks via the media while supporting the PLP’s legislation in Parliament” (Which is what they do.) “For this entire House of Assembly session,” (Except for today and earl ier, I heard the former Premier finally spoke.) “the OBA has been silent on the motion to adjourn. Maybe tomorrow, they will speak to the people from the people’s house rather than trying to lob silly attacks through The Royal Gazette. ” Now, I close there , Mr. Speaker, because here is what I will say. We are not out of steam. We are not. And we will continue to press forward. But here is the thing, Mr. Speaker. Where the chirping will come, a person will say . . . and you know what they will say? They will say this: Want the PLP to go. Guess what? The PLP will continue to govern, Mr. Speaker. We will continue to execute our agenda. And I know that they do not like where they are. But that is where they will stay because we will continue to deliver for the people of this country. So as I close, Mr. Speaker, let me say this: It is the Cup Match season. Everyone knows where I stand. Everyone knows where you stand, Mr. Speaker, and everyone knows where we are.
[Inaudible interjection] Hon. E. David Burt: Yes, the socks too. Get them right. But what I will say, Mr. Speaker, is that I wish this entire country a happy Cup Match weekend. Happy Emancipation Day. Happy Mary Prince Day, something else that this PLP Government has changed. And as persons have sai d, remember the reason why we have this holiday. It is the celebration of Emancipation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Hon. Walter H. Roban: Oh! I yield. Thank you, Derrick.
[Inaudible interjections ]
APPRECIATION FOR SANITATION WORKERS
Lt. Col. Hon. David A. BurchThank you, Deputy [Premier]. Mr. Speaker, I am going to continue in the positive vein, but in a very narrow focus. Before I get to what I want to speak about, though, I cannot let the comments that were delivered earlier in this session by the Deputy Speaker in relation …
Thank you, Deputy [Premier]. Mr. Speaker, I am going to continue in the positive vein, but in a very narrow focus. Before I get to what I want to speak about, though, I cannot let the comments that were delivered earlier in this session by the Deputy Speaker in relation to the sanitation workers go. Mr. Speaker, this is my second iteration in this re-sponsibility. And in both iterations I have found that the people who work at Marsh Folly who collect our trash do an outstanding job.
[Desk t humping]
Lt. Col. Hon. David A. BurchMr. Speaker, they take that job seriously, and they get most upset when they are unable to deliver it in an efficient manner. And I am certain that they will appreciate the comments that were expressed in this House in expressing thanks to them. 1776 21 July 2023 Official Hansard …
Lt. Col. Hon. David A. BurchNow, Mr. Speaker, I want to talk about a subject that gives me the greatest satisfaction as a Minister and is the best part of this job. Mr. Speaker, I recei ved an email two days ago from a student whom I first met soon after we came back to …
Now, Mr. Speaker, I want to talk about a subject that gives me the greatest satisfaction as a Minister and is the best part of this job. Mr. Speaker, I recei ved an email two days ago from a student whom I first met soon after we came back to Government in 2017 in the inner sanctum of the Ministry of Public Works. And he was a high school student from Bermuda Institute. I recognised the uniform. And he was proc eeding down the hallway with deliberation and going to a place that I was curious about. I said, Can I help you? And he said, No. I’m good. And I said, Where are you going? And he says, I’m going to work. And I said, Work where? [He said,] I’m on day rele ase. And I am like, nobody has told me that we have students on day release. So I said, Who’s got you on day release? And he said, Bob. Anybody who has been in this House since 2017 would know that Bob is Bob Yves Lortie, who is the former chief engineer who remains my favourite foreigner! [Laughter]
Lt. Col. Hon. David A. BurchAnd I could not figure out how this French Canadian, who is not a Seventhday Adventist, could find this young 16- year-old and have him on day release. In any case, I marched round to Bob, and I said, Bob, what? He said, He’s coming to work for us as …
And I could not figure out how this French Canadian, who is not a Seventhday Adventist, could find this young 16- year-old and have him on day release. In any case, I marched round to Bob, and I said, Bob, what? He said, He’s coming to work for us as a summer student. He wants to be an engineer. Anyway, he did come and work for us in 2018 and 2019 and 2020. And in 2020, he decided that engineering was not going to be hi s forte; he was going to go off and do something completely unrelated to public works. And he did, and he graduated this May. And I have kept tabs periodically on his progress. So he wrote to me this week to say that he is applying for this job, and he wo uld like me to write a letter of recommendation, which I happily did. I say all of that to say, Mr. Speaker, that the policy of the Ministry of Public Works today in terms of interacting with young people is to first of all provide them with the best oppor tunity they can to find their passion. And two weeks ago I welcomed 25 students to this year’s summer programme. And in addressing them in the training room at Public Works, it just is just the best feeling in the whole wide world. Because you look out am ongst them, and you see bright, focused, some not so sure about what they want to do, but keen to enjoy the experience of working in Public Works, where we cover the whole landscape of trades and professions. And it was so uplifting to see a number of those students who are returning to Public Works. And I said to them that . . . we had all of the heads and all of the department heads of the areas where they are working present. And I said to them that all of us accept that our responsibility is to make sur e that you have the best summer you possibly can. And we will be happy at the end of the summer —we will be more happy at the end of the summer —if you can identify your passion as opposed to just looking for a job. And part of that is to say to them that y ou are coming to work in Public Works. And you chose Estates or you chose Engineering or you chose whatever area you chose. It is not a sentence for the summer. If after two weeks you hate Engineering and you want to try something else, ask to try somethin g else and we will say yes. So, Mr. Speaker, whenever I feel the pressure of this job, and that is very rare, but whenever I feel that there are people clamouring to complain, I wander around the Ministry and talk to the young people who are there working for us. I told that story at the beginning, Mr. Speaker, because I want every young person who comes to work for us and every young person who is working somewhere in this country to know that this Government, beyond being Government, beyond being PLP, is supportive of their efforts. And we will do everything within our power to make sure that they are successful. That is what our aim is. That is what our mantra is. And for me it is the best part of this job. It is the best part of this job. Interacting with them, seeing them progress from one summer to the next, where the first summer they do not have a word to say because they are among strangers. The second summer they have got a little bit more, and by the third summer they think they own the place. It is just wonderful. And the fact that we take that time is all that is required of adults in the village, to provide encouragement and support to them in whatever it is that they wish to do professionally. They will return to this country. They will come and sit in this House and make a contribution to this country. And we will not have things to worry about. Whenever I engage with people who are complaining about, Young people are lost, I say to them, You need to go and talk to some of them, because the vast majority of them are doing exceptional things. It is the minority that is getting in trouble, that is getting the PR. And if we as adults in this community make it our commitment to provide whatever support we can in helping them to find and have a career and to make a contribution to this country, we will all be better off for it. Thank you very much.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. Does any other Member wish to make a— MP Cannonier, the clock is on for you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerNo problem. Bermuda House of Assembly PLP GOVERNMENT NOT DELIVERING SOLUTIONS
Mr. L. Craig CannonierIt is interesting listening tonight, and I am grateful for the Minister and his positive note as we were winding down here. Certainly, we all would like to enjoy our Cup Match. And I am sure that we will see one another during our social events over the holiday. And …
It is interesting listening tonight, and I am grateful for the Minister and his positive note as we were winding down here. Certainly, we all would like to enjoy our Cup Match. And I am sure that we will see one another during our social events over the holiday. And may the best team win! It would be nice to have a victory. But what I would like to say is this. It was rather interesting listening tonight. I was not going to speak. And listening to the fact that there are some Cabinet Ministers who feel that they know everything about the OBA, why it does what it does. But yet, at the same time, any time you speak or we speak to an issue, we are being political. But yet the PLP is not. Listening tonight, you would think that everything is the OBA’s fault. Just four years of Govern ment, and everything is the OBA’s fault. I find that remarkable when the PLP have been in Government for 20- plus years, over the last 25. But yet we find it in our hearts to get up and speak to the fact —
Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPremier. Point of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order. I did not want to interrupt the Honourable former Premier. But I think I just must say that the Hon-ourable Member is misleading the House. Because I heard the chirping when I was saying these …
Premier. Point of order.
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order. I did not want to interrupt the Honourable former Premier. But I think I just must say that the Hon-ourable Member is misleading the House. Because I heard the chirping when I was saying these things, or what it is called. It is not to say that it is the OBA’s fault. It is to demonstrate the difference in governance between the One Bermuda Alliance and the PLP. It is a contrast. It is not a question of fault. We will take responsibility for the things we do well and the things we do not do well. That is what this is about. But this is about a contrast.
Mr. L. Craig CannonierYes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That is a classic case of more spin, in my opinion. A classic case of more spin. So what we have heard tonight is very evident, a string of Ministers and maybe some others who have felt that they need to list out every good …
Yes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That is a classic case of more spin, in my opinion. A classic case of more spin. So what we have heard tonight is very evident, a string of Ministers and maybe some others who have felt that they need to list out every good t hing that they have done. Now, you just heard from the Premier where we are pointing out the difference. But what I will say in this experience through life and in these politics that if you have to constantly be reminding people all the time about how good you are, then maybe—maybe there is a challenge. [Inaudible interjections ]
Mr. L. Craig CannonierMaybe there is a challenge. So I recognise that again we are in the political arena. But what we cannot get away from is the reality of where are as a p eople. And if we are going to ignore what we are hearing on the streets and in homes, …
Maybe there is a challenge. So I recognise that again we are in the political arena. But what we cannot get away from is the reality of where are as a p eople. And if we are going to ignore what we are hearing on the streets and in homes, which sometimes when you come into this House, it sounds as if some of us are not listening to that or hearing it. Because we are just wonderful! Just wonderful! And what we are not good at, we are going to do better. Yes, we are going to do better. But as we go along through this term that we are in, oh my goodness! We cannot say anything—this Government cannot say anything without saying something about the OBA. Cannot s ay anything about . . . So they want to point out the difference?
Hon. E. David Burt: Yes.
Mr. L. Craig CannonierWell, there is a slew of things that we can point out, a slew of things that we can point out. [Inaudible interjection]
Mr. L. Craig Can nonierYes. Indeed, indeed, indeed, indeed. There is a challenge in this Island right now. And people are worried. They are concerned, and they want to know what is going to happen to them. So getting up in this House and quite frankly (in my opinion) giving Bermuda six for a …
Yes. Indeed, indeed, indeed, indeed. There is a challenge in this Island right now. And people are worried. They are concerned, and they want to know what is going to happen to them. So getting up in this House and quite frankly (in my opinion) giving Bermuda six for a nine ain’t going to make it. Ain’t going to make it! Just not going to make it.
[Inaudible interjections ]
Mr. L. Craig CannonierYes. We have got more interpolation going on. And this is going to be fascinating to watch as the people continue to be concerned. Now, we know what it is like to have marches and the likes. But this PLP Government acts as if it is not supposed to happen …
Yes. We have got more interpolation going on. And this is going to be fascinating to watch as the people continue to be concerned. Now, we know what it is like to have marches and the likes. But this PLP Government acts as if it is not supposed to happen to them. But yet you have got just about every major industry in this Island concerned! And they hav e voiced those concerns almost to the point where some Ministers would not even come out and greet them! So when the PLP realises that they have got some challenges to deal with and that they can come to this House and talk about what they are going to do about those challenges . . . I have heard over and over and over, Where are the solutions? and all these kinds of things. We may approach the skinning of a cat slightly differently and in different ways, in different ways for sure. But certainly we are all growing in this political career as we move on. For tonight to listen to some Members of Parliament, and particularly Cabinet Ministers to go on and on and on about their prowess and how they did this and did that, I would welcome them to come with me in 1778 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly Hamilton any day and walk down the street and stop and listen to what people have to frankly say, have to frankly say. [Inaudible interjections and laughter ]
Mr. L. Craig CannonierYou hear them? It is all a joke. But yet we know what the realities ar e in Bermuda right now. And we know what people are feeling. So some Cabinet Ministers may want to make a whole lot of noise as they stick their head in the sand, but …
You hear them? It is all a joke. But yet we know what the realities ar e in Bermuda right now. And we know what people are feeling. So some Cabinet Ministers may want to make a whole lot of noise as they stick their head in the sand, but we know who they are. And Bermuda knows who they are. And at the end of the day, they wil l be held accountable because a six for a nine is not going to work. When you get up and you say that we are going to have a minimum wage of $16.40 and then we allow one sector of Bermuda, who particularly owns all of the hotels (they are not of my persuas ion), and we say we are going to include gratuities as part of that $16.40—Humph! But yet the small businessman who typically, typically is Black in Bermuda, and their employees get gratuities, they have to pay the $16.40 and the gratuities are added on to p. So if you think that Bermudians are not looking at this, you are giving Bermuda a six for a nine. How do the big White establishments get away with that? But yet the small man does not! Where is the consultation in it? Well, you know, we can get up the re and interpolate all we want. But the man on the street —
Mr. L. Craig CannonierYes. I will take your point of order. POINT OF ORDER Hon. Jason Hayward: The figure was derived first and foremost by the Wage Commission, who recommended that we use a hybrid structure. The second step was for the Minister to prescribe a rate. The Minister met with both of …
Yes. I will take your point of order.
POINT OF ORDER
Hon. Jason Hayward: The figure was derived first and foremost by the Wage Commission, who recommended that we use a hybrid structure. The second step was for the Minister to prescribe a rate. The Minister met with both of the unions, who are the representative of the workers and the employers, who col-lectively agreed that the hybrid structure is the structure that should be approved. So as a result, robust consultation went in place. The representatives of the workers were at the table, and the employers were at the table with the Government . And we came out with a collective solution that was in the best interest of Bermuda.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberYes, we can hear this one.
Mr. L. Craig CannonierYes. You are going to hear it. A classic case of a six for a nine. If you are representing the peop le of Bermuda and we are putting a minimum wage in place, why is it different for one sector than the other? Whether you agree with the unions …
Yes. You are going to hear it. A classic case of a six for a nine. If you are representing the peop le of Bermuda and we are putting a minimum wage in place, why is it different for one sector than the other? Whether you agree with the unions or not? Because I can tell you what the hotels are going to do. They are going to reduce the number of hours that they work. And when you look on the slip, it is still saying seven dollars and what-ever cents on there. It is not saying $16.40. So we can spin it all we want. If the gratuities —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Mr. W. Lawrence ScottThe Honourable Member is misleading the House when he talks about hotel workers. As somebody who is in the hotel industry, is a hotel worker, we are still employing and looking for more re-cruits even with the new wage in place.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberExactly!
Mr. L. Craig CannonierWhat in the world does that have to do with what I just said? [Inaudible interjections ]
Mr. L. Craig CannonierBut for the rest of Bermuda, who also have people who get gratuities, they get paid $16.40. And then the employee gets their tips on top of the $16.40. Yes, what? Yes. So the Premier does not even know what is going on. And employees are getting together. They are …
But for the rest of Bermuda, who also have people who get gratuities, they get paid $16.40. And then the employee gets their tips on top of the $16.40. Yes, what? Yes. So the Premier does not even know what is going on. And employees are getting together. They are concerned about this here, very much concerned about this here. So if you want to stick your head in the sand, if you want to give a six for a nine, then you are not going to be happy with the results. The point is Bermuda thought that we were getting across the board a $16.40 minimum wage. If you include gratuities, that is not the case. It is not the case, and anywhere else in the world, whether you negotiate something else or not.
Hon. Jason Hayward : Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. Jason Hayward: The hybrid structure is a structure that is used in multiple jurisdictions throughout the Bermuda House of Assembly world. And so that is the first point of order in terms of the mistruth. But he is deliberately mis leading. Every …
Point of order.
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Hon. Jason Hayward: The hybrid structure is a structure that is used in multiple jurisdictions throughout the
Bermuda House of Assembly world. And so that is the first point of order in terms of the mistruth. But he is deliberately mis leading. Every employee is guaranteed $16.40 an hour. And if their gratuities and tips do not equate, the gratuities and services charges do not equate to that $16.40, the em-ployer is responsible for making up that shortfall. Every employee who is over the age of 18 years old will receive $16.40 an hour.
Mr. L. Craig CannonierThank you very much. I really hope that Bermuda is listening to what we just heard. Unbelievable! And maybe that is why we are in the shape we are in. I would suggest that the Minister go and talk to other businesses because they want to understand why the hotels …
Thank you very much. I really hope that Bermuda is listening to what we just heard. Unbelievable! And maybe that is why we are in the shape we are in. I would suggest that the Minister go and talk to other businesses because they want to understand why the hotels are getting this hybrid and they are not. They want to know! They want to understand why there is a separate negotiated deal for the hotels as to private sector Bermuda who is also —
[Inaudible interjections ]
Mr. L. Craig CannonierYou cannot say minimum wage and then say, Oh, well the gratuities are part of it. The whole idea of the gratuities is on top of your minimum wage, on top of your wage. Listen. We can go on and on and on. And we can talk about the unions. …
You cannot say minimum wage and then say, Oh, well the gratuities are part of it. The whole idea of the gratuities is on top of your minimum wage, on top of your wage. Listen. We can go on and on and on. And we can talk about the unions. If the unions negotiated this deal, this is a bad deal for Bermuda— a bad deal for Bermuda. And I cannot believe that we have Honourable Members in this House who cannot add those numbers up and see why it is a problem. Unbelievable! But again, as I said already, six for a nine. We have got certain Ministers who have got their heads so far in the sand they cannot hear, they cannot feel, they cannot see. And that is why they need to walk around town. I do not see any of them in town. Walk around town. Some one or two of them I see in town. Walk around town and listen to what people have to say. Get a feel for what people are feeling.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberWe work every day.
Mr. L. Craig CannonierWe work every day . This is unbelievable. It is unbelievable to listen to Honourable Members in this House— unbelievable, unbelievable, Mr. Speaker. So we are going to enjoy our Cup Match. But I can assure you that the rubber has met the road, and there are people who are …
We work every day . This is unbelievable. It is unbelievable to listen to Honourable Members in this House— unbelievable, unbelievable, Mr. Speaker. So we are going to enjoy our Cup Match. But I can assure you that the rubber has met the road, and there are people who are extremely concerned about where we are as a people. What we have not heard is this Government sticking to solutions rather than going around and talking about everybody else. Nobody wants to hear about everybody else and vetting it. They want to know, What is this Government doing? And when you have industry like the fishermen upset, and the hotels upset, and the taxi [operators] upset, and we still cannot get a hotel built up at Fairmont. We had it going. Still cannot get that going. They have not heard [about] the SDO. Time has gone by. We still have not heard anything about where that is. People are waiting to see what is going to happen. The unfortunate thing is nothing is happening. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerDeputy Premier. Hon. Walter H. Ro ban: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. [Crosstalk ]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThe Member is on his feet. We need to hear the Member on his feet. CELEBRATING OUR YOUTH AND SPECIAL OLYMPIANS Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The actual discussions during this part of the Housework have been actually quite interesting. [Crosstalk] Hon. Walter H. Roban: And I …
The Member is on his feet. We need to hear the Member on his feet.
CELEBRATING OUR YOUTH AND SPECIAL OLYMPIANS
Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The actual discussions during this part of the Housework have been actually quite interesting.
[Crosstalk]
Hon. Walter H. Roban: And I took great pleasure in listening to so many Members who often, even if you make notes at the beginning of motion to adjourn, you kind of have to change up. Because often Members do cover —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOne second, one second. The Member on his feet just now said he took great pleasure. [Crosstalk]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMembers, the Deputy [Premier] on his feet just now said he took great pleasure to being able to listen to everybody else today. I do not think we can all listen to him when there are other conversations going back and forth on the floor. You two Members, you are …
Members, the Deputy [Premier] on his feet just now said he took great pleasure to being able to listen to everybody else today. I do not think we can all listen to him when there are other conversations going back and forth on the floor. You two Members, you are going to need to go outside in a minute. Your Member wants to speak. And he wants you to hear him. He has indicated he has been listening to everybody today. But I can barely hear him now because your conversation is drowning him out. [Do] you want me to listen to the Member, or do you want us to go home now? I do not have a problem with either one. But I would like to have the Deputy have the opportunity to finish his speech. Deputy [Premier]. Hon. Walter H. Roban: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I know there is a lot of enthusiasm in the House this evening, and I do not begrudge that at all. But, Mr. Speaker, as I said I took great keen interest to listen to many of the contributions this evening, mindful that it is the season of Cup Match and there is much for us to talk about, deliberate about, be slightly competitive about. But I also took great pleasure in 1780 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly some of the other submissions. And certainly the submission by Colonel Burch was particularly interesting and inspiring frankly, and has required me to change up what I wanted to chiefly talk about. Because I think what the Honourable Minister was articulating is to why we are here. The experience that he in the story he actually clearly articulated was the reason why we are here. And that is the level, that is the type of experience with our citizenry I believe we all should covet and want to have in seeing the product of the work of us as Legislators, certainly as the Government. But presumably we all play a role in governance here. And it is good to see that there are young people who are moved and are seeing opportunity in this country in ways that we all hope can be accomplished. And frankly, Mr. Speaker, outside of all that we do as Legislators, if we are not encouraging our successors in th is House, we are failing. Our successors in this community, we are failing. We should be encouraging younger Bermudians to be here where we are now at some point in the future to make decisions and giving them the opportunity and experience to do that. We all start somewhere else before we get here. So if it is in Public Works or at a gas station or in a bank or at a law firm, that is fine. But also, as part of our work, we should be preparing the succession. Because we do want Bermuda to have a future, and we want to encourage our best to be a part of that future. So the story that Colonel Burch told [us] is something that I think is part of what we want to see, irrespective of who is in power. We want to see that people have hope and inspiration and oppor tunity to see that they can do something with themselves and be successful. With that said, Mr. Speaker, as I said earlier, I am mindful that this is the season of a particularly im-portant sporting season. But before I go to those comments, I also want to say that we all should be inspired by the energy that was behind the celebration of our Special Olympians earlier this week at the Cabinet Office. I think that was a great thing. And it is not just because we are the Government. I think that was good for our country that they were given the attention and recognition for their accomplishments. That is good for Bermuda. It is not just about our Government; it is about Bermuda. And I think that was a great experience for all of us who were there. I am sure t hose who visualise it, the families and the participants, they were excited to be there. They were excited to be recognised for their accomplishments in the sporting arena. And we should continue to try and do as much to encourage our Special Olympians and all Olympians and all sportspeople in this capacity. As we are coming to a sporting week-end, we should do the same for our Cup Match teams. PLP ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND REMEMBERING HISTORY
Hon. Walter H. Roban: And in light of this being the Cup Match period, and Members have already spoken about this, about remembering. And I know an Honourable Member who just sat down before me said, Well, if this Government is repeating over and over again of its accomplishments, it shows that we have a problem. Well, I th ink the Honourable Member knows that this is just a part of politics. Sometimes you have to repeat what you do and what you have done multiple times for people to be hearing and remembering. That is just a part of the work that we do. That is what marketing is, whether you are in politics or out. You are constantly trying to give messaging to people to bring to their attention what you are doing and what you are accom-plishing in hopes that it moves them in your direction. That is the political arena. So ce rtainly as a Government we will continue to do our best to repeat and remind people of the work that we have done, certainly since the 18 th of July 2017 and all that we have worked to fulfil for our country and the opportunities and hope that we feel that we have brought back to the community with our success since then. The Premier and others, Minister Hayward and others have eloquently reminded us of why and what has happened since then, and I do not need to go back over that. But this is a period of remembrance, Mr. Speaker. And it is about also remembering history. And it is important that we repeat every year and very often why we celebrate this period. In some cases, we should see the celebration as a reward for the labour, for the labour of our ances-tors who toiled, who suffered, who died. And why we and how we celebrate or remember that is with the celebrations that we have conceptualised for ourselves around the two days. Because that comes out of the remembrance of an experience of suffering, of pain, of death and no reward. The celebrations that we have over those two days, the third and fourth, are a reward for the long centuries of sufferings that we as descendants of those persons should be grateful to be able to do, that we are not, whether it is on the sloops that sailed around from Bermuda trading, on the cotton fields or sugar cane fields or whatever fields your ancestor as a slave would have toiled. We do not have to do that. We do not have to go through that experience. Because we are here. And the successes and the toil that got us here allow to celebrate and remember. And there is something I think we also need to remember, Mr. Speaker, because you yourself brought to our attention earlier in this session the remembrance of the 190 th, also the year of the Emancipation instruments that ended slavery in the British Empire. So we should also remember some other things. Because those instruments did not really free us. They began a process that all of us in this House are still going through. But it started with the instruments that were
Bermuda House of Assembly filed in the British Parliament. But it also was the product of a £ 20 million loan that the British Government took at the time to pay off those owners. That is what allowed the instruments to be successfully tabled. It was not the goodness of the heart of men like William Wilberforce. It was the deal that was able to be struck.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes. The deal, the deal, the deal. Hon. Walter H. Roban: That allowed the for process to be completed in the Parliament.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes. Hon. Walter H. Roban: The £20 million loan that was taken, the 800,000 slaves who were obviously the product of the transaction.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMm-hmm. Hon. Walter H. Roban: And I say product because they were not the beneficiaries in any way if you talk about what we understand beneficiary —looking to benefit—is. They certainly were no longer having to work. But as we know, the story did not end there. But we also …
Mm-hmm.
Hon. Walter H. Roban: And I say product because they were not the beneficiaries in any way if you talk about what we understand beneficiary —looking to benefit—is. They certainly were no longer having to work. But as we know, the story did not end there. But we also know, Mr. Speaker, that this loan did not get paid off under 2015, just a couple of years ago. That very £20 million loan that the British Parliament and the British Government took at the time has only just been paid. Some of us in this room might have contributed to paying off that loan because if you paid taxes in England in the UK, you would have been contributing to that loan being paid off. So just think about it, Mr. Speaker. The year 2015 that loan was just paid off. That really means that the experience of slavery, despite some people saying, Oh, slavery was over, it did not end. We are still living it to this day. And just a few years ago its financial implications were just con-cluded. So we have been living it in this post -empire era. So let us remember that too as we remember all that we need to remember now, that the burden and the effect of slavery remains with us. And it was practically with us in a financial way up until 2015. I think that is something that we must take to heart, Mr. Speaker, as we seek to do and remember and understand the impact of what the Honourable Member Caines said about how today we need to make sure our young people understand why we celebrate that time! Those two days. As I said before, they are the reward for the sac-rifice and the suffering and the pain that our ancestors went through. Those celebrations are the reward. But we also should remember a few other things, because I do like to remember some things. I like to remember names like Olaudah Equiano, Ottobah Cugoano, Toussant Louverture, Jean- Jacques Dessalines, Fedon of Grenada, Paul Bogle of Jamaica, Sally Basset, Chateauguai of St. Vincent, figures of struggle, figures who fought the oppression and the ex-perience of slavery. I also think that we need to remem-ber something else about our beautiful Island of Ber-muda and its history. There are some who would say that we are a docile and quiet people who are tolerant. But it should be understood, there were at least five slave rebellions in Bermuda. So our people did not take it sitting down. We need to remember that, too. We need to remember Mary Prince, our National Hero. And we need to remember we are the prod-uct of that experience. Its financial impacts were only just concluded a few years ago. But the emotional and psychological [impacts] remain with us. But at the same time, we must embrace the celebration. Because the celebration is the product and the reward for the labour and for all that our ancestors went through. And we should encourage and teach our children, ensure that they understand why Cup Match exists. As a holiday it was fought for, as a holiday it was claimed by our people, and it has become the most important Bermuda ex-perience because of what we did. We play cricket, we eat food, we dress up nice. But all of that is just the reward for the sacrifice that our ancestors went through for us. We must remember that as we celebrate those few days. And [we must] pass that understanding down to others so that they under-stand and appreciate the value of why that important part of our cultural experience exists. Mary Prince, Emancipation should be seen as things that we can celebrate, but also remember the why, the why. And that makes something special about who we are as Bermu-dians. And if we do that, I believe this holiday, this ex-perience, what it means will continue to be important to all of us.
CUP MATCH AND EMANCIPATION DAY Hon. Walter H. Roban: So with those comments, Mr. Speaker, I would just like to wish everyone here a happy and peaceful and successful [time] in the experience of the holiday, the Mary Prince Day and the Emancipation Day. We all deserve to have that, having gone through a number of years of hopefully getting back to the normal of that experience that we have all always desired and all we have been through. So hap-piness to everyone in this House and in the country for that experience in those two days that we all covet. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
CONNECTION BETWEEN CUP MATCH AND THE ABOLITION OF SLAVERY
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Deputy Premier. As I rise to my feet, Deputy Premier, let me say that was a very fitting message to end on. Reminding us that Cup Match and the Cup Match season are not just simply about a sport. It is not just simply about a cricket match …
Thank you, Deputy Premier. As I rise to my feet, Deputy Premier, let me say that was a very fitting message to end on. Reminding us that Cup Match and the Cup Match season are not just simply about a sport. It is not just simply about a cricket match between the victorious team from the West and the team in the East End. 1782 21 July 2023 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly [Laughter]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThe significance of that is really the beginning of how we got the game. And that is what is lost too often in the message of Cup Match. We started this morning with words regarding the celebration of the 190 th Emancipation Act that was passed in the UK Parliament. …
The significance of that is really the beginning of how we got the game. And that is what is lost too often in the message of Cup Match. We started this morning with words regarding the celebration of the 190 th Emancipation Act that was passed in the UK Parliament. What I like to remind and tell young people when I am talking to them about Cup Match is that the legislative part of it gave us the Emancipation. But what we should never forget in Bermuda is that we took the holiday. We took the holiday. We took the holiday! We are the only place in the world that celebrates two days of holiday for a sport. But we took that holiday. Our ancestors fought for that holiday. Our ancestors put down their tools at their choice not to work but to go out and celebrate on a sports field. That is our holiday that we took. It was not given to us. We took. We took it. Legislation came through our parliaments later after we had already taken it. The legislation only enforced what we had a lready achieved. Let us not forget that. And in this whole conversation [about] Emancipation and the topic that has gone back and forth to-night, I sat here and I thought of . . . some of you may be a little young, some of you are in my generation. In the early 1970s we went to listen to song that went, “Free your mind and your ” (so-and-so) “will follow. ” I will not repeat the words. Those of you who were around understand that. It was Funkadelic back in the I think early 1970s that one came up. Two others have not fol-lowed that all the way through. We have not freed our mind totally yet. And as we celebrate this Emancipation piece, it is time for us to remember. Not only would it change Bermuda, but the next step was for us to free our minds, totally. With those few remarks, have a wonderful, wonderful Cup Match holiday. Enjoy it. And we look forward to your coming to the West to celebrating the victory with us after the game at St. George’s. Thank you, everyone! Be safe. The House now stands adjourned until the 15 th of September.
[At 7:32 pm, the House stood adjourned until 10:00 am, Friday, 15 September 2023.]