Hansard — July 18, 2025 — Bermuda Parliament

Ms. Lovitta F. Foggo Deputy Speaker Disclaimer deputy speaker The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for informational purposes only. The printed version remains the official record. BERMUDA HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY :04 AM Sitting Number 17 of the 20 25/2026 Session [ Ms. Lovitta F. Foggo, Deputy Speaker, in the Chair]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Good morning, Members. And some of you are looking so lovely today. [ Laughter]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker So, we will have the prayers. PRAYERS [ Prayers read by Mr. Clark Somner, Clerk ]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. [ Gavel]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker You can be seated. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES [Minutes of 11 July 2025]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker We will start with the confirmation of Minutes for the [meeting] of 11 July 2025. Are there any corrections , objections ? None. Okay, thank you, M embers. [ Minutes of 11 July 2025 confirmed] MESSAGES FROM THE GOVERNOR

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker There are none. ANNOUNCEMENTS BY THE SPEAKER OR MEMBER PRESIDING APOLOGIES

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Members the Honourable Speaker Dennis Lister, the Honourable Diallo Rabain and Member Linda Smith will be absent from the House today. OMBUDSMAN FOR BERMUDA SPECIAL REPORT : BETWEEN A DOCK AND A HARD PLACE AN INVESTIGATION INTO MARINE AND PORTS’ FAILURE TO IMPLEMENT A PLANNING CONDITION FOR A MOORING REGISTRATION

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Also, we have from the Ombudsman's Office for Bermuda —from the Ombudsman's Office, sorry , a Special Report —Between a D ock and a Hard Place: An Investigation into Marine and Ports’ Failure to I mplement a Planning Condition for a Mooring R egistration. MESSAGES FROM THE SENATE

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker There are none. PAPERS AND OTHER COMMUNICATIONS TO THE HOUSE

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker I call on the Minister of Labour and Economy —or Economy and Labour. Minister. WAGE COMMISSION —RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE MINIMUM HOURLY WAGE IN BERMUDA Hon. Jason Hayward : Madam Deputy Speaker , I have the honour to attach and submit for the information of the Honourable House of Assembly the …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. You have another paper. BERMUDA IMMIGRATION AND PROTECTION (PROHIBITION OF ENTRY) (NO. 2) ORDER 2025 Hon. Jason Hayward : Madam Deputy Speaker , I have the honour to attach and submit for the information of the Honourable House of Assembly the Bermuda Immigration and Protection ( Prohibition …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Another paper. Yes. EMPLOYMENT (MINIMUM HOURLY WAGE) AMENDMENT ORDER 2025 1264 18 July 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Jason Hayward : Madam Deputy Speaker , I have the honour to attach and submit for the information of the Honourable House of Assembly the Employment …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. I call on the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors. Minister. HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION—ANNUAL REPORT 2024 Hon. Tinee Furbert: Good morning, Madam Deputy Speaker. Madam Deputy Speaker , I have the honour to attach and submit for the information of this Honourable House of Assembly the …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. That ends that. PETITIONS

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker There are none. STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS AND JUNIOR MINISTERS

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker I think we are going to begin with the Premier and Minister of Finance. Minister —you should be more appropriately attired in blue and blue. Hon. E. David Burt: I am dressed in the attire of the Cup Match champions, Madam Deputy Speaker. [Laughter] Hon. E. David Burt: May I …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker You may. BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP BILL 2025 , TABLING OF Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. Madam Deputy Speaker, this morning I rise to advise this Honourable House and the people of Bermuda that later in today’s sitting I will be tabling a Bill entitled the Beneficial Ownership …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Premier. I call on the next Minister, Minister of Housing and Municipalities , the Deputy [Premier]. BERMUDA LAND MANAGEMENT CORPORATION UPDATE 2025 Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Thank you very much. Good morning, Madam Deputy Speaker. I rise today to provide an update …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. I call on the next Minister, the Minister for Tourism, Transport, Culture and Sports. 1266 18 July 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly EMANCIPATION COMMEMORATION AND CUP MATCH 2025 Hon. Owen Darrell: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker, and good morning. Madam Deputy Speaker, I rise …

Some Hon. Members Some Hon. Members Yes! Hon. Owen Darrell: —or red and blue— [Desk thumping] Hon. Owen Darrell: —and many dressed head to toe in their team colours. I thought I saw MP Ming here. Hmm. [Laughter] Hon. Owen Darrell: This is definitely the time of year where if you get caught wearing the wrong …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister, and before you do your next paper —Minister, you have the next Statement, correct? Hon. Owen Darrell: I do, Madam Deputy Speaker. ANNOUNCEMENTS BY THE SPEAKER OR MEMBER PRESIDING HOUSE VISITOR

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Before you do that, I would like to recognise in the G allery the Senator for the OBA, Mr. Maurice Foley . He should be wearing gold and blue. [Desk thumping and laughter ] Hon. Owen Darrell: Madam Deputy Speaker, I think you are taking it a little far. Blue …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. I call on the Minister for Youth, Social Development and Seniors. ZONE -IN AND ZONE -OUT SESSIONS 2024 -2025 Hon. Tinee Furbert: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. As another school year has concluded, I am happy to rise today in this Honourable House to speak about the …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. I believe you have another [Statement]? Hon. Tinee Furbert: Yes, thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION—2024 ANNUAL REPORT 1270 18 July 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Tinee Furbert: Madam Deputy Speaker, I am pleased today to lay before this Honourable House the Annual Report of the Human Rights Commission for the year ending 31 December 2024. Madam Deputy …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. I call on the next Minister, the Minister of National Security. Minister. NATIONAL VIOLENCE REDUCTION STRATEGY SUPPORT THROUGH COMMUNITY GRANTS Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Good morning, [Madam Deputy] Speaker. Good morning, colleagues and the listening public. Madam Deputy Speaker , I rise today to inform this Honourable …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. I do believe you have a second [Statement] as well. ROYAL BERMUDA REGIMENT —SUMMER UPDATE Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Yes, ma’am. Madam Deputy Speaker , while I am on my feet, I would like to provide this Honourable House with a comprehensive update on the commendable work …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. I call on the Minister for Economy and Labour. Hon. Jason Hayward: Good morning again, Madam Deputy Speaker. [Pause]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Sorry, Minister. Minister, you have the floor. Yes. MINIMUM WAGE FOR BERMUDA ADVANCING A FAIR AND SUSTAINABLE MINIMUM WAGE Hon. Jason Hayward: Madam Deputy Speaker, I am pleased to introduce to this Honourable House today the Wage Commission’s Report on Recommendations for the Minimum Hourly Wage in Bermuda. This report …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. And that concludes Ministerial Statements. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker There are none. QUESTION PERIOD

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker I just want to make this comment: We have written questions. However, due to electronic malfunctions the ministries did not receive the first set of five questions on the paper, and therefore we are unable to address them at this time. [These have] been c arried over to September. The …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Member, you have a question? Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: I just want to be sure, have the questions then been forwarded on to the Ministers?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker It is my understanding that that is the case. The Ministers have received the questions. That moves us to Minister Alexa Lightbourne. And these are oral questions. Member Fahy would like to ask you questions. QUESTION 1: CARICOM MEMBERSHIP GREEN PAPER Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you, [Madam Deputy] Speaker. Question …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister. Hon. Alexa Lightbourne: Good morning, Madam Deputy Speaker, and the listening audience. The Government intends to publish a discussion paper on Bermuda's application for full member-ship in the Caribbean community in the first quarter of 2026.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister . Are there any other questions? Hon. Michael Fahy: Supplementary .

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Supplementary. Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. SUPPLEMENTARIES Hon. Michael Fahy: Given that the Green Paper is to be published in the first quarter of next year, has there been any preliminary work in reaching out to potential stakeholders , such as international business , that could assist in a publication of a G reen Paper …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister . Second supplementary ? Hon. Michael Fahy: Yes, so for clarity, the answer to that question with the first supplementary would be no . Is that correct?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister . [Inaudible interjections ]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Minister . Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Alexa Lightbourne: I will re -state the response to question one and question two, as applicable .

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister . Any further questions? Hon. Michael Fahy: Second question.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Second question. Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Go ahead. QUESTION 2: CARICOM MEMBER STATES Hon. Michael Fahy: Would the Honourable Minister please advise this Honourable House under what circumstances the G overnment of Bermuda would consent to the free movement of nationals of CARICOM member states to Bermuda ?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister . Hon. Alexa Lightbourne: Madam Deputy Speaker , the free movement of nationals of Caribbean member states does not exist. Accordingly, it is not contemplated that such a provision will be included in Bermuda's CARICOM membership negotiations.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister . Any supplemental to that? SUPPLEMENTARIES Hon. Michael Fahy: Yes, please. The Treaty of Chaguaramas, Article 45, says it is the goal of CARICOM members to engage in free movement . Of which , despite what some may say , can be a very good thing for …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Talk to the Chair. Hon. Michael Fahy: With that in the background, in relation to free movement it would appear that there is movement in this for free movement of persons who are members , where countries are members of CARICOM . Again, is there any circumstance upon which the …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister . Hon. Alexa Lightbourne: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker, and I want to first thank the Honourable Member for his indirect support for a potential CARICOM full membership. However, the contents of the draft membership agreement and the provisions to include free move-ment would not be explicitly as presented …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister . Do you have a second supplemental? Hon. Michael Fahy: I do , thank you. As of 1 October 2025, the four countries that I made mention of will have more than just certain rights, they will have free movement of persons, rights to healthcare, rights to …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister . Hon. Michael Fahy: Third question.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your third question ? QUESTION 3: CARICOM FULL MEMBERSHIP 1276 18 July 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. Would the Honourable Minister please advise whether the Government of Bermuda will put the question of full CARICOM membership to the …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. Supplemental ? SUPPLEMENTARY Hon. Michael Fahy: So, the answer is no. Is that correct?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Do you have a supplemental question? Hon. Michael Fahy: I said , [Madam Deputy] Speaker —

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker That is a comment. Hon. Michael Fahy: No, I said, the answer is “no,” is that correct?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Hon. Alexa Lightbourne: Madam Deputy Speaker , any decision related to CARICOM membership will include meaningful public engagement and brought to this Honourable H ouse. Thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Second supplemental ? Hon. Michael Fahy: I think the Minister has made the position clear of no . Thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. The Opposition Leader likewise has . . . oh, sorry . Sorry, sorry, sorry, sorry. I’m moving ahead of myself. Continuing with Q uestion Period. I think you . . . continuing, [Member] Doug DeCouto has questions for the Premier.

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Yes, thank you , Madam Deputy Speaker. My questions are with respect to the Statement on the beneficial ownership registry.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Yes. QUESTION 1: BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP BILL 2025 , TABLING OF

Dr. Douglas DeCouto M y first question is with respect to that , given the additional duties being taken on by the Registrar of Companies, and I happen to know that in the past they have been quite strapped for resources, people and money. Can the Premier please advise what specific additional resources …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Madam Deputy Speaker, the Honourable M ember is incorrect in the basis of his answer to the question. He just stated in the record that the Registrar of C ompanies has been strapped for money. That is false and incorrect , as budget statements would …

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Hon. E. David Burt: Well, I’m answering the question.

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Point of order? [ Inaudible interjections]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Let’s let the Minister finish his answer and then. Hon. E. David Burt: As the record would reflect , as we have debated in this H ouse during C ommittee of S upply, the budget for the R egistry of C ompanies has about doubled in the last two years. …

Some Hon. Members Some Hon. Members Aah! Hon. E. David Burt: As was stated during the Committee of Supply, additional funding has been granted to the Registrar of Companies this year in anticipation of the transferring of these functions which was debated in the C ommittee of Supply. Those matters were set out, are a matter …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Member ? Yes. Bermuda House of Assembly POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Additional questions . But as a clarifying comment , I believe I have talked about — [Inaudible interjection]

Dr. Douglas DeCouto —in the past , or at times — [Crosstalk]

Dr. Douglas DeCouto And that has been based on actual conversations with members of the ROC. So, with respect to the Premier, he is inadvertently mistaken, Madam Deputy Speaker.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Do you have a supplemental?

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Yes. Ah, n o, I have a second question.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Oh, s econd question.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker No supplemental

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. QUESTION 2: BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP BILL 2025 , TABLING OF

Dr. Douglas DeCouto I note in the Statement that they are tabling the Bill now to come when we resume in September and they are anticipating potential floor amendments during the second reading. W hile I appreciate that that is to undertake consultation, which we certainly would support , my question is , …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member We are the Government; we can do whatever we want. [Laughter ]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Talk to the Chair.

Dr. Douglas DeCouto It would certainly be preferable that the Bill was tabled in its full and final form so that we could all appreciate the full details and particulars of the Bill to be prepared for the debate.

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Is there a question? [Crosstalk ]

Dr. Douglas DeCouto So, I repeat my question: What is the purpose of tabling the B ill today rather than when it has all the full and final details ?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Thank you. Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Madam Deputy Speaker , the Ministerial Statement in which I gave, details the particulars and the answer to this question.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Thank you, Premier. Do you have a supplemental to that? SUPPLEMENTARY

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Yes, it is supplemental . But, in fact, the Statement does not state why it must be tabled today versus on our first day back in September. And so, again, the Premier is inadvertently mistaken.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Question? [Crosstalk ]

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Just because he says something doesn't make it correct.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. You have a supplemental?

Dr. Douglas DeCouto But I do have a third question, Madam— [Inaudible interjections and laughter ]

Dr. Douglas DeCouto —Madam Deputy Speaker. [Inaudible interjections] [Gavel]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your third question ? QUESTION 3: BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP BILL 2025 , TABLING OF

Dr. Douglas DeCouto The Statement does allude to there may be provisions that will allow members or companies on the register to have certain information suppressed. Perhaps the Premier could outline for us what are the conditions, what kinds of information or what kinds of situations or applications of those provisions , would …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. 1278 18 July 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: I would refer the Honourable Member to the consultation document published by the Registrar of C ompanies in November 2024 where he can get all these specific answers. Those matters are in the …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you Premier. Do you have a supplemental? [Crosstalk ]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Member, do you have a supplemental? No?

Dr. Douglas DeCouto I do have a clarifying question , because of course—

Some Hon. Members Some Hon. Members No! [Inaudible interjections]

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Madam, for the purpose of the record—

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker So, do you have . . . you have a . . . you want to give me a point of clarification—

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Yes, a point of clarification.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker —on something that you previously stated?

Dr. Douglas DeCouto A point of clarification. I offer a point of clarification.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay, to what? [Crosstalk ] POINT OF CLARIFICATION

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Well, of course, we do not know the Statements ahead of time and we did not know the reports. So, I am asking for the record here today , things related to the Statement which would include what would be some of the applications of these—

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay, so that is —

Dr. Douglas DeCouto —of these features of the Bill that are—

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker —that is your —

Dr. Douglas DeCouto —that are specifically called out in the Statement.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker That is your clarification. So, is that a supplemental question? Okay. Can you repeat the question that you just made at the end? SUPPLEMENTARY

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Yes, given that the Statement specifically —

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker All right.

Dr. Douglas DeCouto —called out parts of the Bill that could perhaps have people suppress —

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Mm-hmm.

Dr. Douglas DeCouto —information on the register , can the Premier provide an outline of some of the applications of those provisions? Thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: I refer the Honourable Member to the answer I gave moments ago.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Thank you Premier. I have . . . the Opposition Leader also has questions for you. QUESTION 1: BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP BILL 2025 , TABLING OF Hon. Jarion Richardson: Yes, thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker . Good morning to you. Good morning to my colleagues and the listening audience. Good …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Madam Deputy Speaker , this is a matter that has been discussed in this H ouse, discussed multiple times during budget sessions, subject Bermuda House of Assembly of ongoing consultation. The Honourable Member knows quite well there was a goal to remove double vetting , …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Premier. Do you have a supplemental? SUPPLEMENTARIES Hon. Jarion Richardson: Yes, thank you. Thank you. Given that the definition of beneficial ownership will be broadened, and as it stands in Bermuda right now we have two specific regulations dealing with beneficial ownership and a third practice under our …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Madam Deputy Speaker , as the Minister ial Statement that I gave, we will be central ising beneficial ownership matters into one Act. And in regard to the definition of beneficial ownership, we are required to adhere to international standards , and they are …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Premier. Second supplemental ? Hon. Jarion Richardson: Yes, [I] thank the Honourable Premier for the answer. Right now, a number of our companies, especially banks , corporate service providers , have difficulty navigating the complexity of the different definitions. And so , what are we going to do …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Madam Deputy Speaker , there will be one definition inside of the B eneficial Ownership Bill, which will be tabled later today.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you Premier. You have a second question? QUESTION 2: BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP BILL 2025 , TABLING OF Hon. Jarion Richardson: I do, thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker . Given that the R egistrar will be issuing guidance as it relates to the definitions of beneficial owner-ship that will have to …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Madam Deputy Speaker , there will be a full debate on this particular Bill and all those particular matters will be spelled out at that time.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. SUPPLEMENTARY Hon. Jarion Richardson: Yes, thank you. I have a supplemental to that point. I thank the Honourable Premier for committing to making sure it comes before the House, including the guidance notes. But what appeal or redress mechanisms will be available to beneficial owners and companies that dispute …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker I just want to remind Members that we can not engage in something that may impact on a debate that is going to be had in the H ouse. Just so that you know, that is why you are getting the response you’re getting. Do you have a third question? …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: [Madam Deputy Speaker], I am not entirely certain what's wrong with the Opposition to-day. They seem to be anticipating something very much. The Statement is rather self -explanatory . We are tabling the Beneficial Ownership Bill. We are indicating that this particular B ill is …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Premier. Do you have a follow up? Hon. Jarion Richardson: No supplemental. I t hank you, Madam Deputy Speaker .

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker I meant supplemental . Uh-huh. No supplemental ? Thank you for that. Okay, so t hat was all the questions for the beneficial ownership [Statement]. That moves us to the [Statement] on the BLMC [Bermuda Land Management Corporation update 2025]. Member Fahy has questions for the Minister . QUESTION 1: …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister . Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Well, I certainly do not have the crystal ball that f ormer Finance Minister from the OBA, Mr. Bob Richards , had. But as the Honourable Member, I am sure, will know that when construction projects are estimated, they are given a …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. Do you have a supplemental? SUPPLEMENTARIES Hon. Michael Fahy: Yes. So, no guarantees. [Inaudible interjections] Hon. Michael Fahy: When I was making reference to that, let us make it a little more clear. A re there any contractual penalties that may come into place if the project …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Minister . [Inaudible interjection] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: As in most A IA [American Institute of Architects ] contracts , (I'm sure the Honourable member knows that ) there are liquidated damages attached to all government contracts.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Do you have a second supplemental? Hon. Michael Fahy: I do, thank you. Perhaps the Minister would share what those liquidated damages look like in this instance, if the contract is not completed by March 2026. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I will be happy to do so.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Do we have a second question? QUESTION 2: BERMUDA LAND MANAGEMENT CORPORATION UPDATE 2025 Hon. Michael Fahy: I do, thank you very much. The Minister made reference in his Statement to a project at Daniel's Head. Excellent. I am glad to see that something may eventually happen there. What I …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister. Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: To answer the question, there have been several folks who have expressed interest.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Do you have a supplemental? Hon. Michael Fahy: We’re going to play games today. Okay, that is fine. [Inaudible interjections and laughter] Hon. Michael Fahy: Madam Deputy Speaker. [Crosstalk and laughter] SUPPLEMENTARIES Hon. Michael Fahy: Madam Deputy Speaker, and who are those parties that expressed an interest in doing …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: There have been no parties , other parties , that expressed interest in development of Daniel's Head.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Second supplemental? Second supplemental or third question? Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you. What I will ask is , second supplemental.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Hon. Michael Fahy: Why was [NCLH] chosen over some others that may have expressed an interest in doing a project at Daniel's Head?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Minister . Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: [NCLH] were not chosen.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Thank you. Third question? Hon. Michael Fahy: Next question.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. QUESTION 3: BERMUDA LAND MANAGEMENT CORPORATION UPDATE 2025 Hon. Michael Fahy: The Victualling Yard. Again, good to hear that there may be something at Victualling Yard. And the Minister did say he was not prepared to share further details of the project that could happen. However, would the Minister …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister . Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I'll be happy to. It is not a hotel , but it is a business that I know that everybody in this H ouse would love to see happen , whether it is selling peanuts or selling paper bags. We are just …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Any follow up, supplemental? SUPPLEMENTARY Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you. W ould the Minister share as to whether or not the party involved in this potential project is a local company or is it a company that may have something to do with one of the cruise ships?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Minister . Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: It is a local company.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Thank you. Hon. Michael Fahy: No more questions. Thank you very much.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. All right. Member Cannonier , you had questions. QUESTION 1: BERMUDA LAND MANAGEMENT CORPORATION UPDATE 2025 Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Yes, thank you. Thank you and good morning, colleagues. On page three, the Minister says, “[I]n the e ast, the Water and Waste Infrastructure Project is in the …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: St. George's at large. 1282 18 July 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Oh, wow. Nice.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Supplemental? Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: No, second questio n, thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Second question. QUESTION 2: BERMUDA LAND MANAGEMENT CORPORATION UPDATE 2025 Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Very nice. The next question is , considering the sewage, receiving the sewage, does this include also the outpouring on Tobacco Bay as well? Is that shut off , or has it been shut off? So …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister . Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I will refer the Honourable Member to the Premier's Statement .

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Do you have a second supplemental? Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Just, Madam Deputy Speaker —

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Or first supplemental, sorry. Sorry. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: I do not recall any . . . he’s saying “Statement .” I don't recall any Statement saying that the Tobacco Bay . . . a Statement read out today that says that the wastewater is cut off at Tobacco Bay.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Sewage.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay . Minister . Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: No, no, no, no. I apologi se to the Member. When I said “ Premier's Statement ,” I had the Premier on my mind. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Ah. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: But I refer you to …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay, he refers you to his Statement .

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Oh. Licking his lips. [Inaudible interjections and laughter ]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Did you have a supplemental now? Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Thank you. Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. It's clear that there is a lot going on over there in the front row. I'll leave it at that. Thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Did you have a third question? No. Okay. So, that moves us on to ShoreL ink. And I call on Member Robinson. He has a question for the Minister of Transport. QUESTION 1: SHORELINK: LAUNCH OF PHASE 2

Mr. Dwayne Robinson Good morning, [Madam Deputy] Speaker. My first question is : The Statement refers to the logging of real -time issues , and I just wanted to know whether or not the real -time issues will be made available to the public who are using that platform, or is it an …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay, t hank you. Minister . Hon. Owen Darrell: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. I am just waiting on that from the technical officers about the real -time issues. But the real -time information is really good, a good implementation here, because as we were in the pilot stage and …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Okay, thank you, Minister. Hon. Owen Darrell: So, the answer is —

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker You got it? Okay. Hon. Owen Darrell: —that the real -time issues is most definitely going to be made to the public. Just o ne second. [Madam] Deputy Speaker , there is further information coming on that.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Bermuda House of Assembly [Pause]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Perhaps we can let the Member go on to his next , or supplemental , question and then you can provide that. Hon. Owen Darrell: But the —

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Oh, so you have it? Hon. Owen Darrell: Sorry , in addition to that .

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Hon. Owen Darrell: The issues , the specific issues , will be for internal uses , for the technicians and the officers to address.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Hon. Owen Darrell: So, let me let me clean that up a little bit. The information, obviously , will be public, but the fixing and the back -end stuff will be internal.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay, thank you, Minister . That is clear. Member , do you have a supplemental to that? SUPPLEMENTARY

Mr. Dwayne Robinson I do, thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay.

Mr. Dwayne Robinson And we welcome the real -time information. I am sure it will make a big difference to many families and those who are utili sing public transportation. My supplemental is : Just for clarity, does that mean that this upgrade will now allow people to see cancellations of various public …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay, thank you. Minister . Hon. Owen Darrell: Yes.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Thank you. Do you have a second question, Member ?

Mr. Dwayne Robinson Yes, second question.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. QUESTION 2: SHORELINK: LAUNCH OF PHASE 2

Mr. Dwayne Robinson As we are scaling up with, you know, moving to phase three of online payments and the like, can the Minister speak about how much information or public information the Shore Link platform is holding from the customer?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Minister . [Pause]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister. Hon. Owen Darrell: I do not have that answer at this time. That one is a technical question. But if you give me a few moments, I am sure it will come.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Or perhaps you can provide it for him later. Member , do you have a supplemental? Hon. Owen Darrell: I will provide it at a later time. Thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Yes, you can. Member. SUPPLEMENTARIES

Mr. Dwayne Robinson Yes, a supplemental. The reason that I inquired about the public information being stored is , my supplemental is to speak about, you know, cybersecurity when it comes to the Shore Link app and how the government is employing means to protect that information. Especially when scaling up to online …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay, so , what protections you have in place, cybersecurity protections? Is that your question? Yes. Minister . Hon. Owen Darrell: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker . [I’m] j ust waiting for the technical responses again. [Crosstalk ] Hon. Owen Darrell: I know there is a slight delay. I want …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker So maybe you can answer in general and then give him specifics offline. 1284 18 July 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Owen Darrell: All right. In general. T he information held is names and addresses. However, the bank information is not being held , Madam Deputy …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Thank you. Do you have a second supplemental?

Mr. Dwayne Robinson Okay. Thank you for that answer . And my second supplementary is : When it comes to the cybersecurity, I saw there were a lot of folks that are collaborating on the production of this app, and I want to commend them for the work. Does the cybersecurity defence, or …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Minister . Hon. Owen Darrell: The privacy section will fall with IDT. However, the content will fall within the Ministry of Tourism and Transport, Culture and Sport. Thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay, thank you, Minister . Do you have a third question, Member ?

Mr. Dwayne Robinson I do, thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Third question. QUESTION 3: SHORELINK: LAUNCH OF PHASE 2

Mr. Dwayne Robinson My third question is , where does the general maintenance of ShoreL ink fall? Is that also with IDT or within the Ministry? To maintain the platform.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay, thank you. Minister . Hon. Owen Darrell: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker . [I am] h appy to report that IDT has oversight and they are also ensuring compliance with the use of this app. Thank you , Madam Deputy Speaker .

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Any supplementary questions?

Mr. Dwayne Robinson Yes, definitely . Thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker This is your first one. SUPPLEMENTARIES

Mr. Dwayne Robinson My supplementa l is: Does the IDT, with this —it seems like , increased— oversight and the constant evolution of this particular Shore Link platform, has Government not iced, or have they ever requested for additional resources to maintain these var-ious increased duties? Thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister . Hon. Owen Darrell: I am not sure I completely understand the question, but I will answer this way.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Would you like him to— Hon. Owen Darrell: Yes, as the Statement did say , that there have been outside, and different vendors that have been in place, which just by , you know, simpl e math would show that there have been increased resources in some part. B ut …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Second supplemental , or no?

Mr. Dwayne Robinson Yes, my final supplemental , Deputy Speaker. Can the Minister then speak on whether or not the IDT is currently full y staffed enough and capable of providing that level of protection from cybersecurity , and also for the maintenance of this particular app?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Minister . Hon. Owen Darrell: Well, I [answered] the previous question, the way I did. I cannot speak to what happens in IDT as you would know , Madam Deputy Speaker, that that falls under remit of a different Minister and a different Ministry . Thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister . That concludes questions for you on ShoreL ink. That takes us to National Security . Member King has questions for the Minister . QUESTION 1: NATIONAL VIOLENCE REDUCTION STRATEGY SUPPORT THROUGH COMMUNITY GRANTS

Mr. Robert King Good morning, [Madam] Deputy Speaker, Member s of this Honourable House and the listening public. First off, I want to commend the Ministry of National Security for making funds available to address violence in this community and adopting a holistic ap-proach. My question cent res on which body is going …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member . Minister . Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you , Madam Deputy Speaker . The oversight body will be a collaboration between the various ministries that we have put together under the Violence Reduction Strategy. That is going to be National Security, Education and . . . …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Thank you. Supplemental? SUPPLEMENTARY

Mr. Robert King Yes, Madam Deputy [Speaker] . Regarding this team, is it a formal team with formal structures and they meet on a regular basis to discuss performance metrics? Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Yes, Madam Deputy Speaker.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister . Second supplemental?

Mr. Robert King Second question.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Second question. QUESTION 2: NATIONAL VIOLENCE REDUCTION STRATEGY SUPPORT THROUGH COMMUNITY GRANTS

Mr. Robert King Regarding the community agencies and other entities that receive funds, what was the vetting process to determine who would receive funds? In particular, were they required to have an RFP which spoke to specific program mes that were going to be offered with specific budgets for implementation?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Minister . Hon. Michael A. Weeks: No RFP was necessary but there was an application form that was vetted by our Ministry as they came in.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Thank you. Supplemental? SUPPLEMENTARY

Mr. Robert King Regarding the progra mmes that are going to be —

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Is that a supplemental?

Mr. Robert King Yes, Madam Deputy Speaker.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay.

Mr. Robert King Regarding the programmes : Are the recipients of the funds required to collect specific data which speaks to the success , or areas of need, in the programmes that they are receiving funding for?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister . Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Most definitely , Madam Deputy Speaker .

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Member.

Mr. Robert King Regarding that, to add a supplemental.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Second supplemental , [sic] okay. QUESTION 3: NATIONAL VIOLENCE REDUCTION STRATEGY SUPPORT THROUGH COMMUNITY GRANTS

Mr. Robert King What specific data are they being asked to provide regarding the success and/ or areas of need for future funding and the success of the programme s? That is my final question, thank you. [Inaudible interjections] Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Yes, yes, yes.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister, before you answer. That is a final question? Or is that your second supplemental?

Mr. Robert King No, that is final. After that I am done.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Oh, okay, fine. Go ahead, Minister . Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker . As the applications come in, they are being vetted by our team, and they are being looked at and monitored by the team. That comes under the umbrella of trying to do best …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Minister . Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker . There is a three- pronged approach to the anti - violence reduction strategy that I brought to this Honourable House back in December : Prevention, intervention and rehabilitation. The preventative part of the overall strategy is what …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay, thank you. Do you have a supplemental? Supplemental. SUPPLEMENTARIES Hon. Jarion Richardson: Yes, supplemental , please, Madam Deputy Speaker . The question was , What were those measurements? Not whether they existed. So, my question to the Honourable Minister as a supplemental is , moving on, has the Ministry …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister . Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker , and the answer is yes .

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Second supplemental? Hon. Jarion Richardson: Second supplemental, please. Thank you. That is fantastic to hear. How are the violence trends in high- risk demographics being mapped to inform these funding de-cisions?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Madam Deputy Speaker, I do not have the information before me right now, but I am more than happy to answer the Honourable Opposition Leader and I will send him the answer that he has asked.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Thank you. Supplemental? Hon. Jarion Richardson: Second question.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Question, I meant. QUESTION 2: NATIONAL VIOLENCE REDUCTION STRATEGY SUPPORT THROUGH COMMUNITY GRANTS Hon. Jarion Richardson: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. Yes, thank you. Would the Honourable Minister clarify how the Ministry ensures that the allocation of funding prioritises the at -risk populations, including those affected by trauma and homelessness?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Minister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Can the Honourable Member repeat that question? Hon. Jarion Richardson: How does the Ministry ensure that the allocation of funding prioritises the most at-risk populations, including those affected by trauma and homelessness? Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. What we are …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Member. Hon. Jarion Richardson: Thank you. Supplemental please.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Yes. Bermuda House of Assembly SUPPLEMENTARIES Hon. Jarion Richardson: Thank you. Given that half of the grant funding is going to sports clubs, how is the Honourable Minister ensuring that the underserved and high-risk youth who may not engage in sports are not being left behind? Hon. Michael A. Weeks: …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. Supplemental? Hon. Jarion Richardson: Supplementary, please. Thank you. What specific grant programmes, then, are focused on the rehabilitation and trauma and grief of the survivors and broken families resulting from violence? Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you for that, Madam Deputy Speaker. Part of our national strategy, …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Third question? QUESTION 3: NATIONAL VIOLENCE REDUCTION STRATEGY SUPPORT THROUGH COMMUNITY GRANTS Hon. Jarion Richardson: Third question, yes, please. Thank you. Given the public interest in violence reduction across our community, why hasn't the government re-leased a public implementation plan or progress dashboard for the strategy, similar to …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. We brought the anti -violence strategy to the House in December. And I think in the first session we gave an update on it. And every quarter, I think we will be giving updates as is relevant and necessary.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. Supplemental? Hon. Jarion Richardson: No, it is a repeat of the same question. The question was, why hasn't the Government — [Inaudible interjections] Hon. Jarion Richardson: A point of order, some clarification would be helpful here, Madam Deputy Speaker.

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Point of order? Hon. Jarion Richardson: The point of order here is that I need some guidance. My question is, W hy hasn't the Government —

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker That is not a point of order. But you are choosing to make your supplemental — Hon. Jarion Richardson: Sorry, I thought I did read in the Standing Orders that I could apply to the Speaker for clarification on how to conduct a question.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker I think you know how to conduct a question. Hon. Jarion Richardson: Mm-hmm.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker But, you are not satisfied with the answer that he gave. That is what you are saying? Hon. Jarion Richardson: I didn't seek . . . Yes, that would be a good way of saying it because I didn't get an answer. So, I was trying to say how do …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Here, just go ahead and repeat your question and let him . . . Hon. Jarion Richardson: So, my question was , Why hasn't the Government implemented a dashboard, pro-gress dashboard? And the reply was, we have given updates in the House. So, the question is, you know, why have …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker That is your supplemental question, why has he chosen the option of reporting that he is doing? Hon. Jarion Richardson: Yes, ma’am.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker.

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member I already talked to him. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Not every answer is the answer that one wants, right? I was asked a question, I gave an answer, right? Maybe it is right or wrong in his eyes, the question was answered. But if I could — POINT OF ORDER …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Hon. Jarion Richardson: That is all.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Minister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Madam Deputy Speaker, I do not know how many different ways I can say it. We brought the strategy to the House, and we will be updating the public and this Honourable House as the strategy unfolds.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker So, you are saying that your Ministry chooses to report in the manner that you do? Yes. That is what you're saying. Yes. Okay, thank you. Do you have a second supplemental? Hon. Jarion Richardson: No, thank you. I greatly appreciate the guidance and clarification. The Deputy Speaker: Yes. Thank …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Madam Deputy Speaker, I think that was in my budget statement. But if I could just kind of summarise it, we know the fleet is ageing, and it is being looked at to modernise the fleet, and we will do that as soon as we …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay, thank you. Supplemental? SUPPLEMENTARIES Hon. Jarion Richardson: Yes, thank you. Has the Ministry explored co- funding vessel procurement models leveraging our deep security connections to the US and UK?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. Yes, we have.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Second supplemental? Hon. Jarion Richardson: Second supplementary, thank you. Will the Minister go in detail as it relates to those considerations and conclusions reached? Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Madam Deputy Speaker, those negotiations are still ongoing.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. Second question? QUESTION 2: ROYAL BERMUDA REGIMENT — SUMMER UPDATE Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Jarion Richardson: Yes, thank you. The second question relates to the doubling of the headcount for the Royal Bermuda Regiment. Certainly, a good thing in the protection of our waters. But what …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Madam Deputy Speaker, I do not have those numbers right in front of me, but if the Opposition Leader sends me those questions, I will be sure to get him the answers.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Do you have a supplemental? Hon. Jarion Richardson: I don’t. I have a third question, please.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay, third question. QUESTION 3: ROYAL BERMUDA REGIMENT — SUMMER UPDATE Hon. Jarion Richardson: Thank you. Given the . . . it actually goes back to the vessels. What contingencies are in place if mechanical failures render key vessels inoperable during times of high need, such as the hurricane season?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Minister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: What are the contingencies if a vessel breaks down? You fix it. We are working closely with the UK and the US Coast Guards. So, if we are in need of any assistance there, we have partners that we can reach out to.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Thank you, Minister. Do you have a supplemental? SUPPLEMENTARIES Hon. Jarion Richardson: Yes. What is the information the Minister can make available to the boating community now, should they get into distress? Who are they supposed to call if a vessel is unavailable? If the key vessel is suffering …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Thank you. Minister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: I am not too clear, but Harbour Radio. I mean, if you are in distress, you call Harbor Radio and your relevant assistance comes to your aid.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Member. Hon. Jarion Richardson: Yes, thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Is this your second? Hon. Jarion Richardson: Yes, a second supplementary. I am only going to do a second supplementary.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Hon. Jarion Richardson: So, the Minister is saying that, if the Coast Guard can't help you, call somebody else.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay, continue. Is that your question? [Inaudible interjections]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. [Crosstalk ]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister. Minister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Yes.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. That concludes . . . [Member] Pearman, you have questions?

Mr. Scott Pearman Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker, and thank you to the Honourable Minister for your Statement on the Royal Bermuda Regiment summer update. And before I start, let me just commend how nice it is to see the Honourable Minister in a red tie today. It suits him. [Inaudible interjections] [Gavel] …

Mr. Scott Pearman My question is following on from the matters that were just discussed with the Honoura-ble Opposition Leader. Namely, the Honourable Minister's Statement today, and I quote, that “Mr. Speaker” (or, indeed, it would be Madam Deputy Speaker) “we must acknowl edge ongoing challenges. The Coast Guard's fleet of 11 vessels, …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay, thank you. Thank you.

Mr. Scott Pearman Supplementary?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Yes. SUPPLEMENTARIES

Mr. Scott Pearman When do you anticipate that the ageing fleet will be replaced? Thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. Those negotiations are, and discussions are, ongoing.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you.

Mr. Scott Pearman Second supplemental?

Mr. Scott Pearman Thank you, Minister. Is that something you anticipate would come to fruition during this summer boating season?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Madam Deputy Speaker, hopefully as soon as possible.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Thank you. Second question? QUESTION 2: ROYAL BERMUDA REGIMENT — SUMMER UPDATE

Mr. Scott Pearman Second question, yes. Thank you, Minister. Still on the same theme of operational efficiencies. To what extent will the Coast Guard, which as we note is still undermanned and has limited vessel use, be asked to deal with the new boating discharge laws that have been passed?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: The Coast Guard is currently working closely with the police. And whatever boating discharge laws that exist, they work under. I am not too sure of your question. Mr. Scott Pearman: I am happy to clarify.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Clarify.

Mr. Scott Pearman We just discussed, I think it was the Honourable Minister Adams —I may be mistaken in my recollection— on the last sitting of the House, that there were going to be some new laws around boating discharge and the policing of that, and fines. It may well be the Honourable …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Speak to the Chair.

Mr. Scott Pearman Sorry, apparently, Madam Deputy Speaker, the Honourable Minister Jason Hayward has something to say. He can stand up and say it if he wishes. But I will take a point of clarification.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Were you finished with your comment?

Mr. Scott Pearman No, Madam [Deputy Speaker], I was asking the question as to what extent the undermanned and underfunded, and under -boated Coast Guard will be required to deal with those new laws?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay, so. Minister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Madam—

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Did that provide clarification for you? Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Madam Deputy Speaker, I am not . . . I need to first say, you know, we try to work together in tandem. But some comments, right, need to be addressed. And if I did not understand that question, it …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Right.

Mr. Scott Pearman Point of order, Madam Deputy [Speaker]. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: I will take a point of order.

Mr. Scott Pearman No, no, no. Let me clarify. [Crosstalk] Hon. Michael A. Weeks: I took offence to that.

Mr. Scott Pearman No, no, no. Let me clarify. Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Michael A. Weeks: I’m not sitting down for him.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Let him . . . yes, you have to sit down.

Mr. Scott Pearman No, no, no. I am very happy to clarify. No offence was intended. And no offence, you know, should be taken. We were in the House discussing a piece of legislation on the last occasion. I was unable to remember which Minister it was. I took a guess at Mini …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay.

Mr. Scott Pearman I am happy to clarify that nothing was intended in that remark.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. I am glad you did not intend— [Crosstalk ]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker —there was no malintent, thank you for that. [Inaudible interjections]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Minister, are you able to answer the question that he clarified to you? Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Madam, for the good of the listening public, if the Opposition Member sends me the question I will definitely clarify and give him an answer.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Okay?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you for that. Did you have a supplemental? [Inaudible interjections ]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker No, Jason, go sit down. [Crosstalk ]

Mr. Scott Pearman Thank you. I am very grateful for the Honourable Minister’s indication that he will accept and answer a question. I will send an email inviting him to clarify the percentage terms in which the Coast Guard will have to deal with the new legislation. I am grateful for that indication.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you.

Mr. Scott Pearman I hope the email gets through. Thank you. The Deputy Speaker: Thanks. Right. Are there any other supplementals? No?

Mr. Scott Pearman No, Madam Deputy Speaker, thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Thank you. That concludes Question Period. Now that that has concluded, we move on. [Crosstalk] CONGRATULATORY AND/OR OBITUARY SPEECHES

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker I recognise the Member — [Crosstalk ]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker I can’t hear myself speaking. Thank you. I recognise the Member from constituency 2. Member.

Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. Swan Yes, Madam Deputy Speaker. Madam Deputy Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise to ask for condolences to be sent to the family of Ms. Aretta Furbert from Boundary Lane in St. George’s. Ms. Furbert comes from a family that I have known for 40 years this …

Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. Swan Yes, and please associate Member DeCouto, and the whole House, I believe with that. Thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Is that it? Thank you, Member. Are there are any other Members who wish to speak on this motion? I recognise the Opposition Leader. Member. Hon. Jarion Richardson: Thank you, Madam Deputy [Speaker]. I rise to congratulate the Bermuda Sailors’ Home for hosting their Sea Sunday Service, presided …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Are there any other Members who wish to speak? I recognise the Member from constituency 26. Member, you have the floor.

Mr. Neville S. Tyrrell Thank you very much for recognising me, [Madam] Deputy Speaker. Thank you. Good day, colleagues. Madam Deputy Speaker, with some regret I have to ask if condolences can be sent to one of my former constituents, Mr. Harold Sinclair Woods, com-monly known as Tim Woods. Bit of a character, lived …

Mr. Neville S. Tyrrell And I will associate MP Swan. And [Ministers] Weeks and De Silva, and MP Doug [De Couto]. Thank you. Oliver has been playing gold from a very, very young age. I think he is just about 18 now, going on 19. He has, some of us may know that, played …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Are there any other Members who wish to speak? I recognise the Minister from constituency 16. Member, you have the floor. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. Madam Deputy Speaker, I rise to my feet initially to bring condolences to another family. A young …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker You can’t fake that. Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Michael A. Weeks: He won’t be on to St. George’s but when he gets back . . . when he gets back, he is going to do some amazing things on the cricket pitch. But right now, hats off to him …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. Are there any other Members who wish to speak? Oh, I recognise the Member from constituency 11, I believe it is. Member, you have the floor.

Mr. Christopher Famous Morning, Madam Deputy Speaker, and the listening audience. Following on from Minister Weeks; I will not call the name, but the young man [who died] came from my constituency. And if you remember, Madam Deputy Speaker, just last year we lost two young men suddenly, and now we have lost …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Are there any other Members who wish to speak? I recognise the Member from constituency 29. Member, you have the floor. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. I would like to be associated with the condolences that will be sent to the family of Pamela …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. Are there any other Members who wish to speak? I recognise the Member from constituency 9. Member, you have the floor.

Mr. Vance Campbell Good morning, Madam Deputy Speaker. I ask that congratulations be sent out to Ber-muda’s Senior Women’s National Team who, earlier today, retained their title in winning the gold medal at the Island Games. [Desk thumping]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker It was mentioned, so you can associate yourself.

Mr. Vance Campbell Oh, all right. Okay. So, I will associate myself with that, thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker That is all you want to say?

Mr. Vance Campbell No, no. But I want to say that it was a closely fought game that finished 1- 1 after the actual time period. And it went to penalty kicks, which Bermuda won, 4- 2. So, congratulations to our ladies. Lady Gombey Warriors. Thank you very much, Madam Deputy Speaker.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Are there any other Members who wish to speak? There being none, I am going to call on the Premier at this time. I think this is a good time to recess for lunch. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Madam Deputy Speaker. Madam Deputy Speaker …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Recess for lunch. Until 2:00. Hon. E. David Burt: Madam Deputy Speaker, I move that the Honourable House do now adjourn until 2:00 pm.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Seven minutes. 1294 18 July 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly The Deputy Speaker: The House stands adjourned. [Gavel] Proceedings suspended at 12:23 pm Proceedings resumed at 2:03 pm [Ms. Lovitta F. Foggo, Deputy Speaker, in the Chair]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Good afternoon, Members . [Gavel]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker We resume. Members, having finished before lunch doing obits and congratulations, we now move on. MATTERS OF PRIVILEGE

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker There are none. PERSONAL EXPLANATIONS

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker There are none. NOTICE OF MOTIONS FOR THE ADJOURNMENT OF THE HOUSE ON MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker There are none. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS GOVERNMENT BILLS

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker I recognise the Premier BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP ACT 2025 Hon. E. David Burt : Thank you, very much, Madam Deputy Speaker. Madam Deputy Speaker, I am introducing the following Bill for its first reading so it may be placed on the Order Paper for the next day of meeting, the Beneficial …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Premier. OPPOSITION BILLS

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker There are none. PRIVATE MEMBERS’ BILLS

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker There are none. NOTICE OF MOTIONS

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker There are none. ORDERS OF THE DAY

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker We are looking at the first item on the Orders of the Day. It is the second reading of the Corporate Income Tax Amendment Act 2025. I call on the Premier and Minister of Finance. Premier, you have the floor. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, very much, Madam Deputy …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker So moved. BILL SECOND READING CORPORATE INCOME TAX AMENDMENT ACT 2025 Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you. Madam Deputy Speaker, it is my distinct honour and privilege on behalf of the Government to rise this afternoon in this Honourable House to debate the Bill entitled the Corporate Income Tax Amendment …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Premier and Finance Minister. Are there any other Members who wish to speak to the Corporate Income Tax Amendment Act 2025? I recognise the Member from constituency 25. Member, you have the floor. 1296 18 July 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly Dr. Douglas DeCouto: Thank …

Dr. Douglas DeCouto I know that the Government is always concerned with our views on these topics and so we are pleased to provide them in this venue, Madam Deputy Speaker. [Inaudible interjections and laughter ]

Dr. Douglas DeCouto And also, thank you to the various people who have already been mentioned by the Premier, the CEO, MD [Managing Director] and all the hard workers at CITA. So, thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Are there any other Members who wish to speak to the Corporate Income Tax Amendment Act 2025? There are none. Minister and Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. I think that the Honourable Member did say that his question would be better for …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker It has been moved that the Bill be committed. I call on the Member from constituency 1 to take the [Chair.] Sergeant. [Crosstalk]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker We are going into Committee. Yes. [Inaudible interjections]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker She looks so lovely. House in Committee at 2 :17 pm [Mrs. Renee Ming, Chairman] COMMITTEE ON BILL CORPORATE INCOME TAX AMENDMENT ACT 2025

The Chairman Chairman Good afternoon, Members, and listening audience. W e are now on the second reading for the . . . I’m sorry. Wrong paper. We are now in Committee of the whole [House] for further consideration of the Bill entitled the Corporate Income Tax Amendment Act 2025. I call on the …

The Chairman Chairman Does any Member wish to speak on clauses 1 through 10? Oh, I’m sorry. I am really messing up today. I am so sorry. Hon. E. David Burt: It’s the blue and blue. [Crosstalk and laughter ] Hon. E. David Burt: It is clouding your judgment. [Inaudible interjections] Hon. Zane …

The Chairman Chairman It has been moved that clauses 1 through 10 be approved. Does any Member — [Crosstalk] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: What happens after they lose the Cup? Hon. E. David Burt: Be nice.

The Chairman Chairman It has been moved that clauses 1 through 10 be considered. Is there any objection to that motion?

The Chairman Chairman No objection. Agreed to. Hon. E. David Burt: All right. Thank you. Madam Chairman, c lause 1 contains the Bill’s citation. Clause 2 both updates and introduces certain new definitions to the principal Act. Section 2(1) of the principal Act will be amended to clarify that key elec-tions such as …

The Chairman Chairman Thank you, Premier. It has been moved that clauses — [Crosstalk]

The Chairman Chairman I’m so sorry. This needs to get updated. It has been moved that clauses 1 through 10 are taken under consideration. Is there any objection to that? [Crosstalk]

The Chairman Chairman Does any other Member wish to speak to clauses 1 through 10? No Members? Okay. I call on the Premier and Minister of Finance. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, very much, Madam Chairman. Madam Chairman, I move that clauses 1 through 10 be approved and stand part of the …

The Chairman Chairman It has been moved that clauses 1 through 10 be approved. Is there any objection to that motion? No objection; agreed to. [Motion carried: Clauses 1 through 10 passed.] Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, very much, Madam Chairman. Madam Chairman, I would like to now move clauses 11 through …

The Chairman Chairman It has been moved that clauses 11 through 21 be taken under consideration. Is there any objection to that? No objection. Premier, proceed. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you. Madam Chairman, c lause 11 makes amendments to section 21 of the principal Act clarifying that elections related to financial accounting …

The Chairman Chairman Thank you, Premier. Does any Member wish to speak to clauses 11 through 21? No Members? Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Madam Chairman. Madam Chairman, I move that clauses 11 through 21 be approved and stand part of the Bill.

The Chairman Chairman It has been moved that clauses 11 through 21 be approved. Is there any objection to that motion? No objection; agreed to. [Motion carried: Clauses 11 through 21 passed.] Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Madam Chairman. Madam Chairman, I would like to move clauses 22 through 30.

The Chairman Chairman Members, it has been under for consideration that clauses 22 through 30 be moved. Does any Member object to that? No objection. Premier, proceed. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Madam Chairman. Madam Chairman, clause 22 makes certain clarifications to elections that may be made under section 40 of the …

The Chairman Chairman Does any Member wish to speak to clauses 22 through 30? 1300 18 July 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly I recognise the Member from constituency 25, MP Douglas DeCouto.

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Yes, thank you, Madam Chairman. And thank you to the Honourable Premier for the presentation. With respect to clause 30 which . . . which . . . (vocabulary today) which [adds new section] 10G [to] the Public Treasury [(Administration and Payments) ] Act [1969]. So, the new [section] 10G(1)(a), …

The Chairman Chairman Thank you, Member. Does any other Member wish to speak to clauses 22 through 30? No? Premier, I believe you have that one question. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, very much, Madam Chairman. In regard to I think the second part of the question, his interpretation is correct as …

The Chairman Chairman Does any other Member . . . I recognise the Member for constituency 25.

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Thank you to the Premier for the answer. I do appreciate the information. Given that this clause is quite about the details of how the money is coming in, where it is going to go and by which rules, and we have heard from the Prem-ier that the first monies …

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Well, we would hope that such regulations would be created prior to the receipt of those first tax payments. Is the Honourable Premier able to comment on when we should expect to see these regulations? Thank you, Madam Chairman.

The Chairman Chairman Does any Member wish to speak to clauses 22 through 30? No? Premier, you have that question. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much. Just to make sure that I am clear, it is the Act that specifies the percentage of the amounts that are to be paid by …

The Chairman Chairman Thank you, Premier. Does any other Member wish to speak? I recognise the Member from constituency 25.

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Yes. Thank you, Madam Chairman. I certainly appreciate the answer from the Premier and I want to . . . I am not expecting another Bermuda House of Assembly follow -up because he did answer. But my question on percentages was not, Which percentage of the tax payment was a …

The Chairman Chairman Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Madam Chairman, though I am not going to speak to the precise nature of timing, I think that it is important that the Honourable Shadow Minister of Finance recognises that in the initial question of which he asked, he referred 50 and 90 to regulations …

The Chairman Chairman Thank you, Premier. Does anyone else have any questions? No. Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Madam Chairman. Madam Chairman, I move that clauses 22 through 30 be approved and stand part of the Bill.

The Chairman Chairman It has been moved that clauses 22 through 30 be approved. Is there any objection to that motion? None; agreed to. [Motion carried: Clauses 22 through 30 passed.] Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Madam Chairman. I move the preamble be approved.

The Chairman Chairman It has been moved that the preamble be approved. Is there any objection to that motion? No objection. Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Madam Chairman. Madam Chairman, I move that the Bill be reported to the House as printed.

The Chairman Chairman It has been moved that the Bill be reported to the House as printed. Is there any objection to that motion? No objection; agreed to. The Bill will be reported to the House as printed. [Motion carried: The Corporate Income Tax Amendment Act 2025 was considered by a Committee of …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker It is my understanding that the Bill has been reported to the House as printed. Are there any objections to that? There being none, we move to the second Order of the Day which is the consideration of the Contributory Pensions (Amendment of [Contributions and] Benefits) Order 2025. And I …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker So moved. Continue, Junior Minister. 1302 18 July 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly DRAFT ORDER CONTRIBUTORY PENSIONS (AMENDMENT OF CONTRIBUTIONS AND BENEFITS) ORDER 2025 Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: As I said, Madam Deputy Speaker, today I stand before this Honourable House with a message of reassurance, respect …

Some Hon. Members Some Hon. Members The seventh. The seventh. [Desk thumping and i naudible interjections ] Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: I am proud to remind this Honourable House— Hon. E. David Burt: Yes. Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: —that this marks the seventh pension increase by this Progressive Labour Party Government since …

Some Hon. Members Some Hon. Members Aah! Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: —who allowed seniors to wait for how long?

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Too long! Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Five years without relief! [Inaudible interjections and laughter ] Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Five years. Compassion does not secure pensions, Madam Deputy Speaker. I will say that again. Compassion alone does not secure pensions. Financial responsibility is essential. The Contributory Pension Fund remains strong …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Not bad. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Madam Deputy Speaker, as evidenced by the 2023 Actuarial Report tabled in this Honourable House on 4 March 2025, the viability of the fund in the short - to medium- term is good with the fund being positive for the next, as I said, …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Shirk. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Shirk! Sorry. That’s Hamilton Parish talk. [This Government] will never shirk its duty to Bermuda’s seniors. Each pension increase, each policy change is a demonstration of our care and our commitment to our senior citizens today. That includes you, Madam Deputy Speaker. [Inaudible interjections and …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Yes. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. 1304 18 July 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly Are there any other Members who wish to speak to the Contributory Pensions (Amendment of Contributions and Benefits) Order 2025? I recognise the Member from constituency 25. Member, you have the floor.

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Yes, thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. And thank you to the Junior Minister for his presentation. We certainly support the increases in the benefits. Of course, it is important for our seniors. We note the increase in contributions, and we are very glad to see that. The actuarial report was …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Are there any other Members who wish to speak to this Order? I recognise the Member from constituency 2. You wish to yield to the Member from— [Inaudible interjections]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. I recognise the Member from constituency 4. Member, you have the floor. Hon. Tinee Furbert: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. I would just like to rise to support the amendment to this Contributory Pension Order of 2025. Mrs. Speaker —Mrs —this is messing me up today, Madam Deputy Speaker. …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member I did. Hon. Tinee Furbert: Seven increases —did I hear you say that?

Some Hon. Members Some Hon. Members Seven. Hon. Tinee Furbert: Seven increases in the past eight years since we have been Government, 2017. And if the listening public is not aware, the maximum pension that a pensioner can get is approximately . . . is it $1,600 per month? Approximately, $1,650? Hon. E. David Burt: No, …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member I can attest to that. Hon. Tinee Furbert: You can attest to that! [Laughter] [Crosstalk] Hon. Tinee Furbert: But still, Madam Deputy Speaker, when you look at that amount, if that is the only income that you are receiving, knock off FutureCare of about $500, you got to pay for …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. Are there any other Members who wish to speak to this contributory pension amendment? I recognise the Member from constituency 2. Member, you have the floor.

Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. Swan Yes, thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. I first would like to declare my interest. I am a senior. I am a pensioner, and I am appreciative of the seven increases by this Progressive Labour Party Government in eight years. And I think I can put it into context what it …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker British American?

Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. Swan Yes, and I was thinking of a brother of yours who did very good work and many others who worked for a company all their life in insurance and that company had a principal owner down in Trinidad and just around the time of that recession, that company went under, …

Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. Swan We are solid as a rock when it comes to pensions for seniors. Why? Because there are seniors in this country who are land rich, as the Minister just before me who speaks . . . that acts on behalf, doesn’t speak on behalf of seniors as much as she …

Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. Swan And there are seniors in this country today making choices between food and medication. And I want to say thank you to some companies out there today that are selling medication cheaper, so it makes it easier for a senior to spread it out. And there are seniors today, I …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Are there any other Members who wish to speak to this Order. I recognise the Member from constituency 29. Member, you have the floor. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. I too . . . that’s a good one. That’s the truth, …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Declare your interest. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I will declare my interest as well. Yes, I will. So, I am one of those who will obviously take advantage of this Government’s thoughtfulness when it comes to seniors. Yes, I will. But I would like to give thanks to …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Promise kept. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: —Promise kept. [Inaudible interjections] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: We did not tell our seniors that money don’t grow on trees. Hon. E. David Burt: Mm-hmm. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: We didn’t tell them that. [Inaudible interjections and laughter …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member The number one choice. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: They never had access to. [Desk thumping] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Something that we, quite frankly, don’t get credit for enough. That Mr. and Mrs. Smith will go down and get the same treatments that beforehand only those …

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Let’s talk about the cost of health care. [Inaudible interjections] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I am very, very proud to stand before you today, Madam Deputy Speaker, and the chirpers can keep chirping over there all they like, because one thing they don’t like is the fact that …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Are there any other Members who wish to speak to this Order? I recognise the Member from constituency 17. Member, you have the floor.

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Here we go! [Inaudible interjections]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker You have the floor, Member. Hon. Jason Hayward: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker.

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Hope you had a good lunch. [Inaudible interjections] Hon. Jason Hayward: While some may make jokes of what we are doing today, it is extremely important for the people of Bermuda that we advance their pensions. It is also extremely important as a Government that we ensure that we live …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Happy birthday. Hon. Jason Hayward: And what I determined to do on my 43rd birthday was to simply go and visit my grand-mother in the hospital. So, I spent the day with my grandmother at the hospital, and she was pleased. But as I looked at her in her condition, …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. Are there any other Members who wish to speak to this contributory pension amendment? There are no others. I call on the . . . Oh, sorry. I recognise the Premier and Minister of Finance. I was thinking that you brought the Bill. I forgot it was …

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker. [Inaudible interjection]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker I will not recognise your point of order since you were not on the floor when the comment was made. And I would advise all Members to realise that if they do want to make a point of order, they should actually be sitting in Chambers so that they can …

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker You point of order? POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]

Dr. Douglas DeCouto The Premier is misleading the House, and he is implying that the OBA has said things that the OBA has not said. Those things that he implies the OBA has said, that we are minimising the impact of this Bill, that we said that these things are not good, in …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Premier. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Oh-oh! Hon. E. David Burt: Well, Madam Deputy Speaker, I started this by saying a remarkable political amnesia from this side, but it is clear that the Honourable Member does not even remember what he said 40 minutes ago. Because everyone heard him …

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Point of order.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your point of order, Member. Bermuda House of Assembly POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]

Dr. Douglas DeCouto He is . . . Madam Deputy Speaker, the Honourable Premier is misleading the House, and he is putting words in my mouth and the One Bermuda Alliance’s mouth that we did not say. I can assure you, Madam Deputy Speaker, feedback from the public . . . I am …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Madam Deputy Speaker, I will continue because, see, this is what they like to do. They want to say it is somebody else who said it, not me, without standing by the words, forgetting . . . or trying to obscure— Hon. …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your point of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: He is misleading the House. He again is intentionally putting words in the mouth of the Opposition that have never been said. Misleading the public and this House, and yourself.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Hon. E. David Burt: I shall continue, Madam Deputy Speaker. Because only in the One Bermuda Alliance’s world is $468 a year more for seniors not a good thing.

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your point of order, Member? POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]

Dr. Douglas DeCouto The Premier is sadly misinforming and misleading this House. There are many people out there who need more money than that num-ber that he quoted. Thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Hon. E. David Burt: So, let me continue, Madam Deputy Speaker. Because see, it is important. This is the same party, Madam Deputy Speaker, that made our seniors wait nearly five years for a single increase to their pen-sion. And when did they finally decide that seniors …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker We can have comments, but can we just keep it at — Hon. E. David Burt: Undertones.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker —a level so it doesn’t interfere with the debate and my having to focus and pay attention to what is being said. [Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: You see, the challenge is, Madam Deputy Speaker, that they do not like to be reminded of their record. Hon. Zane J. …

Some Hon. Members Some Hon. Members Yes. Hon. E. David Burt: They remember the fact that the One Bermuda Alliance did not increase seniors’ pensions for the entire time that they were in office until 2017 on the eve of an election. [Crosstalk] Hon. E. David Burt: That is correct. No point of order at all. …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member A lot of seniors left the country. Hon. E. David Burt: Eight years later it is the fact that they have not learned their lesson. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: They haven’t. Hon. E. David Burt: They have not learned their lesson. So, whether or not the Honourable Member …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Oh, no. Ho n. E. David Burt: So, let them continue to belittle $468 a year. Let them continue to belittle the $3,000 more that our seniors are getting. But the people listen-ing will remember —

Mr. Scott Pearman Point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker. Th e Deputy Speaker: Your point of order, Member. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading and imputing improper motive] Mr . Scott Pearman : The Honourable Premier and Minister of Finance is misleading the House and is imputing improper motive. The Opposition supported this Bill and …

Mr. Scott Pearman Point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker. Th e Deputy Speaker: Your point of order, Member. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Mr . Scott Pearman: Yet again the Honourable Premier and Honourable Minister of Finance is getting a bit enthusiastic. The Opposition supported this Bill and is not downplaying the impact of …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member New word. New word. New word. [Lau ghter] Anoth er Hon. Member: Some other words. Ho n. E. David Burt: Let me put it this way. They can’t argue with my opinion. So, in my opinion, when the Shadow Minister of Finance says people are telling me this won’t make …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your point of order, Member. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]

Dr. Douglas DeCouto The Premier misled the House when he said that I said that people are telling me this won’t make a differenc e. He misstated what I said. I am sure . . . I know he is very excited. But he perhaps forgot what we said was that while this …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Premier. [Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: So, here we are, Madam Deputy Speaker. More can be done. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Yes, that’s what he said. Hon. E. David Burt: G uess who is doing the “more”? Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Oh-o h! Hon. …

Madam Deputy Speaker. Mr. Scott Pearman deputy speaker Point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your point of order, Member. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]

Mr. Scott Pearman Yet again the Premier, the Honourable Minister of Finance is misleading the House. He has just said the OBA cannot be trus ted in increasing it; we just voted for it.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: [They] haven’t voted for anything. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: No they haven’t. Hon. E. David Burt: They haven’t voted for anything. And we all know the rules. That only the Government can move an increase of something that will affect …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker It has been moved that this Order be approved and that a message be sent to the Governor. Are there any objections? There being none; so approved. Thank you. [ Motion carried: The Contributory Pensions (Amendment of Contributions and Benefits) Order 2025 was approved.] [ Inaudible interjections]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker I believe it is the third readings. I call on the Minister of Finance. SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDER 21 Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, very much, Madam Deputy Speaker. Madam Deputy Speaker, I move that Standing Order 21 be suspended to enable me to move the Bill entitled the …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker It has been moved that the Corporate Income Tax Amendment Act 2025 be read a third time and passed. Are there any objections to that motion? There are none; so moved. [ Motion carried: The Corporate Income Tax Amendment Act 2025 was read a third time and passed.]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Premier. ADJOURNMENT Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, very much, Madam Deputy Speaker. Madam Deputy Speaker, I move that this Honourable House do now adjourn until Friday, 12 September 2025.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Premier. Are there any Members who wish to speak to that motion? I recognise the Member from constituency 11. Member, you have the floor. CARICOM MEMBERSHIP

Mr. Christopher Famous I won’t be long, Madam Deputy Speaker, because I see a lot of colours that are giving me the heebie- jeebies. [ Inaudible interjections]

Mr. Christopher Famous Madam Deputy Speaker, as the Deputy Premier said, eight years ago the people of Bermuda put their trust in us — Bermuda House of Assembly An Hon. Member: Again.

Mr. Christopher Famous Yes, once again. And a few months ago, they put their trust in us again. However, trust must be earned, not just words, not just deeds, but leadership, Madam Deputy Speaker. Madam Deputy Speaker, seven years ago when we were in the House, which enslaved persons built, someone had to …

Mr. Christopher Famous This is what Mr. Packwood had to say. “It is true that many Bermudian slaves did not come directly from Africa, but from an intermediary destination such as the West Indies.” He goes on to say, “Slaves arrived in Bermuda from ships trading in the West Indies, from pirate ships, …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Are there any other Members who wish to speak to the motion? I recognise the Member from constituency 12. Member, you have the floor. IT ISSUES DURING QUESTION PERIOD Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Thank you, Madam [Deputy Speaker] . And what a good time to be in …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Point of order, Premier. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Point of order? Hon. E. David Burt: Yes. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Oh. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: I would hate for the Honourable Member to mislead the House. But unless there is something that I don’t know, I …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Yes, and I can appreciate that. I am only going off of what was said to me by Members of Parliament who run this House, that they thought that it was probably a residual from the cyberattack. And all that I am repeating …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your point of order, Premier. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: Given that we are being very technical, that is not what I said. I said, the Opposition is clearly in a mood today. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: What’s your point of order? Hon. E. David Burt: Misleading …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. [Inaudible interjections] Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Yes. We are definitely in a mood, Madam Deputy Speaker. Hon. E. David Burt: You are. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Farmers are in a mood because they haven’t been listened to. That is what they feel. Fishermen are in a mood because …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Yes! [Desk thumping] Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: And while they are waiting, Madam Deputy Speaker, they are flying out of here. They are moving out of here. And while they are waiting, Madam Deputy Speaker, they are also contemplating whether or not they need to move. So, I pray that …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Now what? Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: I am extremely concerned. I have spoken about it before, and I am speaking again about it. The last time I spoke to this insurance issue I said that the war is coming. Now we see amalgamation of insurance companies. And just this week, …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member [It is] 21 per cent. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Madam Deputy Speaker, 21 per cent increases. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: A couple million dollars net profit per month. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: So, something has got to happen. And the only legislative body in this Island is right …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member What? Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Almost $5,000 a month, with the increase. That’s incredible for health insurance.

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member You are paying $5,000. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Okay? That . . . the public is paying . . . Listen, man. People who have plans that are far less generous than mine are paying $4,000 a month. Private people. Seniors, paying that kind of money. We got to do …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member OBA seeks price control. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Ooh . . . OBA seeks price control. [Laughter] Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: That is not what I said. That is an amazing assumption that cripples an economy like ours to say that . . . to say that! There needs to …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Are there any other Members who wish to speak to the motion? [Desk thumping] ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE DEPUTY SPEAKER HOUSE VISITOR

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker And before I recognise the Member from constituency 4, let me recognise the PLP Senator Mischa Fubler, who is in the Gallery. [Desk thumping] [Motion to adjourn, continuing]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Member, you have the floor. Hon. Tinee Furbert: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. I almost feel like, Madam Deputy Speaker, after that speech there we all should be in a mood. [Laughter] Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Yes! Well said. I’m in a mood.

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member I’m joining you. Hon. Tinee Furbert: Jesus! We should be in a mood because, you know, since we want to bring up history, Madam Deputy Speaker, our people have not forgotten Pathway to Status. Our people have not forgotten the lack of transparency and public consultation from the OBA, Madam …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member There we go. [Inaudible interjections] Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: On what? Hon. Tinee Furbert: Our people have not forgotten the airport redevelopment deal —

Some Hon. Members Some Hon. Members Oh-oh! Hon. Tinee Furbert: —that created a controversial public -private partnership.

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Like the hospital. Hon. Tinee Furbert: Our people have not forgotten the public sector job cuts and economic pressure. Our peo-ple have not forgotten perceived disconnect between our Government, the Government at that time, and the grassroots community.

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Yes. Hon. Tinee Furbert: Madam Deputy Speaker, I won’t go any further into those things, but I just want to Bermuda House of Assembly remind the listening public that once we want to bring up history that — Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: You brought the history up. Hon. Tinee Furbert: …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member They are in a mood now. Hon. Tinee Furbert: They are in a mood now, yes. [Laughter] Hon. Tinee Furbert: We are in a mood now. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Don’t get too personal. Hon. Tinee Furbert: But what I do want to speak about today, I am not going …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Just speak to the Chair and then— ELDER ABUSE Hon. Tinee Furbert: What I do want to speak about today, Madam Deputy Speaker, is the other day I was driving my car on Shelley Bay stretch, and I came across . . . there was a lady. She was on …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. Is there anyone else who wishes to speak to the motion? I recognise the Member from constituency 10. Member, you have the floor. NATIONAL VIOLENCE REDUCTION STRATEGY SUPPORT THROUGH COMMUNITY GRANTS — NEED FOR PROPER OVERSIGHT AND ACCOUNTABILITY

Mr. Robert King Yes, good afternoon, Madam Deputy Speaker, Members of this Honourable House, and the listening public. We have heard many things today about how the current administration is doing great things for the people of this Island as it relates to pension reform, giving persons more money and essentially making life …

Mr. Robert King —is not going to achieve that . Pastor Leroy Bean: I believe this Honourable Member is misleading —

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Just a minute, Member. Just a minute. [Inaudible interjections]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Yes, he was here. Sit down. Yes. Member. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Pastor Leroy Bean: I believe he is misleading the House, n ot only with some of the information and rhetoric that he has given. First of all, we do, in National Security, collect data. And data would form …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Is this a motion to adjourn?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker It is a point of order, and I am getting ready to ask him if he can round out what he's saying. Pastor Leroy Bean: Okay. L ike I said , I believe—

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker First time he has come to his feet on the point of order . Pastor Leroy Bean: I believe that he is misleading the House.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member . Right. [Inaudible interjections]

Mr. Robert King That was helpful because we are talking about a holistic and a collaborative approach . What we're talking about is prevention and intervention to address the root causes and we need intervention programmes and services so that persons — Pastor Leroy Bean: Point of order.

Mr. Robert King —can exit the system. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Point -of-order him again.

Mr. Robert King For what ? So anyhow —

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Excuse me.

Mr. Robert King Yes, yes, no worries . So, the point —

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Can you sit down? There is a point of order on the floor . Member King, sit down, there's a point of order . Pastor Leroy Bean: I believe , again —

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your point of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Pastor Leroy Bean: —he is misleading the House. What he is saying is not factual information . And I believe that he is misleading the House.

Mr. Robert King Which word?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. T hank you, Member. Pastor Leroy Bean: Thank you.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker You’re fine. Member King.

Mr. Robert King I was point -of-ordered for not giving factual information. W hich part is not factual ?

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member All of it . 1324 18 July 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. Robert King: All of it? [Inaudible interjections] Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Point of order.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your point of order , Minister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Yes, let me give you some facts , to the MP from constituency 10. W hen we had had a workshop —

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker He is misleading the House, you are saying? Yes. Okay. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: He is definitely misleading the House.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker All right. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. Michael A. Weeks: But the facts are that we have combined many an organi sation to come together to take a holistic approach in our approach to trying to combat violence in this country .

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Thank you, Minister. Member.

Mr. Robert King The numbers speak for themselves . An increase in violent crimes . Overall , crime trends are down, but violence and murders , those are up. So, it says that what we're doing is not achieving the aim that the Violence Reduction Team has set as a goal to preserve …

Mr. Robert King We are not meeting the target s. [Inaudible interjections]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Let me hear . . . you said point of order , did you not? POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Pastor Leroy Bean: Yes. I believe again he is misleading the H ouse. You know , one thing that the M inister has constantly . . . I have heard him …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Pastor Leroy Bean: You know . And I believe that he is misleading H ouse.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Thank you. T hank you, Member. Member King, continue.

Mr. Robert King I believe that we are going off beliefs and feelings as opposed to not looking at what the facts are saying. Pastor Leroy Bean: Point of order.

Mr. Robert King So, what we're saying—

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Member, he can say what he thinks . That doesn't make it fact . So, continue, Member King. Pastor Leroy Bean: I've never seen him out doing anything like this . Talking about collaborating. [Inaudible interjections]

Mr. Robert King Well,—

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker It's an opinion. It's not a fact .

Mr. Robert King Actually , that's not true because you were at the Family Forum there last Thursday which I was present for . [Inaudible interjections]

Mr. Robert King Well, yes, he did. He did, because I acknowledged him. [Inaudible interjections]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Please speak to the Chair.

Mr. Robert King So that was a point of order that was not a factual statement . He is misleading the House. I mean this — Pastor Leroy Bean: You have never been to the hospital or anything .

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Speak to the Chair.

Mr. Robert King Okay —

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Excuse me , Member. Continue to speak —

Mr. Robert King I remember too . . . what the Honourable Member is suggesting is impossible for me to actually have been there because much of the work happens on an extremely confidential basis . So, I would Bermuda House of Assembly not, and nobody else would have been able to go …

Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. Swan Point of order , Madam [Deputy Speaker]. P oint of order .

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay, your point of order , Member? POINT OF ORDER [Imputing improper motives and Misleading]

Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. Swan Now the Honourable Member is imputing improper motives on the M ember by referencing the fact of his profession. B ut also, he is misleading the House . Because any Member connected with the community in the way in which the Honourable Member Bean and the Honourable Minister W eeks …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. T hank you, M ember , for your point of order . Yes, Member, continue. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Yes, I have a point of order of a fact.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. A point of information, you mean? Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Information of fact.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Do you accept his point of information, Member. Member King, do you accept his point of information?

Mr. Robert King That would be a no. N o, I don't .

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker All right. C ontinue, Member.

Mr. Robert King So— Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Well, a point of order then ,

Madam Deputy Speaker. The Deputy Speaker the deputy speaker Let me hear your point of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. Michael A. Weeks: The Member has said that murder is on the rise.

Mr. Robert King It is. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: By gangs, gang violence is on the rise.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Mm-hmm. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Last year , based on gang violence, it was four people who were murdered through gang activity . This year two people have been murdered through gang activity .

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Thank you.

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member It’s only half a year. [Crosstalk ] Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Well, regardless of half a year or not. [Inaudible interjections]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Minister. Member, continue.

Mr. Robert King So, what the H onourable Minister is saying is that — [Inaudible interjection and laughter ]

Mr. Robert King Well, you, like you— [Inaudible interjections]

Mr. Robert King So . . . okay, all right. All right. So, the point is definitely more needs to be done . We need to be strategic in our planning and execution to preserve life . What we have is money that is being allocated without the requisite oversight and accountability that …

Mr. Robert King I didn't hear any of those things . 1326 18 July 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly The Deputy Speaker: Your point of order ? Pastor Leroy Bean: We do have programmes within the primary school .

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. I s this a point of information? Pastor Leroy Bean: I guess a point of information.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Yes, does he— [Inaudible interjections]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker —does he . . . do you— Pastor Leroy Bean: We do have —

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Continue, Member. Pastor Leroy Bean: —programmes and it's been spoken by the M inister on a few occasions . The I AM programme and— [Inaudible interjections]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Hold on one second. Member, did you accept his point of information?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. S o, Member, take your seat. Yes. [Crosstalk ] Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Point of order . Point of order.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your point of order, Minister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: What the Member said was that there are no programmes. A nd it is misleading the House. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Point of order , [Madam Deputy] Speaker. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: That is misleading the House. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Let me speak. Okay. Let me just say this. T here are different comments that are being made. And before the M inister even got a chance to actually put his point of order on the floor , someone else is rising on a point of order . I need …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Yes, the process . Let me hear your point of order, then I will hear yours. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you , Madam Deputy Speaker. The point of order is simply that there are programmes currently in our primary schools to address the violence that …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Your point of order ? POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Madam Deputy Speaker, the Honourable Members are misleading the H ouse.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Which Member is that? Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: The Honourable Minister of National Security.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. That’s who— Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: [He] is misleading the House. The Shadow Minister did not say there were no programmes. He said he did not hear of any programmes. But he did not say — [General uproar ] Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: —the programmes …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Thank you. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: He did not say that they did not exist. Hon. E. David Burt: Oh, come on. [Inaudible interjections]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. [Crosstalk]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Member from constituency 10, you may continue.

Mr. Robert King Thank you so much.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker You have three minutes.

Mr. Robert King Thank you, I will use them wisely.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Yes. [Laughter]

Mr. Robert King All right. So, what we are going to say— [Inaudible interjections]

Mr. Robert King What we will accept is that more needs to be done to preserve life in this community, hold those persons who would cause harm or take lives unlawfully that they be held to account. So, we recognise that guns and drugs are a problem in this community , for persons …

Mr. Neville S. Tyrrell Point of order. Hon. Owen Darrell: Point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker.

Mr. Robert King —that we are not going to worry about sorting out some docks and hangout spots? Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: No, no.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker I recognise . . . do you yield? Because you got up with a point of order first, Member from [constituency] 26.

Mr. Neville S. Tyrrell I won’t yield, Madam Deputy Speaker.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker And it may be the same point of order from the Honourable Member. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]

Mr. Neville S. Tyrrell The Honourable Member is misleading the House. What has Sandys Dock got to do with—

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member That’s a question, not a point of order. [Inaudible interjections]

Mr. Neville S. Tyrrell Sit down. [Inaudible interjections]

Mr. Neville S. Tyrrell Hang on. The Minister is not responsible for that. [Crosstalk]

Mr. Neville S. Tyrrell I understand. Thank you. The Minister is not responsible. He is misleading the House.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Thank you, Member. Did he cover the same point of order that you had, Minister? Yes. Hon. Owen Darrell: Madam Deputy Speaker, no.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Your point of order? POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. Owen Darrell: Respectfully, my point of order is that the Honourable Member from across the aisle is clearly misleading the House because when the Member will stand up and say that we are misguided in our approach, what he is …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Member, from [constituency] 10, continue. [Crosstalk ]

Mr. Robert King Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. HM Customs comes under the remit of National Security. It is a fact. We had a Budget Debate. No mention was made of monies allocated for dock repair of HM Customs, which goes to the point that MP Tyrrell, the [Government] Whip, was talking about, …

Mr. Neville S. Tyrrell Misleading the House.

Mr. Robert King —a dock that protects all the security.

Mr. Neville S. Tyrrell I have a point of order.

Mr. Robert King That is what the issue is. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]

Mr. Neville S. Tyrrell Point of order! He is misleading the House when it comes to repair of the dock — [Timer chimes] [Gavel]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker That’s it.

Mr. Neville S. Tyrrell We cleared that up last year, — [Inaudible interjections]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you.

Mr. Neville S. Tyrrell —last week.

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member That’s your time, Neville. That’s your time.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Are there any other Members who wish to speak to the motion? I recognise the Member from constituency 15. Member, you have the floor. [Inaudible interjections]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker He just yielded to you. Hon. Owen Darrell : I will yield to him.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Member from constituency 2. Hon. Owen Darrell: I’ll go next.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. CUP MATCH, SPIRIT OF

Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. Swan I’m happy to yield to the Minister, but he was a little slow jumping up and I didn’t want you to hit the gavel, Madam Deputy Speaker. But I will let you know that the [Cup Match] Extravaganza in St. George’s has been cancelled for an-ybody out there planning to …

Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. Swan —some 50 years later was delivering flowers for Gardine’s when she first had her Bermuda House of Assembly florist [shop] and he says he went up on Fielding’s Lane and Sluggo’s, grandmama looked down in the truck and saw him there. When the guy went up to the door to …

Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. Swan His name was Quinn Talbot. I want to say something hurt me this week. I was in the Garden Market. The St. George’s Esso has been rebranded and it has a Garden Market there. Many people shop. A lady stopped me and said, Mr. Swan, my mother cleans for Mr. …

Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. Swan Right? I ain’t got to go nowhere! I will never go where I am never wanted! [Inaudible interjections ] 1330 18 July 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. Swan: And you trampled on me. Craig talks about the party that he brought into power. …

Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. Swan It was one of the biggest tragedies. You talk about all the things that we have done which are good that you want to negate. But, hey! Took a lot of money to . . . A mind -set that will cause a former Government on the eve of the …

Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. Swan Now let me get back to— [Crosstalk]

Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. Swan —where I wanted to start. [Crosstalk]

Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. Swan This season I talked about the significance of County [Games]. And I believe eve-rybody in there would agree that County is about fair-ness, and so is Cup Match. You know, when County and Cup Match were started right within a year of each other nearly 125 y ears ago, it …

Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. Swan And I am praying for a St. George’s victory — [Inaudible interjections]

Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. Swan —but I am wishing for the spirit of Cup Match and the spirit of our ancestors because I am sure if they are able to speak through their families more than a Cup Match win, they would want us to get our young people right. And I feel we need …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Are there any other Members who wish to speak to the motion? I recognise the Member from constituency 14 I believe it is. Member, you have the floor. RECOGNISING THE OBLIGATION AND MORAL RESPONSIBILITY TO SERVE OUR COMMUNITY Hon. Alexa Lightbourne: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. This …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Is there any other Member who wishes to speak to the motion? I recognise the Member from constituency 15. Member, you have the floor. BOUND BY HISTORY, CARRIED BY COMMUNITY Hon. Owen Darrell: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. Bermuda House of Assembly You know, it almost brought …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Are there any other Members who wish to speak to the motion? I recognise the Member from constituency 25. You have been on your feet a lot today, Member. PLP GOVERNMENT’S AGENDA INEFFECTIVE

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Here for a reason, not for a season, Madam Deputy Speaker. [ Laughter]

Dr. Douglas DeCouto You know, I did say to my wife this morning. I said, Well, it could be an early day. And that is when, you know, you have made a big mistake. So, here we are. First of all, I would like to say thank you to everybody in this Chamber. …

Dr. Douglas DeCouto We hear about the seniors. But you know what we are not hearing about? What are the plans for the future of this country? Because what I heard a lot on the doorstep was, I am worried about my grandchildren. I am worried about my children. Or, I am a …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your point of order? POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: It is tiring enough to listen to this drivel, but the Honourable Member cannot be putting words in the mouth. It was very clearly stated; when the Bill comes, we will discuss it. I know that the Honourable …

Dr. Douglas DeCouto —out is frankly — Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order. Point of order.

Dr. Douglas DeCouto —disappointing! POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order. We are not going to do this, Madam Deputy Speaker. Point of order. The Honourable Member is misleading the House. That was not said. It is a plain and simple reality that you cannot give an accurate answer …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Member.

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Well, Madam Deputy Speaker, in my opinion if the kind of answers that this Govern-ment provided to this House on the corporate income tax were provided to me, by one of my staff members, or I provided those to my employer, I would probably not be looked upon too well. …

Dr. Douglas DeCouto And proposed to— Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Point of order — The Deputy Speaker: Your point of order? POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: —Madam Deputy Speaker. You see, the Honourable Member is not only misleading the House, but I have to believe now …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Continue.

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. I think the public is well aware of the Government’s remarks with respect to the Chamber’s — Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your point of order? POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: The Honourable Member is misleading the House, and I am not going to let him get away with it again.

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Again! Hon. E. David Burt: Again! There is no issue or question in regard to things. The questions that came from the Chamber of Commerce were put in a press release without consultation with the Government first, requests, or asked for clarification, and the Government responded. Okay? Now, just so …

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Point of order. Hon. E. David Burt: —the Department of Statistics is getting things . . . Hold on. I am not finished yet, Madam Deputy Speaker. I am not finished. Then the Honourable Member — [Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: —just so we are clear, then the Honourable …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker —Finish the answer — Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. E. David Burt: —The Chamber of Commerce took what was said—

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker —so I can answer his point of order. — Hon. E. David Burt: (Thank you.) —took what was said — [Crosstalk] Hon. E. David Burt: —in a response to him on matters related to statistics and tied it into something else. So, it is not going to be correct for …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your point of order, Member? POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]

Dr. Douglas DeCouto The Honourable Premier is misleading the House. I have never criticised the Department of Statistics. And in fact, I have taken great care in my re-marks because I am well aware of the staff up there, how hard they work. And the Premier has said I criti-cised the Department of …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Did you want to continue?

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Of course, Madam Deputy Speaker , I would like to continue. So, we have covered the CIT situation. We covered absentee voting. My notes are quite messy here. Let’s talk about National Heroes, Madam Deputy Speaker. It is not really my brief. And I do want to tread carefully because …

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Oh, that is the law. It is as if . . . You know what, Madam Deputy Speaker ? Imagine if you had a group of people who could pass a law. They could change the law — [Crosstalk and laughter ]

Dr. Douglas DeCouto They could bring an amendment — [General uproar]

Dr. Douglas DeCouto They could say . . . Imagine if you had a Government that was self -reflective and could say, We did not quite get the outcome we were hoping for, and where we ended up does not make sense, Madam Deputy Speaker. It is as if they are powerless. It …

Dr. Douglas DeCouto —I would suggest that we revisit the topic. And I know many out there in the community probably share that as well. Now, I have got two final maybe three final remarks. As you know, Madam Deputy Speaker, the Members on the other side are always desperate to know what …

Dr. Douglas DeCouto I talked about my disappointment when I came up here. You know, there were many high points but also a lot of disappointment. Clearly, we come up here, and there are many topics we can reasonably disagree on. This is the point. In fact, as the Opposition, it is in …

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Madam Deputy Speaker . Madam Deputy Speaker. I found out — [General uproar]

Dr. Douglas DeCouto I saw a caricature of myself on social media late last week. I showed it to a friend of mine, and they were quite upset. I said: No, man. First of all, it is a good likeness, and it makes me look pretty good. And I said, Second of all, …

Dr. Douglas DeCouto Also, the fact that they have to resort to caricatures and personalisations means when you bring the material points that are important to the people of Bermuda, they have no answer to that. And they must resort — [Inaudible interjections]

Dr. Douglas DeCouto They must resort — [Inaudible interjections]

Dr. Douglas DeCouto —to low personalisations. As you know, Madam Deputy Speaker, one of our realisations that we have is that we are competing with the rest of the world. We are competing with them for tourism. We are competing with them for international business. And we are competing with them for the …

Dr. Douglas DeCouto And some of the things I talked about we have already discussed. So that is what I look forward to. But for those listening in, stay cool. Use a little Limacol. Do not spend all your money. And enjoy the summer. Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. [Desk thumping]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Are there any other Members who wish to speak to the motion? I recognise the Member from constituency 17. Member, you have the floor. PLP GOVERNMENT EXCELLENT STEWARDS OF THE ECONOMY Hon. Jason Hayward: Good afternoon, again, Madam Deputy Speaker. One would believe that over the eight …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Three recent elections. [Crosstalk] Hon. Jason Hayward: But the public was appreciative of us reducing payroll tax for 86 per cent of workers in Bermuda. We also reduced taxes for local businesses to support job creation. And we see job creation. Today we extended pension benefits for our seniors. Over …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Point of information. Hon. Jason Hayward: Not at all.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker [Microphone off ] Hon. Jason Hayward: You know what? I took great pride with the level of scholarships that have been is-sued to our students. We actually doubled scholarship funding. That scholarship funding puts our kids on pathways to success. It provides them bridges to opportunities. For s ome it …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member No point of order. Hon. Jason Hayward: —where the priorities actually were. You know what? They cannot simply acknowledge that we have been excellent stewards of the economy. We have been fiscally responsible. We now have fiscal space to do things that they can only dream of. Not just providing …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member They only find fault. Hon. Jason Hayward: We will continue to work hard on behalf of the people of Bermuda. When we talk about our seniors; there is no shortage of things that we have done to support our seniors. I heard somebody say, raise the age of retire-ment . …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Are there any other Members who wish to speak? I recogn ise the Member from c onstituency 9. Member you have the floor. THE WIDENING GAP BETWEEN THE STORY GOVERNMENT TELL S AND THE REALIT Y BERMUDIANS EXPERIEN CE

Mr. Vance Campbell Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. I did not know I could screech. But anyway, today , Madam Deputy Speaker , I have heard a few people stand up and talk about reflection. I would like to reflect as well. But my reflection will be on the widening gap between the …

Mr. Vance Campbell Dark clouds , sometimes. I guess we were responsible for the rain today as well. [Inaudible interjections]

Mr. Vance Campbell But, as they say, as the saying goes , the chickens come home to roost . And Madam Deputy Speaker — [Laughter and inaudible interjections ]

Mr. Vance Campbell — let us now turn to some facts. Not the Government’s version, but the live d truths of Bermudians as captured in the aforementioned report Factors Driving Emigration in Bermuda . In-depth interviews with 20 Bermudians. Surveys —and that is 20 Bermudians who have emigrated. We have a survey of …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker You are quoting from the report?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Could you state the title of the report again?

Mr. Vance Campbell The report is Factors Driving Emigration in Bermuda— it was tabled.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. [Inaudible interjections ]

Mr. Vance Campbell So, of the 20 Bermudians who have emigrated, who were interviewed in- depth, 13 had left within the past five years. We know who the Gov-ernment was then. Four had emigrated between 5 and 10 years. And three had emigrated more than 10 years ago. So, we are not saying …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Thank you.

Mr. Vance Campbell But, we do have a Government that has been . . . or a party who were the Government for 22 or have been the Government for 22 of the last 25 years. [Inaudible interjection]

Mr. Vance Campbell The reasons that they have provided for emigrating [are] the high cost of living, lack of affordability, ability to live beyond retirement. We have heard a lot of talk today, Madam [Deputy Speaker], about how well this Government has looked after our seniors. But yet, the reasons, one of the …

Mr. Vance Campbell This is your report. And it is statistically sound. So, you cannot dismiss this. [Inaudible interjection]

Mr. Vance Campbell Improve management of Bermuda and the economy. Lower cost of housing and util-ities. Lower cost for health care and health insurance. More affordable retirement opportunities. The responses by the 416 Bermudians who are still here are not different. Of those 416, 53 per cent may consider emigrating from Bermuda at …

Mr. Christopher Famous Madam D eputy Speaker I would like to get some clarity from the Member.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay, just a minute, Member. Do you have a point of order, —

Mr. Christopher Famous —Yes —

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker —a point of information?

Mr. Christopher Famous —because earlier we heard—

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker —You have a point of order?

Mr. Christopher Famous Yes, I do.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your point of order.

Mr. Christopher Famous Earlier we heard from his compatriot — [Inaudible interjections ]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker What is your point of order?

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member What is the point of order?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Yes, tell me your point of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]

Mr. Christopher Famous He is misleading because earlier we heard from his compatriot saying that the merger of the companies, that Honourable Member Scott Pearman is a shareholder of, is causing health care prices to go up. But how is it now the Government's fault?

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Continue.

Mr. Vance Campbell Madam Deputy Speaker, I never said it was the Government's fault.

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Okay, that is great.

Mr. Vance Campbell I never said it was the Government's fault.

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member We accept that point.

Mr. Vance Campbell I am not saying that it is not either. [Laughter]

Mr. Vance Campbell Madam Deputy Speaker, all of these things that I have mentioned . . . this is the real Bermuda. Not the one in glossy press releases. Not the one in budget statements. But the one that Bermudians are leaving. [Inaudible interjection]

Mr. Vance Campbell Bermudians are leaving. Madam Deputy Speaker, the Government speaks of entrepreneurship, yet we have a shrinking and ageing population. Who will buy the goods? Who will build the businesses? Who will stay to invest in this country when the very people who love it — Hon. E. David Burt: Point …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your point of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: If the Honourable Member is going to make a statement around a shrinking population he must justify those things with the fact —

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member What is the point of order? Hon. E. David Burt: Misleading the House.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay, thank you, Member. Hon. E. David Burt: He can say ageing. He cannot say shrinking.

Mr. Vance Campbell Who will invest in this country when the very people who love it the most are being pushed out?

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member The majority of people remain. Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. Vance Campbell: And while Bermudians leave, Madam Deputy Speaker, this Government has approved more work permits than at any other time in our history. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Oh -oh! How many . . . you want us …

Mr. Vance Campbell Madam Deputy Speaker, the Government claims they are protecting Bermudian jobs, but the reality reflects a different story. Hon. E. David Burt: What reality?

Some Hon. Members Some Hon. Members What reality? [Inaudible interjections ]

Mr. Vance Campbell The Government claims that they are building a fairer Bermuda. [Inaudible interjection]

Mr. Vance Campbell You will have your turn, Mr. Premier — Hon. E. David Burt: All right —but Jesus.

Mr. Vance Campbell But fairness does not look like this. [Inaudible interjection] Hon. E. David Burt: At least make sense!

Mr. Vance Campbell Bermudians are being priced out, pushed out, and left out. [Crosstalk and laughter] Hon. E. David Burt: Oh, poor you, Vance. Poor you. [Inaudible interjection and laughter ] Hon. E. David Burt: Poor you, Vance!

Mr. Vance Campbell I am not ignorant. [Laughter] Hon. E. David Burt: Poor you. Poor you. [Laughter and inaudible interjections ]

Mr. Vance Campbell In the last session, Madam Deputy Speaker, we heard about deep dives and taking deep dives into economic inequality in Bermuda, into pay disparities, into why Bermudians and non- Bermudians are being paid differently. Let us do a deep dive into pay scales based on gender and race. The hours …

Mr. Vance Campbell One would think — Hon. E. David Burt: What are you talking about? Hon. Jason Hayward: Point of order, Madam—

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your point of order. POINT OF ORDER Hon. Jason Hayward: There are numerous reports that highlight inequalities in society and statistics where it clearly highlights that there are inequalities that exist within our economy.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you for your point of order. Continue, Member.

Mr. Vance Campbell Madam Deputy Speaker, were those reports between 1998 and 2012? And why were they not acted upon? POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. Jason Hayward: Point of order. The Member is misleading the House.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Hon. Jason Hayward: There has been progressive work done to reduce inequalities within our society and make Bermuda a fairer place for all.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Continue, Member.

Mr. Vance Campbell Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. 1344 18 July 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly Madam Deputy Speaker, this Government may point to financial ratings and economic indicators, but these will not be their legacy. The legacy of this Premier, this Cabinet and the silent backbenchers, will be the …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member You are singing a whole new song.

Mr. Vance Campbell Madam Deputy Speaker —

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member A whole new song, because we have a Hansard of you praising the Government —

Mr. Vance Campbell That is what — [Inaudible interjection]

Mr. Vance Campbell That is what history will remember— [Inaudible interjection]

Mr. Vance Campbell And that was my job as a Minister. [Inaudible interjections ]

Mr. Vance Campbell That was my job as a Minister and a backbencher. [Inaudible interjections and general uproar]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Speak to the Chair.

Mr. Vance Campbell And I did my job. [Inaudible interjections ]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Speak to the Chair.

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Wow! [Inaudible interjections ]

Mr. Vance Campbell And I anticipated that those on the other side would be saying what they are saying. And I anticipated that the Premier would jump to his feet and repeat — [Inaudible interjection]

Mr. Vance Campbell —and repeat all of what we have heard today, all of what I said they stand and repeat time after time. They have nothing new, Madam Deputy Speaker. They have failed Bermudians, especially seniors, who built this country (as they like to say) and now find themselves unable to afford …

Mr. Vance Campbell They have failed our youth who see no path forward. [Inaudible interjection]

Mr. Vance Campbell They have failed our families. You can try and dismiss what I am saying, but that is what this report is saying. [Inaudible interjections ]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Speak to the Chair!

Mr. Vance Campbell That is what this report is saying!

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Speak to the Chair, Member.

Mr. Vance Campbell Your report —

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Member! [Inaudible interjections ]

Mr. Vance Campbell Our people are telling you this. [Gavel]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker I do not want to sit you down. Speak to the Chair. [Inaudible interjections ]

Mr. Vance Campbell I apologise, Madam Deputy Speaker — [Inaudible interjections ]

Mr. Vance Campbell But this Government has failed and no amount of spin or press statements or financial ratings can change that. It is time we stop pretending. It is time we started acting for the people who still are here and those who we hope will one day return. Thank you, Madam …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Are there any other Members who wish to speak to the motion? [Inaudible interjections and laughter ] Bermuda House of Assembly The Deputy Speaker: I recognise the Member from constituency 29. Member, you have the floor. MP KING ENCOURAGED TO DO HIS HOMEWORK AND SPEAK ON FACTUAL INFORMATION …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member That is reality. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: The ratings of our country continue to be top class. Continue to be top class. And with regard to the Honourable Member Vance Campbell talking about all the permits we have issued.

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Honourable Member. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: The Honourable Member Vance Campbell, sorry, my mate . . . talking about the amount of permits that we have issued, but you have heard almost every Member of the Opposition say constantly on that side, W e have got to bring …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Welcome to Government. [Laughter] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: So here we are bringing in people to the country, issuing work permits and we have issued too many. But for the last six months, W e have got to get moving and get people in this country . I …

Mr. Vance Campbell Point of order. Point of order Madam—I never said we are issuing too many. I said they are making statements that they are protecting the jobs of Bermudians and yet we have, under their — Hon. E. David Burt: We are protecting the jobs of Bermudians.

Mr. Vance Campbell —leadership, we have more work permits being issued than in the history of our country. That is the contradiction right there. Not what I said.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Thank you, Member.

Mr. Christopher Famous Madam [Deputy] Speaker —

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Continue, Minister.

Mr. Christopher Famous Madam Deputy Speaker, point of order. That would be incorrect.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your point of order. POINT OF ORDER

Mr. Christopher Famous That would be incorrect because they are the same ones saying that the popula-tion is at its lowest point. Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Hon. E. David Burt: That ain’t no one way or the other. 1346 18 July 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly The Deputy Speaker: Minister. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. You see, if anybody listens to this House regularly, …

Mr. Scott Pearman Point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your point of order. POINT OF ORDER [Imputing improper motive; unparliamentary language]

Mr. Scott Pearman To describe the Opposition as speaking with a forked tongue and out of both sides of the mouth is, of course, unparliamentary language and imputing improper motive. And the future Premier should know better. [Inaudible interjections and laughter ]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Continue, Minister. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Well, I am glad you are getting used to it. [Laughter] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: In due course you will not say “future” anymore. So, the fact of the matter is they do not like that talk, …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member And use one of Vance’s statements. [Laughter] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Madam Deputy Speaker, what I would like to emphasise tonight is this: I am go-ing to implore the Honourable Member Opposite, the Honourable Member King, to turn over a new leaf when he comes back in September. …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Yes. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: —where you stand on your feet and you make false statements. And what in particular I did not like today, Madam Deputy Speaker, I did not like the fact that he talked about the gang vio-lence in this country and the murders in …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member That is not false. [Inaudible interjections ] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: The Honourable Member King was point -of-ordered five times by the Gang [Violence] Reduction Coordinator and four times by the Minister of National Security on false statements. [Inaudible interjections ] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: No, …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Please speak to the Chair. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes. Madam Deputy Speaker, all I am asking is that we do not use gangs and murders in this country. And I think every one of us has experienced someone we know, whether personally or a constituent, that has …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you, Member. Are there any other Members who wish to speak to the motion? Oh, I recognise the Member from constituency 23— is it? Hon. Jarion Richardson: Yes, Madam.

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Yes. Member, you have the floor CUP MATCH— SPIRIT OF Hon. Jarion Richardson: Yes, thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. It has been an interesting [meeting] of the House this evening, today and this evening, dealing with a number of wider issues. And whilst I wish to echo all of the …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member All right! [Desk thumping] Hon. Jarion Richardson: And I wish all of us a very happy Cup Match. Thank you. 1348 18 July 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly [Desk thumping]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Are there any other Members who wish to speak to the motion? I recognise the Premier. Premier, you have the floor. PLP GOVERNMENT —REFLECTING ON THE WORK AND PROGRESS BEING MADE Hon. E. David Burt: I hope to treat you to 20 minutes of political theatre. Hon. Zane …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Okay. Hon. E. David Burt: Because they do not like the theatre, but they can't handle the truth. [Inaudible interjections ] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes, that is right. Hon. E. David Burt: That is the fact. They cannot handle the truth. You see, Madam Deputy Speaker, it …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Yes. Hon. E. David Burt: For eight years, they tried to, you know, throw everything against the wall as they said, doom and gloom, invention . . . all the rest — Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: That is right. Hon. E. David Burt: But yet they fail. But …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Your point of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: The Honourable Member is misleading the House. We are not looking forward to his leaving. We wish he would hang around as long as he can. [Laughter]

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Hey, point of order —he is misleading the House. [Laughter] Hon. E. David Burt: Madam Deputy Speaker, I know full well that particular gentleman, who I have defeated in at least one election, is not being factual in his statements. [Laughter] Hon. …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member What? Another Hon. Member: Landslide? [Inaudible interjections ] Hon. E. David Burt: See here is the thing: They cannot handle the fact that they had their second worst election result in February of 2025. But here is the fact,

Madam Deputy Speaker deputy speaker We are . . . we are the Government. [Inaudible interjections ] Hon. E. David Burt: You see . . . you see they are — but here is the thing. We have heard a bit today, Madam Deputy Speaker, from Members of the Opposi-tion, and I certainly will not …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Nope! Hon. E. David Burt: Complaints but no solutions. No alternatives. And it is clear from our third successive election victory that the people and the voters of this country know who is on their side. But I will address one of the points made by one of the Honourable …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member A bright future. Hon. E. David Burt: The young people in this country are being given opportunities by this Government to excel in all areas —whether or not it is government or whether or not it is the private sector. That is reality. And we see them day in and …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Keep telling them, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Oh, I will. Because whatever they want to say over on that side—and they say that the reality is not jibing. Let us be clear. I see young people every day — Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: That is right. [Inaudible …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member And who they are. Hon. E. David Burt: They push back against progressive solutions just like they push back against the fact that we reduced payroll tax for 86 per cent of workers while increasing it for high earners. They said it would drive away business but yet we have …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Correct. Hon. E. David Burt: Because they just do not get it. And for eight years they are in the same place, not understanding what is necessary to do to make sure that you improve the conditions of people in this country wherever they are. So, whether it is seniors, …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Yes. Hon. E. David Burt: Let us talk about the Minister responsible for Youth, Social Development and Seniors, who came to this House and said that we are going to take action on domestic violence and have hired our first certified Domestic Abuse Liaison Officer. That, Madam Deputy Speaker, is …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Say it like you mean it. Hon. E. David Burt: The progress is being seen, and the people of this country recognise that for the last eight years they have a Government that is putting them first, that is demonstrating strong leadership and building a fairer, more stable Bermuda for …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Yes. Hon. E. David Burt: They called 2017 a landslide.

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Oh, yes. Hon. E. David Burt: I am assuming that 2025 must be one as well. But here is the reality, Madam Deputy Speaker. There has not been a day where the Members of this Government have not woken up and said, How can we continue to improve the conditions …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member That is right. Another Hon. Member : That is correct. Hon. E. David Burt: And so, for the last eight years that has been our mantra, and for the next eight years, Madam Deputy Speaker, that will be the Progressive Labour Party Government’s mantra. CUP MATCH— A CELEBRATION OF EMANCIPATION …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Mm-hmm. Hon. E. David Burt: It is something that was brought to us from our caucus. It was something that was circu-lated. And as the Honourable Member said it was something that you, Madam Deputy Speaker, did put through this legislature. And so, Madam Deputy Speaker, we run up to …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member Yes. Hon. E. David Burt: Please. There is too much loss of life, too much injury, trauma that is caused to families. You will get there. Please, please, please slow down. We do not want to have a holiday where more families are grieving, where more persons are challenged, where …

An Hon. Member An Hon. Member That is right. Hon. E. David Burt: And it is because there were those who toiled in bondage and slavery and were freed. And it was for those who refused to go to work — Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: That is right. Hon. E. David Burt: —on the …

The Deputy Speaker Deputy Speaker Thank you. And before we end, I would just like to chime in and wish everybody a happy Cup Match. Cup Match is indeed that cultural glue. So even though we have banter and people on opposite sides, it serves as a glue to unite our community. And hopefully as …

July 18, 2025

Session Summary

Key Topics

Bills & Motions

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Debate Transcript