This was primarily a session for government ministers to report on their activities and spending. Premier Burt announced $21.8 million in additional spending, with $11 million going to hospital staff salary increases and funding for police officers, mental health services, and affordable housing. Deputy Premier De Silva clarified that the Battery Road housing project uses traditional construction methods, not modular homes as reported in media. Several ministers provided updates on digital government services, border security improvements, and college performance.
Joint Ministerial Council meeting in London - Premier's report on discussions with UK Government$21.8 million in additional government spending for health, safety, housing, and educationMajor housing developments across Bermuda - Battery Road, Harmony Hall, Chelsea ApartmentsNew digital services at Transport Control Department (TCD) for commercial vehicle permitsBermuda College's 50th anniversary report and financial statements
Bills & Motions
Supplementary Estimate (No. 1) for Financial Year 2025/26 was tabled (not yet debated)
Criminal Code (Prohibited Weapons) Amendment Order 2025 was submitted for information
No bills were debated or voted on in this session - this was a statements and reports session only
Notable Moments
Premier corrected media reports about housing construction methods, calling The Royal Gazette's reporting "misleading" and "deliberate"
Government announced hiring more police officers and mental health support for government employees
Recognition of Bermuda students studying abroad, with Premier praising their talent and ambition
Debate Transcript
913 speeches from 25 speakers
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood morning, Members. The Clerk will now lead us in prayer. PRAYERS [ Prayers read by Mr. Clark Somner, Clerk ]
The SpeakerThe Speaker[Good] morning, Members. [ Gavel]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThe House is now in session. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES [Minutes of 21 November 2025]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMembers, the Minutes of the meeting from the 21st of November have been circulated. Are there any amendments required? There are none. The Minutes will be [confirmed as printed]. [ Minutes of 21 November 2025 confirmed] MESSAGES FROM THE GOVERNOR
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are none. ANNOUNCEMENTS BY THE SPEAKER OR MEMBER PRESIDING POST ELECTION SEMINAR
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are no absences this morning. That has been acknowledged, so that's good. I would like to just remind M embers, though, that we will be having a post -election seminar in January, and it is from the 24th to the 28th, so mark your calendars accordingly. Most Members have …
There are no absences this morning. That has been acknowledged, so that's good. I would like to just remind M embers, though, that we will be having a post -election seminar in January, and it is from the 24th to the 28th, so mark your calendars accordingly. Most Members have indicated that they will be present. We are still waiting for the remaining Members to acknowledge the receipt of emails and inform Mrs. Place. I appreciate that you do it as soon as possible. Thank you. MESSAGES FROM THE SENATE The Speaker: There ar e none. PAPERS AND O THER COMMUNICATIONS TO THE HOUSE
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are five Papers this morning. The first is in the name of the Premier and Minister of Finance. Premier. Hon. E . David Burt: Good mor ning to you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood mor ning. SUPPLEMENTARY ESTIMATE ( NO. 1 ) FOR FINANCIAL YEAR 2025/26 Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, pursuant to the powers conferred by section 96 of the Constitution, I have the honour to attac h and submit for the consideration of the Honourable House of Assembly the Supplementary …
Good mor ning. SUPPLEMENTARY ESTIMATE ( NO. 1 ) FOR FINANCIAL YEAR 2025/26 Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, pursuant to the powers conferred by section 96 of the Constitution, I have the honour to attac h and submit for the consideration of the Honourable House of Assembly the Supplementary Estimate (N o. 1) f or Financial Ye ar 2025/2 6.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank y ou. The next [Paper] is i n the name of th e Junior Minister of J ustice, MP Li ster.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood mor ning. CRIMINAL CO DE (PROHIBITE D WEAPONS) AMENDMENT O RDER 2025
Mr. Dennis Lister IIII have the honour to attach and submit for the information of the Honourable House of Assembly the Criminal Code ( Prohibited Weapons ) Amendment Order 2025 as made by the Governor in exercise of the power conferred by section 315A of the Criminal Code Act 1907.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank y ou. The next [Paper] is in the name of the Minister for Cabinet [and Digital Innovation] , who is s pokesman for Education. Hon. Diallo V . S. Rabain: Good morning, Mr. S peaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood morning. 1606 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly BERMUDA COLLEGE —ANNUAL REPORT 2024/25 BERMUDA COLLEGE —AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDING MARCH 31, 2025 Hon. Diallo V. S. Rabain: I have the honour to attach and submit for the information of the Honourable …
Good morning. 1606 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly BERMUDA COLLEGE —ANNUAL REPORT 2024/25 BERMUDA COLLEGE —AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDING MARCH 31, 2025 Hon. Diallo V. S. Rabain: I have the honour to attach and submit for the information of the Honourable House of Assembly the Bermuda College Annual Report 2024 /25 and the Bermuda College Audited Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2025.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. You did two, for those who are listening because I said five. I did not want anyone to think that was one. And the last one is in the name of the Minister of Economy and Labour. Minister. LABOUR FORCE SURVEY REPORT, NOVEMBER 2024 Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. …
Thank you. You did two, for those who are listening because I said five. I did not want anyone to think that was one. And the last one is in the name of the Minister of Economy and Labour. Minister. LABOUR FORCE SURVEY REPORT, NOVEMBER 2024 Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to attach and submit for the information of the House of Assembly the November 2024 Labour Force Survey Report .
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Members, that concludes the Papers and Communications to the House this morning. PETITIONS
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are none. STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS AND JUNIOR MINISTERS
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWe have quite a handful of Statements this morning. There are 12 such Statements. The first is the name of the Premier and Minister of Finance Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Good morning to you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood morning. JOINT MINISTERIAL COUNCIL 2025 Hon. E. David Burt: Mr Speaker, Honourable Members will be aware of my recent attendance at the Joint Ministerial Council in London, known as “JMC ,” which is the highest political forum between the UK 1 UK and Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council 2025: …
Good morning. JOINT MINISTERIAL COUNCIL 2025 Hon. E. David Burt: Mr Speaker, Honourable Members will be aware of my recent attendance at the Joint Ministerial Council in London, known as “JMC ,” which is the highest political forum between the UK 1 UK and Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council 2025: communiqué - GOV.UK Government and elected governments of the Overseas Territories. 1 Mr. Speaker, I was pleased be accompanied by the Honourable and Learned Attorney General, who sits in another place, and was also joined by the Honourable Member the Minister of Economy and Labour while in London supporting the Bermuda Business Development Agency at their London Business Forum. Minister Hayward represented Bermuda on the JMC plenary with British Expertise International and UK Ex-port Finance. The Ministerial delegation was most ably supported by the London Office Team led by Ms. Kimberley Durrant and Mr. Brandon Sousa. Mr. Speaker, as a result of ongoing discussions with the UK Government throughout the year it was agreed by the elected Leaders of the Overseas Territories to focus on the relationship and the founda-tion of the next steps for the partnership and governance of the Overseas Territories. Honourable Members will no doubt recall the 2012 White Paper entitled “ The Overseas Territories: Security, Success and Sustaina-bility” 2 which currently enshrines the relationship between the Territories and the UK Government. Mr. Speaker, since the establishment of the White Paper, we have witnessed global shifts that no longer reflect the political dynamics of that time. Leaders across t he Territories, supported by the Minister of State, Stephen Doughty , MP, agreed that we require a long- term vision setting a sustainable and secure relationship. Mr. Speaker, the UK Government has expressed the challenges with producing a renewed White Paper and as such, specific Compacts per Terri-tory will be devised to fit the specific needs and circum-stances dedicated to each Territory. The Compacts will provide a strong and merit -based approach in how we engage with the appropriate departments across Whitehall. The process will be jointly decided in what is hoped will be a transparent process leading to an ac-countability framework. The Compact will take the form of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of Bermuda and the UK Government. I have conveyed to the Minister the Government of Bermuda’s commitment to constructively engage in this process. We look for-ward to confirming and finalising the agreement at which time I will provide an update to this House and the agreed terms. Mr. Speaker, an important feature of this busy week in London wa s a bilateral meeting between the Minister and the Territory’s elected leader. In this meeting several issues were canvassed, and I can advise this Honourable House of two key areas that were discussed. i. Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members will recall this Government’s undertaking in the 2025Speech from the Throne to constitutional 2 The Overseas Territories
B ermuda House of Assembly reform. I was pleased to confirm to the Minister responsible that considerable work has been done towards the introduction of the promised report for the consideration of the Legislature on the process proposed to be adopted. The Minister similarly confirmed the UK Government’s commitment to engage closely with each Territory whose democratic will is to revise its Constitution. ii. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Government ofBermuda, I was likewise pleased to reaffirmour commitment to work collectively with the UK Government to tackle illicit finance. On enhanced transparency measures, this Govern-ment has committed to legitimate interest ac-cess to registers of Beneficial Ownership infor-mation in line with global standards with thenecessary safeguards to protect rights to privacy in line with our Constitution. Mr. Speaker, specific note was made of Bermuda’s sanctions regime and the efforts taken through the Ministry of Justice to strengthen sanctions capabil-ities through robust enforcement. Mr. Speaker, despite the busy schedule of UK Ministers owing to the budget, the JMC featured en-gagement with UK Ministers, including the R ight Honourable the Lord Hanson, Minister of State at the Home Office. The Minister emphasised his understanding and acceptance of the UK’s responsibility to protect the people of the Overseas Territories and to strengthen internal security. It was noted that there continues to be a need for greater coordination between governments on matters such as prison reforms , defence , and operational support working with multi- agencies to achieve solutions where required. The work already done on the Governor’s Council will be strengthened and supported through regional cooperation and action. Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members will have taken note of the publication of the “ UK Overseas Territories Biodiversity Strategy ” 3, by the UK Minister for Nature and Natural Environment. The Strategy was drafted together with officials from Bermuda, other Overseas Territory Governments and the UK in a gen-uine collaborative effort. Mr. Speaker, our presence in London provided additional opportunities for key engagement on behalf of Bermuda. Honourable Members will have noted that His Excellency the Governor and I attended a reception at Buckingham Palace hosted by His Majesty King Charles III. I further had the pleasure of meeting with the newly appointed Foreign Secretary, the R ight Honourable Yvette Cooper , MP, Foreign Secretary , and with the Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Lucy Rigby KC , MP. Mr. Speaker, the highlight of my visits to London was engaging with our young Bermudians during 3 UK Overseas Territories biodiversity strategy — GOV.UK the London Office annual dinner for students and re-cent graduates. Mr. Speaker, the room was filled with energy and ambition. M y colleagues and I were able to engage with Bermuda’s next generation of leaders. Mr. Speaker, I can say without reservation that Bermuda’s future is bright and promising as evidenced by the immense talent by which we were surrounded last Friday evening. It is amazing to see the variety of fields of studies and interests. They range from archelogy t o nanomedicine and nano diagnostics; from computer sci-ence to acting for stage and s creen; architecture; law; politics and international relations and b usiness marketing and m anagement. Mr. Speaker, there is a strong camaraderie amongst Bermuda and the Caribbean Overseas Terri-tories. It reflects a common acceptance that we must be custodians of our own future, working to the benefit of our own communities. The assembly of leaders at the JMC confirms that more unites us than divides us, and the issues that confront us are shared and not unique. Mr. Speaker, this year’s JMC was productive, and work has commenced in converting undertakings given to real benefits for the people of Bermuda. Thank you, Mr Speaker .
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Premier. I believe the second Statement is also yours. Would you like to deliver that one now? Hon. E. David Burt: S ure, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGo right ahead. DELIVERING ON OUR COMMITMENTS — INVESTING TO MEET BERMUDA’S NEEDS NOW Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, earlier this morning I tabled Supplementary Estimate (No. 1) for fiscal year 2025/26 in this Honourable House. Mr. Speaker, this Government has remained steadfast in its approach. When we have …
Go right ahead. DELIVERING ON OUR COMMITMENTS — INVESTING TO MEET BERMUDA’S NEEDS NOW Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, earlier this morning I tabled Supplementary Estimate (No. 1) for fiscal year 2025/26 in this Honourable House. Mr. Speaker, this Government has remained steadfast in its approach. When we have the fiscal space to support Bermudians we use it to improve lives, strengthen services, and build for the future. We have consistently reduced the tax burden for workers, whi le increasing investments in social services, community infrastructure, public safety, education, and digital transformation. Because this Government has successfully executed Bermuda’s Economic Recovery Plan while managing the public purse with care, and because our fiscal results continue to be better than projected, we are able, once again, to bring forward additional investments that will make a difference in the lives of Bermudians . 1608 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly Next week in this Honourable House, I will present to Honourable Members and the country our midyear fiscal update, which will form part of next week’s debate. However, today I rise to outline the purpose of these additional investments and how they strengthen our ability to deliver on the commitments made to the people of Bermuda. Mr. Speaker, the package tabled earlier today totals $21.8 million and spans social support, safety and security, infrastructure, youth and education, com-munity development, and the modernisation of public services. Mr. Speaker, I will begin with the largest item in this supplementary estimate. This package provides $11 million to the Ministry of Health to support the re-cently negotiated salary agreement for the Bermuda Hospitals Board staff. This is the single largest invest-ment in the supplementary estimate, and it reflects the critical importance of ensuring that the nurses, clinicians, technicians, support teams and medical profes-sionals who care for Bermuda’s residents every day are supported and appropriately compensated. Mr. Speaker, this supplementary estimate also continues our commitment to supporting seniors, chil-dren and vulnerable families. It includes additional funding for nursing homes and residential facilities, support for seniors and persons with disabilities, thera-peutic services at the K. Margaret Carter Centre, expanded youth programmes, strengthened residential treatment services, and security upgrades within Child and Family Services. It also provides $1 million to commence mental health treatment support for public officers on GEHI [Government Employee Health Insurance]. Capital investments include security enhance-ments at residential facilities, modernisation of the Brangman Home, and upgrades to the Eastern Zone Community Centre. Mr. Speaker, recent events underscore the importance of ensuring that Bermuda’s safety and secu-rity agencies have the resources they require. This supplementary estimate provides $1 million to increase the number of police officers, strengthening frontline policing capacity. It also supports the acquisition of new po-lice vehicles, maritime radar upgrades, and enhanced border control scanners. Additional support for the Department of Corrections includes funding for psychologists to improve rehabilitation services. Mr. Speaker, as we look towards the future, this Government continues to make strategic investments in technology, digital government and innova-tion. This supplementary estimate provides resources for digital transformation, cloud and mobile security enhancements, device replacement, and upgrades that strengthen the security and resilience of government systems. It provides funding for Bermuda’s digital fi-nance initiatives as well as support for digital finance pilot projects. In addition, we are investing in youth online safety education and advancing AI education initiatives to ensure that our children are prepared for a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence. This package also expands educational opportunity by providing additional scholarships and awards for Bermudian students and includes additional funding for IT equipment to support modern learning environments ensuring all students have access to devices t o assist in their learning. Mr. Speaker, we are also investing in the quality of our public roads and community infrastructure. The supplementary estimate includes funding for an additional roadside landscaping crew to enhance maintenance of public parks and roadways, $500,000 in additional community -club capital development grants to strengthen neighbourhood institutions, a Community Solar Pilot that advances our sustainability goals , and, Mr. Speaker, $2.4 million of additional affordable housing investments through the Bermuda Hous ing Corporation. This $2.4 million is in addition to the record amount of funding invested in affordable housing over the past three years —which demonstrates the priority that this Government ascribes to increasing the supply of affordable housing in Bermuda. Mr. Speaker, this package also supports our cultural and tourism sectors. It includes funding to en-hance Bermuda’s event portfolio and marketing efforts helping to sustain year -round activity and supporting our broader tourism strategy in advance of next y ear’s re-opening of the Fairmont Southampton. Mr. Speaker, this supplementary estimate reflects what this G overnment stands for. When the economy performs better than expected, when prudent management creates fiscal space, we do not hoard those gains. We invest them back into our people, our communities, our safety, our health system, and our future. Because of the successful execution of Bermuda’s Economic Recovery Plan, and the choices this Government made to ensure our tax system was more fair, we delivered a budget surplus before a single dime of corporate income tax was collected. Mr. Speaker, that is the very reason we can now make the additional investments set out in this supplementary estimate. This package strengthens health care, enhances safety, supports seniors and vul-nerable families, expands education, improves commu-nity infrastructure, advances digital government and builds for the future. It continues a consistent record of delivery —a record that shows that this G overnment does not short -change Bermudians and remains focused on improving lives and expanding opportunity. Thank you, Mr Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Mr. Premier. The next Statement is the one that is in the name of the Deputy Premier. Would you like to do your S tatement now? Deputy . B ermuda House of Assembly Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes, Mr. Speaker, thank you very much.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMm-hmm. GOVERNMENT HOUSING INITIATIVES UPDATE Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to provide clarity for this Honourable House and t he people of Bermuda regarding media reporting surrounding the Battery Road project , and to offer a broader update on the significant progress being made …
Mm-hmm. GOVERNMENT HOUSING INITIATIVES UPDATE Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to provide clarity for this Honourable House and t he people of Bermuda regarding media reporting surrounding the Battery Road project , and to offer a broader update on the significant progress being made by this Government’s housing initiatives. This Government continues to give the highest priority to the development of affordable housing for Bermudians. As promised in our platform and embed-ded in our Throne Speech initiatives, the expansion of Bermuda’s housing supply is essential to our Island’s long-term social stability and future economic fortunes. As such the Government will work tirelessly to deliver for our people. Mr. Speaker, o n Thursday, 27 November of this year , I had the pleasure of announcing the continued advancement at Battery Road, a project that forms part of this Government’s commitment to expanding high-quality, affordable housing for Bermudians. Unfortunately, the very next day, our daily newspaper, The Royal Gazette, and the editor , Mr. Dexter Smith, issued a very misleading headline regarding the Battery Road project. The daily suggested that the apartments under construction were modular homes. Mr. Speaker, this in-formation is incorrect, and it is important to set the rec-ord straight. Battery Road is being constructed using traditional Bermuda [building ] methods. The units at this site are permanent, long- term homes designed to provide secure, durable housing for Bermudian families. Phase Two of the development will deliver 9,400 square-f eet of residential building consisting of 12 modern units: 6 studios, 4 two-bedroom apartments, and 2 one-bedroom apartments . With a construction value of $3.75 million, this represents a substantial investment in the revitali sation of St. David’s. I again acknowledge Ocean Interiors [Ltd.], the General Contractor, for their continued work on this project. Phase Two is scheduled for completion in August 2026. While I am unclear on how they could even arrive at printing such ambiguous information, I cannot help but think it was deliberate and with maligning in-tent because during the press conference I never im-plied that these homes would be constructed with any-thing other than our traditional Bermuda building methods. The BHC Residential Building Programme — Active Construction Across the Island Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, Battery Road is one project within a much larger programme of construction and refurbishment now underway. Battery Road is not an isolated development. It is, in fact, now our fifth major public housing construction project for which I have recently provided public updates, along-side the Bermudiana Beach Residences, Harmony Hall in Paget, Chelsea Apartments in St George ’s, and the Middle T own Apartments redevelopment in Pembroke. These initiatives are rooted in a long- term framework supported by the Bermuda Housing Corpo-ration and aligned with the Affordable Housing Strategy for 2025– 2035 which is currently being developed. Mr. Speaker, substantial work will continue under the Bermuda Housing Corporation’s Residential Building Programme. I look forward to welcoming new tenants at Harmony Terrace North in Paget, Battery Road Phase Two in St. David’s, the Chelsea Apart-ments in St. George’s, and the Middle T own redevelopment in Pembroke in the coming months. Together, these developments will deliver more than 48 new affordable units by late 2026. Distinction Between M odular and Permanent H ousing Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Now, Mr. Speaker, I wish to directly address the distinction between traditional construction and modular housing, as this has been the source of recent confusion. Permanent developments such as Battery Road, Harmony Terrace in Paget, the Chelsea Apart-ments, Middle T own, and other similar sites are all being built with traditional or hybrid construction systems, designed for long- term occupation. Modular housing, on the other hand, will be used only in a highly targeted manner to address urgent and transitional housin g needs. As part of the Emergency Modular Housing Programme, which we are currently developing, the Government will deploy a limited number of “capsules” and other types of modular units on suitable land owned by the Bermuda Housing Corporation (BHC) and the Bermuda Land Management Company (BLMC). These units are designed for short -term rentals, generally between 6 and 18 months, while Bermudians in crisis transition toward permanent housing so-lutions. These will meet Bermuda’s building and safety standards and will be supported by wraparound ser-vices such as case management and social service re-ferrals. Modular housing is therefore a bridge, one tool in a broader toolkit, and not a replacement for perma-nent developments like Battery Road. What’s Coming Next, The Affordable Housing Strategy and Future Delivery Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, the Government’s work in housing is accelerating. The draft Affordable Housing Strategy 2025– 2035, now nearing 1610 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly completion, will establish Bermuda’s long- term housing framework. This Strategy will guide the delivery of a steady supply of new or rehabilitated homes over the next decade. It will look to include modernisation of Ber-muda’s housing legislation, redevelop ment of ageing BHC and BLMC housing, expansion of modular and hybrid construction methods, improved pathways for seniors and persons with disabilities, increased supply of compact units, and new mechanisms to support fami-lies, young workers, and first -time renters. The Strategy will also outline financing models, policy reforms, and partnerships needed to sustain long-term housing growth and improve affordability. A consultation draft will be presented to Cabinet shortly. This plan represents the next major chapter in trans-forming Bermuda’s housing landscape. Mr. Speaker, [as] I have stated in my previous Housing Ministerial Statements, I assure the public that further updates will be brought to this Honourable House as additional phases of our Affordable Housing Programme advance. These will include new f iscal year 2026/ 27 development sites, expanded modular housing pilots, redevelopment of older BHC estates, increased housing supply for seniors and vulnerable households, rental affordability initiatives, and strength-ened pathways for young people and working f amilies seeking stable, secure accommodation. Housing remains a central priority for this Government. Across Bermuda, from St. George’s to Sandys, new homes are rising, older units are being restored, and transitional supports are being strength-ened to meet the needs of our people. Conclusion Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, I wish to be absolutely clear : the permanent homes being built at Battery Road are not modular or container based. They are built to last, to be occupied long- term, and to offer secure and affordable housing to Bermudians in need. At the same time, the Government is responsibly exploring modular and expandable container -based units for transitional housing purposes. These two strands of work serve different purposes, and it is essential that the public [does] not confuse the two. For further information, members of the public are encouraged to contact the Bermuda Housing Cor-poration directly, where staff stand ready to assist with inquiries, applications, and details regarding current and upcoming programmes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister . Minister, would you like to do your second Statement now? I saw you sitting down. I was wondering if you were go ing to take a break in between. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I was looking for the— The Speaker: Well, while you are …
Thank you, Minister . Minister, would you like to do your second Statement now? I saw you sitting down. I was wondering if you were go ing to take a break in between. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I was looking for the— The Speaker: Well, while you are sorting yourself out, let me just make two acknowledgements while we a re doing that. ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER OR MEMBER PRESIDING HOUSE VISITOR S
The SpeakerThe SpeakerIt has been brought to my attention that in the G allery we have visitors who are here this morning. We have two visitors. We have Scott Cr anfield, who is a golf pro instructor. He instructs the pros, from what I understand. He teaches the pros, so he i …
It has been brought to my attention that in the G allery we have visitors who are here this morning. We have two visitors. We have Scott Cr anfield, who is a golf pro instructor. He instructs the pros, from what I understand. He teaches the pros, so he i s looking to do some things here in Bermuda with pros , and we wish him lots of success with that, and great for that. And also, we have Mr . Peter P ersett, who i s visiting from Canada. He is a friend of one of our Members, and I just acknowledge that he's here, and I be-lieve he is celebrating a birthday while he's here. Now, enjoy your birthday in Bermuda. Thank you. [ Desk thumping]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister, continue on. BERMUDA HOUSING CORPORATION PRIVATE SECTOR REFURBISHMENT PROGRAMME UPDATE Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to update this Honourable House on the continued progress of the Bermuda Housing Corporation’s Private Sector Refurbishment Programme, an important initiative within Government’s ongoing …
Minister, continue on. BERMUDA HOUSING CORPORATION PRIVATE SECTOR REFURBISHMENT PROGRAMME UPDATE Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to update this Honourable House on the continued progress of the Bermuda Housing Corporation’s Private Sector Refurbishment Programme, an important initiative within Government’s ongoing efforts to expand the supply of quality, affordable rental housing across our Island. This pro-gramme has been fully operational since April of this year and is a part of our strategy to increase access to safe, stable housing, while supporting Bermudian prop-erty owners. Beginning 9 December 2025, the public sector will also hear a new round of advertisements promoting the programme and encouraging landlords with eligible properties to take advantage of the support available through the Bermuda Housing Corporation (BHC). Mr. Speaker, the Private Sector Refurbishment Programme was developed to address a significant challenge in Bermuda’s housing market. Across the Is-land many private rental units remain empty , not because there is no demand, but because the cost of nec-essary renovations places refurbishment out of reach for many homeowners. The refurbishment programme bridges that gap by offering up to $125,000 of interest - free funding to refurbish units currently unfit for occupancy, allowing these homes to be restored and added to Bermuda’s affordable rental inventory. This strength-ens our neighbourhoods, supports Bermudian
B ermuda House of Assembly homeowners, and provides urgently needed housing options for families on the BHC waiting list. Mr Speaker, under the structure of the programme, BHC manages the refurbishment work from start to finish to ensure that units meet modern, safe, and habitable standards. Eligible landlords receive interest -free funding, provided the property has no existing mortgage, and repayment is made from the rental income over a five- year period. Once the loan is repaid, BHC continues to manage the unit for an additional two years, bringing the total management period to seven years. Throughout this time, landlords benefit from guaranteed rental income, even when the unit is vacant, while BHC covers normal wear and tear and con-ducts routine inspections at one month, six months, and annually. Rental rates must remain within BHC’s affordable ranges, between $1,200 for a studio and $2,600 for a three- bedroom unit. Property owners remain responsible for taxes, major maintenance, and landscaping. Mr. Speaker, interest in the programme has been fairly good. To date, 56 landlords have registered interest. Thirty -five have been assessed and the remainder are being vetted. Of the 35 properties assessed: •thirteen were withdrawn due to extensive re-pairs being required; •two were turnkey and moved directly into th e r egular Private Sector Rental Programme; •thirteen are awaiting the completion of legal and ownership documentation; •four units are currently under legal review; and •three units have agreed contracts for construc-tion to start work in early January. The breakdown of units which have been assessed are 12 one- bedrooms, 12 two- bedrooms, 4 three- bedrooms and 1 four -bedroom. The bedroom configuration of the remaining six units is still being de-termined. It is anticipated that the first refurbished units under this programme will be ready for occupation by the second quarter of 2026, assuming that all legal processes proceed on schedule. This programme, Mr. Speaker, is part of a broader suite of initiatives designed to increase afford-able rental housing by leveraging both public resources and private sector participation. By focusing on privately owned units that already exist but are currently out of use, this programme offers one of the quickest and most cost -effective pathways to expanding the housing supply. Every unit refurbished and brought online represents a Bermudian family housed and a Bermudian homeowner supported. Mr. Speaker, the new public awareness campaign will feature radio messaging, TV, digital advertising, and targeted outreach to ensure that landlords un-derstand how the programme works and the benefits it offers. The goal is straightforward, Mr. Speaker: to encourage greater participation from property owners who may not have realised that BHC can assist them in bringing their units back to life safely, professionally, and [affordably]. Mr. Speaker, the Private Sector [Refurbishment] Programme is a practical, responsible, and peo-ple-focused initiative. It reflects this Government’s commitment to strengthening communities, improving housing conditions, and supporting Bermudians. I en-courage any homeowner with an unoccupied or deteri-orated unit to contact the Bermuda Housing Corpora-tion directly. Applications must be completed on the BHC website at www.bhc.bm. For more information email info@bhc.bm or simply by calling 295- 8623. This Government will continue its work, thoughtfully, steadily, and with purpose until every Ber-mudian has access to a safe, stable, and affordable home. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. Members, the next Statement this morning is in the name of the Minister of National Security. Minister. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Good morning, Mr. Speaker —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood morning. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: —colleagues, and listening public. CUSTOMS NEW X- RAY BUILDING Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to inform this Honourable House and the people of Ber-muda about the developments in our efforts to enhance our border protection, specifically at the Hamilton Docks. …
Good morning. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: —colleagues, and listening public. CUSTOMS NEW X- RAY BUILDING Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to inform this Honourable House and the people of Ber-muda about the developments in our efforts to enhance our border protection, specifically at the Hamilton Docks. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to provide an update on the progress of our new Customs X -ray facility at the Hamilton Docks on Front Street. This location is where the vast majority of commodities, shipments and containers flow into Bermuda. To begin, I would like to address the current status of the new facility. At this time, all necessary site preparations have been completed, and our team stands ready to move forward as soon as the new cus-tom-made building arrives in Bermuda. We are expecting the arrival of the actual building structure by the end of January 2026. Mr. Speaker, we expect the facility to be completed by the end of February 2026. Once the materials arrive, construction and outfitting will proceed immedi-ately, and we anticipate that the building will take three to four weeks to complete. I would also like to highlight what this new building will enable Customs to achieve. Our core operational processes will remain the same, but the 1612 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly facility itself will provide a much safer, more efficient, and more functional environment for our officers. It will better accommodate our equipment, streamline our workflow, and enhance the overall effectiveness of our operations. Mr. Speaker, it is important to understand why this investment is necessary. The existing building has deteriorated significantly over time and no longer meets the standards required for safe and effective opera-tions. A new structure is essential to ensure that our officers can continue to carry out their duties in a se-cure, functional, and properly equipped environment. Finally, Mr. Speaker, I want to speak briefly about the X -ray machine that will operate in conjunction with this facility. This technology plays a vital role in our national security framework. The X- ray machine assists Customs officers in accurately targeting and examining goods and cargo. It enhances our ability to detect contraband, prohibited items, and potential threats, all while supporting the smooth flow of legitimate trade into Bermuda. Given the fact that this port is a significant gateway for goods entering Bermuda, it is critical that those responsible for preventing the entry of illegal goods and contraband into our country are performing their duties in a suitable and modern facility. We are pleased to note the progress being made to erect such a facility and we are certain that doing so will solidify our opera-tions at the docks. Mr. Speaker, in short, the new building, along with the enhanced technology that will be housed in it, represents an important and necessary step forward for Customs. Our ability to protect our borders, safeguard our officers, and continue to uphold the highest stand-ards of national security will be greatly improved. In closing, Mr. Speaker, I invite the Members of this Honourable House to join with me in commending the Collector of Customs and her diligent team for the execution of their duties at all of our ports. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. Members, the next Statement this morning is in the name of the Minister of Tourism and Transport . . . and Tourism Transport, correct? Minister. [ Inaudible interjection]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerTourism, Transport, Culture and Sport. [ Laughter] Hon. Owen Darrell: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerI was trying to get the right order for you that time. Hon. Owen Darrell: Thank you, sir. The Speaker: Okay. TCD DIGITISATION TRANSFORMATION UPDATE Hon. Owen Darrell: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to update this Honourable House and the people of Bermuda on an important milestone in our ongoing …
I was trying to get the right order for you that time. Hon. Owen Darrell: Thank you, sir. The Speaker: Okay. TCD DIGITISATION TRANSFORMATION UPDATE Hon. Owen Darrell: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to update this Honourable House and the people of Bermuda on an important milestone in our ongoing effort to modernise public services. On Monday, 3 November 2025, the Transport Control Department (TCD) officially added the Commercial Vehicle Permit (CVP), also known as Trucks Permits, to its suite of growing digital applica-tions. Mr. Speaker, this new online application is now the gateway for individuals or businesses who wish to obtain a permit to operate a commercial vehicle or con-vert a personal vehicle for commercial use. It even al-lows applicants to request authorisation for a Sunday permit, something that previously required time, travel, and paperwork. Today, this is all at their fingertips. Mr. Speaker, as Members will recall, the 2024 Throne Speech committed this Government to digitising TCD’s outdated manual processes. The goal was simple: process tasks more quickly, reduce human error, and provide a smooth, modern experience for both the public and staff. Today, that commitment is not just talk, it is real, tangible progress. Mr. Speaker, since the launch of the online CVP on 3 November 2025 and as of 2 December 2025, a total of 61 [applications] has been received. Of these 15 applications were submitted digitally, in comparison to 46 which were physically dropped off at TCD for pro-cessing manually. We encourage the public to make full use of the digital process as it allows applications to be submitted more quickly, reduces the need for man-ual paperwork, and enables TCD staff to process requests more efficiently. By using the online system customers can track their submissions, receive timely up-dates, and benefit from a smoother, more accessible service from start to finish. The process has been streamlined to remove steps that once served little purpose and created red tape. Applicants now receive clear timelines within the system, so they know exactly what to expect. No guesswork. No unnecessary back and forth. Mr. Speaker, as part of our ongoing commitment to strengthen public engagement and improve access to information, TCD has commenced the development of an official social media presence. The introduc-tion of social media will also support the transition to-wards digital service delivery, including the [Commercial Vehicle Permit] (CVP) online application process. Through an increased digital presence, TCD will provide easily accessible resources such as self -help tutorials, step -by-step guidance for completing online applications, registration deadlines, and responses to frequently asked questions. This enhanced communica-tion approach ensures that applicants and the broader public receive timely, accurate information, whilst also increasing transparency and improving the overall
B ermuda House of Assembly customer experience. It is anticipated that the initial phase of TCD's social media activation, along with sup-porting digital materials will be accessible no later than 22 December 2025. Mr. Speaker, over a span of seven months, that is from 31 March [2025] to 30 October [2025], seven manual applications, inclusive of the CVP, have been transformed into digital applications. Ironically, it is said the number seven represents completeness a nd it would have been great if TCD only had seen seven manual applications. However, Mr. Speaker, this represents continuous progress in TCD’s digitalisation arena, and it is a demonstration of a significant shift towards reducing red tape and enhancing the efficiency of our services to the people of Bermuda. Mr. Speaker, it would be remiss of me not to mention in this Honourable House the six other applications that are now live. The three applications that went live on 31 March [2025] included the: •Exemption Application —which is used to request an exemption from certain transport or licensing regulations due to special circum-stances. •Importation and Replacement Application — which enables persons to apply for permissionto import or replace a vehicle under Bermuda’svehicle regulations or import a vehicle part. •Project Ride Instructor Application—that can be completed for individuals wishing to apply for consideration to become an approved in-structor.The remaining applications that went live on 1 4 July [2025] included the: •Change a Vehicle Category for Different Use— which is used for persons to apply to change their vehicle’s category, for example from a commercial to personal use. •Register a Classic Motor Car —that allows owners of vintage and historically significant vehicles to have a vehicle classified as a [Classic] Motor Car or persons can apply to import a Classic Motor Car. •Sporting Association Trailer Permit —which is used to request permission to use trailers fortransporting equipment or goods related t o t heir sporting activities. Mr. Speaker, the transformational achievements to date could not have been accomplished with-out the collaborative efforts of staff within the Transport Control Department and the Digital Transformation Team under the remit of the Information and Digital Technologies Department. I extend my sincere appreciation to everyone who has been involved thus far with this initiative. In closing, Mr. Speaker, the public is advised to visit forms.gov.bm for additional information on all the digital applications [and] at the appropriate time they are to utilise these online forms. In addition, persons are encouraged to complete the post -application survey so we can collect data to assist us in continuing to make more informed decisions on our transformational journey. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. Members, the next Statement this morning is in the name of the Minister for the Cabinet Office [and Dig-ital Innovation]. Minister. Hon. Diallo V. S. Rabain: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGo right ahead, Minister. BERMUDA COLLEGE ANNUAL REPORT AND AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2024/25 Hon. Diallo V. S. Rabain: Mr Speaker, I rise today to table the Bermuda College Annual Report for 2024/25 and the audited financial statements for the fiscal year ending 31 March 2025, in accordance with section 8(2) …
Go right ahead, Minister. BERMUDA COLLEGE ANNUAL REPORT AND AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2024/25 Hon. Diallo V. S. Rabain: Mr Speaker, I rise today to table the Bermuda College Annual Report for 2024/25 and the audited financial statements for the fiscal year ending 31 March 2025, in accordance with section 8(2) of the Bermuda College Act 1974. Under the Bermuda College Act 1974, one of the principal functions of the Board of Governors is to prepare the annual report and audited financial state-ments. The Annual Report for 2024/25 outlines the Col-lege’s achievements, progress, and priorities over the reporting period, while the audited financial statements provide an independent account of the College’s finan-cial position and results for the year. Mr. Speaker, the 2024/25 academic year marked a significant milestone as Bermuda College celebrated its 50th anniversary —a year characterised by purpose, transition, stabilisation, and bold transfor-mation. This year the period saw the continuation of new leadership under the Presidential search launched in December 2022, after the retirement of the former President. Dr. David Sam assumed office in August 2024 and recently completed his first full year as President. Under Dr. Sam’s leadership, the College has re-newed its emphasis on innovation, access, and institu-tional excellence, guided by the newly developed 2025 –2030 Strategic Plan. The Strategic Plan was developed collaboratively with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and external stakeholders. It positions Bermuda College to become more accessible, globally connected, technologically modernised, and responsive to the evolving needs of the labour market. With strengthened leadership, the College has focused on community partnerships, process modernisation, and investment in institutional capacity to support long- term growth. The College recorded an enrolment of 565 students in 2024/25—an increase from the previous year. This included 297 full -time and 268 part -time students. In 2024, the College conferred 90 graduate awards. 1614 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermu da House of Assembly During the reporting period, student satisfaction remained high •88 per cent expressed overall satisfaction with their academic programme; •89 per cent endorsed the quality of instruction ; and •77 per cent were satisfied with their overall experience. Additionally, 38 per cent of graduates indicated their intention to pursue further studies overseas, with the United Kingdom being the most popular destination. In terms of student financial support, more than $579,000 was distributed across 510 awards, benefiting 309 students, including 40 identified as financially vulnerable. This critical support was made possible through valued partnerships with the Ministry of Education, the Bermuda College Foundation, and generous private donors. The College is also exploring opportu-nities to expand the tuition -free College Promise Programme to include graduates from all schools, GED re-cipients, and individuals pursuing workforce pathways. Mr. Speaker, the Division of Nursing and Allied Health continued to play a vital role in strengthening Bermuda’s health care workforce. With the support of the Bermuda College Foundation, the division acquired advanced high- fidelity simulators from Laerdal Medical. Nursing students also gained valuable hands -on experience through health screenings with the Department of Health, a glaucoma screening at the Lahey Diabetes Health Fair, and the coordination of a Paediatric Health Fair sponsored by the Mid- Atlan tic Wellness Institute. The College expanded its academic pathways and career opportunities, including: •a new agreement with Kentucky State University which enables Bermuda College nursing graduates to transfer directly into the third yearof KSU’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing programme; •the signing of its 40 th [overseas ] articulation agreement with Kean Universit y that has established 2+2 pathways in STEM and accessto graduate programmes in educational leader-ship and policy ; •the Athora Division for PACE serving more than 700 learners, with strong demand for new programmes in artificial intelligence and healthcare. Over 80 participants completed the newAI programme; •strengthened [internship ] pipelines with partners such as the Technology Leadership Fo-rum, One Communications, and the EconomicDevelopment Department.Mr. Speaker, the College has made significant investments in campus life and digital infrastructure. Student spaces on both floors of Hallett Hall were re-114 per cent increase in information and digital literacy instruction. Technological [enhancements ] including updates to the Anthology software system, financial sys-tems, cybersecurity infrastructure, system monitoring, and website, have improved reliability, stability, and user experience across the institution. Mr. Speaker, I now turn to the audited financial statements of the Bermuda College for the fiscal year ending 31 March 2025. The 2024/ 25 audited statements were unqualified. Therefore, in the opinion of the Auditor General the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Bermuda College and its financial operations, in accordance with recog-nised public sector accounting standards for Govern-ment not -for-profit organisations applied in Bermuda and Canada. The 2025 financial statements report total assets of $21,852,329 and total liabilities of $18,453,043, and no long- term debt. Cash and cash equivalents decreased by 15 per cent to $2,319,643, primarily due to capital investments and reductions in amounts due to creditors and accrued expenses. Revenues and expenses for the period show the following: •Revenue from student fees decreased by 1.32 per cent to $2,542,094 . •The Government grant increased slightly by0.13 per cent to $14,628,329. •Total revenue increased by 0.22 per cent to $20,089,574 . •Total expenses increased by 5.72 per cent to $21,674,830 . •The College recorded a net deficit of$1,585,256. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to report that through the collaborative efforts of Bermuda College and the Office of the Auditor General, the College re-mains fully current with its annual audits. Mr. Speaker, Bermuda College continues to demonstrate resilience, innovation, and a deep com-mitment to serving the people of Bermuda. With strengthened leadership, expanded academic path-ways, modernised infrastructure, and robust commu-nity partnerships, the C ollege is well- positioned to advance its mission of transforming lives and strengthen-ing our workforce. I commend the Board of Governors, President Dr. Sam, faculty, staff, students, and all partners whose dedication continues to elevate Bermuda’s only tertiary institution. Thank you, Mr . Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. designed to provide modern soc ial and study environments. The library launched The Idea Lab, a dedicated [No au dio] makerspace for s tudents w hich contributed t o a B ermuda House of Assembly UNITED NATIONS INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES AND HUMAN RIGHTS DAY Hon. …
Thank you. designed to provide modern soc ial and study environments. The library launched The Idea Lab, a dedicated [No au dio] makerspace for s tudents w hich contributed t o a
B ermuda House of Assembly UNITED NATIONS INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES AND HUMAN RIGHTS DAY Hon. Tinee. Furbert: Good morning, Mr. Speaker, Honourable M embers, and fellow Bermudians. I rise today in recognition of the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities , observed annually on December 3rd. This day serves as an important reminder of our collective responsibility to pro-mote and protect the rights, dignity, and full inclusion of persons with disabilities across our society. This year’s international theme, “Building a Sustainable and Resilient Future for All: Advancing Dis-ability Rights Through Inclusive Development,” aligns closely with the Government of Bermuda’s ongoing work to strengthen accessibility, equality, and meaning-ful participation for all residents. Mr. Speaker, persons with disabilities continue to face barriers that are not a reflection of their abilities, but of the systems, environments, and attitudes that surround them. Accessibility is not merely about infra-structure. It is about ensuring equitable access to education, employment, health care, justice, transportation, and civic participation. As a Government, we are committed to advancing reforms that address these realities. This in-cludes improving data collection, supporting policy and legislative development, encouraging cross -ministry collaboration, and increasing public awareness. These steps are essential to creating a Bermuda where every person, regardless of ability, can live independently, participate fully, and reach their highest potential. Mr. Speaker, our commitment aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which call for inclusive societies, reduced inequalities, and opportunities for all. Bermuda embraces these princi-ples, [recognising] that our strength as a community depends on ensuring that no one is left behind. Today, I acknowledge the advocacy, resilience, and contributions of persons with disabilities and the many organi sations, caregivers, and families who support them. Their voices continue to guide our efforts and remind us that inclusion is not optional—it is a moral obligation and a human right. Mr. Speaker, as we mark this important day, I encourage all residents, employers, schools, and com-munity partners to join us in fostering greater accessi-bility, challenging stigma, and building a Bermuda that is welcoming and inclusive for everyone. Mr. Speaker, together with the Human Rights Commission (HRC), Ageing & Disability Services (ADS) will be hosting a public movie screening at the Bermuda College on 14 December [2025]. The featured film, Crip Camp , uses humour, heart, and rich [ archival ] footage to tell the story of a groundbreaking summer camp whose attendees helped spark the disability rights movement in the United States. The film hono urs activism, community, and the ongoing pursuit of disability inclusion. Crip Camp was also directed and co- produced by Nicole Newnham and Jim LeBrecht, with executive producers Barack and Michelle Obama. The film was motivated by LeBrecht’s personal experience as a disabled teenager at Camp Jened, which profoundly shaped his life and inspired the disability rights move-ment. Jim LeBrecht, who was born with spina bifida, attended Camp Jened in the 1970s. This summer camp for teens with disabilities gave him a sense of freedom, community, and empowerment. His personal experiences there inspired the film, which shows how the camp helped spark the disability rights movement. Mr. Speaker, the documentary has been praised for its powerful storytelling and historical im-portance. It won the Audience Award at Sundance in 2020. Critics note that it motivates viewers to think about activism, inclusion, and civil rights. Reviews high-light that it is not just inspirational, but a reminder of how grassroots movements can change society. Mr. Speaker, in the new year the Human Rights Commission will host a Lunch & Learn session focused on the important subject of reasonable accommoda-tion. Ageing and Disability Services has been invited to contribute to this presentation, sharing valuable insight into the types of reasonable accommodations available in Bermuda. These include adaptive equipment, assistive supports, and existing services that promote accessibility and ensure meaningful participation for per-sons with disabilities across our comm unity. Bermuda’s Human Rights Act 1981 requires employers and service providers to make “reasonable accommodation” for persons with disabilities, meaning steps must be taken to remove barriers and ensure equal access. This standard is based on international best practices, such as those outlined in the UN Con-vention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and emphasises individualised adjustments rather than one-size-fits-all solutions. The upcoming Lunch & Learn will highlight these methods, showing how they not only meet legal obligations but also strengthen inclusion and community engagement, giving partici-pants practical strategies they can apply. Mr. Speaker, as part of strengthening collaboration and public education, Ageing and Disability Ser-vices and the Human Rights Commission are exploring the development of quarterly joint events aimed at rais-ing awareness, promoting inclusion, and supportin g greater understanding of disability rights and responsi-bilities across the community. These activities reinforce the Government’s commitment to fostering accessibility, challenging stigma, and building a Bermuda that is inclusive and equitable for all persons with disabilities. Human Rights Day 1616 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly Hon. Tinee. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, Human Rights Day is celebrated annually worldwide on December 10th, to commemorate the anniversary of the Universal Decla-ration of Human Rights, which was adopted 77 years ago by the United Nations General Assembly. Each year Human Rights Day has a theme, this year’s theme is “Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials,” which aims to highlight how human rights are fundamental, positive, and attainable through daily choices and ac-tions, which influence aspects of life from the s afety and happiness of individuals to equality and justice for all as set out in our Human Rights Act [1981]. Mr. Speaker, I emphasise key messages to put this year’s theme in perspective to show how human rights are a constant and essential part of our daily lives, rather than an abstract concept . 1.Everyone has the right to live and be protectedfrom harm. 2.Everyone is equal and should never be treatedunfairly because of who they are. 3.Everyone has freedom of speech, beliefs,movement and privacy. 4.Everyone deserves justice, due process, an d pr otection from abuse. 5.Everyone must have access to education,health care, work and a decent standard of liv-ing.Mr. Speaker, in the words of Nelson Mandela, “To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity.” I challenge members of our community to expand their knowledge of human rights by contact-ing the Human Rights Commission for information o n human rights. I encourage members of our community to take this knowledge and put it into action by making better decisions, such as showing others respect despite their differences. The Government alone cannot ensure human rights are attainable, unless we work collectively by committing to making better daily choices and actions towards each other. Mr. Speaker, in closing I would like to take this opportunity in advance to wish all a Happy Human Rights Day 2025. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. Members, the next Statement this morning is in the name of the Minist er of Economy and Labour. Minister. LABOUR FORCE SURVEY REPORT NOVEMBER 2024 Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share the findings of the November 2024 Labour Force Survey Report , which …
Thank you, Minister. Members, the next Statement this morning is in the name of the Minist er of Economy and Labour. Minister. LABOUR FORCE SURVEY REPORT NOVEMBER 2024 Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share the findings of the November 2024 Labour Force Survey Report , which provide encouraging evidence of a continued strengthening of Bermuda’s labour market. The unemployment rate was measured at 1.4 per cent, below the 2.8 per cent recorded in November 2023. This reduction reflects our ongoing efforts to support job growth, expand opportunities for Bermudians, and foster inclusive economic growth. Mr. Speaker, the unemployment rate for Bermudians stood at 1.3 per cent, a decrease from the 3.3 per cent rate reported in November 2023. Youth un-employment (16– 24) declined to 3.4 per cent, from the 13.5 per cent recorded in November 2023. This reinforces the Government’s ongoing commitment to prior-itising Bermudians in employment and ensuring that they have meaningful, stable careers. Mr. Speaker, Other relevant findings from the November 2024 Survey include the following: •the employment rate increased to 82.8 per cent; •the median gross annual income (from a person’s main job) increased to $75,718; this figure provides important insight into earningsacross the economy; •the labour force participation rate was 84.1 per cent; this level of participation demonstratesthe continued willingness and [ capacity ] of our people to contribute to Bermuda’s economic growth; •the average hours worked per week in the main job was 40.9, signalling stable levels of labourutilisation; and •among the economically inactive population, 65.4 per cent were retired and 20.7 per cent were full -time students. Notably, there was growth in the Bermudian working population and growth in the Bermudian median gross annual income. Mr. Speaker, taken together, these results show a labour market that is stable, improving, and re-flective of the Government’s commitment to supporting Bermudian workers and strengthening our economy. While we acknowledge areas where further progress is needed, particularly in addressing underemployment and ensuring continued wage growth, these findings are a positive indication of our collective recovery and advancement. The Government will continue to build on these gains through targeted policies, ongoing workforce de-velopment, and meaningful partnerships with the pri-vate sector and community stakeholders. Mr. Speaker, the November 2024 Labour Force Survey Report is available online at gov.bm/employment -statistics. Thank you, Mr . Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. Members, the next Statement this morning is in the name of the Minister of Health. Minister. Hon. Kim N. Wilson: Good morning, Mr. Speaker .
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood morning. B ermuda House of Assembly STRENGTHENING BERMUDA’S HEALTH CARE SYSTEM AND ADVANCING OUR PROGRESS TOWARD THE IMPLEMENTATION OF UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE COVERAGE (UHC) Hon. Kim N. Wilson: Mr. Speaker, this morning, I rise to reaffirm the Government’s commitment to strengthening Bermuda’s health care system and accelerating our progress …
Good morning.
B ermuda House of Assembly STRENGTHENING BERMUDA’S HEALTH CARE SYSTEM AND ADVANCING OUR PROGRESS TOWARD THE IMPLEMENTATION OF UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE COVERAGE (UHC) Hon. Kim N. Wilson: Mr. Speaker, this morning, I rise to reaffirm the Government’s commitment to strengthening Bermuda’s health care system and accelerating our progress toward the implementation of Universal Health Coverage [ UHC] . These enhancements represent Phase 1 of our UHC rollout, forming the foundation upon which the next phases of reform will be built. As we continue this work, I wish to advise the public that additional details on the coming stages of UHC devel-opment will be shared in the months ahead. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to announce that, beginning in January 2026, HIP and Fu-tureCare policyholders will benefit from a significant package of enhanced coverage, including: 1.one free annual health exam; 2.expanded prescription drug coverage; and 3.removal of the 12- month waiting period for the Personal Home Care (PHC) benefit.These reforms directly advance our national goal of achieving equitable, affordable, and accessible care for all. Mr. Speaker, the introduction of one free annual health care visit for all HIP and FutureCare policyholders marks a transformational advancement in preventive care. These physical examinations —reimbursed at 100 per cent to providers and at no cost to patients —are expected to range between $250 and $350 depending on the patient complexity. This investment is not merely a new benefit; it is a cornerstone of UHC. The benefits of annual h ealth exams expand access to routine and preventive care, reduce disparities in health outcomes, support early detection of disease, and improve the management of chronic conditions. Common conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, which affect many in Bermuda, can be effectively managed through primary care. Early intervention reduces complications and lowers long- term system costs by preventing avoidable emergency visits and hospitalis ations. Mr. Speaker, this shift from treating crises to preventing them will help reduce the persistent pressure on the emergency department and move us closer to a sustainable, patient -centred model of care. Mr. Speaker, I am equally proud to announce sustained and substantial increases to prescription drug coverage —another pivotal critical pillar of UHC. HIP coverage will increase from $1,000 to $3,000 annually . FutureCare coverage will increase from $3,000 to $5,000 annually. This enhancement directly addresses rising medication costs and ensures that Bermudians are not forced to choose between financial se-curity and the medications they need. Access to prescribed medication is central to chronic disease management. When people can afford their prescriptions they are far more likely to adhere to treatment [regimens ] leading to better health, fewer complications, and reduced need for costly hospital care. By eliminating financial barriers to essential medicines, we are strengthening health outcomes and pro-tecting our health system from avoidable strain. Mr. Speaker, more good news. Effective January 2026, HIP and FutureCare [ policyholders ] will gain immediate access to the Personal Home Care [ PHC ] benefit, with the heretofore 12- month waiting period being removed entirely. The PHC benefit —which is capped at $60,000 per year based on medical assessment s—enables seniors and individuals with chronic conditions to receive in-home care services, and adult day-care support. This improvement supports age ing in place. It relieves hospital congestion by enabling timely discharge for medically fit patients and provides care that is both more cost -effective and more compassionate than institutional alternatives. Mr. Speaker, to support the dedicated caregiver workforce that enables home- based care, the hourly reimbursement rate will increase from $15.00 to $17.13, reducing the out -of-pocket cost and expense for HIP and FutureCare participants and their families (as the employer s of the caregiver ) have had to cover in order to ensure compliance with minimum wage leg-islation which is promoting workforce stability. Collective Impact s—Progress Toward Universal Health Coverage Hon. Kim N. Wilson: Mr. Speaker, collectively, these enhancements represent a substantial and meaningful advancement toward Universal Health Coverage. They expand existing benefits in ways that •prioritis e prevention over crisis care; •reduce financial barriers ; •strengthen primary and community care; •promote medication adherence; and •support home- based services. These reforms help ensure that the people of Bermuda can receive timely, high- quality care when and where they need it without the fear of financial distress. This is how we build a fairer, stronger, and more resilient health system for future generations. Financial Sustainability and Strategic Vision Hon. Kim N. Wilson: Mr. Speaker, by increasing and investing in primary care, medication access, and home- based services, we are improving health outcomes while mitigating financial pressures that threaten the sustainability of Bermuda’s health system. These measures are not isolated actions . They form part of health system strengthening to stabilis e costs, improve access, and strengthen the health system’s resilience in the face of demographic and economic chal-lenges. 1618 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly Mr. Speaker, let me assure our community that the Government of Bermuda remains firmly committed to building a health system that works for everyone— a system rooted in prevention, equity, and financial pro-tection, a system that advances Universal Health Coverage, and a system that guarantees that every person in Bermuda can access the care they need without fall-ing into financial hardship. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. Members, the next Statement this morning is in the name of Minister of [Public] Works. Minister. Hon. Jache Adams: And Environment, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAnd Environment. Yes. [ Laughter] Hon. Jache Adams: Good morning, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood morning. Hon. Jache Adams: And good morning to the listening audience. BERMUDA’S GROWING FERAL CHICKEN POPULATION Hon. Jache Adams: Mr. Speaker, I rise this morning to speak about an issue that has been steadily increas-ing across Bermuda: the fast -growing and uncontrolled feral chicken population. What once may have …
Good morning. Hon. Jache Adams: And good morning to the listening audience. BERMUDA’S GROWING FERAL CHICKEN POPULATION Hon. Jache Adams: Mr. Speaker, I rise this morning to speak about an issue that has been steadily increas-ing across Bermuda: the fast -growing and uncontrolled feral chicken population. What once may have been seen as a small inconvenience has become a serious concern for our farmers, our environment, our neigh-bourhoods and even our public health. Mr. Speaker, while often unacknowledged by the general population, feral chickens are an invasive species with almost no natural predators in Bermuda. This allows their numbers to multiply quickly, and the impact is substantial. Our farmers continue to exp erience major crop losses driving up production costs and contributing to higher food prices. This threatens the long-term stability of our local food supply. Beyond the agricultural impact these birds often disturb public ar-eas, scatter garbage, disrupt outdoor dining and cause hygiene issues for residents and visitors. Mr. Speaker, this issue becomes even more concerning in light of the continued global circulation of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza [ HPAI ], often referred to as bird flu. While the risk to the public in Ber-muda remains low, a large unmanaged feral chicken population could act as a reservoir. Therefore, it is essential that Bermuda remains watchful, prepared, and proactive. At present, Mr. Speaker, officers within the Department of Environment and Natural Resources [DENR] manage invasive bird control, including feral chickens. Using traps, sedative baits and controlled air - rifle operations, they remove more than 1,300 feral chickens each month. Th is work is commendable, but the scale of the issue exceeds what the team can man-age. For this reason, I am outlining several new actions to strengthen our response. 1.Introduction of a New Reporting and Response App Hon. Jache Adams: I am proud to say that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources has created an internal app to monitor invasive bird sightings and track control efforts. After successful testing, this tool will soon be made available to the public. Resi-dents will be able to report feral chicken activity directly, allowing DENR to focus resources where they are most needed. The app provides accurate geographic information for staff response while maintaining user privacy. 2.Expanding Operational Capacity Hon. Jache Adams: To increase our reach and improve response times, the Ministry of Public Works and Environment is hiring two additional contractors who will be fully trained and licensed under the Protection of Birds Amendment Act 2015. Their addition will enhance trapping and sedative bait operations almost doubling the capacity for the removal of feral chickens. 3.Board of Agriculture Pilot Programme Hon. Jache Adams: Based on the recommendation of the Board of Agriculture, the Government will begin a pilot programme allowing selected registered farmers to address feral chickens on their own properties. Farmers will receive full training and use approved traps and sedative baits under strict safety protocols to avoid harm to pets and prevent accidental captures. All birds collected will be humanely euthani sed. The results of this programme will guide future policy and may allow expansion to all trained registered farmers. 4.Public Access to Feral Chicken Traps Hon. Jache Adams: To support community involvement, DENR has purchased 100 feral chicken traps, which are now available at the Agriculture Service Cen-tre for $100 each. Each trap will include detailed in-structions to ensure compliance with the Care and Pro-tection of Animals Act 1975. The new reporting app will also allow residents to notify DENR when a trap has captured birds so teams can respond quickly. I want to reassure the pub-lic that once chickens are trapped, residents are not required to take any further action. You are not expected to handle or euthani se the birds. Simply notify DENR
B ermuda House of Assembly through the app or by phone, and trained officers will retrieve and address the animals. Mr. Speaker, these initiatives reflect the Government’s commitment to reducing the thousands of fe-ral chickens across the Island. However, success requires the cooperation of the public. As we put this Feral Chicken Management strategy into action, we ask residents to follow these guidelines : •Do not feed feral chickens or pigeons. •Do not tamper with traps placed by DENR ortrained individuals. •Do not abandon or relocate unwanted chickens; contact DENR for assistance. •Keep backyard poultry secure and away from wild birds. •Report large populations through DENR’sonline system or the new app. •Dispose of food waste properly in tamper -resistant bags and containers.Mr. Speaker, with G overnment, farmers, and the public working together, we can turn what has be-come an environmental and agricultural challenge into a model of coordinated, responsible action. This is not simply about removing nuisance animals ; it is about protecting our food security, our neighbourhoods, and our public health. Mr. Speaker, this G overnment will continue to act decisively, and with the support of the public we will bring this growing problem under control. Together, we can ensure a cleaner, safer, and more suitable Bermuda for all. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. Members, I believe the next S tatement is in the name of the same Minister. Minister, would you like to continue on with your second Statement? Hon. Jache Adams: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. BERMUDA’S ROADS RESTORING AND MODERNISING Hon. Jache Adams: Mr. Speaker, I rise this morning …
Thank you, Minister. Members, I believe the next S tatement is in the name of the same Minister. Minister, would you like to continue on with your second Statement? Hon. Jache Adams: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. BERMUDA’S ROADS RESTORING AND MODERNISING Hon. Jache Adams: Mr. Speaker, I rise this morning to update this Honourable House and the people of Bermuda on the progress this Government is making to restore, strengthen, and modernise Bermuda’s roads . Mr. Speaker, the condition of our roads has become one of the most talked- about issues throughout our Island. Our people have been clear that they want action not excuses, and this Government is delivering just that. While others offer commentary from the sidelines this administration is pouring asphalt, rebuilding foundations, and progressing forward with the most consistent road- repaving effort Bermuda has seen in years. Mr. Speaker, over the past 12 months alone, our teams have been working hard. We began in the West End completing long -overdue retaining wall repairs along Somerset Road and fully resurfacing both lanes from Scaur Hill to George’s Bay, representing the first time in decades residents have seen this level of investment along that corridor. Immediately after, we advanced along Middle Road in Southampton, resurfacing the section from George’s Bay to Evans Bay. For thousands of daily commuters the difference was immediate and noticea-ble. Mr. Speaker, after reaching Evans Bay our teams then crossed the Island to the East, repaving Mullet Bay from York Street right through to Ferry Reach Road, finishing just in time for Cup Match and easing congestion during one of the busiest periods of the year. From there, we continued major works on Middle Road in Smith’s, and on North Shore [Road], repaving from Bethel Church through Flatts Village toward Jennings Road. It should be noted that along the way the team encountered minor issues at several locations requiring temporary skips. But rather than slowing down, we pushed forward addressing the issues while continuing to pave. That is the hallmark of a Ministry focused on delivery and not delay. These are not isolated road patches, Mr. Speaker. These are connected corridors of safer, smoother and more reliable infrastructure that Bermudians can rely upon every single day. Mr. Speaker, as our major paving works progressed, this Government also advanced a series of critical road -safety upgrades, because we recognise that smoother roads mean little if they are not safe. This year we installed new traffic beacons at pedestrian crossings, including Mullet Bay, Point Finger Road, and Somerset Village. We also installed new speed bumps in several communities, including Spice Hill, Brighton Hill, and Parsons Road. In the weeks to come we will be introducing similar traffic -calming measures along Church Road in Southampton (which I know the Minister of Education has been advocating for years) and Old Military Road in St. George’s. These locations were not only highlighted by residents but were also validated through technical reviews carried out by our road- safety team which confirmed visibility challenges, pedestrian risk, and traffic -flow concerns. Mr. Speaker, these are areas where our children walk, where seniors cross, and where families have long expressed legitimate concerns. Residents have shared their gratitude because they feel both heard and better protected. Mr. Speaker, it is also not lost on me the raised concerns residents have had regarding the faint and sometimes non- existing centre line. Our team has received the necessary parts for our existing centre line machine and will begin the work shortly , while at the same time we are preparing to order a brand- new marking machine for the future. 1620 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly Mr. Speaker, as we close out the year I feel it is important to emphasi se that our Ministry is preparing for an aggressive start in 2026. This week we conducted essential maintenance on all asphalt equipment while providing essential equipment training with our partners at Astec. Next week we expect to complete the final stretch of paving on the western end of North Shore Road which will be our last major paving operation for the year. Over the holiday period our remaining team will be prioritis ing our pothole response. Mr. Speaker, the first quarter of 2026 will be one of the most productive in recent memory. We will recommence our paving efforts in early January with a critical section of North Shore Road near the Aquarium and complete the areas that were skipped in Smith’s including Middle Road near the Somerville Wall at Store Hill. Mr. Speaker, then, in late February and into the spring, we will shift to Southampton, paving along Mid-dle Road from Lighthouse Road in Southampton, head-ing east — [ Desk thumping] Hon. Jache Adams: —to Longford Road in Warwick. Following that, we will begin long- awaited works on Spanish Point Road and Palmetto Road— [ Desk thumping] Hon. Jache Adams: —two of the most requested improvements in the country. Mr. Speaker, to accelerate our progress in 2026, we are engaging the private sector in the first quarter to pave Orange Valley Road in Devonshire. This partnership approach allows us to stretch taxpayer dollars further and maintain continuity of work acros s multiple sites. Mr. Speaker, the work ahead is substantial, but this Government is committed, focused, and delivering results the public can see and feel. Bermudians asked for safer roads, smoother corridors, better visibility, and real investment in infrastructure and this Government is responding. The work will continue. T here is no magic wand that will fix our roads tomorrow, but we will remain steady and accelerate our efforts in 2026, as it reflects our determination to build a stronger, safer, more resil-ient Bermuda. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. Members, that brings us to a close of the S tatements for this morning, so we will now move on. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES The Speaker: We have one R eport this morning that's going to be tabled by the Chairman of the Public Accounts [Committee]. PARLIAMENTARY STANDING …
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoThank you, Mr. Speaker. I hereby table a report on the Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Public Ac counts for the approval of this H onourable House, along with the Committee Members ’ Manual. We met eight times this year . We had a lot to work on. I would …
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I hereby table a report on the Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Public Ac counts for the approval of this H onourable House, along with the Committee Members ’ Manual. We met eight times this year . We had a lot to work on. I would like to thank the Committee members and the staff for their hard work, and I would also like to thank the previous C ommittee for the hard work that they did on the M embers ’ Manual, which we have carried on and completed and supplied for the information of this H ouse. Thank you, Mr . Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, MP DeCouto, Chair man of the Public A ccounts Committee. Th ank y ou for that. QUE STION PER IOD
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThis morning, before we do the questions from the S tatements that were given today, we also have questions which were submitted in writing from Members to M inisters to be answered today. The first of those questions this morning is a written question to be answered orally that has …
This morning, before we do the questions from the S tatements that were given today, we also have questions which were submitted in writing from Members to M inisters to be answered today. The first of those questions this morning is a written question to be answered orally that has been presented to the Premier and Minister of Finance on behalf of the Shadow Minister of Finance, MP DeCouto. Wou ld you like to put your question? QUESTION 1: PREMIER’S ANCILLARY BENEFITS
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Honourable Premier and Minister of Finance please inform this Honourable House whether he receives any benefits as Premier outside of his parliamentary salary, health insurance and pension bene-fits, and, if so, what is the form and monetary value of such benefits for each …
Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Honourable Premier and Minister of Finance please inform this Honourable House whether he receives any benefits as Premier outside of his parliamentary salary, health insurance and pension bene-fits, and, if so, what is the form and monetary value of such benefits for each of the calendar years 2023, 2024, and 20 25 to date? Thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPremier . Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, I am actually surprised that this question was allowed as it does not deal with anything within the official cognisance of the Minister responsible in anything dealing with government business. Nonetheless, the answer is none.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAny supplementary questions? B ermuda House of Assembly Dr. Douglas DeCouto: No, we are grateful for the answer. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Hon. E. David Burt: Are you?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay, the next question this morning is a written question from the same M ember to the Premier, and being that it is [for a written answer] , there i s no response given here other than . . . have you received a written answer ?
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYes, I have. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. QUESTION 2: CONSULTANT AND ADVISORY POSITION CONTRACTS UNDER $50,000 FROM 1 JULY 2024 TO PRESENT
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoWill the Honourable Premier and Minister of Finance please provide to this Honourable House a list of all contracts for consultants or advisory positions ( including advisors to Ministers) that have been approved by the Head of the Public Service for the period from July 1st 2024 to the present, …
Will the Honourable Premier and Minister of Finance please provide to this Honourable House a list of all contracts for consultants or advisory positions ( including advisors to Ministers) that have been approved by the Head of the Public Service for the period from July 1st 2024 to the present, where the total contract amount is less than $50, 000, and listing the con-tract amount, duration, payment terms and the company or individual the contract is with?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. The next question, again, is from the same Member, MP DeCouto , to the Minister of Health, and this is for an oral response. Ministe r. QUESTION 3: GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE TO THE BERMUDA HOSPITALS BOARD
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYe s. Will the Honourable Minister please inform this Honourable House whether any additional Government financial grant or assistance to the Bermuda Hospitals Board (BHB) may be needed to support the recent pay rise agreement between BPSU and the BHB? I only note that this question was submitted prior to …
Ye s. Will the Honourable Minister please inform this Honourable House whether any additional Government financial grant or assistance to the Bermuda Hospitals Board (BHB) may be needed to support the recent pay rise agreement between BPSU and the BHB? I only note that this question was submitted prior to the tabling of the s upplementals. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Hon. Kim N. Wilson: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Notwithstanding the s upplemental that was tabled this morning, I still crave leave, pursuant to [Standing Order] 18(4), to defer the answering of this question so that I can provide a comprehensive answer to the Members of this House.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay . Are you good with the response, t hat the M inister is trying to produce a more comprehensive response to you, and she has asked for it to be deferred until later ?
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. We will be grateful for that response.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerNo problem. The next question is also in your name. It is to the Minister for the Cabinet Office [and Digital Innovation], and it requires an oral response. So, would you like to put the question? Hon. Diallo V. S. Rabain: Mr. Speaker — [ Crosstalk] Hon. Diallo V. S. …
No problem. The next question is also in your name. It is to the Minister for the Cabinet Office [and Digital Innovation], and it requires an oral response. So, would you like to put the question? Hon. Diallo V. S. Rabain: Mr. Speaker — [ Crosstalk] Hon. Diallo V. S. Rabain: Mr. Speaker, we did send notice that those questions were going to be deferred to next week.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes, yes, you did. I think you a re simply trying to compile all the information. Yes, yes. I think, as the Member just reminded me, they did ask for it to be deferred because the information needs to be fully compiled . . . he is trying to compile …
Yes, yes, you did. I think you a re simply trying to compile all the information. Yes, yes. I think, as the Member just reminded me, they did ask for it to be deferred because the information needs to be fully compiled . . . he is trying to compile the relevant information. So, it is carried until a further date . Okay? That moves us on, thank you. The next question is also to the Minister for the Cabinet [Office and Digital Information]. There are three questions from MP Ben Smith and they are all for written responses . Have you received your written responses ?
Mr. Ben SmithYes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. QUESTIONS: OVERSEAS EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
Mr. Ben SmithWill the Honourable Minister please provide this Honourable House with the number of public school students in each of the past three academic years who have been re-ferred for educational, behavioural, psychologi-cal, or therapeutic services that are not available locally; and please outline the full process for identifying these students …
Mr. Ben SmithIn circumstances where students are required to receive services overseas, will the Honourable Minister please confirm for this Honourable House what government funding or financial assistance is available to families, in-cluding the specific types of costs covered (e.g., travel, accommodation, service fees), the amount typically provided per case, and what …
In circumstances where students are required to receive services overseas, will the Honourable Minister please confirm for this Honourable House what government funding or financial assistance is available to families, in-cluding the specific types of costs covered (e.g., travel, accommodation, service fees), the amount typically provided per case, and what the total annual budget allocation is for this category of educational support? 1622 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly Mr. Ben Smith: For students who must travel overseas and are therefore unable to attend school locally, will the Honourable Minister please inform this Honourable House how are their absences recorded under the Education Act’s compulsory attendance requirements, and what measures are in place to ensure academic continuity during their time away, and ongoing communication with the family and reintegration planning upon the student’s return?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay, thank you. And the final set of questions this morning is to the Minister of Youth, Social Development, Seniors, from MP Tucker. Again, they r equire d written responses. Have you received your written responses ?
Ms.
Robin TuckerYes, I have, Mr. Speaker, thank you. QUESTION 1: PSYCHO -EDUCATIONAL COMMITTEE REFERRAL DATA (2020 –PRESENT)
Ms. Robin TuckerWill the Honourable Minister please inform this Honourable House of the num-ber of referrals the Psycho- Educational Committee received from the Ministry of Education and from Child and Adolescent Services seeking approval for overseas placements for each y ear from and including 2020 to present date, broken down by Ministry …
Will the Honourable Minister please inform this Honourable House of the num-ber of referrals the Psycho- Educational Committee received from the Ministry of Education and from Child and Adolescent Services seeking approval for overseas placements for each y ear from and including 2020 to present date, broken down by Ministry and department? QUESTION 2: AT -RISK YOUTH INTER -AGENCY SUPPORT FOR
Ms. Robin TuckerWill the Honourable Minister please provide an update to this Honourable House on what is currently being done to establish a coordinated response between the Department of Child and Family Services, the Ministry of Edu-cation and Child and Adolescent Services re-quired to meet the clinical needs of children diag-nosed with …
Will the Honourable Minister please provide an update to this Honourable House on what is currently being done to establish a coordinated response between the Department of Child and Family Services, the Ministry of Edu-cation and Child and Adolescent Services re-quired to meet the clinical needs of children diag-nosed with conduct disorder, severe mental health challenges, complex behavioural needs and those deemed high- risk within the community? QUESTION 3: FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE UPDATE ON DIGITAL FORMS
Ms.
Robin TuckerWill the Honourable Minister please provide an update on the introduction of digital forms for persons making applications for finan-cial assistance?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood. Members, that takes care of the written questions. Now we can go to the [questions on the] Statements from today. And there are quite a few questions from the many Statements that were given this morning. The first Statement, Mr. Premier, in reference to your recent J MC [Joint …
Good. Members, that takes care of the written questions. Now we can go to the [questions on the] Statements from today. And there are quite a few questions from the many Statements that were given this morning. The first Statement, Mr. Premier, in reference to your recent J MC [Joint Ministerial Council] meetings . We have questions from the O pposition Leader first , and other Members. Opposition Leader, would you like to put your question? Hon. Robert King: Good morning, Mr. Speaker —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood morning. H on. Robert King: —and Members of this H onourable House and the listening public. QUESTION 1: JOINT MINISTERIAL COUNCIL 2025 Hon. Robert King: Minister of Finance and Premier, What issues have been specifically raised by Bermuda at the JMC to ensure that [our] interests are protected with …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPremier. Hon. E. David Burt: I a m really not certain I understand the question. If the M ember wants to rephrase. . . I a m just not getting it.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerCan you be more specific as to what is in your question? Hon. Robert King: Absolutely, sir. What I am requesting is : What specific issues were raised at the J MC by the Premier? Y es, simple as that, thank you. [ Laughter]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, the J oint Ministerial Council meeting comprises 13 inhabited O verseas Territories plus the S overeign Base Areas, ranging from countries such as the Cayman Islands and Bermuda with advanced economies and advanced GDPs and in-ternational business, [and] as small as …
Thank you. Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, the J oint Ministerial Council meeting comprises 13 inhabited O verseas Territories plus the S overeign Base Areas, ranging from countries such as the Cayman Islands and Bermuda with advanced economies and advanced GDPs and in-ternational business, [and] as small as the Pitcairn Islands and the Sovereign Base Areas , Ascension Island and other types of things. The issues that are raised are decided jointly by preparatory meetings . And I am happy to share the information from the United Kingdom Overseas Territo-ries Association with the H onourable Member.
B ermuda House of Assembly The reality is that Bermuda did not raise any particular issues at the JMC because Bermuda . . . as they say in O verseas Territories parlance, there are the Crown Dependencies, there are the Overseas Territories, and then there is Bermuda. Bermuda has a high degree of self -governance. And the only matters that were raised were the issues that I stated inside of our bilateral meeting with the particular Minister responsible, which were covered inside of my Statement.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary? Hon. Robert King: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Second question, sorry.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSecond question, okay. QUESTION 2: JOINT MINISTERIAL COUNCIL 2025 Hon. Robert King: How will the UK Export Finance and British expertise support Bermuda's priority eco-nomic projects?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPremier. Hon. E. David Burt: I think there has been information on this in the public domain, that the UK Export Finance team came. This was a matter that was raised in last year's JMC by other O verseas Territories. Those matters were extended. Bermuda, of course, does not have …
Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: I think there has been information on this in the public domain, that the UK Export Finance team came. This was a matter that was raised in last year's JMC by other O verseas Territories. Those matters were extended. Bermuda, of course, does not have the same finance requirements as other O verseas Territories do. Nonetheless, we have been extended a line of credit of up to $1 billion [for] any Export Finance matters. Those things have been . . . there have been numerous discussions with a number of Ministers, whether it is the Minister of Housing, the Minister of Public Works, and others , also the Minister responsible for T ransport, different discussions with businesses as the United King-dom Government is looking to expand their trade relationships as they are looking to seek economic growth as they try to chart a course towards a balanced budget. But what I would say is UK Export Finance is there. They are an option. But there are many other export finance matters from other countries that have also made themselves available to Bermuda. But the reality is that Bermuda has different finance requirements than other jurisdictions. And we are not in as much need [of] financing, but if there are projects that can be supported by British industries, or with both the private sector and the public sector, M inisters are engaged on those matters, and we will see if anything comes to fruition.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary? QUESTION 3: JOINT MINISTERIAL COUNCIL 2025 Hon. Robert King: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. What mechanisms will G overnment use to ensure UK agencies deliver real benefits for Bermuda?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerIs this a supplementary or third question? Hon. Robert King: Third question, sorry. Third question, thank you. Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, the G overnment of Bermuda does not seek much from the United Kingdom outside of them doing what is required for them to do underneath the C …
Is this a supplementary or third question? Hon. Robert King: Third question, sorry. Third question, thank you. Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, the G overnment of Bermuda does not seek much from the United Kingdom outside of them doing what is required for them to do underneath the C onstitution. And I will remind the Honourable Member, in case he i s unaware, that the United Kingdom is responsible for External Affairs, Defence (including the armed forces ), Internal Security, and the Police. We do not ask for anything from the United Kingdom outside of what their job is to do underneath our current c onstitutional setup.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary? No, Okay. Premier, for that Statement, MP Fahy would like to ask questions as well. Hon. Michael Fahy: Good morning, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood morning. QUESTION 1: JOINT MINISTERIAL COUNCIL 2025 Hon. Michael Fahy: Would the Honourable Premier please share with this H ouse further details of what was shared with the Minister of State in regard to the considerable work done ( which was in his S tatement ) on the report …
Good morning. QUESTION 1: JOINT MINISTERIAL COUNCIL 2025 Hon. Michael Fahy: Would the Honourable Premier please share with this H ouse further details of what was shared with the Minister of State in regard to the considerable work done ( which was in his S tatement ) on the report promised on constitutional reform? A report that we are still waiting on. Thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPremier . Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, when that matter is ready to be shared in the public it will be able to be done so. But I think it is important to note that considerable work has taken [place] in line with a number of various consultations, including …
Premier . Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, when that matter is ready to be shared in the public it will be able to be done so. But I think it is important to note that considerable work has taken [place] in line with a number of various consultations, including the Leader of t he Opposition who was consult ed on this (I’m not sure if it was this one or the one prior, but including the L eader of the Opposition on this particular matter ). It is being run by a public officer in line with the requirements from the United K ingdom. There has been engagement with civil society and other particular persons. And when that report is ready, I am certain that we will table it in this House for discussion.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary? Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you. Supplementary. 1624 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly The Speaker: Supplementary, okay. SUPPLEMENTARIES Hon. Michael Fahy: Can the Premier please advise when it is expected that the report will be published and tabled in the H ouse? Hon. E. …
Supplementary? Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you. Supplementary. 1624 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly The Speaker: Supplementary, okay. SUPPLEMENTARIES Hon. Michael Fahy: Can the Premier please advise when it is expected that the report will be published and tabled in the H ouse? Hon. E. David Burt: He might even get it next week, but I will go back to my colleagues and advise. It is something that went to Cabinet recently. Something that has been shared with the caucus recently and certainly something that can be shared wider . But I will go back and seek the advice —whether it's this time or in February. Hon. Michael Fahy: Supplementary.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSecond su pplementary , yes. Hon. Michael Fahy: Can the Premier confirm that he will table the report in the H ouse? Hon. E. David Burt: I will not confirm that ; but I will confirm that the report will be shared.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerNew question? Second question? Hon. Michael Fahy: Second question, thank you. QUESTION 2: JOINT MINISTERIAL COUNCIL 2025 Hon. Michael Fahy: Did the M inister of State share any thoughts on the UK expectations on the meaning of the democratic will of the people in making changes to Bermuda's C onstitution? …
New question? Second question? Hon. Michael Fahy: Second question, thank you. QUESTION 2: JOINT MINISTERIAL COUNCIL 2025 Hon. Michael Fahy: Did the M inister of State share any thoughts on the UK expectations on the meaning of the democratic will of the people in making changes to Bermuda's C onstitution? Hon. E. David Burt: All of those particular matters are spelled out inside of the [Statement] and the United Kingdom Government's position is clear . But I think the Honourable Member is trying to go somewhere where he does not need to go, as the only changes that the Government is requesting are the changes that were spelled out inside of the T hrone Speech, which are very clear and have been previously canvassed in this House and in other places. And the Honourable Member who used to have responsibility for Finance . . . sorry, you used to have responsibility for Immigration. We remember what that was like . But we do remember and accept that he held the exact same position that the Government of Ber-muda held in regard to matters related to belongers. And I sincerely hope that the O pposition will also maintain the position of which they held while they were in Government , and support the current Government in the changing of the matters related to belongers so that we can retain the right to decide who will be the persons who should live in this country long- term, and not the United Kingdom Government. The Speaker: Supplementary? SUPPLEMENTARY Hon. Michael Fahy: Supplementary. So, the Premier's answer is, I believe, he cannot tell us what the meaning of the democratic will of the people is in making changes to Bermuda's C onstitution. That was the question.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerDid you . . . now, you have to put your question right . Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you. No, I asked again, and I will make it very clear. Did the M inister of S tate share any thoughts on UK expectations on the meaning of the democratic will …
Did you . . . now, you have to put your question right . Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you. No, I asked again, and I will make it very clear. Did the M inister of S tate share any thoughts on UK expectations on the meaning of the democratic will of the people in making changes in Bermuda's Constitution, which was in the P remier's Statement? Ho n. E. David Burt: No.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThird question or second supplementary? Hon. Michael Fahy: Third question, thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. QUESTION3: JOINT MINISTERIAL COUNCIL 2025 Hon. Michael Fahy: Were there any discussions with the Minister of State on the issue of independence , or full membership in CARICOM ? And if so, perhaps the Premier would share with this H onourable House what was discussed .
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPremier . Hon. E. David Burt: On sovereignty, no. O n full membership of CARICOM, yes . And the fact is that we a re waiting for the United Kingdom's response on matters related to CARICOM, which I think are matters which are in the public domain already.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay . Supplementary ? Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you. Supplementary. SUPPLEMENTARY Hon. Michael Fahy: So, the Premier is confirming that everything that was spoke n about with the M inister of State in relation to CARICOM is already in the public domain. Is that correct? B ermuda House of Assembly …
Okay . Supplementary ? Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you. Supplementary. SUPPLEMENTARY Hon. Michael Fahy: So, the Premier is confirming that everything that was spoke n about with the M inister of State in relation to CARICOM is already in the public domain. Is that correct?
B ermuda House of Assembly Hon. E. David Burt: I a m not going to get trapped in a legal answer. I gave my Statement and my answer, and that is the answer that I will hold to.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSecond su pplementary ? Hon. Michael Fahy: Mr. Speaker, it is a very simple question. Yes or no? [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. Michael Fahy: It’s a simple question. It is a simple question. [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. Michael Fahy: Did the Minister of S tate have any discussions with the …
Second su pplementary ? Hon. Michael Fahy: Mr. Speaker, it is a very simple question. Yes or no? [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. Michael Fahy: It’s a simple question. It is a simple question. [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. Michael Fahy: Did the Minister of S tate have any discussions with the P remier on CARICOM matters that are not already in the public domain? Hon. E. David Burt: As I am not the Minister responsible for CARICOM, I am not certain what matters are in the public domain. I have answered the question in regard to what happened with the matters related to CARICOM . And I have shared with the H onourable Member, and I will repeat my answer again: t he discussions were that we are awaiting a response from the United Kingdom on matters which have been raised. That is it.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Premier, that is the end of questions to you for that Statement. For your second S tatement, MP DeCouto, you have questions for the Premier. QUESTION 1: DELIVERING ON OUR COMMITMENTS—INVESTING TO MEET BERMUDA’S NEEDS NOW
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYes, thank you, Mr. Premier [sic]. I mean, Mr. Speaker. The Premier's Statement referred to better than projected finances and fiscal space, and he deliv-ered the Supplementary Estimates with around $22 million of additional unbudgeted spending. Given that the budget had around $43,000 [sic] of surplus — Hon. E. David …
Dr. Douglas DeCouto—c an . . . Okay, $43 million of surplus. Can the Premier outline for us — [ Inaudible interjection and laughter ]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoN o, thank you. I — [ Inaudible interjection] Dr. Douglas DeCouto: W ell, there's always that. Inclusive of the corporate income tax. Could the P remier outline for this H ouse the sources, the specific sources of this, as he called for, fiscal space? Thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPremier. Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, I will refer the H onourable Member to my Statement, which says that next week in this H onourable H ouse we will present to H onourable Members and the country our mid- year fiscal updates.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary? Supplementary or new question?
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoI guess the answer is No ; check back later . But new question.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerDo you want to do a supplementary or new question? New question?
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoNew question. I suspect I know what the answer is going to be, which is going to be check back next week, Mr. Speaker. [ Laughter and inaudible interjections ] QUESTION 2: DELIVERING ON OUR COMMITMENTS—INVESTING TO MEET BERMUDA’S NEEDS NOW
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoBut given all of this additional spending in the supplementals, should we expect to see that as additional current spending in next year's budget? Thank you. Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, as we have always given in our mid -year reviews, it has been the habit that we do …
But given all of this additional spending in the supplementals, should we expect to see that as additional current spending in next year's budget? Thank you. Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, as we have always given in our mid -year reviews, it has been the habit that we do not do these things on one- time [expenses], i f they are things that are one -time expenses. And yes, if there are things that are ongoing expenses, such as commitments to the police, such as commitments to road works and other things which involve the hiring of staff and retaining, of course those things will carry over to next bud get. But I honestly would ask the H onourable Member to wait for a debate that will happen next week on the supplemental. And I did say to the Honourable Minister that I will be presenting to H onourable Members of the country our mid- year fiscal update, which will form part of next week's debate. So we can actually debate these matters. 1626 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly But he is welcome to continue asking questions. I will defer anything on budget specifics until next week.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary or further questions? Next week. Okay. [ Laughter]
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberNext week!
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. Premier that is the end of the questions for your Statements this morning. Deputy Premier, you have questions for . . . actually for both of your Statements. But for the first Statement, MP Fahy would like to put questions to you.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYou think it’s a joke. It’s not a joke. Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberToo tall. Hon. Michael Fahy: Too tall, ye s. QUESTION 1: GOVERNMENT HOUSING INITIATIVES UPDATE Hon. Michael Fahy: The Minister advised, Mr. Speaker, that P hase Two of the Battery Road development is over 9,000 square feet for 12 units. Could the Minister break that down in terms of the …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister? Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Be happy to, Mr. Speaker, be happy to. [ Laughter]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary? Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Now, please. [ Laughter]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister, I think he was expecting you to do the maths now. But if you want to defer and forward it to him later, we would accept you doing it later. [ Laughter]
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberThat's out of order, Mr. Speaker. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, does he want to know how many nails we're going to use as well?
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberThat's out of order. [ Crosstalk]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerI think the challenge with that is to expect the Minister to be able to give the mathematics quickly [on] his feet. He gave a report and gave a general, but it did not provide the breakdown. So that's nothing . . . that isn't like he’s basically carrying it …
I think the challenge with that is to expect the Minister to be able to give the mathematics quickly [on] his feet. He gave a report and gave a general, but it did not provide the breakdown. So that's nothing . . . that isn't like he’s basically carrying it in his pocket . So, I would want to think that any future questions like that would ask if you can get the answer at a future period rather than right now. Hon. Michael Fahy: Well, thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am sure the Minister will happily provide it in any event. There are no tricks. I think the people of Bermuda wish to know what those square footages [are], but that's fine.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Do you have a further question? Hon. Michael Fahy: No, second question.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGo ahead. QUESTION 2: GOVERNMENT HOUSING INITIATIVES UPDATE Hon. Michael Fahy: If the project is late, are there any penalties in place for overruns payable by Ocean Inte-riors in respect of the contract for the production of those units? Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes, there are. Hon. Michael …
Go ahead. QUESTION 2: GOVERNMENT HOUSING INITIATIVES UPDATE Hon. Michael Fahy: If the project is late, are there any penalties in place for overruns payable by Ocean Inte-riors in respect of the contract for the production of those units? Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes, there are. Hon. Michael Fahy: And at the risk of being told the same thing, I suppose the Minister might have it in him to provide details of that at some point to this Honourable House. But, yes, I get the point.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerI mean, it may be a bit specific, but he would know that there are penalties. To be able to quote the penalties off the top of your head may not necessarily be expected. Hon. Michael Fahy: The Minister's normally so wellinformed. But there we are. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay, no problem. B ermuda House of Assembly Deputy, [there are] questions for your second Statement . The Opposition Leader would like to put questions to you. QUESTION 1: GOVERNMENT HOUSING INITIATIVES UPDATE Hon. Robert King: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Understanding that the modular housing units are meant to be …
Okay, no problem.
B ermuda House of Assembly Deputy, [there are] questions for your second Statement . The Opposition Leader would like to put questions to you. QUESTION 1: GOVERNMENT HOUSING INITIATIVES UPDATE Hon. Robert King: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Understanding that the modular housing units are meant to be transitional units, what guarantee is the Government going to put in place to make sure that those temporary accommodations do not become permanent? Thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister? Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: We intend on building many homes so that they do remain transitional.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary? Hon. Robert King: Second question, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSecond question, okay. QUESTION 2: GOVERNMENT HOUSING INITIATIVES UPDATE Hon. Robert King: Regarding the affordable housing strategy, how will this strategy ensure that seniors and persons with disabilities are provided with suitable housing? Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes, there's another good question. Mr. Speaker, I can assure the …
Second question, okay. QUESTION 2: GOVERNMENT HOUSING INITIATIVES UPDATE Hon. Robert King: Regarding the affordable housing strategy, how will this strategy ensure that seniors and persons with disabilities are provided with suitable housing? Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes, there's another good question. Mr. Speaker, I can assure the Honourable Member and the people of Bermuda that there will be substantial homes available for our seniors going for-ward.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary? Supplementary or new question? Hon. Robert King: Supplementary
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. SUPPLEMENTARIES Hon. Robert King: Would the Honourable Member please provide a timeline when those units will become available to the public? Thank you. A nd the square footage as well. Thank you. [ Laughter] Hon. Robert King: Because they need space for the wheelchairs and — The Speaker: Give …
Okay. SUPPLEMENTARIES Hon. Robert King: Would the Honourable Member please provide a timeline when those units will become available to the public? Thank you. A nd the square footage as well. Thank you. [ Laughter] Hon. Robert King: Because they need space for the wheelchairs and — The Speaker: Give him the timeline; give him the timeline. Hon. Robert King: — walking. Walking. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, the timeline will be a lot sooner than what he and the rest of Ber-muda might think [it is] . But to be serious, within the next 24 months, I expect . I will tell you what, Mr. Speaker, let's do it this way. Within the next few weeks there will be an an-nouncement made that will answer all of those questions because the intent is for us to provide enough homes where there will not be any waiting lists for homes in this country.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary? Supplementary? Yes . . . one of your Members— Hon. Michael Fahy: Yes, t hank you . I can ask a supplementary.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYour supplementary? SUPPLEMENTARY Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you. Would the Honourable Minister consider , and do , bring that report to this House before we break after the next sitting of Parlia-ment , rather than doing it in the media , so that it can be scrutinised and we can …
Your supplementary? SUPPLEMENTARY Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you. Would the Honourable Minister consider , and do , bring that report to this House before we break after the next sitting of Parlia-ment , rather than doing it in the media , so that it can be scrutinised and we can ask questions? Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I may have a Christmas present for the Honourable Member. [ Laughter]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMember , would you like to put a further question? [ No audible response.]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYou're fine? Okay, Minister, there are other Members who have questions for you. MP Campbell, would you like to put your question still? QUESTION 1: BERMUDA HOUSING CORPORATION PRIVATE SECTOR REFURBISHMENT PROGRAMME UPDATE Mr . Vance Campbell: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask the Minister …
You're fine? Okay, Minister, there are other Members who have questions for you. MP Campbell, would you like to put your question still? QUESTION 1: BERMUDA HOUSING CORPORATION PRIVATE SECTOR REFURBISHMENT PROGRAMME UPDATE Mr . Vance Campbell: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask the Minister how was the limit of . . . maximum amount of the loan of $125,000 determined?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister. 1628 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Ah, Mr. Speaker, that number was determined . . . as the Honourable Member who asked the question . . . being the former chairman of the Bermuda Housing Corporation, I …
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberThe public might not be. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Oh, the public might not be; that's right.
Some Hon. Members Some Hon. MembersOh! [ Inaudible interjections and laughter ] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, that was a number that was determined by the technical officers at the Bermuda Housing Corporation based on their experience of houses that are in the country that need repairs.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMm-hmm. Supplementary? Mr . Vance Campbell: Yes, a supplementary.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. SUPPLEMENTARY Mr . Vance Campbell: Mr. Speaker, given that depending on who you speak to, the per square foot cost of construction in Bermuda is anywhere from $600 per square foot , approaching $1,000 per square foot, and given that these units were described by the Minister as unfit …
Okay. SUPPLEMENTARY Mr . Vance Campbell: Mr. Speaker, given that depending on who you speak to, the per square foot cost of construction in Bermuda is anywhere from $600 per square foot , approaching $1,000 per square foot, and given that these units were described by the Minister as unfit for occupancy, does the Minister believe that $125[000], will bring meaningful renovation to these units that are currently unfit for occupancy? Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes, sir.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary or new question ? Mr . Vance Campbell: New question.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes. QUESTION 2: BERMUDA HOUSING CORPORATION PRIVATE SECTOR REFURBISHMENT PROGRAMME UPDATE Mr . Vance Campbell: Could the Minister advise how many staff does the BHC have who are qualified to manage projects? Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Several. Mr . Vance Campbell: Can we get a number? [ Inaudible …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerI don't think he would carry the staff complement or breakdown of . . . that may not be something that he woul d carry with him in his pocket. [ Inaudible interjections] Mr . Vance Campbell: Okay, Mr. Speaker —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerI am sure he wouldn't mind getting it for you in the future.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberNext week. [ Inaudible interjections] QUESTION 3: BERMUDA HOUSING CORPORATION PRIVATE SECTOR REFURBISHMENT PROGRAMME UPDATE Mr . Vance Campbell: With the several qualified people who can manage projects and the fact that the Minister advised that the Housing Corporation will be taking on the management of these renovations under this …
Next week. [ Inaudible interjections] QUESTION 3: BERMUDA HOUSING CORPORATION PRIVATE SECTOR REFURBISHMENT PROGRAMME UPDATE Mr . Vance Campbell: With the several qualified people who can manage projects and the fact that the Minister advised that the Housing Corporation will be taking on the management of these renovations under this pro-gramme, will this put a strain on the resources of the Bermuda Housing Corporation from a project maintenance perspective whereby the maintenance of their own projects will suffer?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister . Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I am happy to inform that Member, that H onourable Member, and the people of the country, Mr. Speaker, that a project manager is close to being hired to assist with these programmes.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMm-hmm. Supplementary or new question?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. SUPPLEMENTARY Mr . Vance Campbell: Can the Minister advise what is a reasonable number of projects that one project manager can manage at any one point in time? Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, how long is a piece of string? You know ? I mean . …
Okay. SUPPLEMENTARY Mr . Vance Campbell: Can the Minister advise what is a reasonable number of projects that one project manager can manage at any one point in time? Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, how long is a piece of string? You know ? I mean . . . [ Inaudible interjections] Mr . Vance Campbell: Mr. Speaker, it's a reasonable question considering we a re talking about the people's money.
B ermuda House of Assembly [Inaudible interjections] Mr . Vance Campbell: It is a reasonable question.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThat could be contained in your report when you come back. [ Laughter] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, [for] that H onourable Member (who happens to be in the industry ) to ask that question is quite shocking, to be honest. To [ask] how many — Mr …
That could be contained in your report when you come back. [ Laughter] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, [for] that H onourable Member (who happens to be in the industry ) to ask that question is quite shocking, to be honest. To [ask] how many — Mr . Vance Campbell: Mr. Speaker, the general public is not in the industry.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I beg your pardon? Mr. Speaker, a project manager can manage a door being replaced. He can also manage a house being built. He could also manage a 64,000- square- foot house to be built. So, to ask that question, …
Okay. [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I beg your pardon? Mr. Speaker, a project manager can manage a door being replaced. He can also manage a house being built. He could also manage a 64,000- square- foot house to be built. So, to ask that question, How many projects can a project manager manage at once ?, is really a little stretching, to [say] the least . . . especially from someone who is in the industry. [ Inaudible interjections]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerNew question? Now, you have used your two supplements. Would this be your third question? Mr . Vance Campbell: No further questions, because we're not going to get anywhere with this.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAll right. And Minister , MP Fa hy had put his name down for questions. Do you still have questions for the Minister? Hon. Michael Fahy: I do, thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. QUESTION 1: BERMUDA HOUSING CORPORATION PRIVATE SECTOR REFURBISHMENT PROGRAMME UPDATE Hon. Michael Fahy: On the properties under review with multiple bedrooms, is that going to be for entire families? Is it going to be broken down by individuals? [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. Michael Fahy: If you have a four …
Okay. QUESTION 1: BERMUDA HOUSING CORPORATION PRIVATE SECTOR REFURBISHMENT PROGRAMME UPDATE Hon. Michael Fahy: On the properties under review with multiple bedrooms, is that going to be for entire families? Is it going to be broken down by individuals? [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. Michael Fahy: If you have a four -bedroom house, in other words, is it for one family or is it likely to be for multiple families? Just a question. Thank you. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, we would expect that four -bedroom homes would be for a family that is looking for that accommodation. To think that the Honourable Member is suggesting that maybe we have several families in a four -bedroom home, I think it would have to be a little bit more specific. Hon. Michael Fahy: Mr. Speaker, he i s misleading the House. That was not in any way the intent of the question, as he well knows.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWell, let the Minister finish. [ Inaudible interjection]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes, okay. Now, would you like to put a supplementary question or would you like to raise your point of order? Hon. Michael Fahy: I'll raise my point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER Hon. Michael Fahy: Mr. Speaker, the question was whether or not people are going to be split up. I am not in any way suggesting that that is appropriate. It is just a question to make sure that it is in fact for families …
Point of order. POINT OF ORDER Hon. Michael Fahy: Mr. Speaker, the question was whether or not people are going to be split up. I am not in any way suggesting that that is appropriate. It is just a question to make sure that it is in fact for families to be able to take advantage of a four -bedroom home. I think that people would like to know things like t hat, especially when the lists are so long of people that are requiring housing.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay, fine. Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, that's even worse, that question. He wants . . . the Honourable Member is asking if families are going to be split up. Really? For a four -bedroom home? [ Inaudible interjections]
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberWe want to make sure they are not. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: So, is he talking about a 20 - member family then, maybe? T hen he may know more than me. But where I come from, a four -bedroom home would be for a whole family.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMm-hmm. 1630 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly Any further questions? Hon. Michael Fahy: Next question, please, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. QUESTION 2: BERMUDA HOUSING CORPORATION PRIVATE SECTOR REFURBISHMENT PROGRAMME UPDATE Hon. Michael Fahy: Mr. Speaker, the Minister made mention of the fact, I believe, that the landlords were responsible for ensuring that the gardens are main-tained, et cetera, of these houses. Are there any guardrails in place to make …
Okay. QUESTION 2: BERMUDA HOUSING CORPORATION PRIVATE SECTOR REFURBISHMENT PROGRAMME UPDATE Hon. Michael Fahy: Mr. Speaker, the Minister made mention of the fact, I believe, that the landlords were responsible for ensuring that the gardens are main-tained, et cetera, of these houses. Are there any guardrails in place to make sure that this in fact happens, since some of these houses have been allowed to get into the state that they are in because of poor landlord maintenance? So, are there guardrails in place to make sure that the maintenance does, in fact, happen on gardens, et cetera? Thank you. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary? Hon. Michael Fahy: Yes. SUPPLEMENTARY Hon. Michael Fahy: Can the M inister please, today, share what those guardrails are? [ Laughter] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, monthly inspections are carried out.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYou are done? Okay, good. Minister, that was the final question for your Statements this morning. We will move on. The next S tatement was from the Minister of National Security. Minister of National Security, you have two Members who would like to ask questions thus far and the first …
You are done? Okay, good. Minister, that was the final question for your Statements this morning. We will move on. The next S tatement was from the Minister of National Security. Minister of National Security, you have two Members who would like to ask questions thus far and the first is the O pposition Leader. Would you like to put your question? QUESTION 1: CUSTOMS NEW X- RAY BUILDING Hon. Robert King: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Honourable Minister of National Security please inform this Honourable House what the total cost will be for the X -ray building and what measures will be put in place to ensure that there are no cost over-runs? The Speaker: Minister . [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I do no t know the exact number that the building is going to cost . But what I can say, since it is custom-made and whatnot, the costs will be monitored. So, it is very unlikely that there will be a cost overrun with a building that is being built custom- made for the project.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary? Hon. Robert King: Yes, sir. SUPPLEMENTARY Hon. Robert King: Mr. Speaker , understanding that these significant capital works would have been in the Budget Book, how is it that the Minister does not know what the actual cost of this project is projected to be when the numbers should …
Supplementary? Hon. Robert King: Yes, sir. SUPPLEMENTARY Hon. Robert King: Mr. Speaker , understanding that these significant capital works would have been in the Budget Book, how is it that the Minister does not know what the actual cost of this project is projected to be when the numbers should already be in the book? This raises concerns. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Mr. Speaker, so if it is in the [Budget] B ook, I think the Honourable Member would have access to it also.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary or new question? QUESTION 2: CUSTOMS NEW X- RAY BUILDING Hon. Robert King: Regarding the importance of the Xray building to protect our shores, as it is a significant port of entry, has the Minister identified other ports of entry that are also significant to protect this I sland …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerI think the S tatement today was pointed just at that one location and the fact that it is being built and the costs going on. It may . . . to talk about other areas, it may be a bit outsi de. So, i f you can direct it …
I think the S tatement today was pointed just at that one location and the fact that it is being built and the costs going on. It may . . . to talk about other areas, it may be a bit outsi de. So, i f you can direct it directly to what the Statement was — Hon. Robert King: No, I understand, Mr. Speaker. It was in the wording of the Statement talking about the fact that it was a significant point of entry, which suggests that there were others that were not mentioned in the Statement. I am just wondering if consideration to those has also been given. Thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. All right. Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Yes, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. All right. Supplementary? B ermuda House of Assembly SUPPLEMENTARY Hon. Robert King: Understanding that consideration has been given to the other ports of entry, what specific measures are being taken to address the risk posed to our border security? Thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister . Hon. Michael A. Weeks: Mr. Speaker, this particular paper is for the Hamilton d ock. And as we assess other ports of entry, I will definitely bring a Statement to the House.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAll right, Minister . Thank you, Opposition Leader . MP Fa hy, [do] you still have questions for the Minister on this S tatement? QUESTION 1: CUSTOMS NEW X- RAY BUILDING Hon. Michael Fahy: I do, thank you. The Minister advised the enhanced dock technology will help uphold standards of …
All right, Minister . Thank you, Opposition Leader . MP Fa hy, [do] you still have questions for the Minister on this S tatement? QUESTION 1: CUSTOMS NEW X- RAY BUILDING Hon. Michael Fahy: I do, thank you. The Minister advised the enhanced dock technology will help uphold standards of national security. Can the Minister therefore share with this House the percentage of containers screened on a daily basis that pass through the Hamilton docks that are brought into the Island and the percentage of containers that will likely be screened post enhancement? [I am] not asking for specific numbers, just percentages of increase, given that it has enhanced national security issues with the X-ray machine.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister . Hon. Michael A. Weeks: I do not have a percentage with me right now . But as the Honourable Member knows, I can give it to him next week.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThe Minister has indicated he will suppl y the answers for you for next week. Hon. Michael Fahy: I appreciate the cooperation. Thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerNo further questions? Hon. Michael Fahy: I have no more questions.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay . Minister, those are all the questions for that Statement . We will move on. The next Statement was by the Minister of Tourism and Transport, Culture and Sport. And Minister, MP Rob inson has questions for you. QUESTION 1: TCD DIGITISATION TRANSFORMATION UPDATE Mr . Dwayne Robinson: Thank …
Okay . Minister, those are all the questions for that Statement . We will move on. The next Statement was by the Minister of Tourism and Transport, Culture and Sport. And Minister, MP Rob inson has questions for you. QUESTION 1: TCD DIGITISATION TRANSFORMATION UPDATE Mr . Dwayne Robinson: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. So, my question is : Does this new digitisation require any new hires or additional training?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister. Hon. Owen Darrell: The answer is no, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay . Supplementary? SUPPLEMENTARY Mr . Dwayne Robinson: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will this new social media platform be managed in- house?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThis would be a second question. Mr . Dwayne Robinson: This is supplemental.
The SpeakerThe Speaker[Is it a] s econd question or supplemental to that one? Mr . Dwayne Robinson: This is supplemental —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAll right, supplemental. Mr . Dwayne Robinson: —because I asked—
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGo ahead. Okay. Mr . Dwayne Robinson: —originally about new staff .
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAll right. Go ahead. — Mr . Dwayne Robinson: So, I am [asking]: Okay . Well, will this be managed in- house? Thank you. Hon. Owen Darrell: Yes, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSecond su pplemental or new question? QUESTION 2: TCD DIGITISATION TRANSFORMATION UPDATE
Mr. Dwayne RobinsonNew question, Mr. Speaker . Second question. As the digital footprint rises and we move into social media platforms, will there be any compliance training or cybersecurity training for staff who are operating this particular platform?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister . Hon. Owen Darrell: Yes, Mr. Speaker . I would like to remind the Honourable Member from the other side 1632 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly that that is already happening now, but it comes under a different M inistry . That comes …
Minister . Hon. Owen Darrell: Yes, Mr. Speaker . I would like to remind the Honourable Member from the other side 1632 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly that that is already happening now, but it comes under a different M inistry . That comes under the Minister responsible for the Cabinet Office and Digital Innovation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay, all right. Supplementary or third question? Mr . Dwayne Robinson: Yes, one supplemental.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOne supplementary. Okay. SUPPLEMENTARY Mr . Dwayne Robinson: Along with this new social media page, will this be managed in addition to the duties that the TCD [Transport Control Department] staff already have, or will this be requiring somebody additional to oversee it or come in to run it? Thank …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister . Hon. Owen Darrell: Mr. Speaker, once it is up and running, we will be sure to let the Honourable Member from the other side know who i s operating it. Thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay . No further questions? None ? Thank you. Minister, as those are the only questions for you this morning , we will move on. The next S tatement that has questions was [given by] the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors. Minister , MP Tucker would like to …
Okay . No further questions? None ? Thank you. Minister, as those are the only questions for you this morning , we will move on. The next S tatement that has questions was [given by] the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors. Minister , MP Tucker would like to put questions to you. QUESTION 1: UNITED NATIONS INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES AND HUMAN RIGHTS DAY
Ms. Robin TuckerThank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is whether the Minister can say what progress has been made to ensure that persons with physical disabilities have equitable access to pub-lic transportation [and] government buildings and [in] implementing things like signage for people that are vi-sion impaired. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister . Hon. Tinee Furbert: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my S tatement was in regard to the UN [United Nations] International Day of Persons with Disabilities and Human Rights Day. Those questions I would ask that Member to pose to the Ministry responsible for Planning and Transportation. The …
Minister . Hon. Tinee Furbert: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my S tatement was in regard to the UN [United Nations] International Day of Persons with Disabilities and Human Rights Day. Those questions I would ask that Member to pose to the Ministry responsible for Planning and Transportation. The Speaker: Okay. The Minister's response is that it was outside of the scope of her Statement this morning and that there are other ministries that are responsible for ensuring that the compliance under their M inistry is put in place.
Ms. Robin TuckerThank you, Mr. Speaker. My understanding, though, is that the theme is . . . T he theme of International Day of Persons with Disabilities and Human Rights Day —for the 3rd of December, at least, because there are two different themes as I understand it . . . And …
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My understanding, though, is that the theme is . . . T he theme of International Day of Persons with Disabilities and Human Rights Day —for the 3rd of December, at least, because there are two different themes as I understand it . . . And the theme for the 3rd is “F ostering disability inclusive societ ies for advancing social progress. ” So that is why I asked that question as it relates to advancing people and social progress and hav-ing an inclusive society within Bermuda. So, can I just get confirmation . . . because I will ask the question another time then if I am not permitted to get a response at this time , as to which M inister . . . I just want confirmation that the question I just asked is to be redirected to the Minister responsible for Planning. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerBasically, I think your question was asking for access to properties . That would be Planning. And access to transportation to the buses will come under the M inistry of Tourism and T ransport , Culture and Sport.
Ms. Robin TuckerThank you. So, Mr. Speaker, again, so I understand. T hen, future questions on this particular matter I am to split between the two Ministers.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes, I was going to say : Do you have a further question? QUESTION 2: UNITED NATIONS INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES AND HUMAN RIGHTS DAY
Ms.
Robin TuckerMy second question is whether there is a plan because I appreciate that there is somewhat of an accessibility strategy that is spread across different areas. But what I would like to know is if there is a plan to implement a single comprehensive acces-sibility plan, accessibility strategy rather, again, …
My second question is whether there is a plan because I appreciate that there is somewhat of an accessibility strategy that is spread across different areas. But what I would like to know is if there is a plan to implement a single comprehensive acces-sibility plan, accessibility strategy rather, again, for peo-ple with disabilities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
B ermuda House of Assembly The Speaker: Minister . Hon. Tinee Furbert: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you for that question. We have publicly stated that we are working on a Disability Act. First, we will be making changes to the H uman Rights Act [1981] to strengthen the rights of persons with disabilities within the H uman R ights Act [1981] .
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary ? SUPPLEMENTARY
Ms. Robin TuckerYes, please, Mr. Speaker. So, is there going to be a strategy born out of the Act? Can the Minister just confirm that? So, much in the same way that we have like a f ive-year strategy for domestic violence, say, is there a specific strategy that is going to …
Yes, please, Mr. Speaker. So, is there going to be a strategy born out of the Act? Can the Minister just confirm that? So, much in the same way that we have like a f ive-year strategy for domestic violence, say, is there a specific strategy that is going to be implemented, a single strategy [that is] going to be implemented, or is it in progress or planned for people with disabilities? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister . Hon. Tinee Furbert: Mr. Speaker, there is a policy called the national disability policy that exists and I would encourage that Member to read that policy that exists already.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary. Yes. SUPPLEMENTARY
Ms. Robin TuckerThank you. I do understand that there is a policy in place. However, there are multiple reports (I guess I will call them) that deal with access and disability matters. So, what I am asking is, is there a plan? Because with things diffused in different places, sometimes things do …
Thank you. I do understand that there is a policy in place. However, there are multiple reports (I guess I will call them) that deal with access and disability matters. So, what I am asking is, is there a plan? Because with things diffused in different places, sometimes things do not get done. Hence the reason why we still cannot get people in wheelchairs on our buses. So, what I am wondering is, is there going to be a plan to have a single accessibility strategy that en-tities—all entities —will be working from to make sure that we can actually get stuff progressed and done? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Hon. Tinee Furbert: Mr. Speaker, like the Member mentioned, there are many strategies and plans that al-ready exist. There is a national disability policy. There is a [Green] Paper on transportation as it relates to per-sons with disabilities. There is a National Senior s Strategy, Mr. Speaker. There is also a White Paper done on inclusion in education, Mr. Speaker. There is also a . . . There is one more. I cannot think of it, but there are many strategies that exist out there. A nd we need to, as a government , continue to work through those strategies , and that is what we are doing. As far as accessibility, there is the policy within legislation within Planning that we need to continue to push forward and progress, so there are many strate-gies and plans that are out there already. I do not feel as though there is a need at this time for another strat-egy. I think we need to push forward with the plans and strategies that we already have in place.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplement ary . . . I will be . . . You had your two supplement als. This would be a third question.
Mr. Speaker. Thank you.
The SpeakerAll right . No problem. Minister, no further questions for that S tatement. [Regarding] the next S tatement from the Minister of Economy and Labour, you have a question from the O pposition Leader , Minister . QUESTION 1: LABOUR FORCE SURVEY REPORT NOVEMBER 2024 Hon. Robert King: Thank you, …
All right . No problem. Minister, no further questions for that S tatement. [Regarding] the next S tatement from the Minister of Economy and Labour, you have a question from the O pposition Leader , Minister . QUESTION 1: LABOUR FORCE SURVEY REPORT NOVEMBER 2024 Hon. Robert King: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is promising that the unemployment rate has gone down by 50 per cent and— [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. Robert King: N o, absolutely. Looking at page 20 of the Labour Force Survey, line item “ Did Not Want to Work” in the age group 55 [sic] to 64 as compared to the year before, the number was 27 [in] 2023, and in 2024, it has risen to 124 “Did Not Want to Work” in the age category of 55 [sic] to 64. Can the Minister explain why there has been a significant increase in number of persons who do not wish to work in that age category? Thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister . Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, I am just seeking clarification. On page 20 of the L abour Force Survey Report that he is referring to, he refers to [an] age range that does not currently exist in the table. So, the age ranges are from 16 to 24, …
Minister . Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, I am just seeking clarification. On page 20 of the L abour Force Survey Report that he is referring to, he refers to [an] age range that does not currently exist in the table. So, the age ranges are from 16 to 24, [from] 25 to 34, [from] 35 to 64, and 65- plus. [ Inaudible interjection]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes, for clarity. 1634 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly [Pause]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay, Minister , you have got the floor. Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, the report that I have differ s from the report in which the Opposition Leader has. So, I a m unclear to where his report was derived. [Crosstalk ] Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, I have solved …
Okay, Minister , you have got the floor. Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, the report that I have differ s from the report in which the Opposition Leader has. So, I a m unclear to where his report was derived. [Crosstalk ] Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, I have solved the problem. The O pposition Leader is referring to the May 2024 Labour Force Survey. I am referring to the November 2024 Labour Force Survey. The O pposition Leader is making reference to the wrong report.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. All right. It is an older report, which means the updated facts are different from this. Would you like to just pass on your question there for now? Just pass on your question for now. [ No audible response.]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay, no problem. Hon. Robert King: I will go to the next question.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOh, okay, all right. Hon. Robert King: Thank you. QUESTION 2: LABOUR FORCE SURVEY REPORT NOVEMBER 2024 Hon. Robert King: How does the Government plan to support older Bermudians, caregivers, persons with disabilities to remain active in the workforce? Thank you. Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, what you will find …
Oh, okay, all right. Hon. Robert King: Thank you. QUESTION 2: LABOUR FORCE SURVEY REPORT NOVEMBER 2024 Hon. Robert King: How does the Government plan to support older Bermudians, caregivers, persons with disabilities to remain active in the workforce? Thank you. Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, what you will find in our numbers consistently is that there are more workers working beyond the age of 65. The Government put out a paper as it pertains to retention of older workers. And in that particular paper, we talked about we need to do other things to support our ageing population in the workforce. The Ministry of Economy and Labour has presented a paper to the Labour Advisory Council regard-ing a policy position to promote flexible working conditions for those persons over the age of 65. It will contain various ways in which an employer can continue to re-tain workers over the age of 65 in different contractual options, whether it be flexi- work, whether it be through mentorships and other consultancies that they can par-ticipate in so that we can continue to have gainful and meaningful employment for those persons over the age of 65.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAny . . . no further questions? [ No audible response.]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay, thank you. Minister, that was the only Member here who had questions for you this morning. So, we will now move on. The next S tatement was a Statement from the Minister of Health. And Minister, the Opposition Whip has got questions for you. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Thank …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood morning. QUESTION 1: STRENGTHENING BERMUDA’S HEALTH CARE SYSTEM AND ADVANCING OUR PROGRESS TOWARD THE IMPLEMENTATION OF UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE COVERAGE (UHC) Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: The Honourable Minister mentioned three improvements to the N4, HIP and FutureC are. And I was just trying to understand; with these benefits, will …
Good morning. QUESTION 1: STRENGTHENING BERMUDA’S HEALTH CARE SYSTEM AND ADVANCING OUR PROGRESS TOWARD THE IMPLEMENTATION OF UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE COVERAGE (UHC) Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: The Honourable Minister mentioned three improvements to the N4, HIP and FutureC are. And I was just trying to understand; with these benefits, will they affect in any shape or way or form FutureC are payments on a monthly basis going forward to help cover for this? Or will there be a supplemental that might be needed just to ensure that we are covering this ? Or was this something that was already planned within the budget year? Hon. Kim N. Wilson: Mr. Speaker , (and I thank the Honourable Member for that question), that speaks di-rectly towards this Government 's commitment towards strengthening our health system by providing these im-portant enhancements for HIP and FutureC are patients. There was money that was allocated in this fiscal year to cover these enhancements, but you may also recall that in the Throne Speech statement there was also commentary — [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. Kim N. Wilson: Yes, that spoke to — [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. Kim N. Wilson: Right, that did not speak to the amount ; it just spoke to the provision that there may be a necessity for us to increase the standard health ben-efit because it has been frozen since 2019.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary? Ho n. L. Craig Cannonier: No. Next question ? B ermuda House of Assembly The Speaker: Second question? Y es. QUESTION 2: STRENGTHENING BERMUDA’S HEALTH CARE SYSTEM AND ADVANCING OUR PROGRESS TOWARD THE IMPLEMENTATION OF UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE COVERAGE (UHC) Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Yes, I am just looking …
Supplementary? Ho n. L. Craig Cannonier: No. Next question ?
B ermuda House of Assembly The Speaker: Second question? Y es. QUESTION 2: STRENGTHENING BERMUDA’S HEALTH CARE SYSTEM AND ADVANCING OUR PROGRESS TOWARD THE IMPLEMENTATION OF UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE COVERAGE (UHC) Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Yes, I am just looking for it in the S tatement here. The Minister mentioned the $60,000 for the home care allotted, and also went on further to mention that they were moving the $15.00 coverage or $15.00 rate per hour to 17. . . . I did not write it down; [$]17.33 I believe it was. Oh, no, [$]17.13. But at the end, it gives the reasoning that this was to ensure compliance with minimum wage legislation. So maybe it is just the Statement itself . [It] probably could be worded different ly. But to say that you are ensuring that you are in compliance —is that suggesting that we were not compliant ? Which I would assume, b ut I do not think that is what they are trying to say. I am trying to understand that because if you are non-compliant, then maybe we need to pay back people some money. Hon. Kim N. Wilson: Thank you. I thank the Honourable Member for that question. And it speaks to the core priority of the Government as it relates to ensuring that we are paying out minimum wage. And so notwithstanding that the benefit previously was at a $15 .00 reimbursement rate where the family were meant to pay the other portion, depending on what the caregiver charged, we are trying to be consistent in alignment with the minimum wage, which increased to [$]17.13. Thank you. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Yes, yes.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary or further question? Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: No, no, no, no. I think, yes.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay, that is good. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Third question.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThird question? Okay. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: I think it was just a wording . . . I just wanted to make sure that we were not falling out of compliance. [ Inaudible interjection and laughter ] QUESTION 3: STRENGTHENING BERMUDA’S HEALTH CARE SYSTEM AND ADVANCING OUR PROGRESS TOWARD THE …
Third question? Okay. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: I think it was just a wording . . . I just wanted to make sure that we were not falling out of compliance. [ Inaudible interjection and laughter ] QUESTION 3: STRENGTHENING BERMUDA’S HEALTH CARE SYSTEM AND ADVANCING OUR PROGRESS TOWARD THE IMPLEMENTATION OF UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE COVERAGE (UHC) Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: And my third question then. So, for this new coverage, can we expect, or is it required, to have legislation to make these changes? Hon. Kim N. Wilson: Mr. Speaker, with respect to that, these will be amendments to the health . . . I do not have it in front of me . One second. It will be amendments to the . . . T hey will be orders to the health insurance order. I do not have the quote (forgive me), but the order will be published today. It does not require parliamentary scrutiny, and it will be published following this afternoon's [sitting] so that we can have a commencement date, again, Mr. Speaker, for the 1st of January.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. No further questions ? [ No audible response.]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. The next S tatement this morning is for the Minister of [Public] Works [and Environment] . Minister, your Statement [was] in reference to the chickens. Yes . You have questions from Member s who would like to ask you about the chickens. The first is from MP …
Thank you, Minister. The next S tatement this morning is for the Minister of [Public] Works [and Environment] . Minister, your Statement [was] in reference to the chickens. Yes . You have questions from Member s who would like to ask you about the chickens. The first is from MP Tucker . M P Tucker , would you like to put your question? [ Laughter]
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberHere comes the chicken oil. [ Laughter]
Ms. Robin TuckerThank you, Mr. Speaker. I am very happy to see that the Government is making some movement on this, particularly since I have been bringing this up for three years . Hon. E. David Burt: Yes, you have.
Ms. Robin TuckerO kay? [ Desk thumping] QUESTION 1: BERMUDA’S GROWING FERAL CHICKEN POPULATION
Ms. Robin TuckerSo, my first question is : I would like to know who will be selecting the farmers, what the cri-teria is, and how many will be selected to be able to manage the feral chicken population on their farms? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 1636 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report …
So, my first question is : I would like to know who will be selecting the farmers, what the cri-teria is, and how many will be selected to be able to manage the feral chicken population on their farms? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 1636 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly The Speaker: I think the Statement was for the farmers who wanted to participate, they would just come in and participate. It was not that they were going to select farmers. I stand to be corrected, but that is the way I interpret it .
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThat if I own a farm and I have got a problem with a chicken, I just contact the department and the equipment is provided.
Ms. Robin TuckerOkay, thank you, Mr. Speaker. Are there any particular criteria, then, that are going to be required for the farmers to be able to par-ticipate?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister, I cannot help you with that part. Hon. Jache Adams: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to thank the Honourable Member for her question and certainly share her concerns and let her know that the Government is focused on addressing this issue, and we will continue to be. In …
Minister, I cannot help you with that part. Hon. Jache Adams: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to thank the Honourable Member for her question and certainly share her concerns and let her know that the Government is focused on addressing this issue, and we will continue to be. In relation to her specific question, there will be a process. That process is still sort of being tweaked, but there is a process and criteria whereby farmers will be vetted. But ideally, the Ministry is looking for as many to participate as we can.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSupplementary? SUPPLEMENTARIES
Ms. Robin TuckerYes, please, Mr. Speaker. Will the farmers have to report whatever chickens they have culled on their farms? And if I remember correctly, in the Statement it said that individuals can get a cage and then request that DENR [Department of Environment and Natural Resources] come and collect. Because the …
Yes, please, Mr. Speaker. Will the farmers have to report whatever chickens they have culled on their farms? And if I remember correctly, in the Statement it said that individuals can get a cage and then request that DENR [Department of Environment and Natural Resources] come and collect. Because the farmers are going to be allowed to cull their chickens, will they also be required to dispose of their own chickens, or will DENR actually assist with that as well? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Ho n. Jache Adams: Again, thank you, the Honourable Member , for her question. Yes, the farmers will be required to detail the chickens that they cull.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMm-hmm, okay. Supplementary?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerA second supplementary, yes. Ms. Robin Tucker: So, will there be specific, I guess, environmental guidelines required for the farmers to fol-low as they dispose of these animals on their proper-ties? Will there be sort of requirements on their proper-ties where they would have to sort of put these chickens …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister . Ho n. Jache Adams: The short answer is yes. As I said, as the Statement did mention, there will be criteria for those . . . Sorry. There will be training for those farmers before we start that process . And part of that training process will establish …
Minister . Ho n. Jache Adams: The short answer is yes. As I said, as the Statement did mention, there will be criteria for those . . . Sorry. There will be training for those farmers before we start that process . And part of that training process will establish the criteria that they must meet to appropriately address those chickens.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. QUESTION 2: BERMUDA’S GROWING FERAL CHICKEN POPULATION
Ms. Robin TuckerSo, my second question is : As it relates to public access for the chicken traps, is that a $100 rental, or is that a $100 purchase? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGo ahead. Ho n. Jache Adams: Purchase.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMm-hmm. Okay. Supplementary? SUPPLEMENTARIES
Ms. Robin TuckerYes, please, Mr. Speaker. So, for those people who may be financially strapped and cannot afford the luxury of a $100 trap, is there going to be any kind of subsidy or consideration for a subsidy to help people who cannot afford to spend $100 on a trap? Thank you, …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister . Ho n. Jache Adams: Mr. Speaker, I want to start by [saying] the $100 is at cost, so the Government is not earning any money from this particular initiative. The public is invited to participate in other ways to address the chickens . So, if they are unable …
Minister . Ho n. Jache Adams: Mr. Speaker, I want to start by [saying] the $100 is at cost, so the Government is not earning any money from this particular initiative. The public is invited to participate in other ways to address the chickens . So, if they are unable to afford the traps, there are other ways, like the mobile app, like notifying DENR on how to address this chicken. So, it is not
B ermuda House of Assembly solely focused on the traps. If they are unable to afford the traps, there are other ways to address the issue.
Ms. Robin TuckerYes, please, Mr. Speaker. So, my supplementary is : We know how the reporting through the hotline has gone. So, what assurances can the Minister give that making a report through the app will be improved over the hotline process that was previously in place? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Ho …
Yes, please, Mr. Speaker. So, my supplementary is : We know how the reporting through the hotline has gone. So, what assurances can the Minister give that making a report through the app will be improved over the hotline process that was previously in place? Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Ho n. Jache Adams: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As referred to in my S tatement, part of this addressing is also ramping up and adding additional re-sources to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to address this. So, it is not just the app, but also adding to the resources to address the issue. So that is what we are doing.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay . Third question? QUESTION 3: BERMUDA’S GROWING FERAL CHICKEN POPULATION
Ms. Robin TuckerYes, please, Mr. Speaker. My third question is : What steps will the Government take to deter the public from actually feeding the chickens and making the situations wor se? Nice requests are obviously not working. So, what is the Government going to do to deter people from feeding the …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister . Ho n. Jache Adams: There are a number of methods to address this particular issue. I think the fundamental . . . I appreciate the Honourable Member's reference in terms of “nice requests. ” I think part of the issue that we find is a lack of education …
Minister . Ho n. Jache Adams: There are a number of methods to address this particular issue. I think the fundamental . . . I appreciate the Honourable Member's reference in terms of “nice requests. ” I think part of the issue that we find is a lack of education in terms of the impact of feeding the pigeons and the chickens and stuff. So, there will be an added campaign nationwide or countrywide to address, to educate, and better inform the public on the implications of said behaviour.
Ms.
Robin TuckerDoes the Minister plan to introduce any legislation to, again, deter people, the public, from feeding the feral chickens and working against the very initiatives that they are trying to correct? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister . Ho n. Jache Adams: Sorry, can the Honourable Member rephrase the, or re —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerShe [is] trying to know if you are going to legislate anything to penalise people for feeding the chickens. Ho n. Jache Adams: That is not under consideration at the moment.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay, all right. Second supplementary ?
Ms. Robin TuckerYes, Mr. Speaker. Just for clarity, I am not suggesting locking people up. What I am saying is maybe introducing fines or—
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes, I would not think they would lock you up. No.
Ms.
Robin TuckerNo, it is not a question. Thank you. I just wanted to clarify that.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerNo, I did not expect you to be locked up over it. No, no, no, not at all. [ Laughter]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay . All right. Minister, MP Linda Smith would like to . . . O h, yes.
Ms. Linda SmithYes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. I was very happy to hear that there is going to be calming measures on Church Road, but I did not see that there was going to be any paving done on Church Road. So as part of the traffic calming measures, will paving—
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOh, that is on the next S tatement. That was on the next S tatement.
Ms. Linda SmithOh, I am sorry . I am sorry . Okay. 1638 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly The Speaker: Okay . You did not have anyone to—
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay . All right. Time ran out on us . Time ran out . Time ran out. Members, the time for Q uestion Period has run out, and also the time when the clock says that it is now 12:30. We are going to acknowledge first that we have finished …
Okay . All right. Time ran out on us . Time ran out . Time ran out. Members, the time for Q uestion Period has run out, and also the time when the clock says that it is now 12:30. We are going to acknowledge first that we have finished the Q uestion Period because the hour is up. And when we come back, we will move on to the next item on the O rder Paper. Before we move on to that item, I am going to suggest that the Premier take the floor and acknowledge what time of day it is. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Given the hour is 12: 30, I move that the Honourable House do now adjourn for lunch until 2:00 pm.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAre there any objections? None? We now . . . the House stands adjourned until 2:00 pm for lunch. [ Gavel] Proceedings suspended at 12:30 pm Proceedings resumed at 2:02 pm [ Hon. Dennis P. Lister, Jr., Speaker, in the Chair]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood afternoon, Members . I trust everyone had a nice lunch break. [ Gavel]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThe House is now in session. We will resume where we stopped off this morning. I believe this morning we were at that point where we were going to do the congratulatory and obituary speeches. Is there any Member who wishes to speak to that? Okay. I will set the …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. Minister Wilson, you have your three minutes. Hon. Kim N. Wilson: Thank you. Yes, Mr. Speaker. I rise to ask this Honourable House to send congratulations to a Somerset c ornerstone institution —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes. Hon. Kim N. Wilson: — that being Caesar ’s Pharmacy, who are celebrating 30 years of service, community im-pact, and Christian leadership in Bermuda. Caesar ’s Pharmacy, which is a beloved cornerstone of the Ber-muda community, proudly celebrated 30 years of faith, unwavering commitment to the people of Bermuda, …
Yes. Hon. Kim N. Wilson: — that being Caesar ’s Pharmacy, who are celebrating 30 years of service, community im-pact, and Christian leadership in Bermuda. Caesar ’s Pharmacy, which is a beloved cornerstone of the Ber-muda community, proudly celebrated 30 years of faith, unwavering commitment to the people of Bermuda, as well as the provision of pharmaceutical supplies. It is owned, as you know, Mr. Speaker, by . . . Rotimi and Sheryl Martins. S heryl is actually herself an accomplished pharmacist and Rotimi is an accomplished playwright and actor. And I would ask that we congratulate them on 30 years of Christian leadership, encouragement, and mentorship to persons in our community, particularly individuals who are seeking to serve within the health care environment. Over the years, Caesar ’s Pharmacy has become a nurturing ground for Bermuda's youth. Mr s. Martins has personally hired and mentored many young Bermudians, helping them to discover their pur-pose and pursue careers in health care and beyond. They are known for their warm spirit and unmatched customer service. That is both the owner as well as all the staff. And they have continued to shape a culture that makes customers feel seen, valued, and loved. And I would like to extend congratulations on 30 years of service to the community. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Does any other M ember wish to make a contribution? Minister Darrell. Hon. Owen Darrell: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to start by wishing congratulations to the Bermuda Pickleball Association. You would recall, Mr. Speaker, that a couple of years ago, pickleball was a …
Thank you. Does any other M ember wish to make a contribution? Minister Darrell. Hon. Owen Darrell: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to start by wishing congratulations to the Bermuda Pickleball Association. You would recall, Mr. Speaker, that a couple of years ago, pickleball was a hot topic in this community. And, you know, many thought that it was going to eradicate or negatively impact the sport of tennis. But I would like to congratulate them because they have done a very good job of incorporating pickleball into the overall landscape of the Bermuda sporting culture. The Bermuda Pickleball Association has since that time become an official national sports governing body. And I want to congratulate them for hosting their national championships last week at the WER Joell [Tennis] Stadium. I had about over 100 entries, Mr. Speaker. [There] was about 23 divisions and five days of outstanding pickleball. And I just want to congratulate some of the successful winners of that.
B ermuda House of Assembly And that is Mr. Gavin Manders and Mr. Mical Russell, as well as Ms. Emma Simmons and a few others for their talents that they displayed at the Bermuda National Pickleball Championship. And I would like to say all the best to them as they continue to spread this sport around this country. And I know that coming next year, there will be a very significant international pickleball tournament in Bermuda. Also, sticking with the theme of congratulations, Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate the Bermuda National Netball Team, who, if you see in today's daily, have been highlighted as the highest ever national ranking for our netball team. And you would have known that I did get up and congratulate them, I think, last sitt ing for the work that they did when they went on their last tournament, their regional tournament. And that's one of the, you know, from the National Sports Policy is that we do well regionally. And I would like to associate the whole H ouse with that congratulations. And finally, Mr. Speaker, I would like to highlight the Bermuda National Bowling Team, who has just concluded participation at the International Bowling Federation's World Bowling Championships in China. And I would like to call out the six -man team of Lamar Richardson, Day von Tucker, Dennis Joell , Michael Honore, David Maycock, and, of course, Mr. Anthony Hayward, because they competed proudly in the singles, the doubles, the trios, and the team event at these championships over in China. And we watched with joy as they competed and represented this country well. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. [ Timer chimes]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. Government Whip, Mr. Tyrrell. Mr . Neville S. Tyrrell: Good afternoon, Mr. Speaker and colleagues. Thank you. Mr. Speaker, I rise to ask for congratulations to be sent to a brother and sister duo, a sporting duo they are, in the name of, first of all, Rachael …
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberThey are cousins.
Mr. Neville S. TyrrellCousins, yes, but the family duo, yes, exactly. Let me say that Rachael just recently, who is also a golfer as well, a promising golfer, but also had the opportunity to sail with the Great Britain SailGP team. And she said that it was the thrill of a lifetime for …
Cousins, yes, but the family duo, yes, exactly. Let me say that Rachael just recently, who is also a golfer as well, a promising golfer, but also had the opportunity to sail with the Great Britain SailGP team. And she said that it was the thrill of a lifetime for her and something that she would like to do because her hero was [Ben] Ainslie , who we all know from the SailGP that came here earlier , some time ago. And as I said, she i s looking to be a promising sailor as well. And Benjamin Bet schart, who all of us should know, competed in the PGA just recently. Not as successful as he had hoped to be, but he is a very, very promising golfer and certainly can do with our support because he carries our flag. He carries our flag . . . h e carries the Bermuda flag with him. He is away in school and he participates in many of the Eastern Seaboard golf tournaments. So, I certainly want to encourage them. And as I said, I ask that congratulations be sent to them. And I want to say that Benjamin's father is actually my neighbour and constituent, and he has had a very strong hand in bringing up Benjamin. So, I would like congratulations to be sent to him just so that they can be encouraged. Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAny other Member? MP DeCouto.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. First of all, I would like to be associated with the comments regarding the Bet schart ’s, and I will leave it at that because the Member spoke so well. I would also like to send the House's congratulations to Noah D a Silva, Bermuda's …
Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. First of all, I would like to be associated with the comments regarding the Bet schart ’s, and I will leave it at that because the Member spoke so well. I would also like to send the House's congratulations to Noah D a Silva, Bermuda's most recent Rhodes Scholar. And if you took some time to check it out, first of all, he is a scientist, so I have a lot of time for that, being officially a scientist myself. And he studied earth science and he has worked on biodiversity and conservation efforts in Bermuda, and he continues to study in that area. And I certainly look forward to seeing what he achieves, and hopefully one day we will have him back here working on those topics for the benefit of Ber-muda. I would also like to send condolences [to the family] on the passing of Max Quin, a well- known lawyer in Bermuda. He founded his own firm twice. He was an important contributor to bringing international busi-ness to our shores. [ Inaudible interjections]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoAnd associate the M ember there, please. Associate the whole House, please, Mr. Speaker, [regarding] Mr. Quin. And I want to send condolences to Mr. Quin's wife, [Annie] , and the rest of his family. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Any other M ember wish to . . . MP Pearman. You have your three minutes. Mr . Scott Pearman: Thank you. The [Member] just before me commented on the passing of Max Quin, and I will return to that just in a moment. Before I do, and …
Thank you. Any other M ember wish to . . . MP Pearman. You have your three minutes. Mr . Scott Pearman: Thank you. The [Member] just before me commented on the passing of Max Quin, and I will return to that just in a moment. Before I do, and with association from the Honourable and Learned Minister for Health, I would like to note the passing of Kehinde George with great sadness, as she was a personal friend and someone 1640 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly who I worked both alongside and against in commercial litigation. Mr. Speaker, I would note that she went well before her time, and this past April she was elected as the president of the Bermuda Bar Council. With your leave, I would just read her partner Rod Attride- Stirling's comments, quote, "B esides being a world- class insolvency specialist of the top drawer and fantastic colleague, Kehinde was a person of great kindness, integrity, and just a genuinely good person. ” I would also add the remark of the former Chief Justice, Ian Ka waley, who called her, quote, “ a wonderful colleague, unobtrusively bright, diligent and thought-ful—serious but also able to be funny, a great team player, ethical and professional to a fault . A great insolvency lawyer. Her contribution to the Commercial Litigation Bar was immense and will not be forgotten. ” And as I say, I would add my own personal view, which is that she always had a smile on her face. She was a barrister of immense talent and compassion and kind. And I will conclude just on the former Chief Justice Kawaley’s words, quote, “She has gone too soon and will be deeply missed but fondly remembered. ” And I understand that, well, I'll associate the whole House, if I may take that liberty, given the number of hands behind me that have been asked to be associated. And I won't trespass too much on Max Quin, given that MP Doug DeCouto has just commented. But I think it is important to recognise what a legal luminary he too was. He was descended from the Lord Chief Justice of Ireland, both he and his brother , Charlie Quin. Charlie Quin headed south down to the Cayman [Islands] , where he founded the firm Quin & Hampson, and Max came to Bermuda, where we now have Wake-field Quin. They were immensely hardworking lawyers. And again, with your leave, Mr. Speaker, I will just re-peat the words that Nick Hoskins said about him, “ Max was one of life's great men and will be incredibly missed. He was a true believer in Bermuda as a juris-diction and worked tirelessly over decades to attract in-ternational business to these shores. He was humorous and approachable. What I always found striking, ” (This is Mr. Hoskins commenting .) “W hat I always found striking was his ability to remember names of people he had not seen for years. ” He is survived by his wife, Annie, his beloved daughter Carolyn . . . Catherine rather, excuse me, and his two grandchildren. His funeral is next Thursday for those who wish to attend. And as a personal side, his nephew , Nick, was a pupil of mine when I was practicing in London. And I know that Nick is taking the family legacy down in the Cayman [Islands] onwards and upwards. So, thank you, Mr. Speaker, for those brief words. [ Timer chimes]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerDoes any other Member wish to make a contribution at this time? MP Lister. Mr . Dennis Lister III: Good afternoon, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon to the listening audience. I just want to first associate myself with the comments from Minister Wilson in regard to Caesar ’s Pharmacy and congratulate …
Does any other Member wish to make a contribution at this time? MP Lister. Mr . Dennis Lister III: Good afternoon, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon to the listening audience. I just want to first associate myself with the comments from Minister Wilson in regard to Caesar ’s Pharmacy and congratulate them on their 30th anniversary. As a resident of Somerset, I have known for the last several years that whenever you need something, you run to Caesar ’s, whether it be for pharmaceutical, medical, or even, as they expanded to now, they have [a ]t oy store and other small things that you can buy there. So , I want to congratulate them on the 30 years and hope that they will have another 30 years or more to come. Also, Mr. Speaker, and I will declare my interest, as these are two cousins of mine, I would like to send congratulations to, first of all, cousin Jalen Currin , who was recently recognised with rookie of the year in culinary for 2025 at Hamilton Princess, and then his sister, Mia Currin , she was awarded the employee of the year 2025 at Cambridge Beaches. So, I want to say to both my cousins, congratulations on this and continue on the good work you are doing in your respective disciplines and that you guys will continue on and do yourselves proud. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Any other M ember? MP Swan.
Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. SwanThank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I express condolences to the Astwood family from Ferry Reach in St. George’s on the passing of Mrs. Cleta Astwood the beloved wife of my good friend, Mr. Qu intin Astwood, and will be sorely missed by her …
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I express condolences to the Astwood family from Ferry Reach in St. George’s on the passing of Mrs. Cleta Astwood the beloved wife of my good friend, Mr. Qu intin Astwood, and will be sorely missed by her children, Karmeta and Kelly, and grandchildren as well. Mr. Speaker, I would like to be associated with the congratulatory remarks offered by the G overnment Whip, Brother Tyrrell, on behalf of the Bet schart family, who I have been involved with that family through golf, coaching those young children. He mentioned Benjamin. He mentioned Rachael , who is the sailor, and they are first cousins. And Oliver, who is the protégé who has played at age 17 in two Bermuda championships . He has made me very proud. He is coached today by a person I played with at age 17 and kept in touch with, David Ogr in, whose only win on the PGA Tour was to defeat Tiger Woods. We met when we were 17 and kept in touch. And I was pleased to make that contact for him to move forward. But their grandfather, Leo Betschart, was the honorary Swiss C onsul and the
B ermuda House of Assembly head chef at Belmont [Hills] . So, the connection goes back to 1974. And finally, Mr. Speaker, I would like to have recognition sent and recorded in this H ouse, and I appreciate the fact that you mentioned Mr. Scott Cranfield's presence in the G allery today. Mr. Scott Cranfield is the Master Golf Coach who coaches the type of player who visited Bermuda two weeks ago to play in the Bermuda Championship. And we spent some time over the last 36 hours getting to know each other. And just last night, as relationships go, we jointly made a . . . sent a note to former European Number One, Ronan Rafferty, and they reconnected. He used to coach him, and they were in the television booth together. Relationships are the key to tourism. And certainly, his interest in Bermuda from November to March to bring his clients to Bermuda has not gone unnoticed. And he has certainly touched my heart with not only his knowledge of golf, but also the knowledge of the body and how the skeleton ties into the muscles and ties into the brain. And I think his interest in Bermuda would serve us well. I just want to say thank you to you, Mr. Speaker, for the recognition of him this morning. [ Timer chimes]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. MP Famous, would you like your three minutes?
Mr. Christopher FamousUnfortunately, I have a very long list of condolences. Ms. [Cecilene] “ Tiny” Dill; Ms. Deanna Wade; Mr. Sidney Mason; Ms. Patricia [Deane-] Gray, she's in the ballet, from the ballet persons ; Mr. Gerald F ubler of Somerset ; Mr. John Hill ; Mr. Kenneth Boyles of Devonshire; Ms. …
Unfortunately, I have a very long list of condolences. Ms. [Cecilene] “ Tiny” Dill; Ms. Deanna Wade; Mr. Sidney Mason; Ms. Patricia [Deane-] Gray, she's in the ballet, from the ballet persons ; Mr. Gerald F ubler of Somerset ; Mr. John Hill ; Mr. Kenneth Boyles of Devonshire; Ms. Sonia Grant of Devonshire; and Ms. Glenda Gilbert of Smith's Parish. Mr. Speaker, I also would like to send congratulations to the sister party of the Progressive Labour Party, the S t. Lucia Labour Party, who won their election earlier this week, 16 out of 17 seats. They led to the burial of the United Workers' Party [UWP] . And most of all, Mr. Speaker, I also want to give congratulations to the yeomen work of the former Prime Minister of St. Vincent and Grenadines, Hon. Ralph Gonsalves . Although he lost his election, he retained his seat. But more importantly, Mr. Speaker, he i s someone who has been a champion of CARICOM, a champion of regional integration, and most of all, a champion of Caribbean people. We are Atlantic Carib-bean people. But he has been one of our stalwarts. So , I just want to . . . I didn’t want the day to go without us saying congratulations to him for his 25 years of being a Prime Minister, longest -serving Prime Minister in the region. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Rev. Dr. Emilygail A. DillThank you. Mr. Speaker, and good afternoon. I'd just like to start by, first of all, associating myself with the comments that were made by the Hon-ourable Kim Wilson on behalf of Caesar ’s Pharmacy as they celebrate 30 years of service in the Sandys community. I would like to …
Thank you. Mr. Speaker, and good afternoon. I'd just like to start by, first of all, associating myself with the comments that were made by the Hon-ourable Kim Wilson on behalf of Caesar ’s Pharmacy as they celebrate 30 years of service in the Sandys community. I would like to highlight, in addition to the pharmaceutical and other ways in which they minister in our community, I would like to also congratulate them and celebrate the way that Mrs. Martins has mentored young people and provided opportunities for young individuals going into the pharmaceutical field to be able to train at her establishment. So, we congratulate them and wish them many more years of success in that field. I would also like to congratulate Mr. Daniel Hill, who was recently celebrated by a committee. Mr. Hill is an educator, an outstanding vocal instructor, and one who has mentored countless individuals over the years, who a few weeks ago was celebrated by a committee led by 91- year-old, Mrs. Natalie Morris, who saw the need to highlight the contribution Mr. Hill had made over the years. And it was a wonderful evening of celebration that included students who he had taught over the years and ended with a choral celebration of all of the participants. And it was really a wonderful, wonder-ful event. And we want to thank Mrs. Morris and congratulate Mr. Hill for the work that he does. I would also like to congratulate the St. John AME Church family. St. John, who is the mother church of African Methodism, celebrated 160 years this past week. And they had a wonderful celebration where they honoured the seven pastors who are still living (who are Bermudians ) who had served that congregation. And it was a wonderful event. Three of those pastors rose to the role of presiding elder of the AME Church. And that would be Reverend Conway Simmons, Reverend Betty Furbert -Woolridge, and Reverend Howard Dil l. The other pastors were Reverend Charles Smith, Reverend Ruth Van Lowe Smith, Reverend Milton Burgess, and Reverend D eyone Douglas. So, we celebrate the mother church of African Methodism and pray that God will continue to use them in this community. On a sadder note, I'd like to offer — [ Timer chimes]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes. Okay. Any other M ember care to make a contribution? 1642 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly None? Premier . Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I do know that the Honourable Member from constituency 11 did mention the late …
Yes. Okay. Any other M ember care to make a contribution? 1642 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly None? Premier . Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I do know that the Honourable Member from constituency 11 did mention the late former deputy mayor and counsellor and alderman for the City of Hamilton, Ms. Sonia Grant. I wasn't here two weeks ago. I'm uncertain if that was done. [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: Was it done?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerTwo weeks ago? Hon. E. David Burt: Yes.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerNo, no. [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: Okay. Well, I do want to ask that a letter of condolence be sent to the family of the late former deputy mayor and counsellor and alderman of the City of Hamilton, Ms. Sonia [P.E.] Grant, who was mentioned by the …
No, no. [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: Okay. Well, I do want to ask that a letter of condolence be sent to the family of the late former deputy mayor and counsellor and alderman of the City of Hamilton, Ms. Sonia [P.E.] Grant, who was mentioned by the Honourable Member from constituency 11. I would also like to ask, I'm not sure if it was done —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerI'm not sure we associated the whole House but associate the whole House. Hon. E. David Burt: I will absolutely associate the whole H ouse for Ms. Grant. Absolutely, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in addition to that, I would like to ask that a letter of condolence be sent to …
I'm not sure we associated the whole House but associate the whole House. Hon. E. David Burt: I will absolutely associate the whole H ouse for Ms. Grant. Absolutely, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in addition to that, I would like to ask that a letter of condolence be sent to [the family of] someone who, over my time as leader of the Bermuda Progressive Labour Party, I have gotten to know very well. Unfortunately, while I was travelling, I was contacted by a member of this young lady's family, who I went to school with and university with. The lady who is no longer with us, who has passed, is none other than Ms. Denise Brown- Trew, with many other names that I will get. But she unfortunat ely did pass away last week, Tuesday. And I will certainly associate all Members of this side of the House. Ms. [Brown- ]Trew was without question a stalwart. The most beautiful picture of her[s] was the last one that she took a couple of weeks ago with the Min-ister . . . or at an event which was hosted by the Minister of Tourism and Transport, Culture and Sport, on the unveiling of the new ferries. But whenever there was a Progressive Labour Party event, Ms. Denise Brown-Trew was always there. Of course, late from Trew Cy-cles and many different items inside of the community. An entrepreneur, a woman of fashion, a woman of kindness, and someone who is well -known to Member s on this side. Always at, of course, whether it's my tea par-ties, whether it's the Deputy Premier's tea parties, whether it's our various events, whether it's Founder's Day, whatever it was, Ms. [Brown -]Trew could always be found there. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes. Hon. E. David Burt: And we extend condolences to her family. On a final note, Mr. Speaker, I would like to send a note of congratulations, if I could, for a longstanding and long- serving public officer who is no longer a public officer after 42 years of service inside of the government of Bermuda. And that is none other than Ms. Terry Ann Smith, nee Burgess, who is well-known to many of us, who did work inside of the De-partment of H M Customs for 40 years. She has officially retired and left the public service. [ Timer chimes] Hon. E. David Burt: I'd like to ask that the Honourable House do send a letter of congratulations. I was fortunate to attend her retirement celebration. Of course, you know she is very close to me, Mr. Speaker, and I would ask the House to be associated with those remarks as well. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Mr. Premier. Does any other Member . . . MP Tucker.
Ms. Robin TuckerThank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to express condolences. Well, first of all, I would like to be associated with the condolences in relation to Mrs. Denise [Brown -]Trim [sic]. [ Inaudible interjections]
Ms. Robin TuckerYes. I always admired her sharp fashion sense. Yes, a very nice lady. I have had the opportunity to have a few conversations with her. I would also like to express condolences to the Summer Haven family and to the family of Mr. [Thomas] Frederick “Blue” Young. I have known …
Yes. I always admired her sharp fashion sense. Yes, a very nice lady. I have had the opportunity to have a few conversations with her. I would also like to express condolences to the Summer Haven family and to the family of Mr. [Thomas] Frederick “Blue” Young. I have known him for a very long time, from the time that he used to work down at East Broadway, and I would ride up on my bike and, you know, have a few little chats with him. So, I would also like to express congratulations to the Smith’ s Parish Council, who— [ Inaudible interjection and laughter ]
B ermuda House of Assembly Ms. Robin Tucker: —Minister Darrell, myself, and Anthony Richardson, who was the MP predecessor in constituency 7, we were all in attendance. And I just would like, as I said, to express congratulations to them. They put on a fantastic S enior's Tea last weekend. They had representatives from Age Concern, Moongate Insurance, and as well as entertainment by Mr. Paul Smith, who is a pan nist. He played his steel pan and was absolutely fantastic. We even had a bit of entertainment by, more entertainment, by a special couple who got up and started dancing. So, that was also . . . it was just a very, very nice event. [ Inaudible interjections and laughter ]
Ms.
Robin TuckerSo, okay, I will call it. Roddy Burchall and his wife got up and did a dance at the event. It was very, very nice. So, again, I just want to thank the Smith ’s Parish Council, even for inviting me to attend. It was lovely. Thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYou are welcome. Any other Member wish to make a contribution at this time? Any other? There are none. Before we move on, I would just like to add my remarks to some of the expressions this afternoon. Let's start with the condolences. I would like to be associated with …
You are welcome. Any other Member wish to make a contribution at this time? Any other? There are none. Before we move on, I would just like to add my remarks to some of the expressions this afternoon. Let's start with the condolences. I would like to be associated with condolences for Sonia Grant, her family, to the Trew family, and to the F ubler family, in the passing of Gerald Fubler in Somerset. And congratulations to, of course, Caesar ’s Pharmacy . All of us from the West End know the contribution that Caesar ’s has made to the community, not only from the business side of providing for the medical and pharmacy needs, but also just from being a great community partner. And to Danny Hill, I have known Danny personally for a lot of years. It was nice to see he was being recognised like that recently. And to both Mia and Jalen Currin , on their recognition that was expressed earlier by MP Lister. With those remarks, we will move on. MATTERS OF PRIVILEGE
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are none. PERSONAL EXPLANATIONS
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are none. NOTICE OF MOTIONS FOR THE ADJOURNMENT OF THE HOUSE ON MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are none. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS GOVERNMENT BILLS
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are three . . . four G overnment Bills to be introduced today. Four G overnment Bills to be introduced today. Premier . BILLS FIRST READINGS LAND VALUATION AND TAX AMENDMENT ACT 2025 BERMUDA MONETARY AUTHORITY AMENDMENT ACT 2025 BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP AMENDMENT ACT 2025 INSURANCE AMENDMENT ( NO. 2 …
There are three . . . four G overnment Bills to be introduced today. Four G overnment Bills to be introduced today. Premier . BILLS FIRST READINGS LAND VALUATION AND TAX AMENDMENT ACT 2025 BERMUDA MONETARY AUTHORITY AMENDMENT ACT 2025 BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP AMENDMENT ACT 2025 INSURANCE AMENDMENT ( NO. 2 ) ACT 2025 Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I am introducing the following Bills for their first readings so they may be placed in the Order Paper for the next day of meeting: t he Land Valuation and Tax Amendment Act 2025; t he Bermuda Monetary Authority Amendment Act 2025; t he Beneficial Ownership Amendment Act 2025; and the Insur-ance Amendment ( No. 2) Act 2025.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. There are no other Bills. OPPOSITION BILLS
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are none. PRIVATE MEMBERS’ BILLS
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are none. NOTICE OF MOTIONS
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThere are none. ORDERS OF THE DAY
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThe first item this morning, this afternoon I should say, is the second reading of the Corpo-rate Income Tax Amendment (No. 2) Act 2025, in the 1644 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly name of the Junior Minister of Finance who will bring the matter. …
The first item this morning, this afternoon I should say, is the second reading of the Corpo-rate Income Tax Amendment (No. 2) Act 2025, in the 1644 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly name of the Junior Minister of Finance who will bring the matter. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move that the B ill entitled the Corporate Income Tax Amendment ( No. 2) Act 2025 be now read the second time.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAre there any objections? There are none. Continue. BILL SECOND READING CORPORATE INCOME TAX AMENDMENT (NO. 2 ) ACT 2025 Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honour and privilege on behalf of the Government to rise this afternoon in this H onourable House to debate the …
Are there any objections? There are none. Continue. BILL SECOND READING CORPORATE INCOME TAX AMENDMENT (NO. 2 ) ACT 2025 Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honour and privilege on behalf of the Government to rise this afternoon in this H onourable House to debate the Bill entitled Corporate Income Tax Amendment ( No. 2)Act 2025. Mr. Speaker, this Bill proposes amendments to the Corporate Income Tax Act 2023 ( CIT Act ) to clarify certain provisions, resolve interpretive issues that have risen, and enhance the overall alignment of the legisla-tion with international standards and administrative best practi ces. Mr. Speaker, by way of background, I would note that the Corporate Income Tax [Act] 2023 was enacted in December 2023, implementing a 15 per cent corporate income tax in a manner designed to be consistent with the OECD's Pillar Two Global Minimum Tax Model Rules, and to incorporate substantive concepts from these rules and related guidance. The OECD releases administrative guidance as part of a continuous programme in addressing mat-ters that have emerged amongst OECD Inclusive Framework members, which require clarification or amplification to the commentary to the Pillar Two Model Rules. When the OECD releases administrative guidance, any changes are reviewed to determine whether amendments to Bermuda’s legislation are required. A first set of amendments to the Corporate Income Tax Act 2023, which focused on penalty provi-sions, was included in an earlier amendment [Act], which was passed in April 2025, and further adminis-trative regulations became operative in June 2025. This proposed second amendment [Act] is a result of further changes that are required to the Corporate Income Tax [Act] 2023 to reflect the OECD's Pillar Two Global Minimum Tax Model R ules, including related guidance. Mr. Speaker, the Corporate Income Tax Agency [CITA] held a public consultation on the proposed amendments to the Act in September 2025, which included an illustrative Bill. The feedback received during the consultation process has been thoroughly reviewed and thoughtfully considered. Where appropriate, revisions have been incorporated into the legislation to address the concerns and suggestions raised by stakeholders. This approach ensures that legislation is both practical in its application and reflec-tive of the input from those it will affect. Mr. Speaker, the proposed amendments relate to the following matters and were put forward for con-sideration : •shock losses; •foreign tax credits; •excluded entities; •allocation of adjusted [creditable] foreign taxes; •fiscal year mismatches; •adjustments to financial accounting net incomeor loss (including pension expense adjust-ments and a reciprocal shipping exemption); •disregard for taxable temporary differences; •translation of non- USD denominated tax balances; •hedging provisions; •additional definitions, and •other minor corrections. Mr. Speaker, in addition to the substantive amendments previously outlined, there is a consequential amendment to the Corporate Income Tax [Agency] Act for the agency to be granted additional responsibil-ities for calculating and administering the application, award, and refund of any tax credits, including under and in connection with the proposed Tax Credit s Act 2025, and such other functions or duties as may be conferred on or delegated to the agency. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I wish to emphasise that the Government remains confident that the Corporate Income Tax Framework reinforces Bermuda's steadfast commitment to global compliance and trans-parency, while preserving the I sland's strong and respected international standing. The progress made to date has been greatly supported by the invaluable con-tribution of the International Tax Working Group, whose continued expertise and dedication remain central to this important initi ative. I would like to sincerely thank everyone in the Ministry of Finance and CIT A, along with our dedicated advisors, for the time, effort, and expertise they have contributed to this work. I also extend my appreciation to the drafting team at the Attorney General’s Chambers for their valuable support through this process. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Junior Minister. Does any other Member . . . Shadow Minister of Finance, MP DeCouto, you have the floor.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYes, thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the [Junior] Minister for that introduction. Clearly, we definitely support this Bill. It is important that CIT works and works properly, and we are B ermuda House of Assembly very supportive, like the g overnment , of international business, for the …
Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the [Junior] Minister for that introduction. Clearly, we definitely support this Bill. It is important that CIT works and works properly, and we are
B ermuda House of Assembly very supportive, like the g overnment , of international business, for the benefits it brings to Bermuda and Bermudians, its jobs, its economic contributions, and so to have everything operating smoothly with respect to these Bills, the CIT , and being in alignment with the global standards is very important. There is sort of a theme here, though, that I think we might get into later today, but there are a lot of amendments in this Bill. Eleven pages of substantive changes. Almost half of them are for the OECD alignment, and it is just important, I think, that we note that we are often going to be, in my opinion, reacting and adjusting to track what is going on in the OECD. And I think that is something we in this C hamber ought to be alive to, Mr. Speaker. This certainly is not going to be static. As we know, the OECD and the United States are busy doing something called “ side-by-side negotiations, ” and I am not going to really get into that. It is pretty technical as well. But I think the key is that there is a lot of complexity wrapped up into this stuff, and it merits close, careful attention. Other than that, Mr. Speaker, I think we will have some questions in C ommittee on some of the specific items. But like I said, we do support and [are] glad to see the progress in getting this sorted out in consul-tation with the stakeholders. Thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Does any other Member wish to make a contribution? MP Pearman. Mr . Scott Pearman: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My interests are declared on the parliamentary website, but I would just like to say that Conyers, to-gether with many, many others on the Island, has been involved in …
Thank you. Does any other Member wish to make a contribution? MP Pearman. Mr . Scott Pearman: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My interests are declared on the parliamentary website, but I would just like to say that Conyers, to-gether with many, many others on the Island, has been involved in this legislation. Not me personally, but Co-nyers, and I would like to just declare that for the record. I thank the Honourable Junior Minister, and indeed, I thank the Shadow Minister for the presentation that has just been given. I also thank all of those involved for the complicated work, including the Tax Working Group and the Ministry of Finance and the At-torney General’s Chambers , and all the technical officers. Since the principal Act, the CIT, Corporate Income Tax Act [2023] , which this Honourable House passed in December 2023, everyone should welcome the con-siderable progress that has been made. This is not easy. This is, in fact, very, very complicated. And I remind this Honourable House that both sides of this House supported the original Bill when it came through this House in December 2023. Simply put, Mr. Speaker, we all want this to work. But we want this to work in a context that is not always rooting for Bermuda. We here are rooting for the I sland, but not everyone else is rooting for the Island. And as I said, it's complicated. As the Honourable Shadow Minister of Finance has mentioned, the O pposition is supportive of this amending Act. And we very much hope, more specifically, that the revenue generated by the CIT, the Cor-porate Income Tax, will have any surplus ring- fenced in order to pay down our stifling debt, in order to address our crumbling infrastructure, and in order to provide targeted social support. As I think all of us recognise, or should recognise, the road ahead does remain an uncertain one. And the global picture, as was alluded to by MP DeCouto , is constantly shifting. And not all the massive global players agree with each other about where that road should take us and how it should bend and turn. Most importantly, this does present a golden opportunity for our Island. And it is an opportunity that obviously should not be squandered. And we suggest that it should be in fact seized with early repayment of our debt, which I remind this Honourable House is over $3 billion. Why do I say that? Why do we say that? Because debt repayments cost Bermuda something in the region of $125 million each and every year. And if we can pay down our debt, that $125 million, which is otherwise going off to lenders overseas, could be redeployed elsewhere for the benefit of Bermuda and to help Bermudians. Additionally, we are going to have some $600 million of debt repayable in around January 2027, with a further payment of around $450 million due in January 2029. And if we do not use the anticipated surpluses from this to pay down that debt, what will we do when those come due? There is also, as many appreciate, considerable global interest rate uncertainty, which could impact upon further borrowing or further restructuring. And then, as I said, there is the general uncertainty of the terrain on which corporate income tax will proceed. We do not know what will happen with the global minimum tax. We note that the tune from our very large neighbour to the west is not the same as the tune that it was previously, given the change in leadership. And likewise, there is uncertainty here on our Island. There are local risks. Obviously, we always have jurisdictional arbitrage where other international offshore financial cen-tres are competing for the business, so there is always flight risk. There's also possibly an argument that there is not an equality of arms. Picture, if you will, Mr. Speaker, a boxing match between the US and London international tax lawyers and tax accountants on the one hand, and a small jurisdiction’s tax collection agency on the other. It is not exactly a fair fight, and it is reminiscent of that Robin Hood cartoon where the tax collector is coming along on his little carriage to be surrounded by Robin Hood and his merry men. There is also a risk of business losses, and that is not doom and gloom. That's reality. We saw that in the California fires. We saw that in the devastation in Jamaica to the south with the most recent hurricane. 1646 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly And there is a risk to the insurance industry when those sorts of massive catastrophic events happen. And so , we must be responsible in respect of this golden oppor-tunity . And it would be quite wrong to promise any potential surplus dollar here, here, and here all at the same time. And if someone says it's simple, please beware because it is not. As I said, it is complicated, and I think that is recognised on both sides of the Honourable House. We must also recognise that this golden opportunity may not last. And the American Bankruptcy Institute tells us in the US many lottery winners end up bankrupt. Conservative estimates are actually 30 per cent of lottery winners end up bankrupt. Less conservative estimates by the same institute put it as high as 70 per cent. So, either way, many lottery winners go bankrupt. And let's not take this money to the casino. Let's make sure we take this money to the bank. Let's keep this at the CITA. Let's ring- fence it, debt repayment, infrastructure renewal, targeted social support, so that if contrary to our best hopes, things do go wrong, w e will have banked this golden opportunity. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. MP Swan, would you like to make a contribution?
Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. SwanYes, Mr. Speaker. Just to say that if ever there was an example of collaboration, cooperation in the best interest of Ber-muda, I think this example where Bermuda, a small ju-risdiction, a leader in the regulatory regime that makes it possible for larger companies to want to be in this …
Yes, Mr. Speaker. Just to say that if ever there was an example of collaboration, cooperation in the best interest of Ber-muda, I think this example where Bermuda, a small ju-risdiction, a leader in the regulatory regime that makes it possible for larger companies to want to be in this country doing business, this is certainly an example. I just had to come to my feet listening ever so briefly to persons who from the other side offered support to re-mind them that the prudence of this PLP Government has made it possible, notwithstanding any potential windfalls that might come our way, to have a balanced budget to be able to do just what the Shadow Minister was urging us to do. I believe the Finance Minister , the Premier, has already made a pledge to start paying down the debt. And I think the prudence that this Government has demonstrated means that the opportunity to consider what is best for any potential windfalls would be put in the best use for Bermuda, of which paying down the debt has already been identified as a major thing for this country. Because I, as one who in this House 12 years ago, during another time when I sat in the House, may have written articles about how important it is to pay down on the debt. And there were administrations in between the last three that I have been a part of where the debt grew exponentially. And people found all types of reasons why they increased the debt by a substantive amount of money during their tenure. This Government, notwithstanding a global pandemic . . . which the PLP did not create, by the way , but was created by virtue of our detractors the past global recession until history can prove that that argument was a folly. That this PLP Government, after navigating this country past the global pandemic in 2020 that everybody seems to forget, and the uncer-tainty that went with that when persons from overseas looked at the regulatory regime that we put in place to navigate ourselves through that. Notwithstanding the divisions that occurred, and some of them were very real because not everybody bought into the type of de-cisions that had to be made to navigate us to where we are today. I think and I feel wholeheartedly that with the bipartisanism that has taken place to allow us to be in a good position to deal , and will be necessary going forward to deal , with the uncertainty , with some of those, even the motherland is our competitor when it comes to international business . And our friends in America sometimes can be our competitors when it comes to business that we do as they have an oppor-tunity to sit around that big OECD table and look down there. But I just have to, as a little country boy that spent a little time down south in Alabama, I went to school and got educated in the wiregrass . I often remind my fellow friends down there in Mississippi, Loui-siana, and northern Florida, northwest Florida, that when those hurricanes hit you, my friends, it is this tiny jurisdiction that punches above its weight. And companies in this country that we appreciate that contribute to the charities that exist in this country, it's this small country that comes to the rescue of many people around the globe during difficult times. And the collaboration that the O pposition spoke of, I just want to underscore by saying that the commitment to pay down the debt is something that is already entrained by this PLP Government because [a] promise [was] made that we would concentrate on a balanced budget, [a] promise delivered in that regard, and so we are in a position, notwithstanding any other windfalls that we receive, to do exactly what persons are trying to espouse and have others believe that we are not interested in. Thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, MP. Does any other Member wish to make a contribution at this time? Opposition L eader. Hon. Robert King: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Like my colleague here said earlier, there are significant amounts of monies that are owed on our na-tional debt —2027, $604 million; 2029, $449 [million …
Thank you, MP. Does any other Member wish to make a contribution at this time? Opposition L eader. Hon. Robert King: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Like my colleague here said earlier, there are significant amounts of monies that are owed on our na-tional debt —2027, $604 million; 2029, $449 [million ]; 2030, $675 million; $ 890 [million] in 2032; 2050, $675 [million ]. [ Inaudible interjections]
B ermuda House of Assembly Hon. Robert King: And when you a re looking at our debt servicing ratio, it remains about 270 per cent . So, we are talking about the corporate income tax as basically the silver bullet that's going to go ahead and fix the economy, — [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. Robert King: —but it is predicated on us having good years, free of catastrophes (as a friend from the other side has said) but these things are outside of our control. This debt and the ability to reduce it is within our control, and we must be prudent with the public's money to make sure that we spend it properly. Thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Opposition Leader . Does any other Member . . . Does any other Member . . . [Crosstalk ]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOpposition Whip. Members ! Member s! Opposition W hip has the floor. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Yes, good afternoon, team, and, Mr. Speaker , and to the public. I think what I wanted to concentrate in on is this balancing act that we have to find kind of feels like …
Opposition Whip. Members ! Member s! Opposition W hip has the floor. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Yes, good afternoon, team, and, Mr. Speaker , and to the public. I think what I wanted to concentrate in on is this balancing act that we have to find kind of feels like we are on pins and needles all the time. And I first want to congratulate and just thank . . . Now, this has been something that has been ongoing through several governments working with the OECD, and I want to con-gratulate the F inance team. You know, we have got tax lawyers, attorneys who are involved with this. This is not an easy task. Having been through the battle many times back in 2013 and 2014 with the OECD and the challenges that I believe that they have with us and what we have with them, quite frankly, I feel like we are continually being unfairly regarded. We came up with a system that has surpassed or superseded their econ-omy, and we a re under attack, it seems, from every side we can possibly think of . Not just OECD . The UK, you name it. Everybody wants our lunch And so, I just want to congratulate the team for the work that they have done, the fine work that is being done and continues to be done, because at the end of the day, this is just the beginning, quite frankly . And we know that the goalposts will continue to be moved. I am very much concerned as we move forward, as the side-by-side agreement is struck through the US and the OECD, how that is going to affect us as a jurisdiction as well. And the reason I say that is because we are an Overseas Territory. We are run by British law, yet our economy is tied to the US. And so, we are a true hybrid that has been carefully manoeuvred in a very fine space for the economic prowess of Bermudians and Bermuda. And so, I want to commend all the governments before and this Government at this point in time for the manoeuvring that is being done to keep us in that safe space. It's not going to be easy. And we will have opportunity to talk about the local economy and the like. But for this particular B ill, it is important that we recognise what exactly is going on. And it is not a fair playing field. And we are continuously being squeezed into a position where it is not favourable for a jurisdiction like Bermuda. And so, the shadows that continue to be shrouded upon a jurisdiction like Bermuda are unfair. I recall begging Prime Minister Cameron at the time, Why aren't you defending us in this position? Couldn't find any defence anywhere. Only to be called and carted into the office, to be ridiculed. Well, I wasn't accepting it. And you know former Honourable Member [Bob] Richards, he was not taking it. So, you know, it is important that Bermuda understands what is attempted to be done here. It is im-portant that Bermuda understands that as an Opposition, we are in full support of the Government and the manoeuvres and the effort that is being put forward to keep us in this interesting space. So, more changes are coming, as I have mentioned. And I am seriously concerned about where that is going to position us. Mr. Speaker, you and I have had many discussions about O verseas Territories, and even amongst the Overseas Territories and others, how we are seen different. How we are actually seen different. And that concerns me. That concerns me as we go forward. And there is a time and place for everything, and I believe that the Premier, in his own prowess, is representing well when he goes away. We would always like to hear more about some of the correspondence that is going on between himself and his team with the UK, and how we manoeuvre through these OECD guidelines. But essentially for Bermuda, the OECD is trying to create this global tax that is fair for everyone around the board. But if you pull away some of the onion pieces, you will then begin to see that this really is all about economics and who gets what. And so, it really upsets me that we have a juris-diction, as old as Bermuda's is, that has done well sit-ting in the middle of the ocean, to manoeuvre these wa-ters to economic prowess, if you will. And now that is under attack. And so, we will talk in other areas as we move on with some of these other B ills and motions about how it will affect the local economy. But for this, I must say, thank you to the team. It may seem sometimes when we ask questions that we are not thankful. No, we are thankful for the fact that much is being done. But this is work that has been going on for a long time. Not just with this Government, but prior governments in the past as well. And so, they all have done what I consider to be a phenomenal job at keeping us safe. I anticipate that more will be revealed as we work with the OECD and some of the things that are going on. 1648 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly And I am hoping that . . . and I will ask this question of the Junior Minister. I would like to know whether or not we . . . how closely are we paying attention to this side- by-side working agreement between the US and the OECD so that we can keep ahead of things , so that we can keep abreast of what is coming down the pipeline. Because quite frankly, the US, you know, though our economy is tied to the US, it may be deleterious for us with this agreement. So, I don't know what to expect from it. But I hope that the M inister can tell us, the Junior Minister can opine on this, or maybe the Premier will get up and speak as to how close of attention it has been given so that we ourselves can make the necessary adjustments that are needed. So, the question is, with the side- by-side agreement that the US is working with the OECD, how closely are we paying attention to what is going on there? What's happening? And as it continues, I mean, they haven't come to an agreement yet, so I'm sure that there is still more to find out. And I am sure that the Junior Minister, since he's presenting it, he will be keeping an eye on it and keep us abreast of what is going on. And with that in mind, Mr. Speaker, again, I say it feels like we are walking on pins and needles all the time. And having some of this oversight from jurisdictions , quite frankly, their economies, their laws, their policies, at the end of the day, are second to ours in how well we have been doing. And Bermuda needs to know that, that our M inisters, our O pposition, all are in support of what we are doing and keeping us abreast and ahead of many of these nations that are, of course, well ahead of us in size and in economic dollars. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Deputy Premier . Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am happy to make a little contribution this afternoon. I am so glad I am here in this House today to witness a very historical statement made by the O pposition, one in which …
Thank you. Deputy Premier . Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am happy to make a little contribution this afternoon. I am so glad I am here in this House today to witness a very historical statement made by the O pposition, one in which it says that this Government has done very, very well economically and we have done a phenomenal job at keeping us safe. [ Inaudible interjections and desk thumping] Hon. E. David Burt: Yes. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: And I will repeat, this Government, this Progressive Labour Party, has done a phenomenal job— Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Point of order, Mr. Speaker. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: —in keeping us safe. [ Inaudible interjections and laughter ] POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Point of order. The Honourable Member is misleading the House. I think he i s taking a bit of privileg e with what I had to say. But I will keep quiet after this, Mr. Speaker. [ Laughter] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Again, I will say thank you to the Honourable Member, Mr. Cannonier , for confirming that this Government , and previous governments, he said, have done a phenomenal job, even though it was for a short four years. But if you look at the last 27 years , and they contributed four, I think we will take that compliment very, very . . . with honour. Thank you very much. Now, Mr. Speaker, —
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberYou said it was going to be short. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: It is going to be short. Mr. Speaker, when I heard the Opposition Leader — [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: He’s right here, yes. When I heard the Opposition Leader and the …
You said it was going to be short. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: It is going to be short. Mr. Speaker, when I heard the Opposition Leader — [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: He’s right here, yes. When I heard the Opposition Leader and the Deputy Opposition Leader speak, and when you hear them talk about we must be prudent, I hope that they have not forgotten what our Premier has announced on several occasions publicly about what he intends to do with these funds. And we have laid it out very clearly for us to receive a lecture on what we must do with those funds. I found it quite rich. But I w ould like to remind Member s opposite that we had a T ax Commission that was formed by our Premier, a bipartisan Ta x Commission formed by our Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Yes. Doug w as on it. Jeanne was on it. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes, and I believe the Honourable Scientist was on it too. [ Laughter] Hon. E. David Burt: Science! Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: The Honourable Scientist was on that commission as well. The Honourable Mem-ber. [ Crosstalk]
B ermuda House of Assembly Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Right? So, let's be clear. And one thing I think when I hear Member Pearman and the Opposition Leader discuss, we must be prudent, you might recall, Mr. Speaker, that the T ax Commission actually suggested that we only put $200 million per year on our debt, whereas the Premier stated publicly —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoI don't believe this report has been brought to the House to be discussed. Hon. E. David Burt: Ah! [ Inaudible interjections]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoThank you, Mr. Speaker. So, I'm not sure how he knows you would recall what you have read or not read, Mr. Speaker. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, it is a public document. [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: It's a public document. It …
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. So, I'm not sure how he knows you would recall what you have read or not read, Mr. Speaker. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, it is a public document. [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: It's a public document. It may not have been brought to this House, but certainly it has been given to the public. And it was a recommendation, I will repeat, by the Tax Commission, that we put $200 million on our debt per year, a debt that , let me remind everyone—
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoI believe the Honourable Member is inadvertently misleading the House.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWhat’s your point of order? POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoThe $200 million that he i s referring to is one part of a lot of other moving pieces that would go into the debt. [ Inaudible interjections]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoSo, there could be even more money put onto debt. So, he is implying that the T ax Commission report, — Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: No.
Dr. Douglas DeCouto— which was authored after I left, would only , say, pay $200 million. And that is not actually what it says. Thank you. Hon. E. David Burt: That is exactly what it says. [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Ah, Mr. Speaker , and one brags …
— which was authored after I left, would only , say, pay $200 million. And that is not actually what it says. Thank you. Hon. E. David Burt: That is exactly what it says. [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Ah, Mr. Speaker , and one brags about being a scientist. [ Laughter] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: But let me just say, Mr. Speaker, let me repeat. Right? Is that the Premier's lead— Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: P oint of order, Mr. Speaker. I must correct the record because the Honourable Shadow Minister of Finance is misleading the House. The Tax Reform Commission Report [2025] is very clear inside of its waterfall . It recommends $100 …
Point of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: P oint of order, Mr. Speaker. I must correct the record because the Honourable Shadow Minister of Finance is misleading the House. The Tax Reform Commission Report [2025] is very clear inside of its waterfall . It recommends $100 million for a S tability Fund. It recommends $200 million for debt reduction in the Debt Sinking Fund. And then an additional $210 million of spending recommenda-tions. Those are the facts, and that is the recommendation that is bipartisan that has come. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Okay. [ Crosstalk] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: No, I was expecting a point of order from the Honourable Member. That's why I did-n't rush to my feet, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAll right. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: So obviously, maybe an apology might be coming from the Honourable Mem-ber. [ Inaudible interjections]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYou talk to the Chair. You will be all right. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes. So, Mr. Speaker, I have to . . . Before I was wrongly interrupted and point -of-ordered, I was about to remind everyone in the country , 1650 5 December 2025 Official Hansard …
You talk to the Chair. You will be all right. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes. So, Mr. Speaker, I have to . . . Before I was wrongly interrupted and point -of-ordered, I was about to remind everyone in the country , 1650 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly because they threw a couple of little stones about the debt. And we must remember that when the OBA had that short stint in Government, they doubled our debt. They doubled our debt. Hon. E. David Burt: Yes. Yes. [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: They . . . they didn’t —
An Hon. Member An Hon. Memberto 2.4. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: That's right. Mr. Speaker, when I went to school, 1 and 1 was 2. Hon. E. David Burt: Yes. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: And 2 and 2 was 4. So, if your debt —
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoThe Member, I am sure, is a little confused because when the Honourable Bob Richards became the Finance Minister, you will recall that there wasn't enough money to pay the civil servants.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoAnd so, while technically those deficits were incurred under the OBA, they were a hangover of the reckless and irresponsible spending of the outgoing PLP Government, which left —
Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. SwanPoint of order, Mr. Speaker. The Honourable Member is misleading this House. When the PLP lost Government in 2012, there was a global recession which the O pposition blamed the PLP for causing, and the PLP had to do deficit spending or either the country and the people would have …
Point of order, Mr. Speaker. The Honourable Member is misleading this House. When the PLP lost Government in 2012, there was a global recession which the O pposition blamed the PLP for causing, and the PLP had to do deficit spending or either the country and the people would have perished. So, it's folly to say that the Government was reckless. It invested in people. And it was . . . That was between 2008 and 2011. The hangover that he talked about is the inability of that former Government, when they were in Government, to live up to what they promised. They spent more . . . They did the opposite of what they pledged prior to getting in Government. And that's the truth, Ruth.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerNow, who's still on their feet? You are still on your feet? [ Laughter]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerCome over here. Come over here. I was going back and forth that time. Let's go. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Mr. Speaker, I didn't — [ Crosstalk]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerI forgot what your point of order was this time. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I didn't think I would be ruffling feathers that badly, Mr. Speaker. But let's remind people, now that — [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: —now that the stones are being …
I forgot what your point of order was this time. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I didn't think I would be ruffling feathers that badly, Mr. Speaker. But let's remind people, now that — [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: —now that the stones are being thrown — Hon. E. David Burt: Yes. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: —and you want to talk about the Progressive Labour Party, and when they played that old violin tune that they didn't have money to pay employees, let's remind Member s how they found $40 million for Cross Island—
Some Hon. Members Some Hon. MembersYes. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: —they said the great other scientist, former scientist, Mr. Bob Richards, said he's going to borrow $800 . . . $800 . . . Was it $900? [Crosstalk] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes. No, $800 million. And everybody said, what a …
Yes. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: —they said the great other scientist, former scientist, Mr. Bob Richards, said he's going to borrow $800 . . . $800 . . . Was it $900? [Crosstalk] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes. No, $800 million. And everybody said, what a great Finance Minister —$800 million is going to last us three years. Well, what hap-pened? [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: No, no. He didn't say it was going to last three years. He said the only time he had to borrow the money was then, and he came back in three years for more.
B ermuda House of Assembly Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Oh, no, he didn't. I've got to correct you there. He came back a year and a half later for $300 [million] more. [ Laughter] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: The record shows that. [ Crosstalk] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Now, you see, when you talk about debt in this country, when you talk about — [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Well, let's not talk about Morgan's Point now. [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Because we a re still trying to sort out that mess. [ Crosstalk] Hon. Zane J. S. Let's not talk about that. But you see, Mr. Speaker, in spite of all of that, we never told seniors that money ain't growing on no trees, while telling people to take furlough days. Now, you guys want to go down that road. I can stand here for an hour and talk about it. [ Crosstalk] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Now, Mr. Speaker, it's funny how, you know, when they want to talk about things in the past, —
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberThat’s all they want to do. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: —and when we remind them of their short tenure in Government, they get all ruffled and scuffled and want a point of order on non- points of order. The fact of the matter is, is that we will …
That’s all they want to do. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: —and when we remind them of their short tenure in Government, they get all ruffled and scuffled and want a point of order on non- points of order. The fact of the matter is, is that we will have in-creased funding coming into this country. This Progres-sive Labour Party, who the people in this [country] have entrusted with the reins of finances since 2017, we will continue to look after this country and the finances like they didn't see between 2012 and 2017. I would like to say thank you to the Premier, to the Financial Secretary (FS) who is in the House today and his great professional team. I want to thank them for their work because it's not lost on us on this side the amount of work that it has taken the F inance team to put this together, along with the Junior Minister and the former Junior Minister , Mr. Jache Adams. So , I would like to thank them for all their work. I would like to thank the Tax Commission, as bipartisan as it was — Hon. E. David Burt: Yes. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: —I would like to thank them for the work that they did. And I look forward, Mr. Speaker, to us . . . I don't know if I'm going to be around, but in 2035, us being rid of the debt that we have on us today. Thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Deputy [Premier] . Does any other Member wish to make a contribution at this time? Premier . Hon. E. David Burt: So, Mr. Speaker, thank you. I do believe that we are currently discussing the Corporate Income Tax Amendment Act (No. 2) —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes, we are. We are. Hon. E. David Burt: —a nd as Minister of Finance, this is something that certainly falls underneath my responsibility. So , I'm grateful for the Junior Minister for tabling this Bill and taking it through and standing in for me while I was away last …
Yes, we are. We are. Hon. E. David Burt: —a nd as Minister of Finance, this is something that certainly falls underneath my responsibility. So , I'm grateful for the Junior Minister for tabling this Bill and taking it through and standing in for me while I was away last week. And also, [I] echo the sentiments of the Deputy Premier for the congratulations. Also, [I] echo the sentiments of the former Opposition Leader . Hopefully he'll go for a trifecta soon. [ Laughter] Hon. E. David Burt: But, for the former Opposition Leader , who also praised the team, because there was a significant amount of work. So, whether it is the financial secretary, whether it is Miss Genesis Iris, who is a young lawyer who has been working in . . . an expert in tax matters, whether it's Miss Gwen Johnson, who has been drafting financial legislation week in and week out, and evening in and evening out, and stress and pressure and all the rest, or whether it is Mr. Merv yn Skeet , who is the CEO of the Corporate Income Tax Agency , and ot her persons who have been working on this throughout this time, we are particularly grateful. And as well, I cannot forget, of course, your sister -inlaw, the Ch airman of the Corporate Income Tax Agency, Ms . Cheryl -Ann Lister. Now, Mr. Speaker, I did think that this was goi ng to be relatively uncontroversial. But, of course, you know, the Honourable and Learned Member from constituency 22 has a way of sparking people up to speak. I think he enjoys it, actually. I think he plots in the even-ing, at night s, What can I say to rile up people ? Because, you know, [he] want s a little bit of excitement in his life. Maybe he's starved for excitement and, you know, whatever happens. [ Laughter] 1652 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly Hon. E. David Burt: And so, this is the place where he comes to get his excitement. Nonetheless, Mr. Speaker — [ Inaudible interjections and laughter ] Hon. E. David Burt: Well, it must be what you call it, so that's all right. [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: But . . . I'm sticking to the Bill. You all are the ones that are interpreting. I give my opinion ; you can give yours. [ Laughter] Hon. E. David Burt: Because, you know, the way you listen to this, you would think that this was, you know, we are out going gambling or something. So, let's start, Mr. Speaker. This is the Corporate Income Tax Act.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes. Hon. E. David Burt: Let me read to you some quotes. Because I think that it is interesting that the O pposition, you know, and it's always the almost back -handed compliment. Not the, You've done a good job. T his is good for the jurisdiction, this is, it …
Yes. Hon. E. David Burt: Let me read to you some quotes. Because I think that it is interesting that the O pposition, you know, and it's always the almost back -handed compliment. Not the, You've done a good job. T his is good for the jurisdiction, this is, it is more of , Oh— Mr . Scott Pearman: Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. Yes. POINT OF ORDER [Imputing improper motive]
Mr. Scott PearmanThe Honourable Premier and Minister of Finance is imputing an improper motive. We gave thanks, and indeed I think everyone who spoke on this side of the aisle gave thanks to all the hard work that has been done in relation to this. And some of our Member s even …
The Honourable Premier and Minister of Finance is imputing an improper motive. We gave thanks, and indeed I think everyone who spoke on this side of the aisle gave thanks to all the hard work that has been done in relation to this. And some of our Member s even praise d you. [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: So, here's the thing, Mr. Speaker, I will let —
The SpeakerThe Speaker[INAUDIBLE] [ Crosstalk] Hon. E. David Burt: As he said, some of his Member s, certainly not him. [ Laughter] Hon. E. David Burt: But let's continue, Mr. Speaker. Let's continue, Mr. Speaker, because that will be a bridge too far in any circumstance, at any point in time. But …
[INAUDIBLE] [ Crosstalk] Hon. E. David Burt: As he said, some of his Member s, certainly not him. [ Laughter] Hon. E. David Burt: But let's continue, Mr. Speaker. Let's continue, Mr. Speaker, because that will be a bridge too far in any circumstance, at any point in time. But let me give . . . I'm happy that he's, you know, telling the truth today But let's give a quote, Mr. Speaker. The first one, PwC Bermuda. “Bermuda has implemented a technically sound and compliant framework that posi-tions the jurisdiction well within the global minimum tax environment.” Or let's go to ABIR, who represent s our largest insurance companies, who of course will be a significant contributor to corporate income tax payments. And I quote, “ABIR applauds the government of Bermuda for its professionalism in the development and imple-mentation of the corporate income tax regime. The level of engagement and transparency has been ex-ceptio nal.” (end quote) Now the reality is that this is a result of the fact that this government has put significant time, energy, and resources into advancing these par-ticular matters. And, Mr. Speaker, it is quite troubling in certain instances, and I will share this here, because of course Ministers who also have agendas that they want to advance, note and state that a significant amount of our work has been occupied on matters related to corpo-rate income tax, matters related to the transitions, mat-ters related to the tax reform, [and] matters related to beneficial ownership. All these things, in line with what the Honourable Member for constituency 12 has stated, are external things which are being imposed on us as an international financial centre. That is the reality. And that is what we must live with, and that is something that we have been experi-enced in dealing with for at least the last 25 years, Mr. Speaker, because as we have come to the fore as an international financial centre, as we continue to expand our insurance sectors, and continue to expand our dig-ital finance sectors and others, people continue to look at us, and we are given many different external requirements. And this, the global minimum tax, is one of them. But here is the thing, Mr. Speaker. This global minimum tax has been in the works for some time. For a long time. And it has managed to get across the line from the OECD perspective. What we in this country have done is figured out a way to ensure that we comply with the interna-tional requirements that we must do, but in a way that can work to make sure to preserve what we have inside of this country, which is a vibrant international financial sector. That is what we have. Now, Mr. Speaker, it is very curious to hear some of the soundings from the other side. And I can say from the Opposition Leader, from the Honourable Member from constituency 22, the Honourable and Learned Member, Mr. Scott Pearman, or the Shadow Minister of Finance from constituency 25, [the] scientist . . . I'm sorry, MP Doug DeCouto . The scientist.
B ermuda House of Assembly An Hon. Member: Yes. The scientist. Hon. E. David Burt: The scientist. [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: Don't worry. I like this one. He gave himself a nickname and I'll go with it because I like that one. It's okay. I'm a scientist too, Mr. Speaker. Not as much a scientist as him. But I'm a scientist as well, so I appreciate that. But here is the thing, Mr. Speaker. What did they focus on? They did not focus on the legislation.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberNot at all. Hon. E. David Burt: No criticism with the legislation,
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoMr. Speaker, we a re not in Committee yet. [ Inaudible interjections]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoIt’s been stated that we have questions. [ Inaudible interjections]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYou ask for a point of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoHe's misleading the House. We haven't got to the details to talk about the details of the legislation yet, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberHe is showing disrespect. Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, I sincerely hope that that Honourable Member attends your seminar in Jan-uary so he can learn exactly what a point of order should and should not be.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberYes. Hon. E. David Burt: So, Mr. Speaker, allow me to continue, please, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes. [Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: No criticism. So, to learn the h onourable scientist up, here is what I will say, Mr. Speaker.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberThat’s not parliamentary language. Hon. E. David Burt: What do you mean?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerTake your seat a minute. Just so we do not get too sidetracked, let's use the proper titles.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberHonourable Member. Hon. E. David Burt: Yes, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Hon. E. David Burt: Sorry, I was getting carried away. To learn the Honourable Member for constituency 25, who has dubbed himself as a scientist, to learn that Honourable Member up, Mr. Speaker. To learn that — [ Crosstalk] POINT OF ORDER
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoPoint of order. I said that I have a scientific training. I trained as a scientist. Thank you. [ Inaudible interjections]
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberYou said you were a scientist!
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. All right. We are moved away from that now. We are going to use titles. Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerBecause the first time around, people seemed to smile, and the second time around they got offended . [ Laughter]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSo, let's just stick to the titles. Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, to learn the Honourable Member for constituency 25, Mr. Doug DeCouto up, is when you speak on the actual principles of the Bill during the time before you go into the Committee, and there's no objection to …
So, let's just stick to the titles. Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, to learn the Honourable Member for constituency 25, Mr. Doug DeCouto up, is when you speak on the actual principles of the Bill during the time before you go into the Committee, and there's no objection to the principles of the Bill, they have all said, T his is good. We are moving in this place. But then it goes, the “but.” And it is always, always the but. But what is their “ but” focused on today? Their but 1654 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly is focused on today of, what is the Government going to do with the money? That is where they are. What is the Government going to do with the money? And so when the Deputy Premier gets up to remind the Shadow Minister that there was a bipartisan committee with representation from the One Bermuda Alliance that signed off on something that said that the amount of money that should go towards debt reduc-tion is only $200 million a year, which would not be able to meet the paying off the debt in a 10- year time period. I find it particularl y—
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWait . . . Wait a second. Okay. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoThe Premier is misleading the House and the public by implying that the Tax Reform Commission report represents the Government policies. In fact, the Government has not brought that report to this House, and it has not talked about any of its intended policies going forward, other than the tax …
The Premier is misleading the House and the public by implying that the Tax Reform Commission report represents the Government policies. In fact, the Government has not brought that report to this House, and it has not talked about any of its intended policies going forward, other than the tax credits which are on the table today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. [ Inaudible interjections]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWhen you . . . When you . . . one second. When you rise on your point of order, first name what you intend to do, and then speak to that. Okay? Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That's not a point of order. And the Honourable …
When you . . . When you . . . one second. When you rise on your point of order, first name what you intend to do, and then speak to that. Okay? Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That's not a point of order. And the Honourable Member is way off because the matters related to the Government policy when it comes towards this are done in a B udget Statement. So, wait for that. And if you want it in advance, then run an election, win an election, become the Minister of Finance, and you can set the policy. [ Laughter] Hon. E. David Burt: But until that point in time, the Government will set the policy. And the Government's policy statement is set out in a B udget Statement which happens every year. So now, Mr. Speaker, allow me to continue. Because I didn't say anything about Government pol-icy. I spoke about the report of the Tax Reform Commission. And the Tax Reform Commission report, which all these Member s are talking about, saying, O h, we need to pay down debt . Oh, we need to do this . As the Deputy Premier spoke very clearly, the Tax Reform Commission recommendation was for $510 million: $100 [million] for Stability Fund, $200 [million] for debt repayment, and [an] additional $210 million in tax c uts and additional spending. That is what they put on the table. We will certainly make our position clear as we move forward. But the point of which I'm trying to make, Mr. Speaker, is this. They are talking about the need and desire to reduce the debt. Got it. This Government has demonstrated time and time and time again the fact that we can manage the purse strings of this country. We exceed our targets every single year. We make ad-ditional investments. We have stabilised matters. That is what we have done. And so, the thought that all of a sudden, as the Honourable Member said, quoting things about people winning lotteries and going bankrupt.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberYes, yes. Hon. E. David Burt: C ome on. We know what this is. It is the same type of dog whistle, et cetera, all the rest . They can't manage money, be careful, et cetera, all the rest. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: That’s right. Mr . Scott …
Mr. Scott PearmanThe Honourable Premier and Minister of Finance is again, for the second time in his speech, imputing an improper motive, and quite improperly, I might add. And this Opposition is not going to take that sort of innuendo from the Premier. [ Inaudible interjections] Mr . Scott Pearman: He should …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPremier, the comment . . . the tone that . . . the comment that you used, (let me put it that way) I'm sure you a re clever enough to use it in a different manner. And I think the offence was in the comment. Hon. E. David Burt: …
Premier, the comment . . . the tone that . . . the comment that you used, (let me put it that way) I'm sure you a re clever enough to use it in a different manner. And I think the offence was in the comment. Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, I have no idea what is particularly offending, but here's the thing. [Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: If you are going . . . Well, it's dogwhistle politics. It's dog- whistle politics.
B ermuda House of Assembly The Speaker: Move forward. Move forward from that. Let’s go. I know you a re clever enough to be able to do that. Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, I'll move forward.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWe don’t need to get caught up there. Hon. E. David Burt: I've got you. B ut the implication—
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMm-hmm. Hon. E. David Burt: — that a Government that over the last eight years has managed to take finances that were not in a good state when they were left from the former Government, that has managed to go ahead and get ourselves a balanced budget, has revised our …
Mm-hmm. Hon. E. David Burt: — that a Government that over the last eight years has managed to take finances that were not in a good state when they were left from the former Government, that has managed to go ahead and get ourselves a balanced budget, has revised our taxes, has put in place progressive policies that have done good inside of this country, the implication that all of a sudden, we are now just going to forget everything about fiscal responsibility and press on is offensive.
An
Hon. Member An
Hon. MemberIt is! Ano ther Hon. Member: That’s right. Hon. E. David Burt: It is absolutely offensive. This gov— [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: Hold on a second. You keep saying, Tell us how we're going to do it. You will get that on February 20th in the B …
It is! Ano ther Hon. Member: That’s right. Hon. E. David Burt: It is absolutely offensive. This gov— [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: Hold on a second. You keep saying, Tell us how we're going to do it. You will get that on February 20th in the B udget Statement. And you will not get it a day before. So, we are clear. [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: Don't worry. The public will find out when we have a Budget Statement, which will set out the policies of this G overnment. That's when it will come. But here is the reality, Mr. Speaker. We have demonstrated time and time again that we get how to do this. And we get how to manage finance. You do not get to get plaudits from international business and international ratings agencies and others by looking at these issues. You do not get all these plaudits if you do not understand what it is that you are doing. So yes, the Honourable Member fr om constituency 12, the former Leader of the O pposition, is right. This Government and the team deserve plaudits for the work at which we have done. But it is not okay for the Opposition . . . they can have their opinion. But they should wait for the Budget Statement to come out, which will lay out this Government ’s fiscal plan going forward, insofar as when we have firm and concrete numbers regarding tax receipts. Because here is the fact, Mr. Speaker, we do not have those figures yet. So, anything of which persons are talking about or thinking about is speculation. Speculation. And they are asking the Government to speculate. But here is what I can say, Mr. Speaker. Have no doubt. In the T hrone Speech that was given in March, I said that the corporate income tax has an op-portunity for this country to eliminate its debt in 10 years.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberYes. Hon. E. David Burt: That is what we would like to do. I would note, Mr. Speaker, that the Tax Reform Com-mission has recommended that we cut it in half in 10 years. Our views are more aggressive. But we will see what the numbers state. And then we …
Yes. Hon. E. David Burt: That is what we would like to do. I would note, Mr. Speaker, that the Tax Reform Com-mission has recommended that we cut it in half in 10 years. Our views are more aggressive. But we will see what the numbers state. And then we will set out our policy statement in the budget. That is where we are, and that is where we will go. But, Mr. Speaker, what we a re doing right here is making sure this legislation is fit for purpose, continuing to update it with new rules. And here's the reality, Mr. Speaker. There will be many more times that we will have to come back to make amendments to the Corporate Income Tax Act, et cetera, as requirements will continue to change. Just like we have to amend the Insurance Act, just like we have to amend other things, that is the reality. And so, we should focus on this particular matter . In my humble estimation , it's not what may or may not happen with revenues that we don't ac-tually know how much we a re going to get. It is to make sure we have a sound regime so those revenues will continue in perpetuity into the future. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Does any other Member wish to make a contribution at this time? There are none. Junior Minister . Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Thank you again, Mr. Speaker. While listening to the O pposition for a while, I wasn't sure which Bill we were debating. [Laughter] Hon. Wayne L. …
Thank you. Does any other Member wish to make a contribution at this time? There are none. Junior Minister . Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Thank you again, Mr. Speaker. While listening to the O pposition for a while, I wasn't sure which Bill we were debating. [Laughter] Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: I wasn't sure if it was the Bill, the motion coming from their Shadow Minister , which will come probably later on. Hon. E. David Burt: Yes. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Now that they have spoken, we do no t expect to hear from them again. They have already spoken. As the Honourable Minister and Prem-ier has said, we are talking about the Corporate Income Tax Amendment ( No. 2) [Act 2025] . 1656 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly And yes, most likely there will be a three, t here could be a four, and there could be a five. And so, what we are asking the Honourable Member, and we a re putting forward to the Honourable Member because at the end of the day it says to resolve interpretive issues that have arisen, enhance the overall alignment of the legislation with international standards, and administrative best practi ce. Talks nothing about debt in the Bill here. So, I'm asking the Honourable Member, as I said, the Premier has already thanked all those individ-uals who have done a tremendous job. And I'm telling you, they worked tirelessly. And led by the Premier himself and the Minister, who I see work day and night in regard to these issues. So, Mr. Speaker, with those few remarks, I will move that the B ill now be committed.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Deputy . House in Committee at 3: 26 pm [Ms . Lovitta F. Foggo, Chairman] COMMITTEE ON BILL CORPORATE INCOME TAX AMENDMENT (NO. 2) ACT 2025
The ChairmanChairmanGood afternoon, Member s. We are now in Committee of the whole [House] for the B ill entitled the Corporate Income Tax Amendment (No. 2) Act 2025. I call on the Minister. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Thank you, Madam Chairman. If it's okay with the Shadow Minister, I would like …
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that we consider all clauses. Any objection? There are none. Minister . Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Thank you, Madam Chairman. Madam Chairman, this Bill amends the Corporate Income Tax Act 2023, the principal Act, to clarify certain provisions, resolve interpretive issues that have arisen, and enhance …
It has been moved that we consider all clauses. Any objection? There are none. Minister . Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Thank you, Madam Chairman. Madam Chairman, this Bill amends the Corporate Income Tax Act 2023, the principal Act, to clarify certain provisions, resolve interpretive issues that have arisen, and enhance the overall alignment of the legis-lation with international standards and administrative best practi ces. Madam Chairman, I would like to move to clause 1. Clause 1 contains the B ill's citation. Clause 2 both updates and introduces certain new definitions into the p rincipal Act. Section 2(1) of the principal Act is amended to update and add a number of definitions as required by the amendments intro-duced in this Act and other legislation such as the proposed Tax Credit s Act 2025 and related measures. For example, definitions added include “accrued substance-b ased t ax credit benefit, ” “community development tax credit, ” and “community development tax credit b enefit. ” Also, amendments required for certain definitions such as “entity,” “excluded [equity] gain or loss ,” “ultimate parent entity,” to better align with the OECD's Global Minimum Tax Model Rules, therein referr ed to as the G loBE Rules or OECD Guidance. Clause 3 amends s ection 4 of the principal Act to remove reference to domestic tax credits. Amendments are made to clarify that only foreign tax credits are relevant for the calculation of tax under the principal Act since domestic tax credits are now contained in a separate Bill, the d raft Tax Credit s Act 2025. Clause 4 amends s ection 6 of the principal Act by inserting new s ubsection (8) introducing shock losses. The amendment addresses the possibility of permitting exceptional shock losses, allowing the addi-tional use of losses for tax purposes by suspending the normal limitation of 80 per cent deductibility of tax losses. Clause 5 amends s ection 10 of the principal Act by inserting subsection (5) clarifying activities relevant to an excluded entity to better align the taxable outcome [arising] pursuant to the principal Act and the GloBE Rules. The wording of subsection (10)(2)(a) of the principal Act was based on paragraph 1.5.2(a) of the GloBE Rules. It is generally intended that taxable outcomes arising pursuant to the principal Act should be consistent with taxable outcomes arising pursuant to the G loBE Rules. Accordingly, it has been proposed that a new [section] 10(5)(a) be inserted into the principal Act to confirm that borrowing funds and making direct acqui-sitions of assets falls within the meaning of holding as-sets or investment of funds. Also, it has been proposed that a new [section] 10(5)(b) be inserted into the principal Act to clarify that a 95 per cent owned entity may qualify as an excluded entity if it conducts the activities in both [section] 10(2)(a)(i) and 10(2)(a)(ii). Clause 6 makes a typographical amendment to section 16 of the principal Act . [It] c hanges wording from “allocated foreign taxes” to “allocated creditable foreign taxes” to address a technical omission. Clause 7 amends s ection 17 [sic] of the principal Act relating to cross -border taxes to better align the taxable outcomes arising pursuant to the principal Act and the G loBE Rules. Additional OECD guidance has been provided regarding the application of cross -border tax allocation provisions. Accordingly, the amendments to the principal Act provide additional allocation rules for certain cross -border taxes. These allocation rules are intended to better align income taxes and the income to which such taxes relate, thereby mitigating the potential for the application of the 15 per cent minimum tax on an entity when its income has effectively
B ermuda House of Assembly been subject to tax in the hands of another group entity located in another jurisdiction Clause 8 amends s ection 19 of the principal Act.
The ChairmanChairmanMember, could you just clarify whether clause [7] amends [section] 17 or 18? Just given what is printed in the Act , in the amending Act. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Clause 17. [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Say it again. [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Eight …
The ChairmanChairmanEighteen. Yes. [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: I said [clause] 18, didn't I? Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: No, you said [clause] 17. I just wanted to make sure it was printed correctly in the doc-ument. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Sorry.
The ChairmanChairmanNo, that's okay, Member . Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Clause 7 amends section 18.
The ChairmanChairmanYes. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: I thought I said that.
The ChairmanChairmanNo, you didn't. Sorry. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Maybe my eyes are getting tired. All right. Where was I? Clause 8? Did I do c lause 8? Did I do it?
The ChairmanChairmanYes. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: So, I should move to c lause 9.
The ChairmanChairmanNo. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Clause 8. Okay. Clause 8 amends 19 of the principal Act by removing reference to qualified refundable tax credits. Section 19 was previously a placeholder for domestic tax credits. The amendment removes the reference to qualified refundable tax credits and provisions for tax credits are …
No. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Clause 8. Okay. Clause 8 amends 19 of the principal Act by removing reference to qualified refundable tax credits. Section 19 was previously a placeholder for domestic tax credits. The amendment removes the reference to qualified refundable tax credits and provisions for tax credits are now contained in a separate Bill. The proposed Tax Credit Act 2025. Therefore, section 19 of the principal Act is no longer required. Clause 9 amends s ection 21 of the principal Act by inserting subsection ( 7) to better align the taxable outcomes arising pursuant to the principal Act and the G loBE rules. The amendment allows a Bermuda Constituent Entity with a differen t year-end from its ultimate parent entity to use a financial reporting period which ends during the fiscal year and use d to prepare the consolidated financial statements of the ultimate parent company, provided that no item of income or loss shall be included in the financial accounting net income or loss of the Bermuda C onstituent Entity for more than one fiscal year. Clause 10 amends section 26 of the principal Act relating to taxable adjustments for tax credits. These amendments introduce provisions to give effect to the impact of the tax credits arising from the separate proposed Tax Credit Act 2025 and related measures. Clause 11 amends section 27 of the principal Act relating to adjustments to financial accounting, net income or loss , to better align the taxable outcomes arising pursuant to the principal Act and the GloBE Rules. These amendments include revising [section] 27(2)(b) to clarify the treatment of pension expense adjustments in that pension accounting adjustments are excluded from financial accounting, net income or loss for the fiscal year, and contributions to pension funds are deducted. Also, these amendments include inserting subsection (3) to introduce a reciprocal shipping exemption. This type of exemption is common to many corporate income tax regimes and work by exempting from local corporate income tax the revenue generated by a foreign corporation's shipping operation if the foreign corporation's home country would exempt a domestic corporation from corporate income taxation on the same items of revenue, thereby enhancing the at-tractiveness of Bermuda as a domicile for shipping groups. Clause 12 amends section 33 of the principal Act by inserting [subsection ] (9) to better align the taxable outcomes arising pursuant to the principal Act and the Glo BE Rules. Additional OECD g uidance issued states that any basis differences which result from or form an adjusted tax basis which is lower than the financial statement carrying value of an asset or liability will be disregarded for purpose of the GloBE Rules. Therefore, new [sub section ] (9) should be inserted into the principal Act confirming to the extent that the application of section 13 results in an adjusted tax basis that is lower than the financial statement carrying value of an asset or liability. Such basis difference shall be disregarded for the purpose of the principal Act . Clause 13 amends s ection 46A to give the agency the power to waive all or part of any interest chargeable as may be prescribed in regulation made pursuant to section 52 of the principal Act . 1658 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly Clause 14 amends s ection 46B of the principal Act by amending the definition of tax and makes a typographical amendment. The definition of tax is amended to streamline wording to better align with s ection 4(2) which provides for the netting of applicable tax credits. The original wording regarding the netting of applicable tax credit was included for the avoidance of doubt as to the treatment of qualified refundable tax credits but following the repeal of s ection 19 of the reference on such netting would appear to be redundant. Also, a minor grammatical c orrection is made by changing the wording from “due as result of ” to “due to a result of. ” I'll read it again. It was changed from “d ue as result of ” to “due as a result of ” to improve clarity. Clause 15 amends section 46D to provide for a civil penalty that may be imposed under this section where there is a failure to file any information or docu-mentation required under any regulation made under this Act other than a return. Clause 16 makes typographical amendments to section 46E of the principal Act , corrects a reference from section 46A to 46B and makes a minor grammatical correction by changing [section 46E(1)(b) from] “ of the this Act ” to “of this Act. ” Clause 17 amends section 47 of the principal Act by making a reference to official exchange rates. It is anticipated that the method of converting foreign currencies as well as the official exchange rate will be pre-scribed in regulations rather than The Official Gazette . It is also anticipated that some or all of the official ex-change rates cited in paragraphs (a) through (c) of section 47 will not be included for purposes of the regula-tions. Accordingly, the proposed changes to section 47 are intended to eliminate the reference to The Official Gazette, eliminate the specific reference to official exchange rates and generally streamline the wording of section 47. Thank you, Madam Chairman.
The ChairmanChairmanYou have clause 18. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: The Schedule has effect with respect to the consequential amendment to the Corpo-rate Income Tax Agency Act 2025.
The ChairmanChairmanYes, thank you. Does anyone else wish to speak to clauses 1 through to 18? I recognise the Member from constituency 25. Member, you have the floor.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYes, t hank you, Madam Chairman. I have some questions for the [Junior] Minister with respect to clause 4 and c lause 13 with respect to the shock loss . In clause 4, c ould the [Junior] Minister provide some examples of what shock losses would be [and] how they …
Yes, t hank you, Madam Chairman. I have some questions for the [Junior] Minister with respect to clause 4 and c lause 13 with respect to the shock loss . In clause 4, c ould the [Junior] Minister provide some examples of what shock losses would be [and] how they would be defined? I appreciate there should be some regulations or definitions forthcoming, I would imagine, but some colour on what that means would be appreciated. Also, are they going to be defined specific to a given company or would there perhaps be specific shock losses . . . events prescribed . . . through the regulations or promulgations of guidelines? That's my question with respect to [clause] 4,
Madam Chairman.
The ChairmanChairmanOkay. Are there any other Member s who wish to speak? There are no other Member s who wish to speak right now . I recognise the Junior Minister. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Yes. If the team says I'm off base, let me know. But speaking as an accountant, shock …
Okay. Are there any other Member s who wish to speak? There are no other Member s who wish to speak right now . I recognise the Junior Minister. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Yes. If the team says I'm off base, let me know. But speaking as an accountant, shock losses typically refer to sudden unexpected financial losses caused by an abrupt negative event. The key idea is that a shock is not planned for and not part of normal trends, [for example,] earthquakes, hurricanes or major fires.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you, Junior Minister. Are there any other Member s who wish to speak to clauses 1 through [18]? I recognise the Member from constituency 22. Member, you have the floor. Mr . Scott Pearman: Thank you, Madam Chairman. And while the Honourable Junior Minister is getting his answers in …
Thank you, Junior Minister. Are there any other Member s who wish to speak to clauses 1 through [18]? I recognise the Member from constituency 22. Member, you have the floor. Mr . Scott Pearman: Thank you, Madam Chairman. And while the Honourable Junior Minister is getting his answers in relation to clause 4, let me just add a further question on c lause 4. Clause 4 [inserts in section 6]( 8)(b)(i), which can be found at the top of page 5 of the Bill. So, it is clause 4, inserting (8)(b)(i), and it talks about a shock loss carry forward. This is [paragraph] (b) . A shock loss carry forward is a tax loss carry forward arising from a shock loss determined as may be prescribed. My question is in terms of the prescription, the prescribed element, where is it intended that it will be prescribed and when might it be pre-scribed? I know that the Honourable Member who spoke before me asked about potential regulations. It may well be those are coming. Thank you.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you. I recognise . . . there being no other Member s that wish to speak to that same point ? Okay. I recognise the Junior Minister. Did you want to respond? [ No audible response.]
The ChairmanChairmanAre there any other Member s who wish to speak? I recognise the Member from constituency 22. Member, you have the floor. B ermuda House of Assembly Mr. Scott Pearman: Thank you, Madam Chairman. My next question arises at clause 10, which on my copy is at the bottom of …
Are there any other Member s who wish to speak? I recognise the Member from constituency 22. Member, you have the floor.
B ermuda House of Assembly Mr. Scott Pearman: Thank you, Madam Chairman. My next question arises at clause 10, which on my copy is at the bottom of page 7 of the Bill. Clause 10 of the B ill is the one that amends s ection 26. My question is in relation to the inserted material. It's subsection (1) that's being inserted. It goes over to page 7 and on to page 8.
The ChairmanChairmanMm-hmm. Mr . Scott Pearman: Right at the bottom of that, right at the bottom of clause 10, there is a paragraph that starts with the words “ by including. ” If one is reading this logically, the “by including” doesn't make sense if it is referring back to [paragraph] …
Mm-hmm. Mr . Scott Pearman: Right at the bottom of that, right at the bottom of clause 10, there is a paragraph that starts with the words “ by including. ” If one is reading this logically, the “by including” doesn't make sense if it is referring back to [paragraph] (c)(iv). I anticipate that in fact what has happened is someone has tabbed it over too far , if you look at your copy of the Bill. Could the [Junior] Minister just confirm if the “by including” just needs to shove back in the margins so that it refers to all of subsection (1) rather than to subsection (1)(c)(iv)? I think that's the case, but I just seek clarity. Thank you.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you. Are there any other persons who wish to speak to clauses 1 through 18? I recognise the Member from constituency 25. Member, you have the floor.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoThank you, Madam Chairman. My question is with respect to c lause 13 which amends [section] 46A of the original Act and enables the Corporate Income Tax Agency to waive interest charges in the various situations. What would be the criteria or circumstances for that waiver? Why should we expect …
The ChairmanChairmanOkay. Are there any other Member s who wish to speak to c lauses 1 through 18? I recognise the Member from constituency 20 [sic] . Member, you have the floor. Mr . Scott Pearman: Thank you, Madam Chairman. My question is also in relation to c lause 13, which …
Okay. Are there any other Member s who wish to speak to c lauses 1 through 18? I recognise the Member from constituency 20 [sic] . Member, you have the floor. Mr . Scott Pearman: Thank you, Madam Chairman. My question is also in relation to c lause 13, which is found at page 10 of the Bill. It's the same question as I posed earlier in relation to the prescription for stock losses. [Clause] 13 inserts a new subclause (2) , which talks about prescribed regulations. So just . . . where will they be and when will they be? Thank you.
The ChairmanChairmanOkay. Thank you. Are there any other Member s who wish to speak? Oh, y ou are still on the floor? Mr . Scott Pearman: I have two more. The Chairman: Okay. Mr . Scott Pearman: Thank you, Madam Chairman.
The ChairmanChairmanContinue. Mr . Scott Pearman: My next and only two more are at clause 15. Clause 15 is at page 11 of the Bill. It is the clause that amends s ection 46D.
Mr. Scott PearmanIt talks about the imposition of a civil penalty. I just would like clarification. The use of the words “may be” suggest that the civil penalty is discretionary. I invite the Honourable [Junior] Minister to confirm that the civil penalty is therefore discretionary. My final question ( still on page …
It talks about the imposition of a civil penalty. I just would like clarification. The use of the words “may be” suggest that the civil penalty is discretionary. I invite the Honourable [Junior] Minister to confirm that the civil penalty is therefore discretionary. My final question ( still on page 12 of the Bill) is in relation to c lause 17. Clause 17 is the clause that repeals and replaces s ection 47. Again, in the inserted section under the heading, “Conversion of Foreign Currency, ” there's a new s ection 47. That also talks about prescribed by regulation. I pose the same question about the prescribed by regulation as I posed in relation to the other two clauses, when might we see those reg-ulations , et cetera? Thank you, Madam Chairman.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you, Member. Are there any other Member s who wish to speak to c lauses 1 through 18? There being none, I call on the Junior Minister. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Thank you, Madam Chairman. The first question, I believe, from the Honourable Member Pearman. That was . . …
The ChairmanChairmanYes. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: [Clause] 4. He said rising. This is [clause] 4.
The ChairmanChairmanHe was talking about the editing and that he thought, yes, that it might have been like a little technical error. You can use your exact word.
Mr. Scott PearmanSorry. With clarification, in relation to clause 4, it was the prescription on regulations .
The ChairmanChairmanYes. Mr . Scott Pearman: You are thinking of the next clause.
The ChairmanChairmanOh, the next clause. Okay. Sorry. I tried to write it down. 1660 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly Sorry, [Junior ] Minister. Did you understand him or do you need him to repeat it for you? Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Yes, I'm just trying …
Oh, the next clause. Okay. Sorry. I tried to write it down. 1660 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly Sorry, [Junior ] Minister. Did you understand him or do you need him to repeat it for you? Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Yes, I'm just trying to follow the points here. The technical officers have written something—
The ChairmanChairmanYes. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: — But they do not refer to the section. So, when you are writing something, gentlemen, can you refer to the section that he is referring to? They sent me quite a few things here. I just want to be clear. So, w hat I …
Yes. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: — But they do not refer to the section. So, when you are writing something, gentlemen, can you refer to the section that he is referring to? They sent me quite a few things here. I just want to be clear. So, w hat I have here is that — [ Crosstalk] Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: D id you ask a question on civil penalty?
The ChairmanChairmanYes. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: The civil penalty determined as applicable would be by the agency. Okay ?
The ChairmanChairmanOkay. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: There was a question on . . . Yes . . . I will be honest with you—
The ChairmanChairman[Junior] Minister, would you like for me to ask him if he could just repeat the second question? Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Do one at a time, gentlemen—
The ChairmanChairmanYes. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: — Honourable Members. Mr . Scott Pearman: I would be very happy to repeat. In fact, I can tie three of them together because they are effectively the same question in relation to c lauses 4, 13, and 17. There are references to prescribed regulations. …
Yes. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: — Honourable Members. Mr . Scott Pearman: I would be very happy to repeat. In fact, I can tie three of them together because they are effectively the same question in relation to c lauses 4, 13, and 17. There are references to prescribed regulations. I'm just trying to get a sense from the [Junior] Minister as to when we can expect those in relation to clause 10.
The ChairmanChairmanHold on one second so that he can— Mr . Scott Pearman: I'll stop there.
The ChairmanChairmanYes, so he can check his response. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Honourable . . . just hold on a minute. [ Pause] Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Is that coming from . . . you sending me the information? [Crosstalk ] Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Yes. It says , Regulations published …
The ChairmanChairmanThank you. Mr . Scott Pearman: And again, clarifying per your instruction, the second point was on c lause 10, and that was the point about whether in fact the paragraph just slipped, and it should be fixed.
The ChairmanChairmanRight. Mr . Scott Pearman: Whoever has draft of it, I suspect, just needs to go back. That's all.
Mr. Scott PearmanAnd the last one, Madam Chairman, from me , was clause 15, and that was the question . . . I know he answered that the penalty would be imposed by the agency, but my question was whether the penalty by the words “ may be” imposed. Is that intended …
The ChairmanChairmanDiscretionary. Yes. Mr . Scott Pearman: And that's it. Thank you.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you. Did you get that, Junior Minister? Yes ? The clarifications? [ No audible response.]
The ChairmanChairmanOkay. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: [Microphone not on.] . . . One question, he asked [if the] paragraph had slipped. Was that clear to you? Mr . Scott Pearman: Yes. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Okay. We covered that one. Mr . Scott Pearman: Clause 10, paragraph slipped. Hon. Wayne L. …
Okay. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: [Microphone not on.] . . . One question, he asked [if the] paragraph had slipped. Was that clear to you? Mr . Scott Pearman: Yes. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Okay. We covered that one. Mr . Scott Pearman: Clause 10, paragraph slipped. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Yes. Mr . Scott Pearman: Okay. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: And then it was [clause] . . . was that 13? Mr . Scott Pearman: Clause 15.
B ermuda House of Assembly The Chairman: [Clause] 15. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: One minute. [ Pause] Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: And that was the one to do penalties? Mr . Scott Pearman: Yes. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Ye s, penalties are discretionary.
Mr. Scott PearmanI'm grateful, Madam Chairman. That addresses all my questions.
The ChairmanChairmanOkay. Thank you. Are there any other Member s who wish to speak to c lauses 1 through 18? I recognise the Member from constituency 25. Member, you have the floor.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoThank you, Madam Chairman. I believe we a re just waiting to an answer on my question about waiving of interest.
The ChairmanChairmanYes. Would you like to repeat the question, so . . . Junior Minister, did you get the answer for his question? Or [do] you need him to repeat it?
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoClause 13 basically enables, by my reading, enables C ITA to waive interest that would otherwise be applied on certain late payments and so forth. I would like to understand what would be the conditions , or why they would want to waive that or things like that. Thank you.
The ChairmanChairmanOkay. Thank you. Junior Minister, whenever you are ready to answer. [ Pause] Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Yes, we want to waive interest if there are specific mitigating circumstances. Did that answer your question? [ No audible response.]
The ChairmanChairmanThank you. Are there any other persons who wish to speak to clauses 1 through 18? There being none, I call on the Junior Minister. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: I'm sure there will be other questions. I will welcome the Shadow Minister to write us and we will get that …
Thank you. Are there any other persons who wish to speak to clauses 1 through 18? There being none, I call on the Junior Minister. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: I'm sure there will be other questions. I will welcome the Shadow Minister to write us and we will get that information to him as best we can. All right. So, here we are. Thank you for those questions , again. A nd [as] I said, I look forward to you having any other questions in the future. I move that the preamble be approved.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that the preamble be . . . Did you want to move that the clauses be approved? Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Yes, I'm sorry.
The ChairmanChairmanYes. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: I’m sorry. I move all the clauses again.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that c lauses 1 through 18 be approved. Are there any objections? There are none. [ Motion carried: Clauses 1 through 18 passed.] Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: I move that the preamble be approved.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that the preamble be approved. Are there any objections? There are none. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: I move that the B ill be reported to the House as printed.
The ChairmanChairmanDid you want to move the Schedule? I believe this Bill has a Schedule in it. [ Pause]
The ChairmanChairmanI thought I saw it in there. Maybe I was looking at the wrong B ill. No, it does. Yes. It has the Schedule. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Yes, I move the S chedule.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that the Schedule be approved. Are there any objections? There are none. [ Motion carried: The Schedule was passed.]
The ChairmanChairmanJunior Minister , you move that the Bill be . . . 1662 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: I move that the Bill be reported to the House.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that the Bill be reported to the House— Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: —A s printed. —
The ChairmanChairman—as printed. Are there any objections? There are none; s o moved. [ Gavel] [ Motion carried: The C orporate Income Tax Amendment ( No. 2) A ct 2025 was considered by a Committee of the whole House and passed without amendment.] House resumed at 3:56 pm [Mr. Christopher Famous, …
—as printed. Are there any objections? There are none; s o moved. [ Gavel] [ Motion carried: The C orporate Income Tax Amendment ( No. 2) A ct 2025 was considered by a Committee of the whole House and passed without amendment.] House resumed at 3:56 pm [Mr. Christopher Famous, Acting Speaker, in the Chair] REPORT OF COMMITTEE CORPORATE INCOME TAX AMENDMENT (NO. 2) ACT 2025
The Acting SpeakerThe SpeakerGood afternoon, Members. Anyone seen Captain Phillips? [ Laughter and crosstalk ]
The Acting SpeakerThe SpeakerFor the benefit of the listening audience, we have recently concluded the Bill [entitled the] Corporate Income Tax Amendment (No. 2) Act 2025. I now call upon the Deputy Speaker to come in and resume on the next B ill. [ Pause]
The Acting SpeakerThe SpeakerIt has been . . . The Bill has been reported to the House. Are there any objections? No objections? No. Okay. [We are] moving on to [Order] No. 2, the second reading of the Tax Credits [Act] 2025 . The Junior Minister [sic] of Finance . [ Crosstalk] Hon. …
It has been . . . The Bill has been reported to the House. Are there any objections? No objections? No. Okay. [We are] moving on to [Order] No. 2, the second reading of the Tax Credits [Act] 2025 . The Junior Minister [sic] of Finance . [ Crosstalk] Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Acting Speaker, it is a pleasure to see you today.
The Acting SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Hon. E. David Burt: Hey, you know, I'm happy. Mr. Acting Speaker, I move that the B ill entitled the Tax Credit s Act 2025 be now read the second time. The Acting Speaker: Please proceed. Any other objections?
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberNone.
The Acting SpeakerThe SpeakerPlease proceed. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Mr. Acting Speaker. [ Pause] [ Ms. Lovitta F. Foggo, Deputy Speaker, in the Chair]
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerPlease continue, Premier and Minister of Finance. Hon. E. David Burt: Madam [Deputy] Speaker, I think this is a conspiracy that all these St. George's people are here in the Chair. You know, I don't know where the Speaker is, but that's okay. You know, staunch St. George's leave, you …
Please continue, Premier and Minister of Finance. Hon. E. David Burt: Madam [Deputy] Speaker, I think this is a conspiracy that all these St. George's people are here in the Chair. You know, I don't know where the Speaker is, but that's okay. You know, staunch St. George's leave, you come in, all the rest. [ Crosstalk] [ Laughter] Hon. E. David Burt: As the Deputy [Premier] says, but you won't fall over a trophy , so that's okay. [ Laughter] Hon. E. David Burt: Shall I proceed?
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerI really don't want to have to throw people out of the House [from] a rival team. [ Laughter] Hon. E. David Burt: I don't want you to throw me out on this important Bill either, Madam Deputy Speaker . Shall I proceed?
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerYes. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Madam Deputy Speaker . BILL SECOND READING TAX CREDIT S ACT 2025 Hon. E. David Burt: Madam Deputy Speaker , it is my distinct honour and privilege on behalf of the Govern-ment to rise this afternoon in this Honourable House to …
Yes. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Madam Deputy Speaker . BILL SECOND READING TAX CREDIT S ACT 2025 Hon. E. David Burt: Madam Deputy Speaker , it is my distinct honour and privilege on behalf of the Govern-ment to rise this afternoon in this Honourable House to debate the Bill entitled Tax Credit s Act 2025. Madam Deputy Speaker , this Bill proposes to incentivise industries that are instrumental to the
B ermuda House of Assembly growth and development of the Bermuda economy to invest in their on I sland operations to encourage such investment when it results in increased employment in Bermuda and greater job opportunities for Bermudians. I want to repeat that, Madam Deputy Speaker , as it is important. To encourage such investment when it results in increased employment in Bermuda and greater job opportunities for Bermudians. This is a Bill that is for Bermudians. To further encourage such investment when it leads to increased expenditure on do-mestic goods and services, thereby benefiting the wider local economy, that is , Madam Deputy Speaker , the small businesses and entrepreneurs that are inside of our economy, and to provide utility credits that help reduce operating costs for qualifying businesses, and finally to recognise and encourage charitable contribu-tions where such contributions represent a meaningful benefit to the community. So yes, Madam Deputy Speaker , this is a Bill for Bermudians, Bermudian workers, Bermudian small businesses, a B ill also for lower energy prices, and a Bill, Madam Deputy Speaker, for, and I repeat, the charities in our country. Madam Deputy Speaker, by way of background, I would note that it has now been about two years since the Corporate Income Tax Act 2023, which was enacted in December of 2023, came into effect. And of course, we have just had a debate on amendments on that, which was led by the Junior Minister of Finance, but the Bill has by and large been in operation for just under two years. The Act imposes a statutory tax rate of 15 per cent on the profits of Bermuda entities that are part of multinational enterprise groups, with to-tal revenues exceeding €750 million in at least two of the preceding four fiscal years. Very complex, Madam Deputy Speaker, but as you heard in the last debate, these matters related to corporate income tax are ex-traordinar ily complex, and you can see that with the length of this particular B ill in and of itself. Since its enactment, the Corporate Income Tax Agency has become fully operational, also passed in this Honourable House, and with this progress, the Government has moved to begin advancing the re-maining aspects of the tax framework. And we remem-ber, Madam Deputy Speaker , when we did that Bill, we spoke about matters related to qualified refundable tax credits, something that, you know, a lot of people will have heard— heard —but are wondering what does that mean? Well, today, we are delivering what exactly that means. Madam Deputy Speaker, the Tax Reform Commission [TRC] established in November 2023 was tasked with incorporating potential revenues from the corporate income tax and making policy recommenda-tions to support a revised tax system for Bermuda. This system aimed to maintain Bermuda's competitiveness through qualified refundable tax credits and other in-centives guided by key principles : 1.Generating sufficient and predictable government revenue to meet commitments . 2.Supporting Bermuda's ability to attract investment and residents while aligning with interna-tional standards . 3.Ensuring fairness and equity by balancing tax burdens according to the ability to pay . 4.Maintaining simplicity for efficient administration and ease of compliance.And as we know, Madam Deputy Speaker , the Tax Reform Commission did give its report, that report, the bipartisan Tax Reform Commission [TRC] , that report which was published in November [sic] and will go on to the consultation that . . . sorry, that report was published in August , and I will go on to talk about the consultation that happened after that particular point in time. It's important to note, Madam Deputy Speaker , that qualified refundable tax credits , or QRTCs , are refundable tax credits that are paid in cash within a spec-ified period, generally up to four years , when they are not applied against tax and are intended to support in-vestment. Key point, they are refundable tax credits that are paid in cash. That means the Government , or the CITA, must pay these funds. Madam Deputy Speaker , the TRC submitted its report in August 2025 outlining its principal recommendations. The Tax Reform Commission has proposed the introduction of a substance- based tax credit for insurers beginning in 2025, as well as the development of a community and also utility infrastructure cred-its. In addition, and this is dealing with the Tax Reform Commission report and the recommendations which came from the report of the Tax Reform Commission, that the Tax Reform Commission also recommended housing, infrastructure, and innovation tax credits which are recommended for implementation in 2026 or 2027 , reflecting their greater complexity but also reflecting the view that we need to take time to under-stand how the corporate income tax is going to work as we still do not have full clarity on the level of collections of which may happen and how those matters will accrue. A nd as we have always said, those matters are variable. Of course, you know, the O pposition in the previous debate was lecturing us o n that, but we already know that that is the case. So, we do not need to hear the Op position repeat what we already know. [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: You have your turn to speak. These additional credits targeted for implementation in 2026 or 2027 will support the development of critical national infrastructure while ensuring that Bermuda's fiscal regime remains transparent, equita-ble, and in line with international standards. And these are important matters, Madam Deputy Speaker, and I am particularly pressed to try to ac-tually get the housing tax credit done as quickly as 1664 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly possible to assist my colleague, the Deputy Premier, on his desire to continue to deliver affordable housing. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes! Hon. E. David Burt: And so those are matters which we are looking to address more expeditiously , and it is my sincere hope that I will be able to get that done be-fore I demit office as Minister of Finance. Madam Deputy Speaker, a substance- based tax credit reduces a corporation's income tax liability based on its real economic activity in the jurisdiction. The credit is typically calculated from local payroll and tangible assets, recognising genuine operational sub-stance rather than profit shifting. It encourages compa-nies to maintain and grow the [number] of employees, facilities, and investment within the jurisdiction. And this, of course, Madam Deputy Speaker , is what we would like. We would like more international business in Bermuda. The Opposition talks about the fact that , Oh, this Government is only good at growing international business —X, Y, Z . Nonsense and rubbish. However, the fact is that we have grown international business and there are more people employed in international business than ever have been employed in the economy, including more Bermudians employed in international business than ever before. This is only a benefit, and the tax credit legislation is to incentivise that to happen even more, which can only be a benefit. And of course, if there's more international business in the country, that means there is more jobs and more benefits to the entrepreneurs and those persons who support international business. A utility infrastructure tax credit lowers a corporation's income tax liability for certain utility -related costs or investments, such as energy efficient equip-ment, renewable energy use, or improvements to utility infrastructure. These credits incentivise efficient utility consumption and support energy or environmental pol-icy goals. And as I said, a recommendation of the Tax Reform Commission. Further, a community or charitable giving tax credit directly reduces a corporation's in-come tax liability when it makes qualifying contributions to approved non- profit or community organisations. Now, Madam Deputy Speaker , when we get into Committee, we will note that at this current time it is restricted just to charities, but it is the intention of the government to bring amendments next year to expand this to a wider range of community organisations. We just need to make sure we get all those things correct and proper so they can pass muster. But it is important to note that there are charitable organisations, registered charities, but there are also community organisations, sporting clubs, et c etera, that can also benefit from charitable giving. A nd we want to make sure that this is as wide as possible to encourage our international business partners and others to go ahead and to support these particular organisations, which were important for our communities, as I am sure you can attest. And maybe they will give some money to St. George's Cricket Club.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberThank you. [ Laughter and inaudible interjections ] Ano ther Hon. Member: Or St. David’s. Hon. E. David Burt: Or St. David's. The credit encourages businesses to support local development, social programmes, and charitable initiatives that provide public benefits. This credit is available to all companies, but it is not, …
Thank you. [ Laughter and inaudible interjections ] Ano ther Hon. Member: Or St. David’s. Hon. E. David Burt: Or St. David's. The credit encourages businesses to support local development, social programmes, and charitable initiatives that provide public benefits. This credit is available to all companies, but it is not, unlike the sub-stance- based tax credit, refundable if there is insufficient corporate income tax to offset it. A very key point. Madam Deputy Speaker , the Ministry of Finance conducted a public consultation on this legislation in late August following the publication of the Tax Reform Commission report. Following . . . during this process, they received valuable feedback. They, we, the Ministry of Finance, received valuable feedback from industry stakeholders and other interested parties. That input was carefully reviewed , and the draft legislation was amended where necessary to ensure that the framework is clear, effective, and responsive to the practical considerations raised during the consultative process. Madam Deputy Speaker, as we move towards implementing this legislation, the government remains committed to ensuring strong governance and account-ability in the administration of these tax credits. The framework includes clear eligibility criteria, transparent reporting requirements, and appropriate oversight to ensure that the credits are awarded fairly and deliver measurable economic benefit. Moreover, the government will continue to work collaboratively with industry stakeholders as the tax regime evolves, ensuring that Bermuda remains fully aligned with international stand-ards while safeguarding our long- term economic stability. Madam Deputy Speaker, the introduction of this tax credit legislation represents a significant step forward in the modernisation of Bermuda's tax system. This Bill clearly is designed to strengthen Bermuda's position as a forelooking jurisdiction by establishing a clear and transparent framework for the provision of targeted tax credits. And it is important, Madam Deputy Speaker , that we repeat this because many things may be said, but these credits will support key sectors of the economy, the economic drivers of our economy, en-courage investment in Bermuda's infrastructure, and also our workforce. Remember, these tax credits, which we will get into detail of when we go through them, are more targeted if companies hire Bermudian workers rather than overall. This is something that was recommended by the Tax Reform Commission, which is something that is supported and is something that we should
B ermuda House of Assembly understand. These tax credits will benefit Bermudians in the workplace and that is something that we should all strive towards. These credits will support key sectors of the economy, encourage investment, and promote sustainable economic growth. Importantly, the legislation will ensure that fiscal incentives are delivered in a fair, equitable and pre-dictable manner, consistent with Bermuda's commit-ment to sound financial management and international best practi ce. And just by way of information, Madam Deputy Speaker, we heard, and I'm sure . . . there is this whole thing about whether or not the government can, you know, manage or administer these things, the types of things, or what are we going to do with things that happen. I think, Madam Deputy Speaker, that our track record of delivering this legislation is clear. It has not been easy at all. It has taken a significant amount of time, it has taken a significant amount of energy, it has taken a significant amount of resources, and also with the Attorney General's Chambers, it has taken re-sources that may have been to other particular matters. But the hope is that we are now finished with a number of various B ills, whether it is a Bill today, whether it's this one, whether it's additional regulations, which we discussed in the prior debate, which are coming for-ward to complete this particular package. This is important for us to get done and to get completed. And so, I think it is very important to recognise that we understand how to do this. We have demonstrated our competence of how to navigate these waters, how to make sure that we a re working with industry to do something that is significant. If you would have gone back 10 years, Madam Deputy Speaker, and said that Bermuda would have a corporate income tax on its largest international tax holders, people would look at you and say, N o, we wouldn't. The fact that we actually, when it was introduced, how we have managed to navigate very carefully down this line to make sure that we get there, while retaining the support of the international business community and working with them to meet the very means of the international business sector demonst rates our competence in management and getting this done. And you cannot say that you trust the Government to implement things, but you do not trust the Government to manage what will come on the backside of it. The two do not work together. The two do not work together, Madam Deputy Speaker. And so, by implementing this legislation, we are taking a proactive ap-proach to maintaining Bermuda's attractiveness as a place to do business, while ensuring that the tax framework remains modern, balanced, and responsive to the needs of the community. As I close, Madam Deputy Speaker , to listen to the contribution of colleagues on this very important piece of legislation, the first foray into tax credit legisla-tion for the G overnment of Bermuda, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to everyone in the Ministry of Finance and the Corporate Income Tax Agency, as well as our dedicated advisors for their time, expertise, and commitment for this important work. I must also thank the international business partners, the tax experts, and all the rest , who have been working with the International Tax Working Group as we continue to go through this. I think they meet weekly . . . financial . . . weekly —weekly meetings. So, this literally happens on a weekly basis in the Ministry of Finance as we go . . . work through these particular efforts. I would also like to thank the drafting team at the Attorney General's Chambers for their invaluable support for this process, for their patience, kindness, and understanding. Thank you, Ms. Johnson, I appreciate you. Everyone's collective efforts have been es-sential in bringing this legislation to the House today, to bringing the entire package to the House, to make sure that we are in a place where prior to the end of this year we will not only have a fully functioning Corporate In-come Tax Act, a fully functioning Corporate Income Tax Agency, but also a fully functioning Tax Credit s Act, tax reserve regulations, all the things which are necessary and required for this government to deal with this new stream of revenue. So, I would say the collective efforts have been essential in bringing us to this point and en-suring that it reflects careful consideration, technical precision, and is in the best interest of Bermuda. And as I close, Madam Deputy Speaker , the key points of which I want Member s to focus on is that the incentives of which we a re placing here will benefit our workforce, will benefit Bermudians in our workforce, will benefit our energy infrastructure, our telecommuni-cation infrastructure, because it's all for utilities, and will also, Madam Deputy Speaker, benefit our charities in this country who could do with more donations to con-tinue their excellent work. With that, Madam Deputy Speaker , I submit to the comments of other colleagues. Thank you.
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerThank you, Premier. Are there any other Member s who wish to speak on the Act entitled Tax Credits Act 2025? I recognise the Member from constituency 25. Member, you have the floor.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYes, t hank you, Madam Deputy Speaker . I thought I would actually start my comments today with thanks, because I didn't really get into it in the prior B ill, which I thought we would just whip through quite quickly, but, you know, there we go. [ Inaudible interjections]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoI want to say, you know, particular thanks to everybody on the Tax Reform Commis-sion. As was stated, I was on that committee for a portion of time. They work very, very hard. Particular 1666 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly thanks to, you know, …
I want to say, you know, particular thanks to everybody on the Tax Reform Commis-sion. As was stated, I was on that committee for a portion of time. They work very, very hard. Particular 1666 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly thanks to, you know, many of the people that the Premier has already thanked who are in this room, and I will try to call them by name here. Ms. Johnson, who I do not believe we have had the opportunity to meet, but I'm glad I did not have your job in drafting this 64- page Bill. Ms. Iris, who was of great, great support to the Tax Reform Commission, so glad to see her, you know, continuing on this topic. Obviously, to Mr. Financial Secretary and the CEO of C ITA, you know, we a re glad that they are on this and generally getting very, very good results. We did request a briefing on this Bill two weeks ago, and we did manage to get one last night, so also grateful to the team for that briefing, which was very useful. I mentioned it is a 64- page tax technical B ill, and so for all the nicknames going around here, I'm not a tax lawyer, and we don't have one on retention, but we have done our best. And that actually does go to the topic of complexity, and I think it's been referred to by a lot of people here. It is going to be a lot of work for Bermuda to stay on top of this regime, for the staff to stay on top of this regime. We know that the taxpayers will certainly have access to the top international talent, and while it is all above board, it is also a bit of an adversarial rela-tionship. So, of course, we want to make sure that the CITA, the Corporate Income Tax Agency, will be appropriately resourced for that. I think we have talked about that before. Clearly, we support this B ill in the same way that we supported the prior more technical B ill, because it is a critical part of making Bermuda competitive. Even with this global minimum tax, we are competing with other jurisdictions, and they have all kinds of incentives and tax credits and things like that. And frankly, the companies are looking around the world at these juris-dictions, and they are adding up, what is the cost of do-ing business in these jurisdictions? And to our mind, the primary purpose of these tax credits is to make sure that we have a cost of doing business that the companies want to remain here. As the Premier has talked about, they are major drivers of our economy, major employers, and while I know the Premier started his remarks by saying this was a B ill for the people of Bermuda, while it brings many benefits to them, in our view, primarily this B ill is aimed at directly the recipients of the benefits, which we will see. To be clear, it's not CIT taxpayers , it is insurance companies and utilities that might pay CIT tax. And that is a really important distinction to make. But like I said, we do support that . But I am going to talk about, I think, what we call some points to note, some areas to watch, and places we might have a little concern with. I will say that there are a lot of great things in this B ill. There are many details worked out in the mechanics that address and create some of the benefits that the Premier talked about. We talked about supporting more Bermudian hiring, spending money in Bermuda, whether it be meals or taxis or hotels. That's great. And we did our homework, and we went out and we spoke to the relevant industry groups, and not surprisingly, we know that overall, they are very happy with this Bill. Now, of course, something this complex, you can still overall be happy, while have some com-ments. You know, it might not have been the way I would have done that, or the way I would have done that. And although we like to think of international busi-ness as one big lump of companies, in fact, they have distinctions and differences, and that wou ld bring them a different perspective to this B ill. I would talk about charitable giving. Certainly, one of the things in this Bill was to incentivise the corporate philanthropy. It is quite interesting because the corporations fund a lot of Bermuda's third sector that provides a lot of services for Bermuda. And that sector has its own voice. And I know if you sort of follow the press and stuff, they are using it very loudly to talk about how much support that they need to provide the services, whether it be housing, health care, services for children and f amilies. So , it's good that this B ill creates avenues to encourage companies to still support that. But I think we need to be very cautious, because I think a lot of companies saw that as an implicit tax. Hey, I don't have income tax, but I'm willing to pony up and do my part to help provide social services in Bermuda. So hopefully, which we will get into the details of how this thing works in C ommittee, hopefully it will be enough. Some people might think it didn't go far enough. So, we will have to see how that goes. Now, the Bill has quite a few features in it, and the Premier talked about this, to sort of reduce risk, talk about making sure there's enough money to pay the tax credits and so forth. And of course, I'm going to ask, I don't really expect an answer based on the Premier's com-ments, but here we are debating the Tax Credits B ill, and how much? How much will the tax credits be, and what will the impact be on the CIT take? Now, I appre-ciate he's not going to answer. We know why. But I hope you, Madam Deputy Speaker, appreciate it's a bit ridiculous to talk about passing a Bill and we have no idea what the impact is going to be. Do you know what I mean? So here we are. We will do our best. The Government says, trust us. Well, frankly, I think we have seen from the Q uestion Period that it is pretty hard to have a lot of confidence in their ability to share information with us or their desire to share infor-mation with us. Now, also not knowing the quantum or the amount of the CIT, of course, makes planning very hard. One of the things that the Premier, I don't need to get into it too much, but these credits are refundable. So, I know many people who are listening might be familiar with a tax credit in the United States. If you have a tax, if you owe $100 of tax, you can have some tax write -offs that can reduce that $100. Many of the credits
B ermuda House of Assembly in this Bill are designed that once you have earned that credit, you have hired 150 Bermudians, you have trained them, you have grown your company, whether or not you owe taxes you still get the benefit of that credit. And that has to do with some technicalities of how the OECD rules work, but it's something really important to keep note of because it means that you may, as the Government or CITA, owe companies tax credits who did not even pay tax because they did not make enough money or something like that. So, again, very important to think about how that affects the fiscal and financial planning. So, for example, in a year where there are big hurricanes and so forth. So, something to keep an eye on. There was a section on the utilities. So, you know, I presume there are many large household names in Bermuda we can think of : Digicel, BELCO , Algonquin, whoever. Maybe some of them will be CIT payers. Of course, who knows? We don't have that information. So, they will get , potentially , tax credit benefits. And the Premier talked about, Oh , this is to reduce the cost to consumers. And, of course, we support that. But how do we know that the consumers will benefit? How do we know that those tax savings or credits or whatever the technical aspect that is in the B ill [and] we will talk about later , ends up in the consumer's pockets? Okay, we know how BELCO works. They are regulated, so they have got a credit over here. They will grind the gears on the Regulatory Authority, and we can see how that ends up reducing costs to consumers. But who knows how that's going to work in other industries? Is it going to actually make my cell phone bill go down? I don't know. I have some interesting questions. We will probably get to them in C ommittee. What about a company with undersea cables? There's stuff in here about things being located in Bermuda. So, I don't know what that means with respect to those. Another big area to pay attention to, Madam Deputy Speaker , is the topic called . . . maybe leakage is the topic. Now, the tax credits in this Bill are pitched at insurance companies and then the utilities who are CIT taxpayers. That's a separate section. Now, interestingly, and again, all coming back to how we have to work with the OECD, there are insurance companies that can earn these credits that are not CIT taxpayers. Right? And there are CIT taxpayers in Bermuda who may be paying the tax but are not eligible for the credits because they are not insurance companies. And that's where the leakage comes in. You have got people who are not paying tax getting credits, and people who are paying tax cannot get credits. And of course, we are not even getting into local businesses and what the impact of that is. And I'm sure there will be many local businesses who might look at this and say, W ell, when am I getting my tax credit? And I think the Premier alluded to that as well. Perhaps we'll see stuff coming in the future. So, you can see there's a lot of tension there because there might be, let's say, a local insurance company that you pay premiums to that you think are too high that are getting a tax credit, and they are not even paying the CIT. So, again, if we go back to my question, or not my question, my general theme with respect to the utilities, again, we would love to know how are we going to make sure that those savings make it into the consumers' pockets when everyone's struggling with the cost of living prices ? And of course, the government has to figure this out. So, to sum it up, Madam Deputy Speaker, as I said, overall, a great step in the right direction. I think I have identified some areas that we might have handled a little bit differently or put a little more structure or col-our around. And of course, we know the one thing that stays the same is change. So, we are going to see a lot of change in this. We heard in the prior B ill about the evolving global tax situation. No doubt there will be some chats in Brussels or whatnot, and it's going to come back. And who knows? Next year, we might be looking at a whole different structure of tax credits based on that. We may see behaviour in the industry by the CIT taxpayers that may cause us to rethink some details of the tax credits. And I think people need to be aware of that. This is going to be a very dynamic, fluid situation over the next few years, both as the companies learn to take advantage of the tax credits and as Bermuda learns to perhaps craft them to either be more appropriate or work better for Bermuda. But importantly, these credits are a vital component so that Bermuda can be a great jurisdiction for international business, a jurisdiction of choice to create jobs and opportunities for our people and contribute to our ec onomy. Thank you.
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerThank you, Member . Are there any other Member s who wish to speak to the Bill? I recognise the Member from constituency 17. Minister, you have the floor. Hon. Jason Hayward: Thank you, [Madam] Deputy Speaker . Madam Deputy Speaker, the Ministry of Economy and Labour fully backs and …
Thank you, Member . Are there any other Member s who wish to speak to the Bill? I recognise the Member from constituency 17. Minister, you have the floor. Hon. Jason Hayward: Thank you, [Madam] Deputy Speaker . Madam Deputy Speaker, the Ministry of Economy and Labour fully backs and supports the Ministry of Finance's initiatives as it pertains to bringing this B ill. Tax credits are a fundamental piece of any income tax system. We have significantly changed the way in which we have approached taxes in Bermuda, and we have made these changes for the betterment of the people of Bermuda, reducing the amount of taxes over time that individual workers have to pay, and increasing the amount of tax that is paid by corporations and those that have. Our tax system has become more and more progressive. Every iteration of the Progressive Labour 1668 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly Party has made our tax system more and more progressive, has reduced the taxes on the working people of Bermuda. Hon. E. David Burt: Yes. Hon. Jason Hayward: Madam Deputy Speaker, I find it extremely disturbing when a member of a committee can put forward recommendations as to what tax cred-its should be or could look like. The Government takes on the recommendations, puts it in a Bill, brings the B ill to Parliament, and then is criticised for bringing the B ill to Parliament because we don't have the figures to sup-port the B ill that we are bringing to Parliament.
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerYour point of order, Member. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoHe's misleading the House, Madam Deputy Speaker. I have not been a member of that committee since prior to the election— [ Inaudible interjections]
Dr. Douglas DeCouto— around this time last year. Second of all, I will tell you, and although I think I can say this without breaching the confidentiality, in my per-sonal view, while I was a committee member, we never received adequate information to make the recommendations that we . . . that …
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerThank you, Member. Continue, Minister. Hon. Jason Hayward: When I look at the back of the report, the H onourable Member 's name is listed.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberUh-oh. Hon. E. David Burt: Yes. Hon. Jason Hayward: Two, for allowing him to disassociate himself —
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerYour point of order ? POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoThe Member is misleading the House, and he is implying that I approved that report. I never had sight of that final report, nor did I have an opportunity to approve it. I cannot control that they put my name on it or not, but I did not review, nor …
The Member is misleading the House, and he is implying that I approved that report. I never had sight of that final report, nor did I have an opportunity to approve it. I cannot control that they put my name on it or not, but I did not review, nor approve, or have any role in signing off on that final report, nor any committee deliberations for the last year. Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker .
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerThank you, Member. Minister, continue. Hon. Jason Hayward: So, now that the Member has completely detached himself from the report, I'm going to go into why that report is such a good report. [ Laughter] Hon. Jason Hayward: As the Minister responsible for Economy and L abour, the Minister responsible …
Thank you, Member. Minister, continue. Hon. Jason Hayward: So, now that the Member has completely detached himself from the report, I'm going to go into why that report is such a good report. [ Laughter] Hon. Jason Hayward: As the Minister responsible for Economy and L abour, the Minister responsible for economic growth, economic development, and the expansion of jobs, I have to ask myself today whether or not this particular B ill that we a re putting before Parliament helps us to achieve those aims. And the answer is ab-solutely yes. Not only are we shifting the tax system, in which I have already discussed, we have now incentivised investment, direct investment into the community. In my view, these should actually be labelled commu-nity-based credits. It speaks to investment in our charities, investment in our utilities, investments in jobs. All fundamental components of a sustainable community. You see, these credits now serve as a very powerful tool that the Government can use to foster what we consider to be broad- based economic growth. You see, we can have economic growth in Bermuda that the average resident does not actually feel. But what we are doing today is connecting economic growth and productivity and the expansion of business in Bermuda to outcomes which directly bene-fit our community. So now, if a company wants to ex-pand jobs and they fall in scope of our regime, then they are actually rewarded for doing so. The expansion of jobs and the expansion of jobs for Bermudans benefits the Bermudan economy, it benefits our young people, it creates more opportunities, it has companies really , meaningfully considering (from a strategic business planning standpoint ), how they can continue to increase in these particular areas that benefit our com-munity and reduce their tax burden. Kudos to the Tax Reform Commission for their recommendations. This was done with what I consider to be extreme foresight. It was done with a human- centred approach. It was done as to how we can put a regime in place that ultimately from day one benefits the people of Bermuda. And this is what we a re here debating today. The more you invest in the Bermudan
B ermuda House of Assembly community in one of these areas which is outlined in this legislation, it also allows you to reduce your tax bur-den on the back end. And so, it's a win- win for corporations. Corporations win with a lower tax burden. The community wins by greater levels of investment. There is no downside to what we are doing today. It also will stimulate greater levels of economic substance in Bermuda. Up until now, the main tool in the Economic Development Act was simply the job makers ’ provision where we rewarded companies with restriction of immigration control by investing in our lo-cal community. But what we have put in place today dwarfs that. It dwarfs that incentive. And so , we should only expect greater levels of economic activity. We should expect an expansion of companies seeking to ensure that their human capital is Bermuda- based. [Madam Deputy] Speaker, the E conomic Development Strategy, Strategic Priority 1, is business retention and expansion. How can we support the reten-tion of businesses in Bermuda, and how can we sup-port their expansion efforts? What we a re doing today allows us to achieve both a retention strategy and also an expansion strategy. I speak to many CEOs within our business environment. Many of the those CEOs are looking to expand their business activities in Bermuda. They are looking at how they can onboard more staff. But what this Bill now does is have them strategically look at not just onboarding more staff, but at how they can onboard more Bermudian staff. Because when you look at the job-based benefit multiplier, it is not just focused on overall headcount. It is also a multiplier which focusses on Bermuda employment and a traini ng factor. I know that companies are investing in the human capital within Bermuda. I know that they are providing training, but this incentivises that to happen at a more accelerated rate. Our third sector, which is our charities, continues to seek corporate funding to support their activities. But who are the beneficiaries of the charitable donations? Not just the charities themselves, but the human beings who receive the goods and services provided by those charities. And so, when I look at this, the principal reason why we a re doing this is not what was espoused by the speaker before me to create an incentive so that persons can remain in Bermuda. The principal aim of this from the Progressive Labour [Party] Government standpoint is to ensure we have greater levels of investment in the human capital, the people of Bermuda. See, we are looking at it from a human- centred approach. I am looking at how this benefits our school system, how this benefits our university students who are looking for careers in international business. I am looking at it from a bottom -up approach. Maybe their lens is from a top- down approach, but certainly from this Government's approach, we a re looking at how we have an environment that works for the people of Bermuda, how we balance two priorities, expanding economic activity in Bermuda while also creating an environment that channels direct support to community-based initiatives, to hiring of Bermudi an staff, to also reinvestment in the capabilities of the staff that is already hired. We talk about this proverbial glass ceiling that exists in workplaces. Now we have a direct measure as it pertains to how we monitor and reward investment in the advancement of workers, Bermudi an workers, within the workforce, primarily in these companies in which they fall in scope of this particular regime. The Government could have given tax credits for a number of areas, but you see the specific areas that we have determined that we will focus on is the areas that would have the most meaningful impact on our society. So, when we say inclusive economic growth, when we say how we use our legislative power to ensure that we create a better environment for Ber-mudians, this B ill that we have in front of us is a case in point. And so , I thank the Minister of Finance for bringing this. I thank his team that assisted him with preparing the Bill. I thank the Financial Secretary ( FS) for a very comprehensive briefing yesterday. And I thank the people of Bermuda for continually having confidence in this Government who clearly delivers for them, on behalf of them, and keeps them front and cen-tre on our policy decisions. Thank you, Madam [Deputy] Speaker.
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerThank you, Minister. Are there any other Member s who wish to speak to this Bill? I recognise the Member from constituency 22. Member, you have the floor.
Mr. Scott PearmanThank you, Madam Deputy Speaker . And my interests are declared on the parliamentary website, but again, Conyers did have some in-volvement in this, not me, but Conyers, and I just would like to declare that for the record. I thank the Premier and Minister of Finance for his presentation. …
Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker . And my interests are declared on the parliamentary website, but again, Conyers did have some in-volvement in this, not me, but Conyers, and I just would like to declare that for the record. I thank the Premier and Minister of Finance for his presentation. I also thank the contributions from the Shadow Minister and from the Minister for Labour and Economy. But I would also like to congratulate our little Island on getting this done. So well done, Bermuda, and well done for all the individuals involved. I think all of us who have spoken today, both on this B ill and the prior one, have recognised the degree of complexity and difficulty that was involved, and I am very proud to stand up and thank the Ministry of Finance, and lest he say it again, I thank the Finance Minister.
Some Hon. Members Some Hon. MembersAh! Well done. [ Inaudible interjections and laughter ] 1670 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly Mr. Scott Pearman: Obviously, the Attorney General and her Chambers and the CIT Agency . But let me also thank someone who hasn't been thanked today, because let's not …
Ah! Well done. [ Inaudible interjections and laughter ] 1670 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly Mr. Scott Pearman: Obviously, the Attorney General and her Chambers and the CIT Agency . But let me also thank someone who hasn't been thanked today, because let's not actually forget international business, because it is, after all, interna-tional business , where some of them will have to be the taxpayers of this tax, and some will be the credit recip-ients. But for the support of the insurance sector , specifically, although there is the utility sector, we would not be here today. So, I, for one, show gratitude to them in addition to those I've already thanked. I would just like to make a very few small points, but I think it is important just to touch on a couple of points, and I have two questions for the Honourable Finance Minister as well. The first is to repeat the point that was made by the Honourable Shadow Minist er of Finance, and I do so because I think we do need to be clear to the public, because there we will see some people who read about this afterwards and may sort of scratch their head. And I just want to state with clarity that not all of those who receive tax credits will pay tax, and that just might sound odd to the man or woman on the street thinking about this. And I just want to reiterate that the reason for that has nothing to do with this Government or its legislation. It has to do and is owing to those who make the rules around global minimum tax, and specif-ically the OECD, but there are others. And so , I think it's important mentally to decouple the concept of tax over here and the payment of it and this concept of credits. And MP DeCouto commented how it really was not like the US tax system where it's a credit and you set it off, et cetera. It is more akin to European- style industry tax credit where a specific industry is recognised to be of such vital importance to a particular country that that country puts its money where its mouth is and it says, we are going to support this industry thr ough a system of tax credits. One that often springs to mind is the French supporting their farmer's economy. So, it is important not to think of this in sort of “ US terms” (quote/unquote) as a deduction, et cetera. It is quite a separate concept, and people will be getting tax credits who do not pay tax. And that's okay. That's what the OECD is providing for, and those are the rules on the pitch on which we are playing. I just want to mention this. There is potentially, of course, the law of unintended consequences. And we may well and likely will see business growth because of this A ct, the Tax Credits Act. Because people will say, Well, hang on, I can move to Bermuda, and I can have that credit. I can have that benefit. And so, I think we will see that, and that's no bad thing. Because that will mean job creation for our Island as the prior speaker, the Minister of Labour and Economy, noted. And that is a good thing. Hon. E. David Burt: Is there a but there? Mr. Scott Pearman: I'm going to use a “ yet” because I get accused of “ buts. ” [ Laughter] Mr . Scott Pearman: But yet . . . yet, we must be cautious — Hon. E. David Burt: Yes.
Mr. Scott Pearman—not to become a victim of our own success where we enable all of these businesses to move in, to take advantage of the credit without any realistic prospect of them becoming a taxpayer. And I just mentioned that in passing. And it's not a criticism. It's just, let's be …
—not to become a victim of our own success where we enable all of these businesses to move in, to take advantage of the credit without any realistic prospect of them becoming a taxpayer. And I just mentioned that in passing. And it's not a criticism. It's just, let's be careful here. Let's be real. And I know, I know because I had the benefit of the briefing last night from the F inancial Secretary and from the CEO for the CIT agency, as did many other MPs. And they are alive to this. And they are alive to this because there is a great deal of flexibility in the awarding of the tax credit system. There are many hur-dles and factors. And, you know, what I'm saying will not take anyone by surprise. But for the listening public, they may say, Well, I don't understand. Why is someone getting a tax credit when they're not paying tax? So, I just think it's important to say that. That leads me to my first question to the Honourable Minister of Finance. It is a question that has been answered in some rooms. But again, for the benefit of the listening public, I think some people will ask, Why are utilities , and specifically BELCO, going to get a tax credit? That was not a theme that the Honourable Minister of Finance developed to any great degree in his brief to this Honourable House earlier on the B ill. And if he could perhaps specifically address that in his response, I think it would be helpful. Parenthetically, let me just say to the extent that BELCO as a utility is going to get a tax credit, and I don't know if they are going to be a taxpayer or not. I simply do not have that information. But if they are, if they aren't, they're going to get a tax credit. I think we all must ensure that it is passed along to the Bermudian consumer . Right? So, it would be a disastrous result if BELCO were to get a tax credit, but that were not to be passed along. And I'm sure those on the other side of the aisle agree with that sentiment. But the question is, could you please, Honourable Premier, on a very high level , explain why utilities are being included? Because obviously that's a decision this Government has taken. It was a decision this Government didn't necessarily need to take, and I think it would benefit the public to understand the logic behind it . Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker.
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerYour point of order? B ermuda House of Assembly POINT OF ORDER Hon. E. David Burt: I'm not trying to say the Honourable Member is misleading the House, I am enjoying his presentation, but I think it is not correct for him to say it's a choice and decision that …
Your point of order?
B ermuda House of Assembly POINT OF ORDER Hon. E. David Burt: I'm not trying to say the Honourable Member is misleading the House, I am enjoying his presentation, but I think it is not correct for him to say it's a choice and decision that the Government has made. Yes, in the main, but I think it would be unwise of him not to, or you know, not helpful to recognise that this is one of the things that was recommended by the bipartisan Tax Reform Commission. Important.
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerThank you. Mr . Scott Pearman: If I may say so, that's probably the most fair point the Premier and Minister of Finance has made all day. And I'll take that on board. [ Laughter] Mr . Scott Pearman: I'll take that on board. No doubt there was someone, or …
Thank you. Mr . Scott Pearman: If I may say so, that's probably the most fair point the Premier and Minister of Finance has made all day. And I'll take that on board. [ Laughter] Mr . Scott Pearman: I'll take that on board. No doubt there was someone, or someone plural, who suggested that utilities deserved a tax credit. And all I am asking on behalf of the public in performance of my duties as an Opposition MP to ask questions and pose questions is an answer from the Premier as to why. And if the answer is, Well, it wasn't my decision. I t's what the Tax Reform Commission said. T hen so be it. And that will be the answer. But let's have that answer, because I do think the same people who will be scratching their head a little bit about the credits and the tax might be scratching their head about why BELCO is getting a tax credit. So that's one question. The second question arises from his presentation. And I would just seek some clarity. The Honourable Minister of Finance, when giving his presentation, started to say that the tax credits would be paid by the Government. He then corrected what he was saying and said they would be paid by the CITA, the Corporate Income Tax Agency. And so, I would welcome clarification as to who is the pay or of the credits. Will it be the CITA or will it be the Government out of the consolidated fund? I don't know the answer, but I would be grateful if the Premier is aware of the answer of that or anyone else in the room is, just in terms of mechanics. What bank account is the money coming out of? Via whom? And who i s actually writing the check or making the transfer? So those are my brief remarks. Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker .
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerThank you, Member. Are there any other persons who wish to speak to this legislation? I recognise the Member from c onstituency 28. Member, you have the floor.
Mr. Dennis Lister IIIThank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. First, Madam Deputy Speaker, I would just again like to say thanks to the Ministry of Finance team, led by the Minister of Finance and the Financial Secretary, for bringing this Bill to us, to the House, Madam [Deputy] Speaker. It is a well -rounded …
Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. First, Madam Deputy Speaker, I would just again like to say thanks to the Ministry of Finance team, led by the Minister of Finance and the Financial Secretary, for bringing this Bill to us, to the House, Madam [Deputy] Speaker. It is a well -rounded and [well - ]thought -out Bill. It has been evidenced by the comments that the Premier prefaced his substantial re-marks with that has support from the core sector. There were comments from AB IR, comments from, I believe, KPMG, where they supported this Tax Credit s Act. When I read this B ill, and as I attended the briefing last night, Madam Deputy Speaker , two key points jumped out to me: the Community Development Tax Credit and the Job Base Tax Credit. Much of what I said, the previous speaker from this side, Minister Hayward, said, and I was almost about to tear up my comments and not stand up and speak, but I don't think it would hurt to . . . reiterate some of the points that was raised, and definitely lend my support to this Bill. Community Development Act. I will . . . with your leisure, Madam Deputy Speaker, if I could read from the explanatory memorandum. On the last two lines, it states, “ and, lastly, to recognise and encourage charitable contributions where such charitable contribu-tions represent a meaningful contribution to the community. ” As evident throughout this I sland, we hear the cries , whether it's the increase of homeless, those that are unhoused, the homeless in Bermuda, even those that rely on food banks, food donations. The third sector can use some support, and as evidenced by the Community Development Tax Credit, these entities that invest in our charities, the more that they invest, while the entity might be the recipient of the tax credit, the benefactors of that investment are those who rely on the third sector, charities. I think we all know that the more that is invested in those charities, the more that those benefactors can receive the help, whether it be, again, the fight against homelessness or those who are struggling to eat and survive, who have relied on these third sector services, the more investment, the more that they receive on their end. So, I think it's a win- win, this Community Tax Credit. But then also the other one that jumped out to me most is the Job Base Tax Credit. And Madam Dep-uty Speaker, I think that is one of the most key compo-nents of this tax credit, of these tax credits. Bermuda lives in a very advanced society, and many young people, when they graduate from high school, they go off to college, they look to get degrees, and Bermuda is a well-known financial industry place, IB, and a lot of young people look to get degrees to study in that sec-tor. But as an MP out canvassing, too often I hear that their young people cannot come home and get jobs, or they cannot get a job in their field of study. And I think with this Job Base Tax Credit . . . and again it incentivises any already existing entity or any potential entity that wants to come to Bermuda and be a recipient of these tax credits, to incentivise them to hire more Bermudians. Many young Bermudians, as I said, they 1672 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly go off to school and they come back and they cannot get a degree in, or they cannot get a job where they got the degree in the international business, the finance sector, and this tax credit , what I look at is a number of factors : headcount factor, then also see training and employment factor. These are key, especially the training. There are, . . . you know, we want to employ Bermudians, and also not just employ them, but also developing them, training them so that they can move on from where they entered to, move on up into the organ-isation. So, the more that we invest in our young . . . well, the more that these entities invest, the beneficiaries are, again, young . . . or not young, but local Bermudians who are able to get these jobs, get these opportunities, which overall, again, benefits not just them, but it benefits the community. Because the more peo-ple who are working, the more people putting back into our system that the Government, again, yes, they do make more from taxes, but those taxes go to the ser-vices that we get from Government. So, the more peo-ple working, the more people who are available to get the opportunities that these tax credits will incentivise, that is overall, again, a win- win for Bermuda. So, I am going to keep my comments short, because much has been said, but as I said, I didn't think it would hurt to reiterate the support for this tax credit s Bill, and thanking the team that bought this. Much has been said earlier about collaboration and working together, and so it's good to hear that the OBA, the Opposition, they support this. As an illustration I will use, you know, in Bermuda we have internal politics . We fight each other back and forth. But when it comes to external, we have to show face and come together as one. A nd the illustration is as a rowing team, as long as everyone's row-ing together, the guys on the right are rowing, the guys on the left are rowing, and we are going in the same direction, we will be successful. Successful. But if one person decides to go against the grain, it throws off our direction, it throws off . . . and we ultimately lose the race. So, in the heart of collaboration, again, I thank the Opposition, and I know the Deputy Leader of the Opposition said he thanks the Premier, he thanks . . . I just want to highlight that . You know, this is the work that is done, yes, it's bipartisan, but to get the thanks from the OBA assures that we are on the right track. So, [I] thank the Minister of Finance, the FS , and his team. Thank you , guys , for bringing this, and again, I support this and look for this Bill to get passed in the House. Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker .
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerThank you, Member . Are there any others who wish to speak to the Tax Credit s Act 2025? I recognise the Member from constituency 12. Member, you have the floor. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Yes, thank you, [Madam] Deputy Speaker. I've already given my kudos, and so I'll just …
Thank you, Member . Are there any others who wish to speak to the Tax Credit s Act 2025? I recognise the Member from constituency 12. Member, you have the floor. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Yes, thank you, [Madam] Deputy Speaker. I've already given my kudos, and so I'll just say— [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes. So, let me get to the point here. [ Laughter and inaudible interjections ] Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Yes, yes. The Honourable Member Lister just sat down and said something very important, which is where I want to go, and that is concerning the tax credits and Bermuda. T here are external matters that we come together for. And then there are those internal matters that we can butt heads at different particular times. I want to be clear. The reason we a re here primarily is because it is the retention of these international busi-nesses in Bermuda. Now, if I also want to be objectively clear on this here, and fair, I'm glad to see that the Government has found a way also to tie externally , or down the line with these credits , some social incentives that will benefit the Island internally. But some of these things could have been done before with the IT business. It's a fact that we are being pushed into this position by the OECD that has created an opportunity here. So I will say yes, I'm glad to see that the Government is taking opportunity here. But let's not mistake ourselves here. We are here because the OECD is imposing something upon us, whether we see it as good, bad, indifferent, or whatever the fact may be. We a re finding a way, as we always do, to find a silver lining out of this matter. And so these tax credits, for me, and specific now, internally, when I see that a company, a health insurance company does not have to be burdened by the tax but gets the opportunity to get credits, when my colleague speaks of the matter of leakage, I understand that this is a difficult matter, and they are still trying to figure out , How do we close some of these gaps ? And one of the gaps is this here. Yes, these health insur-ance companies are going to get credits, or are eligible for credits, but don't have to pay the tax, and you all know in this H ouse that I have a major challenge with the local insurance companies not doing enough. So, at some point in time, I'm expecting this Government, and I've been going on and on about this here, those credits need to align with a country who has premiums, health premiums, probably second to none in the world, maybe the US, that we see some benefit for the local economy in this space. There are no requirement s right now. We a re allowing these health insurance companies to buy out . . . we just celebrated 30 years for Caesar’s [Pharmacy]. N ow I know all of them well.
B ermuda House of Assembly The insurance companies are buying out the doctors, they are buying out the insurance companies, and now we are giving them credits, more money to monopolise the industry. You see it happening. T hey are merging together out of their own security . But where is the security in an Island where health insurance is a mortgage? And this is an opportunity, just like we have heard from the Finance Minister and the Premier about these opportunities . Everyone has gotten up and spoken to the wonderful work that is being done. But this leakage here is a major problem, and we need to look at this space, because they are moving faster than legislation is moving. A nd I have been speaking to this already . We need to get legislation to the table to prevent the monopolising of this industry, because we lose, as individuals . Everyone in this House of Assembly, all 36 of us, experience on a daily basis , challenges in the health insurance area. I mean, it was wonderful to hear the S tatement today from the H ealth Minister about more inclusion for benefits. It is brilliant. [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: And t ax credits, ye s. [ Laughter] Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: So, I am hoping that this opportunity here that I see, I am sure that the Government , if they have not started looking at it, they recognise that this is an opportunity for us to start lowering the cost of living in Bermuda. Now, we do not know how all of this is going to pan out at the end of the day. We are hoping that this money is, you know, we know the money is going to come in, how it is going to be spent and the like, and we can talk about that till the c ows come home. But this leakage, this . . . this . . . this . . . this hole in the net, has to be tightened up, especially with the local insurance area. And that is really where I wanted to focus here because it is going to require careful consideration, which we know that the Premier has been doing ( in all of his fine pink today ). And, again, if we as a jurisdiction have to be held accountable by the OECD, and Lord knows what else is coming down the line, then we as a Government and Opposition also need to do our part as these credits come through to ensure that we hold the larger companies in Bermuda, who invest their monies all around the world, that they also be held ac-countable because they sit in a sweet spot, an incredibly sweet spot . I can get credits and I do not have to pay or pay attention to this CIT tax . What a wonderful space. So let us make it even more wonderful. Let’s take the Christmas tree and adorn it and make sure that we use this opportunity to lower premiums in Bermuda. Thank you, [Madam] Deputy Speaker. The Deputy Speaker: Thank you, Member . Are there any other Members who wish to speak to the Bill? There being none, I recognise the Minister of Finance and Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Sorry, Madam Deputy Speaker. Give me a minute. I was in the back of the C hamber. [ Pause] Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker, and I thank the Honourable Members for their comments on this particular Bill. I am grateful for the support of the Opposition; I will answer the question which they ha d. I am grateful for the excellent contribution from the Minister for Economy and Labour and also the Junior Minister for Justice on these particular mat-ters. [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. E. David Burt: I said the Opposition in total. Okay, I will call you by way. [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: Okay, my goodness. You are very touchy today. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes. [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: Oh, my goodness. You are very touchy today. You are very touchy today, you know. Madam Deputy Speaker, I do not know what is wrong with your St. David’s people today, you know. They are in a space. [ Laughter] Hon. E. David Burt: I would like to thank the contributions from the Opposition , including [constituencies] 25, 22 and 12, the MPs , respectively , in those things. I am sorry. I do not know the Shadow Ministry roles, t hey change so quickly . So, I cannot keep up with those.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberOh-oh! Oh- oh! Hon. E. David Burt: But— [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: Hey. [ Laughter] 1674 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly Hon. E. David Burt: I can read a lot into that, but I am going to stay out of that …
Oh-oh! Oh- oh! Hon. E. David Burt: But— [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: Hey. [ Laughter] 1674 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly Hon. E. David Burt: I can read a lot into that, but I am going to stay out of that one. I am going to s tay focus ed right here. [ Laughter] Hon. E. David Burt: I am going to s tay focus ed right here. Madam Deputy Speaker — [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. E. David Burt: T he reality is that, as has been stated by many Members who spoke and contributed to this, this is a very important piece of legislation. And yes, there can be some form of challenge, that we are putting in place something without recognising and un-derstanding the exact parameters of how much funds are going to be collected, because we actually do not know. That is the reality. We do not know. So, we have to do our best estimates and . . . which is what we do on a budget cycle every year , make estimates on revenue and expenditure. And on this, we make estimates, utilise the information which we have. But just so I can combat the S hadow Minister 's point directly, what does he propose? Does he propose that we put in place the C orporate Income Tax legislation, wait until three years, until we figure out exactly what the revenue flows look like, and then put something in that we know is necessary and required to ensure that we can continue to go forward? Come on now. Let us be clear. I mean, you can make the argument and say you find it incredible that we are doing this . But what is your alternative? There is no alternative, Madam Deputy Speaker . And that is the reason why sometimes I say that the debate points are not substantive. Let us be real. We need to do this. It is something that we committed to do at the very beginning. It is something that has been recommended by the Tax Reform Commission, who has put together persons from international business, from local business, examining this particular issue. He was a participant of it to go through all those things. So, when he says it is incredible that we are putting this in place and do not know what we are getting, what is the other option? There is none. This is based upon the recommendations of a high- quality report from an esteemed panel of persons, bipartisan, with persons from the local business community, the international business community and also the charita-ble community, who have come up with this report . And we are implementing the recommendations of which they have laid out. That is what we are doing today, Madam Deputy Speaker. And so, yes, I can take the point . But if you do not have an alternative path, unless you are saying that if you were Minister of Finance you would have waited for three years and then done tax credits Well, let us see how that would have worked for the economy. All right ? [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. E. David Burt: You said he did not say that? Well, what is the alternate? [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. E. David Burt: If he says it is incredible that we are doing this without knowing how much money, then what is the alternative? [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: No, you cannot wait for the budget because the tax year is 2025. You know that.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberYes. Hon. E. David Burt: You know that. And I know that the Honourable Member gets it. And so , it is not helpful to make these particular points when we understand what is necessary and what needs to be done.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoOne could imagine several points of negotiations with international business. Our consultations have shown that they are almost . . . no, not almost. [They are] 100 per cent uniformly in favour of using these funds to pay down the budget. So, for example, the Government — [ Inaudible interjection]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoAh, excuse me. To pay down the debt, of course. Hon. E. David Burt: I do not yield anymore, Madam Deputy [Speaker] . He is not speaking to the point.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoCan he un- yield? I just — B ermuda House of Assembly Hon. E. David Burt: —I just did.
Dr. Douglas DeCouto—have a point of information. He wants to know what I would do .
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerJust a second, Member. The person was giving his point of information. What I will say is it should be specific and not ongoing.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYes. The point being, knowing that international business is uniformly and unanimously in favour of using these funds to pay down the debt: Option one, negotiate with them and say, no tax credits year one, but we promise to use all of the reve-nue above and beyond the standard traditional …
Yes. The point being, knowing that international business is uniformly and unanimously in favour of using these funds to pay down the debt: Option one, negotiate with them and say, no tax credits year one, but we promise to use all of the reve-nue above and beyond the standard traditional budget to pay down the debt, and so on and so forth. You see, a little creativity, Madam Deputy Speaker.
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerThank you, Member. Premier, you have the floor. Hon. E. David Burt: It sounds extraordinarily reasonable. The Honourable Member knows how wholly un-workable that is. So, I will leave him to do that. And maybe he can go ahead and explain that position to the persons of whom he courts …
Thank you, Member. Premier, you have the floor. Hon. E. David Burt: It sounds extraordinarily reasonable. The Honourable Member knows how wholly un-workable that is. So, I will leave him to do that. And maybe he can go ahead and explain that position to the persons of whom he courts with on a daily basis, be-cause I know where he . . . that is a nonsense, Madam Deputy Speaker. And he knows that it is a nonsense. He knows it is an absolute nonsense. So let us not go there, because I am not going to start putting the jurisdiction at risk to engage in the debate here in this House on foolishness like that , which came from the Opposition . Foolishness! Come on now ! [ Inaudible interjections] Hon. E. David Burt: And he knows why it is foolishness. He knows full well why it is foolishness. Come on now. Let us be serious if we are going to debate these particular matters. You got caught out. Just accept, Okay, I am sorry. I got it wrong. Anyhow, Madam Deputy Speaker , [I will] move on from matters related to clarification. And this is just important that I just want to make sure, clear for Honourable Members opposite. I do apologise. In my par-ticular brief the utility infrastructure tax credit is non -refundable. Important point. I said refundable inside of my comments. It is non- refundable. And this means that non-CIT payers are not currently eligible. Important point to note. And this is set up to ensure that companies are not worse off under Bermuda CIT than they would be under Pillar Two. And, so, there was a question that was asked as to why are utility companies . . . I know what the Honourable Member is trying to do, trying to go ahead and, you know, throw the BELCO thing out and all the rest, just the same thing we were doing when we did the tax cuts where he knows — POINT OF ORDER [Imputing improper motive] Mr . Scott Pearman: Point of order. I am afraid the Honourable Member is [impu ting] an improper motive, Madam Deputy [Speaker] . And so soon after I was so complimentary as well. I am asking a perfectly legitimate question. Someone has decided to grant tax credits to utility. The answer that was being given by the Honourable Primer, Minister of Finance , was quite helpful. And I look forward to continuing without imput ing the motives of the Opposition .
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerThank you. Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Madam Deputy Speaker, I know that all of us are entitled to our opinions. And so, we will go there because we know that this is a common pat-tern with this Honourable Member. Whenever there is anything to do with . . . …
Thank you. Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Madam Deputy Speaker, I know that all of us are entitled to our opinions. And so, we will go there because we know that this is a common pat-tern with this Honourable Member. Whenever there is anything to do with . . . with utilities, he throws around the word BELCO , BELCO , BELCO , BELCO , BELCO , BELCO , BELCO . So let us continue. Madam Deputy Speaker, again, to answer the question as to why utilities are re-ceiving a tax credit , in addition to the fact that it was a recommendation of a bipartisan tax reform commission, supported by members of the PLP, the One Bermuda Alliance, international business community, local business community, charitable community, et cetera. In addition to that, that it was a recommendation . It was set up to ensure, and I will repeat it again, that companies are not worse off under Bermuda Corporate Income Tax than they would be under Pillar Two. This was a founding commitment when we came up and started the work on Bermuda CIT , and this credit was necessary to provide this alignment. Important to note. Now, let me go to another correction from my brief. The community development tax credit is refundable. So, unfortunately, I confused those two. With utility, I said that it was refundable. It is non -refundable. And with the community development, I may have [misspoke] , it is refundable. So, I hope that is clear. I apologise to Members of the Opposition and also the listening public. And then the final question that was asked is clarification on who is paying the tax credits. Tax credits are deducted from tax payments for taxpayers and are expected to be administered by the CITA for non1676 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly taxpayers. Further work is required to finalise processes required to administer payments to non- taxpayers. I hope that helps . With that, Madam Deputy Speaker , and given the items which have been relayed, I move that the Bill be committed.
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerThank you. It has been moved that the Bill be committed. There are no objections? None. I call on the Member from constituency 32. Member . [ Pause] House in Committee at 5: 13 pm [ Mr. Scott Simmons, Chairman] COMMITTEE ON BILL TAX CREDITS ACT 2025
The ChairmanChairmanHonourable Members , we are now in Committee of the w hole [House] for further consideration of the Bill entitled Tax Credits Act 2025. I call on the Minister in charge to proceed. Minister of Finance, you have the floor . Premier ! Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very …
Honourable Members , we are now in Committee of the w hole [House] for further consideration of the Bill entitled Tax Credits Act 2025. I call on the Minister in charge to proceed. Minister of Finance, you have the floor . Premier ! Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much for that. [ Laughter and inaudible interjection] Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Chairman, just so you know, we were waiting for that one. [ Laughter and i naudible interjection]
The ChairmanChairmanGo ahead. Premier, you can move the clauses if you wish. [ Crosstalk]
The ChairmanChairmanYou are missing something, Premier? [ Crosstalk] Hon. E. David Burt: Let me give you an extra copy . I know that Sergeant -at-Arms has copies of the a mendment. [ Crosstalk] Hon. E. David Burt: No, the amendment. Thank you. I want to make sure you all have one. …
You are missing something, Premier? [ Crosstalk] Hon. E. David Burt: Let me give you an extra copy . I know that Sergeant -at-Arms has copies of the a mendment. [ Crosstalk] Hon. E. David Burt: No, the amendment. Thank you. I want to make sure you all have one. Okay. Thank you, Mr. Chair man. Mr. Chairman, I would like to move a number of clauses, but I will start with clause 1 and move that we take under consideration clause 1 at this time.
The ChairmanChairmanThe Premier has asked that clause 1 be approved. All those in favour? Hon. E. David Burt: [INAUDIBLE]
The ChairmanChairmanOh, I’m sorry, just one . . . go ahead. Hon. E. David Burt: No problem. There is an amendment in [clause] 2. That is the reason why I am doing [clause] 1 by itself.
The ChairmanChairmanMm-hmm. Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Chairman, clause 1 provides for the citation of the Bill.
The ChairmanChairmanThat is fine. Members, the Premier is looking at clause 1. Go ahead, Premier. Yes. Hon. E. David Burt: Approved? T he Chairman: Approved. It is approved. [ Motion carried: Clause 1 passed.]
The ChairmanChairmanGo ahead, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: All right, t hank you. Mr. Chairman, I would like to now move clause 2 if I may. Clause 2 provides definitions for specific terms that are used in the Bill, but I also do have an amendment which was tabled with the …
The ChairmanChairmanMm-hmm. Hon. E. David Burt: —[and] has been circulated to the Opposition and is there in writing. If the Sergeant -atArms is back, I would ask for more copies of the amendment just to make sure everyone does have them.
The ChairmanChairmanGo ahead, Premier. AMENDMENT TO CLAUSE 2 Hon. E. David Burt: But in clause 2, the amendment is in the second definition of the term “ utilities infrastructure tax credit” by deleting the words “u tilities infrastructure tax credit” and substituting “ utilities infrastructure tax credit benefit.” B ermuda House …
Go ahead, Premier. AMENDMENT TO CLAUSE 2 Hon. E. David Burt: But in clause 2, the amendment is in the second definition of the term “ utilities infrastructure tax credit” by deleting the words “u tilities infrastructure tax credit” and substituting “ utilities infrastructure tax credit benefit.”
B ermuda House of Assembly The Chairman: The Premier has introduced that the amendment be considered. Any other Members wish to speak to that? No other Members wish to speak to that . Premier . Hon. E. David Burt: I should point out that some of these amendments are due —
The ChairmanChairmanThat is fine. Hon. E. David Burt: —to the eagle eye of the Member from consistency 25 who has dubbed himself , “The Scientist. ” He certainly was a scientist in finding these things , so I am grateful for the in- depth reading and understanding of that. Mr. Chairman, …
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that the clause be approved. Oh, I am sorry, that the amendment be approved. Is there any objection to that motion? No objection. [ Motion carried: Amendment to clause 2 passed.]
The ChairmanChairmanContinue, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you. I move that clause 2 be approved as amended.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that the clause is — Mr . Scott Pearman: Oh, sorry.
The ChairmanChairmanI apologise. Mr . Scott Pearman: No problem. I do have questions on clause 2.
The ChairmanChairmanPlease, go right ahead, Honourable Member. Mr . Scott Pearman: Thank you very much. Two very quick questions , and these are sort of being passed on behalf of others, if I may.
The ChairmanChairmanSure. Mr . Scott Pearman: During one of the briefings, there was an issue raised . . . I mean that I did not come up with these points myself , is what I meant. [ Laughter and inaudible interjection] Mr . Scott Pearman: During one of the briefings, there …
Sure. Mr . Scott Pearman: During one of the briefings, there was an issue raised . . . I mean that I did not come up with these points myself , is what I meant. [ Laughter and inaudible interjection] Mr . Scott Pearman: During one of the briefings, there was a query raised about the meaning of “employee” and whether that extended only to Bermudian employees or whether that included spouses of Bermudians or PRCs , and I believe that was something the Government was going to think about further. My question is simply, has the Government had an opportunity to come to a landing on that point or is that still a matter that will come to us later in time?
Mr. Scott PearmanAnd then the second question is as to the definition of “entity” at page 7. I note, or someone else noted, that the Government 's new benefit companies that the prior Minister brought into effect at our last sitting, is not actually included and should that be? Has that been …
And then the second question is as to the definition of “entity” at page 7. I note, or someone else noted, that the Government 's new benefit companies that the prior Minister brought into effect at our last sitting, is not actually included and should that be? Has that been an oversight given that those are a new entity in Bermuda? Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you very much, Honourable Member . Premier, those two matters. Any other Member wish to speak to this motion? Premier, the two matters. [ Pause]
The ChairmanChairmanThe Tax Credit s Act 2025. Premier . Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much. Just . . . I will stand by . But the answer to the question, What is the scope for defining eligibility ? And it is non -work permit holders. That is helpful? Mr …
The ChairmanChairmanMm-hmm. The House is prepared to wait, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Yes, t hank you very much. Could I please ask the Honourable Member to repeat the question regarding the definition of entity again, just so we can provide the answer.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you very much, Premier. Honourable Member Pearman, it has been asked that you repeat the question.
The ChairmanChairmanYes. Mr . Scott Pearman: —U nder the definition sections, page 7 at the top, the definition of the word “entity,” 1678 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly which lists a number of various corporate- type entities, but omits “benefit company,” and I was just …
Yes. Mr . Scott Pearman: —U nder the definition sections, page 7 at the top, the definition of the word “entity,” 1678 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly which lists a number of various corporate- type entities, but omits “benefit company,” and I was just curious whether benefit company was omitted unintentionally, or if it is intentionally omitted. Thank you.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you very much. Helpful, Premier? Hon. E. David Burt: It is.
The ChairmanChairmanWe will hold. [ Pause] Hon. E. David Burt: So, I am certainly not a lawyer ; however, I do believe that these particular matters will be able to be captured, but [I am] happy to tidy that up in the future, if necessary and possible. Mr . Scott Pearman: …
We will hold. [ Pause] Hon. E. David Burt: So, I am certainly not a lawyer ; however, I do believe that these particular matters will be able to be captured, but [I am] happy to tidy that up in the future, if necessary and possible. Mr . Scott Pearman: Okay. Hon. E. David Burt: As it does say, “any legal person (other than a natural person) including, ” (and then it says) “ without limitation.” So, I think that those matters will happen, but I will get the definition. I hope that helps, but I will defer to the learned colleague who may know a little bit more about these things —
The ChairmanChairmanVery well, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: —as he practi ces on a daily basis.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you very much, Premier. Honourable Member. [ Inaudible interjection]
The ChairmanChairmanSo, he is good. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much for that, Mr. Chairman. I move that clause 2 be approved.
The ChairmanChairmanThe Premier has asked that clause 2 be approved. Is there any objection to that motion? There are none. [ Motion carried: Clause 2 passed as amended.]
The ChairmanChairmanGo ahead, Premier. I have also been advised, Premier, that up until [clause] 20, that you can cluster them together, if you wish. [ Laughter]
The ChairmanChairmanBecause they have no— Hon. E. David Burt: Well, I have to do the ones with the amendments individually. But don’t worry.
The ChairmanChairmanBut, Premier, the House remains at your leisure. [ Laughter]
The ChairmanChairmanBut he did inform me — Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Chair man, I have an entire schedule that has been laid out.
The ChairmanChairmanYes. Carry on . . . carry on. He did inform that they have nothing until [clause] 20, but carry on, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: There is an amendment to clause 6.
The ChairmanChairmanNo, go right ahead. By all means, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: I got you. Mr. Chair man, I would move that we take under consideration c lauses 3 through 5.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that c lauses 3 through 5 be considered. Hon. E. David Burt: Shall I proceed?
The ChairmanChairmanProceed, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much. Mr. Chairman, clause 3 establishes the concept of the tax credits in Bermuda law and provides their application, due with effect from the 1st of January 2025. The clause provides that a Filing Q ualifying Bermuda Group Entity shall be …
Proceed, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much. Mr. Chairman, clause 3 establishes the concept of the tax credits in Bermuda law and provides their application, due with effect from the 1st of January 2025. The clause provides that a Filing Q ualifying Bermuda Group Entity shall be eligible to claim tax credit benefits on behalf of Qualifying Bermuda Group Entities as from the effective date.
The ChairmanChairmanMm-hmm. Hon. E. David Burt: Clause 4 provides the methods by which distributable tax credit benefits are ultimately ap-plied for the benefit of each type of Q ualifying Bermuda Group Entity. The clause further provides that tax credits applicable to a Q ualifying Bermuda G roup BCE shall be included …
Mm-hmm. Hon. E. David Burt: Clause 4 provides the methods by which distributable tax credit benefits are ultimately ap-plied for the benefit of each type of Q ualifying Bermuda Group Entity. The clause further provides that tax credits applicable to a Q ualifying Bermuda G roup BCE shall be included in the determination of its adjusted tax pay-ments, whereas tax credits applicable to a Qualifying Bermuda Group NBCE shall be paid directly to the Filing Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity representing the tax credit recipient . Clause 5 provides for the expenses used in calculation of tax credits and tax credit benefits. It is required under this clause that the expenses must be derived from the applicable financial statements for the
B ermuda House of Assembly fiscal year of a Bermuda Entity which is not a member of a group, and from the applicable consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year of a Bermuda Entity which is a member of a group. The clause further provides for how expenses should be calculated when there are adjustments to expenses that are made by virtue of financial accounting rules.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you very much, Premier. I take it there is no other Member who wishes to speak to th ese particular clauses? There are no other Members. Premier . Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I move that c lause 3 through 5 be approved.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that c lauses 3 through 5 be approved. Is there any objection to that motion? There are none. [ Motion carried: Clauses 3 through 5 passed.]
The ChairmanChairmanPremier . Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. I will now move that we take under consideration clause 6.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that clause 6 be considered. Is there any objection? There is none. Premier . Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. Clause 6 defines the accrued substance- based tax credit benefit , which is available to a group which derives at least 50 …
It has been moved that clause 6 be considered. Is there any objection? There is none. Premier . Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. Clause 6 defines the accrued substance- based tax credit benefit , which is available to a group which derives at least 50 per cent of its gross revenues from insurers and reinsurers registered under the Insurance Act 1978. The amount of the credit is based upon expenditures on payroll in Bermuda and other types of ex-penditures in Bermuda. I will certainly pause for questions there. Would you like me to introduce the amendment to c lause 6 at this time?
The ChairmanChairmanGo right ahead, Premier. There is no objection to that. AMENDMENT S TO CLAUSE 6 Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much. In clause 6(3)(a) , by deleting subparagraph (i) and substituting the following ( and so subparagraph (i) would read): “(i) the aggregate revenues for the fiscal year …
Go right ahead, Premier. There is no objection to that. AMENDMENT S TO CLAUSE 6 Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much. In clause 6(3)(a) , by deleting subparagraph (i) and substituting the following ( and so subparagraph (i) would read): “(i) the aggregate revenues for the fiscal year of all Bermuda Entities described in subsection (2)(a); and” So, basically we are just changing “ paragraph” to “subsection. ”
The ChairmanChairmanMm-hmm. Are there any Members who wish to speak to the amendment? There are no Members who wish to speak to the amendment. Premier . Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I move that the amendment be approved.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that the amendment be approved. Any objection? There is none. [ Motion carried: Amendment to clause 6[(3)(a)] passed.]
The ChairmanChairmanPremier . Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I ask if there are any comments on c lause 6. If not, I can move to be approved.
The ChairmanChairmanAny comments at all from Members on clause 6? They have indicated there are none. Hon. E. David Burt: All right.
The ChairmanChairmanCarry on. Hon. E. David Burt: Great. Rock and roll. Mr. Chairman, I move that c lause 6 be approved [as amended] .
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that clause 6 be approved [as amended]. Is there any objection to that motion? Premier , there is none. Carry on, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: All right. I will now move, Mr. Chairman, clauses 7 through 27. If you are okay with that one. [ …
It has been moved that clause 6 be approved [as amended]. Is there any objection to that motion? Premier , there is none. Carry on, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: All right. I will now move, Mr. Chairman, clauses 7 through 27. If you are okay with that one. [ Inaudible interjections and laughter ] Hon. E. David Burt: Sorry? Oh, let me make sure I am reading this correctly. I do not want to miss an amendment. You are 100 per cent correct. I am sorry. Thank you. 1680 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly The Chairman: There is an additional? Hon. E. David Burt: There is. I messed that up.
The ChairmanChairmanBy all means. I apologise. Hon. E. David Burt: Can I move that clause 6 be taken under reconsideration?
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that we reconsider clause 6 for amendment. There is no objection, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much. And I appreciate the Honourable and Learned Member for pointing that out.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you very much. Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Chairman, I would move a further amendment, if I could, to clause 6.
The ChairmanChairmanGo right ahead, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: And this would be in clause 6(3)(b) by deleting subparagraph (i) and substituting the following: “(i) t he aggregate revenues for the fiscal year of all Bermuda Entity members of the Bermuda Group; and.”
The ChairmanChairmanVery well, Premier. The Premier has offered an amendment. Any comments on the amendment? [ Inaudible interjection]
The ChairmanChairmanSorry? [ Inaudible interjection]
The ChairmanChairman[There] is full support, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much.
The ChairmanChairmanFor the amendment. Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Chairman, I move that the amendment [to clause 6(3)(b) be approved.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that the amendment be approved. It is approved, Premier. [ Motion carried: Amendment to clause 6[(3)(b)] passed.] Hon. E. David Burt: I move that the clause 6, which we are taking under reconsideration, be approved in same part of the Bill.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that clause 6 be approved, and there is . . . there is . . . and the amendment. It moves as amended. That is fine. Approved as amended. [ Motion carried: Clause 6 passed with amendments .]
The ChairmanChairmanIt is, Premier. Carry on. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you. Mr. Chairman. I ask that we take under consideration now clauses 7 through 27.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that clauses 7 through 27 be considered. Is there any objection to that motion? Premier, carry on. Hon. E. David Burt: All right, here we go. Mr . Chairman , clause 7 provides for the jobbased benefit component and sets out how the jobs or payroll …
It has been moved that clauses 7 through 27 be considered. Is there any objection to that motion? Premier, carry on. Hon. E. David Burt: All right, here we go. Mr . Chairman , clause 7 provides for the jobbased benefit component and sets out how the jobs or payroll aspect of the credit is to be calculated, both em-ployees and contractors included in the figure as eligi-ble employees. Clause 8 provides for the calculation of eligible payroll expenses and requires that no amount of eligi-ble payroll expense may be taken into account more than once by the Q ualifying Bermuda Group Entity members of the Q ualifying Bermuda Group for a fiscal year or in more than one fiscal year. Clause 9 provides for the expenses incurred by an entity that are to constitute payroll expenses and in-clude expenses to remunerate eligible employees and those relating to payroll, social insurance contributions, work permit fees and other similar expenses. Clause 10 provides for the calculation of the Bermuda workdays percentage of an eligible employee for fiscal year of a Q ualifying Bermuda Group. Clause 11 provides for the determination of the eligible payroll expenses incurred for a fiscal year with respect to each long- term compensation award of an eligible employee with the total level of compensation required to include any long- term compensation such as stock awards. Clause 12 provides for what constitutes eligible training activities for eligible employees. Clause 13 provides the determination of the eligible payroll expenses of an eligible employee of a Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity for a fiscal year in the case where the eligible employee was also an em-ployee of a separate entity or entities during the same fiscal year. Clause 14 provides the determination of when an eligible employee is to be regarded as engaged in a
B ermuda House of Assembly qualified foreign investment. The objective of the clause is to incentivise remote training of Bermudians overseas even where the expenditures for foreign as-signments are not incurred in Bermuda. Clause 15 provides for the job -based benefit factors that are to be applied to determine the amount of the job- based benefit component in clause 7 with the modified value forming the value of the tax credit. The job-based benefit factors include the headcount factor, the Bermudian employment and training factor, the em-ployment growth factor and the transition factor. The objective in providing for these factors is to promote certain types of employment and training in Bermuda. Clause 16 provides for the headcount factor where Qualifying Bermuda Groups with more employees in Bermuda are given a greater factor ( i.e., a greater percentage multiple ) towards their benefit component. The policy objective is to incentivise groups to grow their headcount in Bermuda. The clause further provides rules for calculating headcount when a group may have part -time employees. Clause 17 provides for the Bermuda employment and training factor, which is designed to incentivise the hiring of employees who do not require work permits, (i.e., Bermudians, spouses of Bermudians, or PRC ). This is accomplished by applying an increased factor in favour of such employees —a very important point, Mr. Chairman.
The ChairmanChairmanMm-hmm. Hon. E. David Burt: Clause 18 provides for the employment growth factor, which is designed to incentiv-ise growth in a group's headcount while such group is present in Bermuda. The objective is to incentivise increased year on year hiring or relocation of personnel to Bermuda. Headcount growth is credited …
Mm-hmm. Hon. E. David Burt: Clause 18 provides for the employment growth factor, which is designed to incentiv-ise growth in a group's headcount while such group is present in Bermuda. The objective is to incentivise increased year on year hiring or relocation of personnel to Bermuda. Headcount growth is credited as a factor separately from headcount. The clause includes provision to assist new businesses and for the sale or dis-posal of businesses. Clause 19 provides the expense- based benefit component, which is a separate limb of the substance - based credit, as it is calculated using expenditures other than payroll. This is accomplished under clause 13(1) where a cap of essentially 25 per cent of payroll expense is included on the amount of “ non-payroll ” expenses that can be used for this credit with the objec-tive being to give greater weight to Bermuda- based employment. Clause 20 provides for the expense- based benefit factor, which is applied to expenditures with higher expenditures given a higher factor. The objective of the clause is to incentivise increased expenditures in Bermuda on local service providers. Clause 21 provides for the transition factor, which applies a cut -back to the total amount of substance- based tax credits that will be awarded in the first two years of the system. Hon. E. David Burt: The objective is to introduce a phasing in of the system, given its novelty, to enable analysis of the impact on government revenues during a two- year period. Important point. Mr. Chairman, these are phased in over a three- year period.
The ChairmanChairmanYes, Premier. Thank you. Hon. E. David Burt: Clause 22 provides for the calculation of the opening tax credit carryforward of a Quali-fying Bermuda Group Entity in respect of its substancebased tax credit for the fiscal year. The clause provides for the opening —sorry, the clause provides for the total …
Yes, Premier. Thank you. Hon. E. David Burt: Clause 22 provides for the calculation of the opening tax credit carryforward of a Quali-fying Bermuda Group Entity in respect of its substancebased tax credit for the fiscal year. The clause provides for the opening —sorry, the clause provides for the total opening tax credit carryforward amount to be allocated between the preceding benefit periods of the Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity . Clause 23 provides for the calculation of the opening tax credit carryforward of a Qualifying Bermuda Group in respect of its substance- based tax credit for a fiscal year. The clause provides the total opening tax credit carryforward amount be allocated to each preceding benefit period of the Qualifying Ber-muda Group. Clause 24 provides for the calculation of the distributable substance- based tax credit benefit of a Qualifying Bermuda Group. Clause 25 provides for the calculation of the closing tax credit carryforward of a Qualifying Bermuda Group. The clause provides the total closing tax credit carryforward amount , if any , as calculated shall be allocated between the preceding benefit periods of the Qualifying Bermuda Group. Clause 26 provides for the calculation of distributable substance- based tax credit benefit of a Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity . Clause 27 provides for how the total closing tax credit carryforward amount of each Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity member of the Qualifying Bermuda Group shall be determined and how the total closing tax credit carryforward amount of a Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity shall be determined.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you very much, Premier. Are there any other Members who wish to speak through clauses 7 t hrough 27? There are no other Members who wish to speak to clauses 7 through 27 of the Tax Credits Bill 2025. Premier , there is no one wishing to speak to …
Thank you very much, Premier. Are there any other Members who wish to speak through clauses 7 t hrough 27? There are no other Members who wish to speak to clauses 7 through 27 of the Tax Credits Bill 2025. Premier , there is no one wishing to speak to it other than you, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Snow, thunder, and lightning today.
The ChairmanChairmanNot at all, not at all, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you. 1682 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly The Chairman: Y ou have a few left, you have a few left. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, I move …
Not at all, not at all, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you. 1682 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly The Chairman: Y ou have a few left, you have a few left. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, I move that clauses 7 through 27 be approved as printed and stand part of the Bill.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that clauses 7 through 27 be approved. Is there any objection to that motion? No, Premier, there are none. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you.
The ChairmanChairmanGo right ahead. So approved. [ Motion carried: Clauses 7 through 27 passed.] Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. At this point in time, Mr. Chairman, I would like to take under consideration clauses 28 through 32, which deal with the other two tax credits.
The ChairmanChairmanMembers, you have been asked to consider [clauses] 28 through 32 for your consideration. So moved. Go ahead, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. Clause 28 provides for the community development tax credit, which incentivises large charitable donations to Bermuda charities who provide crucial support …
Members, you have been asked to consider [clauses] 28 through 32 for your consideration. So moved. Go ahead, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. Clause 28 provides for the community development tax credit, which incentivises large charitable donations to Bermuda charities who provide crucial support to the I sland's population. The clause provides for an effective rebate or credit of 25 per cent of qualifying donations to groups, which for these purposes in-clude all groups, not just insurers, who have donated $300,000 or more over the previous three years calcu-lated on a rolling basis. Clause 29 provides for the calculation of the utilities infrastructure tax credit benefit of a Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity member of a Qualifying Bermuda Group for a fiscal year. The clause further provides for the calculation of the pro rata share of the Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity for the fiscal year. Clause 30 provides for the calculation of the utilities infrastructure tax credit benefit of a Qualifying Bermuda Group for a fiscal year. The clause defines a Qualifying Bermuda Group as a Bermuda Group, which includes at least one Bermuda entity which is licens ed or has received a permit with respect to electricity generation and distribution, digital communications and fuel distribution. Clause 31 provides for the calculation of the payroll -based benefit component of a Qualifying Bermuda Group for the purposes of the utilities infrastructure tax credit . And finally, Mr. Chairman, clause 32 provides for the calculation of the tangible asset -based benefit component of a Qualifying Bermuda Group for the purpose of the utilities infrastructure tax credit . This provision is designed to give credit for the value of hard or physical assets in Bermuda and provides an offset against CIT liability. These provisions largely mirror the substance- based income exclusion rules under OECD Pillar Two.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you very much, Premier. Any other Members who wish to speak to [clauses] 28 through 32? I recognise the Honourable Member, Mr. P earman. You have the floor. Mr . Scott Pearman: Thank you, Chairman. Yes, my question arises in relation to [clause] 28, which commences at page 45 …
Thank you very much, Premier. Any other Members who wish to speak to [clauses] 28 through 32? I recognise the Honourable Member, Mr. P earman. You have the floor. Mr . Scott Pearman: Thank you, Chairman. Yes, my question arises in relation to [clause] 28, which commences at page 45 of the Bill. Over the page, it goes on to page 46, and at the bottom, there is a subsection (3) , which is dealing with the types of charities that should be regarded as eligible, and it says there at (3), subsection (3) , “For the purposes of this part, a charity shall be regarded as an eligible Bermuda charity to the extent that the charity is registered under the Charities Act 2014 and is required under that Act or regulations made thereunder to file audited financial statements. ” And the question I have there is the wording could be read one of two different ways, and I do not know, is it an obligation for eligibility that the audited financial statements have been filed? O r is it merely an obligation for eligibility that is registered under the Act? Thank you.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you very much, Honourable Member. Is there any other Honourable Member that wishes to speak through to clauses 28 through 32? I recognise the Honourable Shadow Minister for Finance. Mr. DeCouto.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYes, thank you, Mr. Chairman. I kind of have two questions.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoTechnically three, but I suspect it is two. Clause 31, subsection (3) , lays out a series of percentage payroll benefit factors that decrease over time. Clause 32, also in its subsection (5) , lays out a series of percentage factors that decrease over time. My question is , what …
Technically three, but I suspect it is two. Clause 31, subsection (3) , lays out a series of percentage payroll benefit factors that decrease over time. Clause 32, also in its subsection (5) , lays out a series of percentage factors that decrease over time. My question is , what is the thinking behind those specific percentages and why do they decrease? I have a second question specific to c lause 32, as well. Clause 32, subsection (2 )(b)[(i)] talks about uses the phrase “located in Bermuda. ” Now, we know that these benefits could apply to a communications company, a regulated submarine cable company or
B ermuda House of Assembly subsea cable company. My question would be is , how would we think about the asset that was that submarine cable, knowing that it is primarily underwater? Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you, Honourable Member. Are there any other Members that wish to speak to clauses 28 through 32? If there are no other Members who wish to speak to clauses 28 through 32, the concerns are clause 28 and clause 32. I am prepared to hold. The Tax Credits Act …
Thank you, Honourable Member. Are there any other Members that wish to speak to clauses 28 through 32? If there are no other Members who wish to speak to clauses 28 through 32, the concerns are clause 28 and clause 32. I am prepared to hold. The Tax Credits Act 2025. Premier, we can hold. [ Pause] Hon. E. David Burt: Sorry, on . . . oh, boy. I am thinking we are on clause 28, which the Shadow Attorney General and Learned Member had asked a question in regard to the language regarding the filing. There are a couple of comments that I will make on that. First, I think that your second interpretation is correct. It is just stating where it is required rather than the actual requirement of therefore doing it. As is read, I saw that as well, but you know, you lawyers are very tricky. The way that you, you do —
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberWow. Hon. E. David Burt: Well, y ou know, you know what I am saying. They like, spell it out. Ms. Johnson, I am just saying. Mr . Scott Pearman: Point of clarification. Hon. E. David Burt: Okay.
The ChairmanChairmanI think the Premier is going to allow the clarification. Hon. E. David Burt: Yes, I will , thank you. Mr . Scott Pearman: Thank you. Thank you. POINT OF CLARIFICATION Mr . Scott Pearman: No, it is just that one could understand very easily how a registered charity is …
I think the Premier is going to allow the clarification. Hon. E. David Burt: Yes, I will , thank you. Mr . Scott Pearman: Thank you. Thank you. POINT OF CLARIFICATION Mr . Scott Pearman: No, it is just that one could understand very easily how a registered charity is not always on top of the things. It would be a great shame if a reg-istered charity who might have waived, I do not think it can waive, or be delayed, in the filing of accounts would be denied the opportunity. That is all. Hon. E. David Burt: Sure. And absolutely. Mr . Scott Pearman: I think we can agree about that. Hon. E. David Burt: And so, we support that particular perspective, but just wanted to make sure that we are there. The funny thing is that as a lawmaker, I am now becoming more of this lawyer thing. Maybe that will be my . . . [ Laughter]
The ChairmanChairmanIt can get tricky. [ Inaudible interjection] Hon. E. David Burt: No, I am not a scientist. No, no, do not get me started, Opposition Leader. And then the question is, what was the thought process behind the percentages in clauses 31 and 32? I believe that came from the …
The ChairmanChairmanIt did. Hon. E. David Burt: So the answer to this, because I think he was . . . Oh, boy. I will stand by.
The ChairmanChairmanVery well, Premier. That is fine. Hon. E. David Burt: I have just been told to hold.
The ChairmanChairmanFine, we can hold. Hon. E. David Burt: Am I still holding? [ Pause] Hon. E. David Burt: Okay. Sorry. How would we think about the assets? Submarine cable that is found under water. Important point that we have not gone into that level of detail yet in terms of …
Fine, we can hold. Hon. E. David Burt: Am I still holding? [ Pause] Hon. E. David Burt: Okay. Sorry. How would we think about the assets? Submarine cable that is found under water. Important point that we have not gone into that level of detail yet in terms of the extent to which our assets fall under Bermuda jurisdiction, including the extension of water, but certainly guidance and regulations can be issued in a negative resolution in order to make sure that those things are known and understood. [ Pause] Hon. E. David Burt: You got one? Okay.
The ChairmanChairmanAre there any other Members who have any other questions as it relates to [clauses] 28 through 32? That is fine. Not at the moment. That is fine. Hon. E. David Burt: Stand by one second, sir.
The ChairmanChairmanThat is fine, Premier. [ Pause] Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Chairman, if I could, for clarification, is the Honourable Shadow Minister asking for 1684 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly both? Is he querying the employee one and also the asset one? Because I …
That is fine, Premier. [ Pause] Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Chairman, if I could, for clarification, is the Honourable Shadow Minister asking for 1684 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly both? Is he querying the employee one and also the asset one? Because I can answer that generally . Or is it a specific thing that he wants to ask around the specific matters? If you could clarify, I will be able to get the answer.
The ChairmanChairmanShadow Minister of Finance. POINT OF CLARIFICATION
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoI am asking about each of them individually. I presumed it might be a similar answer . Hon. E. David Burt: Right.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoB ut if it is not, I would also like to know that. Thank you.
The ChairmanChairmanVery well. Thank you. Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: On matters that are related to [clause] 31, I will not be able to provide a specific answer on that. [Clause] 32 deals with the international tax matters that are dealing with how the tangible value of the assets are calculated …
Very well. Thank you. Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: On matters that are related to [clause] 31, I will not be able to provide a specific answer on that. [Clause] 32 deals with the international tax matters that are dealing with how the tangible value of the assets are calculated . And in order to make sure that these are in line on this particular matter with the Pillar Two rules. So when we are talking about the asset based- benefit component under matters related to the utilities infrastructure tax credit, I think it is important to note and remember that Bermuda did not take the Pillar Two fully, and we introduced a cover tax that covers Pillar Two, but the Pillar Two rules, or the global rules themselves, do have in place an asset -based tax credit for utility companies . And so, on the matter related to the tangible asset -based benefit component on this side, this would be in line with Pillar Two matters.
The ChairmanChairmanVery well. [ Inaudible interjection]
The ChairmanChairmanWe are good? Any further questions from any Members ? Go ahead. Shadow Minister .
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYes, Mr. Chairman. It is just a clarifying question. With respect to [clause] 31(3) with the payroll benefit factors, the percentages, I think what I heard is , the answer is to align with Pillar Two? Hon. E. David Burt: No, that is what I said for [clause] 32.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoOh, okay. So, do we have an answer for that? Or… Hon. E. David Burt: No, I do not. The Chairman: He said he did not .
The ChairmanChairmanYes, t hank you very much, Honourable Member . Premier . Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, I undertake . . . sorry , Mr. Chairman —
The ChairmanChairmanSure. Hon. E. David Burt: — I undertake to revert back to this Honourable Member, and that email will come from the Ministry of Finance to the Financial Secretary directly to the Shadow Minister of Finance.
The ChairmanChairmanSatisfactory, Shadow Minister?
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYes, [Mr.] Chairman. Thank you very much. Hon. E. David Burt: All right.
The ChairmanChairmanPremier? Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, if I could move that clauses 28 through 32 be approved.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that clauses 28 through 32 be approved. Is there any objection to that motion? Premier, there are none. [ Motion carried: Clauses 28 through 32 passed.]
The ChairmanChairmanCarry on. Hon. E. David Burt: All right. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I will move all the rest of the clauses, which are clauses 33 through 43.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that clauses 33 through forty . . . what was that, forty . . . Hon. E. David Burt: [Clause] 43.
The ChairmanChairmanThrough [clause] 43 be considered. Go right ahead, Premier. B ermuda House of Assembly Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. Clause 33 provides for how the Act is to apply during times of corporate restructuring with a transfer of any direct or indirect ownership interest in …
Through [clause] 43 be considered. Go right ahead, Premier.
B ermuda House of Assembly Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. Clause 33 provides for how the Act is to apply during times of corporate restructuring with a transfer of any direct or indirect ownership interest in the Ber-muda Entity during the fiscal year. Clause 34 provides for the manner of calculation of the total accrued tax credit benefit and the dis-tributable tax credit benefit of the Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity for the fiscal year where the applicable financial statements or the applicable consolidated financial statements are presented in a currency other than the Bermuda dollar or the US dollar. Clause 35 provides for the calculation of the total accrued tax credit benefit of a Qualifying Bermuda Group BCE for a fiscal year in relation to a tax credit benefit that is required to be accrued against the tax refund reserve fund established under section under section . . .
The ChairmanChairmanIt is under which clause, Premier? Hon. E. David Burt: So, under section 50(a) of the Corporate Income Tax Act.
The ChairmanChairmanMm-hmm. Hon. E. David Burt: Clause 36 provides that a Filing Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity is eligible to claim a tax credit benefit on behalf of a Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity for a fiscal year pursuant to clause 3 where the Filing Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity has claimed the tax …
Mm-hmm. Hon. E. David Burt: Clause 36 provides that a Filing Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity is eligible to claim a tax credit benefit on behalf of a Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity for a fiscal year pursuant to clause 3 where the Filing Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity has claimed the tax credit benefit in accordance with such procedure as the Minister may prescribe by regulations. Clause 37 provides the interpretation of the terms used in Part 7 of the Bill. Clause 38 provides for the imposition of a civil penalty where there is an overstatement of the distrib-utable tax credit benefit claimed on any form with respect to a Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity . Civil penalty payable for such overstatement shall be up to 20 per cent of the amount of the overstatement with respect to the filing Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity or of the Qualifying Bermuda Group. Clause 39 provides for interest that is chargeable where the distributable tax credit benefit claim with respect to a Qualifying Bermuda Group NBCE is determined to have been overstated, at a rate the Minister may prescribe. Clause 40 provides power to the Corporate Income Tax Agency to impose civil penalties on Qualifying Bermuda Group Entities with respect to an overstatement of the distributable tax credit benefit reported by a Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity. Where a penalty is imposed on a Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity, e ach Qualifying Bermuda Group Entity that is a member of the same Qualifying Bermuda Group shall be jointly and severally liable for the penalty. Clause 41 provides for right of appeal to the Supreme Court for any person who is aggrieved by any decision of the Minister or Agency made under the Act or regulations. Clause 42 empowers the Minister to make regulations that are necessary and expedient to give effect to provisions of this Act. And clause 43 provides for consequential amendments to the Public Treasury ( Administration and Payments ) Act 1969 and the Taxes Management Act 1976.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you very much, Premier. Any other Members wish to speak to clauses 33 through to 43? I recognise the Honourable Member. Mr. P earman, you have the floor. Mr . Scott Pearman: Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and I am pleased to say this is my final question on this …
Thank you very much, Premier. Any other Members wish to speak to clauses 33 through to 43? I recognise the Honourable Member. Mr. P earman, you have the floor. Mr . Scott Pearman: Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and I am pleased to say this is my final question on this Bill. It is page 55 of the Bill, or at least 55 on my copy. It is clause 40 under the heading, “Power to i mpose civil penalties. ” And the question I have is the same question I posed in relation to the last Bill. Namely , that this is discretionary. However, in this Bill there does appear to be some ambiguity because in [clause] 40(1) it says, “ may, where it deems appropriate.” That seems discretionary, but then at [subclause] (2)and elsewhere the word “shall” is used. So, I just s eek clarification that it is intended to be discretionary as I am assuming it will be. Thank you.
The ChairmanChairmanThank you very much, Honourable Member P earman. Any other Members have any questions as it relates to 33 through 43, the clauses? There are none. Premier . Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much. The answer to the Honourable and Learned Member from constituency 22, the Shadow Attorney …
The ChairmanChairmanVery well, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Seeing and hearing nothing further, Mr. Chairman, I move that clauses 33 through 43 be approved as printed and stand part of the Bill.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that clauses 33 through 43 be approved and stand as part of the Bill. Is there any other objection to that motion? There are none. [ Motion carried: Clauses 33 through 43 passed.]
The ChairmanChairmanPremier . 1686 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report B ermuda House of Assembly Hon. E. David Burt: Give me one second, Mr. Chairman.
The ChairmanChairmanSure. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, I move that the Schedule be approved.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that the Schedule be approved. Is there any objection to that motion? There are none. [ Motion carried: The Schedule was passed.]
The ChairmanChairmanGo ahead, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I move that the preamble be approved.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that the preamble be approved. Is there any objection from Members? There are none. Go ahead, Premier. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. I move that the Bill be reported to the House as amended.
The ChairmanChairmanIt has been moved that the Bill be reported to the House as amended. Is there any objection to that motion? There is no objection. It is agreed to. The Bill will be reported to the House as amended. [ Motion carried: The Tax Credits Act 2025 was considered by …
The ChairmanChairmanThank you, Members . [ Gavel] House resumed at 5:50 pm [Ms . Lovitta F. Foggo, Deputy Speaker, in the Chair ] REPORT OF COMMITTEE TAX CREDITS ACT 2025
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerMembers, it has been reported to the House that the Bill entitled the Tax Credit s Act 2025 enjoys your support. Are there any objections to that? There are none. So that takes us to the next item on our O rder Paper and I believe that is Minister H …
Members, it has been reported to the House that the Bill entitled the Tax Credit s Act 2025 enjoys your support. Are there any objections to that? There are none. So that takes us to the next item on our O rder Paper and I believe that is Minister H aywood. Minister H aywood, you have the floor. Hon. Jason Hayward: Madam Deputy Speaker, I move that the consideration be given to the draft O rder entitled the Statistics ( Census of Population and Housing Order ) 2025, proposed to be made by the Minister responsible for Economy and Labour, with the written agreement of the Minister of Statistics , in exercise of the power conferred by s ection 5(3) of the Statistics Act 2002.
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerThank you. Thank you, Minister. Members, it has been moved that we take consideration of the Statistics (Census of Population and Housing) Order 2025. Are there any objections? There are none. Minister. DRAFT ORDER STATISTICS (CENSUS OF POPULATION AND HOUSING) ORDER 2025 Hon. Jason Hayward: Madam Deputy Speaker, the matter …
Thank you. Thank you, Minister. Members, it has been moved that we take consideration of the Statistics (Census of Population and Housing) Order 2025. Are there any objections? There are none. Minister. DRAFT ORDER STATISTICS (CENSUS OF POPULATION AND HOUSING) ORDER 2025 Hon. Jason Hayward: Madam Deputy Speaker, the matter before this Honourable Host is consideration of the Order entitled Statistics (Census of Population and Housing) Order 2025. Mada m Deputy Speaker, in less than six months the Department of Statistics will begin collect-ing the 2026 census information from residents of Bermuda. The collection of census information is a mammoth task for any country. We will accomplish this work by using a multi -modal approach that includes electronic options, telephone interviews and personal inter-views. Madam Deputy Speaker, I would like to remind this Honourable House the information collected during the census is of paramount importance to the develop-ment of social and economic policy. It is for this reason that all residents are required to provide census infor-mation to a census officer. I therefore encourage every resident of Bermuda to cooperate fully with the census officer when asked to provide census information. Madam Deputy Speaker, the primary purpose of this Order is to confer upon the Director of Statistics the legal authority to take a census of Bermuda and to estab-lish Wednesday , the 20 th of May 2026 as Census Day. Census Day is the day on which all data is referred to by census officers. In other words, whether you complete the census on July 1 or October 31, persons are expected to recall the details of Wednesday the 20 th of May 2026 and all responses to the census. The Director of Statistics through this Order is the authority to collect information in respect to any or all of
Bermuda House of Assembly the subject matters that will be covered during the census taking. Madam Deputy Speaker, the following broad subject matters will be addressed during the census taking : • where persons spend census night ; • characteristics such as sex, age, religion, et cetera; • birth and language ; • immigration (Bermuda status ); • living arrangements ; • health; • marital status ; • fertility ; • education ; • economic activity ; • income from main job; • income from other sources ; • household members and visitors ; • dwelling characteristics; • household characteristics; and • emigration. Madam Deputy Speaker, the census questionnaire includes new topics on language, living arrangement and household characteristics. Language data will provide a better understanding of Bermuda's linguistic diversity. The information collected on the living arrangements will provide details on type, duration and reason for living situations of household members. This will provide benchmark data on the population's experiences with homelessness, insecure housing and inadequate housing. The household characteristics topic will collect information on the number of mobile devices, the ability to afford an unexpected expense and financial assis-tance. These questions help us to understand access to mobile devices, who is in need , and how people are coping. The data collected from these questions will be vital for developing, monitoring and evaluating policies. Madam Deputy Speaker, the O rder authorises the Department of Statistics to take a census beginning Thursday, the 21 st of May 2026, and ending no later than Wednesday, the 31st of March 2027. During the data collection period, the following persons are obli-gated to provide a census officer with information regarding any or all of the matters mentioned previously as they stood on C ensus Day: • household reference person—the person who is responsible or mainly responsible for running the affairs of a household; • household members —persons who have attained the age of 16 years on C ensus Day; • persons in charge of a hotel or institution; and • persons in charge of other persons on board a government ship or a vessel who were in Bermuda on previous census night. Madam Deputy Speaker, I would say that the age of 16 on Census Day is an age that we will consistently use. That was a previous age used. We believe that 16- year-olds have the competency to answer the questions pertaining to the census as has been found in other survey types. So, I do know that in the Children Act, the age of a child has been increased to 18, but we still believe that 16- year-olds have the competency. And for consistency of data collection, we will continue with utilising persons the age of 16 years old. Madam Deputy Speaker, we are determined to secure as much information as possible so that some policies can be developed and Government 's efforts and resources can be strategically deployed as we continue our work on behalf of the people of Bermuda. Madam Deputy Speaker, I commend this Order to the House for the consideration and support.
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerThank you. Would any other person like to speak to the Statistics (Census of Population and Housing) Order 2025 ? I recognise the Member from constituency 9. Member, you have the floor.
Mr. Vance CampbellThank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. Madam Deputy Speaker, I want to thank the Minister for bringing this. It is a vital part of providing up-to-date information for the Government of the day. It is critical that they have that up- to-date information for shaping policy, allocating resources and also better …
Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. Madam Deputy Speaker, I want to thank the Minister for bringing this. It is a vital part of providing up-to-date information for the Government of the day. It is critical that they have that up- to-date information for shaping policy, allocating resources and also better understanding what is going on with the population of Bermuda as far as their needs and their movements, education , and other matters. Now, we did hear previously in the last sitting that this would be a 10- month process, so I am going to appeal to the public, to every Bermudian out there, that you can help expedite this process by responding to the census promptly and accurately. If you delay your responses or if you are slow in responding, you will prolong the data collection process, and I urge you to respond fully and quickly so that we can shorten, potentially shorten, that 10- month data collection period. We also heard in the previous sitting of the House that it will take approximately two years from the end of the data collection period to the time that the report is ready for the public consumption, or for public access. I know there is a possibility of the information being contained, or preliminary information being presented sooner than that, but even that two- year period, I would encourage the Minister , the department , if there is any other ways possible to shorten that two- year period so that when t he census is finally completed and that information is in our hands, the closer it is to the actual data collection date, the more relevant and the more up to date it is. 1688 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly So, I thank the Minister for bringing this and also for answering the one question that I had around the age of 16. So, thank you, Minister . Thank you, department . And Bermuda, please do our part so that we can get through this as quickly as possible. Thank you.
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerThank you. Are there any other Members who wish to speak to the consideration of the Statistic (Census of Population and Housing) Order 2025? There being no other Member s, Minister , you have the floor. Hon. Jason Hayward : Madam Deputy Speaker, I thank the Honourable Member for his …
Thank you. Are there any other Members who wish to speak to the consideration of the Statistic (Census of Population and Housing) Order 2025? There being no other Member s, Minister , you have the floor.
Hon. Jason Hayward : Madam Deputy Speaker, I thank the Honourable Member for his support and as well as [for] encouraging the residents of Bermuda to fully comply with the census and participate, because the information we do collect is vital and will play a vital role in shaping social and economic policy moving forward. With that said, Madam Deputy Speaker, I move that the said draft Order be approved and that a suitable message be sent to His Excellency the Governor.
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerThank you, Minister . It has been moved that the said draft Order be approved. Are there any objections? There being none, so moved and approved. [Motion carried: T he Statistics (Census of Population and Housing) Order 2025 was approved.]
The Deputy SpeakerDeputy SpeakerThat takes us to what I understand to be our final item for today, and that is the M otion to be moved by Member Douglas [DeCouto] from constituency 25. Member, you have the floor. MOTION MOTION TO TAKE NOTE OF OPPORTUNITIES, CHALLENGES, AND RISKS TO BERMUDA ARISING FROM BERMUDA'S …
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYes, and good evening, Madam Deputy Speaker. I move that the House do now take under consideration the following Motion, notice of which was given on 26 September 2025, that this Honourable House do take note of the opportunities, challenges, and risks to Bermuda arising from Bermuda's corporate income tax …
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYes, good evening, Mr. Speaker. The Speaker: Good evening.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoQuite a day today. It is a CITpalooza and it is a really important topic that we need to discuss in depth. We talked a lot today about the Tax Reform Commission. We talked about the various laws that have been put on the table regarding the—
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER [Standing Order 19(11)(c), Reflecting on prior debate]
Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. SwanI beg your indulgence, but is not there a rule that says you cannot reflect on a previous debate on that day? I mean, wouldn’t this be out of line?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerHe did not reflect on it. He said: We have talked about this. We have talked about that. We have talked about that. Had he gone into those topics, that is reflecting. All he did now was mentioning that we have turned the other two . . . [He] did …
He did not reflect on it. He said: We have talked about this. We have talked about that. We have talked about that. Had he gone into those topics, that is reflecting. All he did now was mentioning that we have turned the other two . . . [He] did not name them; he just basically said : We talked on this, and we talked on that. And now let's move them forward. But had he gone into a matter that was raised or something of that context, then that would have been out of order.
Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. SwanOkay. It seems to be . . . They seem to be akin. That is the concern I had. I mean, I have no problem with the debate; but it just seemed to be pretty close to, in spirit , to the rule that says that you should not reflect …
Okay. It seems to be . . . They seem to be akin. That is the concern I had. I mean, I have no problem with the debate; but it just seemed to be pretty close to, in spirit , to the rule that says that you should not reflect on a previous debate. But the spirit of this proposed M otion—
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWell, let me help you out there. The fact that the Member has decided to do the [Motion] today puts a challenge on [he] himself and how he presents it. He has put himself in a tighter box than anybody else in the room, in a sense, or his side, …
Well, let me help you out there. The fact that the Member has decided to do the [Motion] today puts a challenge on [he] himself and how he presents it. He has put himself in a tighter box than anybody else in the room, in a sense, or his side, because they can-not reflect on what was said earlier. Had they done it on a different day, they could have talked about all of that, probably. But once they chose to do it today, then the restriction is they have to stay away from stepping into those potholes. Okay ? And I am saying that in that context for everybody in the room to understand there are potholes that have been created because of what has been done earlier today. So, you have got to avoid those potholes. Continue.
Bermuda House of Assembly Dr. Douglas DeCouto: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. You know, one interesting fact that I hope Member s will appreciate is that we elected to accommodate the Premier's travel schedule with this Motion. As you can see, it has been on the Order Paper for a while.
POINT OF ORDER [Imputing improper motive]
Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. SwanPoint of order, Mr. Speaker. Point of order. The Honourable Member is imputing improper motives on the Premier of the country. The Premier has been travelling on important business.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSit down. Sit down. Sit down. Sit down. I, as the Speaker of this House, on many occasions have adjusted the legislature to accommodate travel of many people —on many occasions. And the Minister s can attest to that. When their travel schedule has interfered with stuff that is supposed …
Sit down. Sit down. Sit down. Sit down. I, as the Speaker of this House, on many occasions have adjusted the legislature to accommodate travel of many people —on many occasions. And the Minister s can attest to that. When their travel schedule has interfered with stuff that is supposed to take place in this House, I have accommodated it. Okay ? So, let's pick your bones where you need to pick them and leave other things alone. It is early in the day . . . early in this debate . Late in the day , but early in this debate. So, let's be mindful that accommodations are given often by this Speaker to both sides in matters of this type of nature when someone is travelling. Okay ?
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. And we are all, of course, grateful for these accommo-dations . It is such an important topic that it is important that all the relevant parties and all the right voices be heard in this room for the full ranging topic. Because what we talked …
Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. And we are all, of course, grateful for these accommo-dations . It is such an important topic that it is important that all the relevant parties and all the right voices be heard in this room for the full ranging topic. Because what we talked about today earlier . . . Because I just want to . . . We talked about the box for the discussion today. We talked about a very specific technical amendment to the CIT Act [Corporate Income Tax Act 2023], but I am not going to talk about those details. And we talked in quite some detail about the specific tax cred-its, but one can imagine the whole topic of the corporate income tax and its risk to Bermuda is much larger than those specific topics. And that is the tack I will be taking today, Mr. Speaker. And I know you will guide me, of course. [The] k ey message here, Mr. Speaker —we are going to get a lot of money. We hope. There is a lot of uncertainty around it, especially year on year and over the medium to long term. And we [talked] in earlier discussions [of] some of the reasons for that , regulatory uncertainty, political uncertainty , and things like that out of our hands. We have also heard about our pressing fiscal needs —the debt. One thing I am glad to hear is it sounds like all sides are agreed; we need to pay down the debt a lot. Perhaps we have some different views on how fast and the mechanics by which to do it. Of course, we have got numerous , pressing infrastructure repairs. We heard today earlier about the roads and housing . And there are bridges. I know there is a Member back there who is probably very keen to learn about the bridges. We have got a lot of social issues —health care, education, cost of living. The CIT could be a solution to those. But without the utmost transparency, accountability and careful planning and handling of the CIT funds, we will not get the best results for our country that our people need and that we deserve. So, I just want to repeat these three points, Mr. Speaker, because they are pretty important. O kay? It could be a lot of money , but a lot of uncertainty . Pressing fiscal needs , pressing infrastructure needs , and pressing social needs . But we need the most transparency, the most accountability and careful planning and handling of those funds to get the best results for our country. And we can all admit that balancing those will not be easy, especially politically. But it is of utmost importance for our futur e and our future generations. And we have a window of breathing room when these funds start coming in that gives a generational or maybe even a multigenerational window to make real reform of the underlying issues, whether they be crumbling infrastructure, whether they be health care, and so forth. So instead of kind of going budget to budget and having things being revealed at the last minute and the various accounting trips and moving things around, robbing Peter to pay Paul that we have had to see in the last couple of years because of the tight funding, we need to see meaningful improvements across the board and we need to see a structured approach to it . For example, health care reform that addresses the underlying structural costs and underlying structural issues of our community's health. E ducation reform , again, we know how tough that is and we know what that is doing with our generations. But only, Mr. Speaker (and I know you appreciate this ), only if we take this moment seriously and appreciate it as the unique opportunity that it is. If we operate as if these funds will just keep coming in the door no matter what we do, year on year on year, we set ourselves up for failure. We cannot make that assumption, Mr. Speaker. If we try to just paper over the cracks —a couple percentage share on your health insurance, pave a couple roads, a little of this, a little of that—without getting to the underlying issues, we are going to fail. We are going to fail in the future, Mr. Speaker, because the problems are too big for that. And we talked, Mr. Speaker, about why the OBA wants to ring- fence or dedicate the CIT funds to specific priorities. And I am going to repeat them. I know the Member s are all familiar with them. Pay the debt down fast. Right? 1690 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly [Inaudible interjections]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoAnd it is worth repeating. Pay the debt down. And I know we have had agreement from the other side on this. That could include, by the way, the pensions debt, the underfunded pensions. There are things in there where we would certainly get behind using some CIT money to …
And it is worth repeating. Pay the debt down. And I know we have had agreement from the other side on this. That could include, by the way, the pensions debt, the underfunded pensions. There are things in there where we would certainly get behind using some CIT money to perhaps get rid of some of that pension gap and help soften the blow of pension reform. Invest in the critical infrastructure, the roads, the housing. We hear about that stuff. And targeted social support. What do I mean by targeted, Mr. Speaker? It means making sure the money is used with the best impact for those who need it most , not these broad - brush 10 per cent off your vehicle licence for everybody, even if you have got a big fancy car. Okay? And so, if we have this short -term political thinking, we are going to leave our future generations hung out to dry. And we heard my colleague talk about the lottery. And he gave some statistics. Some statistics go as high as saying 70 per cent of lottery winners go broke. Now, those probably are not the true statistics , but they ring true for people because we know what human behaviour is. It is short -term thinking. It is instant gratification. Let ’s not do that here, Mr. Speaker. Let ’s not do that here. And when we first got this topic on the Order Paper, Mr. Speaker, it was commented to me by one Government MP, Do you really want to debate this again? And I understand that. I mean, we are always talking about this. It feels like it, right? We have had a whole day of it. It is in the paper all the time. And I am sure the people who are working on it are sick of it. But yes, we must. We must debate this, Mr. Speaker. It is perhaps one of the most important things for our coun-try's financial future. And we have heard about all the different changes going on in the external world. We have heard about the side- by-side discussions in the United States. Who knows what is going to happen there? We know the funds are coming in. We also know that since that Bill was passed, and even since the Tax Reform Commission started its report, the country, the Finance Minister, the CIT payers, all the stakeholders have learned a lot. And their understanding of how all these pieces are going to work together has moved a head. I mean, we have seen all the different changes to the Bills, the amendments, the regulations, and so forth. And we know more are coming. I will try not to say more about that. We have seen the Tax Reform Commission report. You know, Mr. Speaker, I tried to table that report (but of course it is not in my gift to do that ), because the amount of information in that report is incredible. And the suggestions and the topics that it raises really high-light the broad suite of issues facing this country and how they can interact with the CIT money. So , actually, I am very glad that these topics have been coming up today. I am very glad to hear that the Government has been guided by a lot of that report, making note that this report is from an independent committee. That is not government policy. So, the first, frankly, Mr. Speaker, that we have heard of the government policies has been leaking out in this debate today. And that is why we have put it on the Order Paper, to have this discussion. It is not enough to just wait around for the Budget [Debate] to come. We need to know . What are the Government 's plans ? We need to know. That committee had many hard- working, talented people— and I am not referring to myself . Many hard- working, talented people. And they worked across different interests. We have heard about the bipartisan aspect of it. We had people who had long, successful careers in IB who could bring that lens. We had people from the third sector. We had labour people. We had people from the Chamber of Commerce. I say we ; [it is] they. And a lot of different interests were brought to that table, Mr. Speaker. And so, I would imagine (and I can only base this on my preliminary short experience with that ) that a lot of horse- trading and a lot of cross -perspective education was happening in the production of that report. I was frankly surprised that the Government has not brought that report forward for us to really talk about it because of the implications for the country. And again, that is why we brought this debate here today. So obviously we know the report talked about the tax credits. We have had that discussion. Okay? But people should know the tax credits are in the second half of the report. It is not even the first thing that the report started with. The report starts with something they call “ the waterfall. ” And that is basically a structured approach that provides a framework of how you would lay out your priorities for using and spending the CIT money, including paying down the debt and things like that. I will not get too much in the details because people here . . . Anyone can go download that report and check it out. But what is important about that, Mr. Speaker, is that it was laid out explicitly , the relative priorities , and how they would fit together. Now it is true that reasonable people could take that report and say : I do not know if I would do that. I do not know if I would do that , and s o on and so forth. What we would love to see from this Government is the Government 's official policies on something like that kind of a structure. So, we understood how that money would be applied over time as various aspects of it were used , for example, the debt. S ome of the things in that waterfall that are important to note—a stability fund. We have talked about how the CIT money can vary over time. Of course, when you budget to run a country, you need to set that budget. You cannot just cut the payroll because less CIT money came or whatever. So, one of the first priorities of that waterfall was to set aside a sort of stability fund, a pot of money that could be used in case
Bermuda House of Assembly we had a bad year with the CIT —a dedicated amount that went into the debt sinking fund. We heard the $200 million earlier. Now, frankly, I think we would like to put more into it from our perspective over here in the O pposition , but it is there— and then a relative order f or how they would go into health care, payroll, whatever. So yes , we will get some of that in the budget. But I would like to know : What is the Government 's long -term approach to structuring those things? And the Government has not talked about that at all.
[Inaudible interjections]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoAnd they are still not going to talk about it, Mr. Speaker ! And that is coming out of their own mouths !
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberNo! No! [Inaudible interjections]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoOne of the biggest financial opportunities for this country, and the Government does not even want to talk about what they plan to do with it. [Inaudible interjections]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoAnd frankly, that is our main concern, Mr. Speaker —nothing from the Government about this. What are their financial priorities? How will they approach financial stability? What will [be] the guardrails that they do? So ye s, we want to talk about it because the people need to know. And …
And frankly, that is our main concern, Mr. Speaker —nothing from the Government about this. What are their financial priorities? How will they approach financial stability? What will [be] the guardrails that they do? So ye s, we want to talk about it because the people need to know. And the arrogance of the Government to say : We are not going to tell you. We do not have to tell you. I can tell you that is not good enough, Mr. Speaker. That is not good enough. [Inaudible interjections]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoOh ye s, they feel good. They feel good. Okay, let's talk about some of the risks, because I put that in the wording of the Motion. And this is why we have to think really carefully about the medium - and the long- term. This money is not guaranteed …
Oh ye s, they feel good. They feel good. Okay, let's talk about some of the risks, because I put that in the wording of the Motion. And this is why we have to think really carefully about the medium - and the long- term. This money is not guaranteed to us. It is really not. We have got to make the most of it while we c an. So here are some examples. Obviously, the companies are going to hire the smartest tax lawyers. They are always going to be a step ahead. That is how it works around the world. That is not a knock on our CITA [Corporate Income Tax Agency] or the finance. That is just how it works when you have tax agencies. Okay ? We know that. We have heard a lot about the tax credits. I am not going to talk about the credits , per se, but we know that some estimates of what the CIT [will be] is around $600 million or $750 million, but that ballpark could be 8 [per cent], 9 [per cent], or 10 per cent of Bermuda's GDP [gross domestic product]. That is a big number, because when we look at other countries, Mr. Speaker, in the UK [it is] 3.1 per cent; i n Canada, 2.6 per cent; [and] i n the US , 1.3 per cent . And the average over the top 20 wealthy countries of corporate taxes is around 3.0 per cent of GDP. So, I know we are special ; but we are not that special. I could not tell you why. I could not give you the specific reason why we might not . . . what could happen to make the tax change. But you can also see why businesses looking at Bermuda are going to say, It is not sustainable that our industry's tax percentage of GDP is so high compared to the rest of the world. So, over the long term, I think we should expect something to change there, whether it be international regulations or whatnot. Mr. Speaker, I am sure you are familiar with the “Trump factor, ” and we heard about negotiations in the United States and the OECD [Organisation for Economic Co- operation and Development] and Trump's . . . Well, who knows? We all know that once President Trump takes an interest, we really cannot predict what could happen. It could cause this whole thing to get blown up globally.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoWe have heard a lot about the OECD. They are not here for our benefit. As you know, Mr. Speaker, I put forward quite a lot of questions about : What will this be? What will that be? And often the answer is , It is not in Bermuda's national …
We have heard a lot about the OECD. They are not here for our benefit. As you know, Mr. Speaker, I put forward quite a lot of questions about : What will this be? What will that be? And often the answer is , It is not in Bermuda's national interest for the Government to share that. And the answer is typically something like, We are undergoing sensitive discussions with the OECD. My view, Mr. Speaker, [is] we are going to be undergoing sensitive discussions with the OECD for the rest of my career up here. That I think is going to be the case. There is always going to be something going on there. Like I mentioned, Trump might blow it up. They might make some policy changes. Maybe CIT will have to go away. Maybe companies will look at other OECD changes and decide, I will just pay in Switzerland. I will pay in the States. I will pay wherever. There is still a lot of information that we do not know how it is going to go. One of the risks is our own Government 's performance. Will this Government deliver the business environment that these companies need to be able to stay here? We know that when we did not have the corporate income tax, they could put up with a lot of irritation. They could say : Yes, I cannot hire the people I want. It is taking too long. I cannot find housing for the people I like. The people I want to hire, the executives, even the mid- level technical managers are concerned about the education for their children. They are worried about violence. Actually, Mr. Speaker, as we have said before, it is many of the same issues. In fact, it is all the 1692 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly same issues, typically, that face Bermuda's own people. Right? And, you know, n ow they are paying the tax. They are going to look at that and say , Well, let me get this straight. I have got a lot of irritations here, and I am paying the tax that I have got to pay somewhere else. And s omeone, a CEO, an MD, has got to go to their board of directors , probably every year. I do not sit in these boardrooms as much as the Premier would like to say that I do.
[Inaudible interjection]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYes, I know what the irritations are, Mr. Speaker, because we have done ample, ample consultation, and you know how companies work. Every year, the board of directors say , Now remind me why we are still in Bermuda. Could we do it cheaper or easier somewhere else? And that …
Yes, I know what the irritations are, Mr. Speaker, because we have done ample, ample consultation, and you know how companies work. Every year, the board of directors say , Now remind me why we are still in Bermuda. Could we do it cheaper or easier somewhere else? And that is why this Government needs to pick its socks up. So, for example, I will give a short example. Let's take immigration. I can tell you, right after the companies we speak with want to pay off the debt, they want to talk about immigration. And I know the Honourable Member , the Minister over there, is probably having all of these conversations. And recently, immigration processing times were extended. So, I do not understand how if the companies that are going to basically be funding our future are complaining about immigration, then Government i s extending the immigration timelin e. It seems very counterintuitive to me, Mr. Speaker. So, what I, you know . . . I will say I suppose the Government is working on initiatives. You can imagine all kinds of initiatives they might be working on with industry to improve the situation. And I hope that they are. But the execution of this Government is going to have to be, or whichever Government . . . Perhaps we have an election next December. Who knows, Mr. Speaker? We will see. Whoever is driving this bus is going to have to execute very well to keep the business here. The other thing, Mr. Speaker, is the industry cycles. I know the Premier seemed very pleased earlier today when we were talking about CIT . In my opinion he seemed very pleased, o bviously . Who knows? And of course, what we are hearing . . . we know you can see earning calls and things like that. It does seem like there could be a very large CIT payment this year. There could be. And, you know, that is good for Bermuda. But people need to understand that those payments are going to move around. The insurance industry is in a cycle. It is always in cycles. Right now, it is at the peak of a cycle. Okay? It has had some of the best rates that it has had in a long time —the amount of money that they are making, the premium. It has had a very good year. No hurricanes hit the United States this year. There could be up to three. Right? What I am saying is right now, in some views it could be as good as it gets. And if we draw too many conclusions from what happened this year for what the future might look like ( right?) we might draw the wrong conclusions. So let me give a detailed example of that, Mr. Speaker. I am sure the Premier is going to pay close attention because of his deep and abiding interest.
[Inaudible interjection]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoOh, he is not paying close attention. I would have thought that this topic would be the most important topic for the Premier, especially today. But now, he says he is not paying attention. All right. [Inaudible interjections]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoBut he did come back to the room, Mr. Speaker. [Laughter]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoSo, I guess I will take that. I mentioned the insurance cycle, right? [Inaudible interjections]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoSo here is a very specific example of what could happen with this cycle, right? A great year, no losses, good CIT money coming in. Right? Big tax credits . Companies are doing well. They are hiring people. They are staffed up. They are not too worried about the expenses …
So here is a very specific example of what could happen with this cycle, right? A great year, no losses, good CIT money coming in. Right? Big tax credits . Companies are doing well. They are hiring people. They are staffed up. They are not too worried about the expenses because they have had a good couple of years. That is great. Got a lot of money. We pay a lot of money. Now, let's say the next year [there are] a lot of big losses, two hurricanes hit the United States. All right? No CIT gets paid or a lot less because most of the Bermuda companies are taking a loss. Okay ? So, in that situation, Mr. Speaker ( right?)—
[Crosstalk]
Dr. Douglas DeCouto—we are going to pay out a lot of tax credits because, as we have learned, these companies are earning these —I say pay out . I know it is not cash right away. These companies are earning these tax credits even though the company, even though the country may …
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoThen we go to the following year and maybe they have okay profits, but they are still getting credits for the losses in the prior year. And they are still getting the credits for all the people that they are hiring or have hired. And maybe what they even decide …
Then we go to the following year and maybe they have okay profits, but they are still getting credits for the losses in the prior year. And they are still getting the credits for all the people that they are hiring or have hired. And maybe what they even decide to do if [they have] a couple bad years is they
Bermuda House of Assembly start laying off some people, shrinking operations. And then the financial dynamics start to look very different. Okay ? So that is a kind of concrete example. I know perhaps [it is] a little technical there, but we are talking about a technical topic. I cannot help it. It just is. And I know that the Government thinks I am being pessimistic. Perhaps . Perhaps I am. But I have talked about several different risks to the CIT. I might count eight. There are others we have not gotten into. Now, which one of those will have a big impact on us or could? I do not know. Hopefully none. But it would be naïve and irresponsible, Mr. Speaker, for us to assume that none of those things will happen and everything will continue hunky -dory. You know, I do not know how you run your household, Mr. Speaker, but the way we like to run my household is we like , when we plan our finances , to ensure that the surprises are positive surprises, not negative surprises. And we would like to know that the Government of this country was taking a similar approach. And like I mentioned, that is why we need to have a very real conversation about things like fiscal guardrails and financial stability, plans that this Government has shown reticence to talk about today, quite surprisingly. Like I said, we have seen no evidence of that. And frankly, if I think back to the Question Period, I find their relevant arrogance to sharing important information with us an unfortunate symptom. And it does not bode well for the transparency and accountability that will be required for dealing with the CIT money. But anyway, let's assume we do get good big CIT payments for a few years. We will be happy with that, but that also comes with its own risks. And they do require very careful management. Okay. You have a lot of money. You are going to build some bridges. You are going build a lot of houses. You have got a construction project going on. We have already heard unemployment is something like 1.8 per cent.
Hon. E. David Burt: [It is] 1.4 [per cent].
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoOh, 1.4 [per cent] . So how are you going to build the bridges? How are you going to do more road paving? How are you going to build more houses? Who is doing that work? We are going to have to get more immigration. You are going to have …
Oh, 1.4 [per cent] . So how are you going to build the bridges? How are you going to do more road paving? How are you going to build more houses? Who is doing that work? We are going to have to get more immigration. You are going to have to pay people more. The economy is going to get super hot. Okay ? Now, you know, for some people, that is great. But we know what happens when economies get super hot. They cool down and they crash. So, again, where is the careful thinking of how this is going to go over the next couple of years to make sure it is handled smoothly and carefully? Again, all we hear from Government is, Oh, we are not going to tell you. I thought we were professionals and adults up in this room, Mr. Speaker. Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker. I am sorry —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: I tried to sit through this for a very long time. The Honourable Member is misleading the House. I did not tell the Honourable Member I am not going to tell him. I am going to tell him . …
Point of order.
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Hon. E. David Burt: I tried to sit through this for a very long time. The Honourable Member is misleading the House. I did not tell the Honourable Member I am not going to tell him. I am going to tell him . He is going to have to wait until the B udget [Debate] . That is when the financial policy of the country is laid before this Honour-able House . And he gets a whole week to plan his response. And then we get 56 hours of debate. So, wait until that time.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerBased on the debate that took place earlier, we are not going to reflect on it. The comment, the response, was exactly that —that it will all come out in the budget. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. So, the point of which I am making is the …
Based on the debate that took place earlier, we are not going to reflect on it. The comment, the response, was exactly that —that it will all come out in the budget. Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. So, the point of which I am making is the Honourable Member is misleading the House because he just said the Government says, We are not going to tell you. That is not factual. It will be done in the regular time when we have the consideration of the budget. And as I said earlier, Mr. Speaker, not to reflect on the Question Period, but if he wants to set the timetable for when fiscal items are mentioned, he needs to go win an election, become Minister of Finance, and then he can determine how that stuff is done.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWe got the point , Premier . We got the point. We got the point.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoOf course, Mr. Speaker, I believe the P remier said, We are not going to tell you yet . But sometimes, which is the exact point I am trying to make . . . this issue is so big, so important, it requires the kind of careful thought and communication …
Of course, Mr. Speaker, I believe the P remier said, We are not going to tell you yet . But sometimes, which is the exact point I am trying to make . . . this issue is so big, so important, it requires the kind of careful thought and communication and con-sultation and sharing of information that is above and beyond the standard process where the budget is dropped on you. And maybe the Premier does not even stick around for the Reply to the Budget [Statement], for example. Okay? So that is what I am trying to say. This is not business as usual. And if this Government wants to treat the CIT as business as usual, I can tell you right now based on their track record the results are not going to be good. But let's go back to what I was saying, Mr. Speaker, the situation where let's say we do have a good couple of years with CIT . And I talked about how the economy could overheat. And we would need careful handling of immigration policy, phasing of projects, so on and so forth. We all know that when there is more 1694 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly money in the system, there are more opportunities for fraud and corruption.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoThis is not a comment about the Government , per se. That is just human nature. That is how it works. Bigger companies with more money need tighter controls. When there is more money involved in a government, it needs tighter controls. That is just a fact. That is not …
This is not a comment about the Government , per se. That is just human nature. That is how it works. Bigger companies with more money need tighter controls. When there is more money involved in a government, it needs tighter controls. That is just a fact. That is not a reflection on . . . It could be an OBA Government . Probably the existing approach to controls and handling of money throughout the Government probably would not be sufficient. It just would not because we are talking about billions and billions of dollars, and the approach that you have to take and the level of seriousness and accountability that you have is just not the same approach that we have now. I am not blaming anybody. We know that the PLP did not create the approach that is there. They just kind of picked it up and kind of ran with it. But we would need a tighter, much more structured, much more accountable approach. Now, Mr. Speaker, as I have been saying, this whole CIT situation needs a lot of careful handling, and that is why the One Bermuda Alliance would dedicate the CIT funds to aggressively reduce the debt. And I think I gave some options there to the Premier , when asked—i nvest in infrastructure, bridges, roads, housing.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberLights.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoNot just investing in it —lights , but making sure it was maintained over the long . . . It is one thing to go build a house and say , Wow! We have got community housing. It is another thing to make sure that community housing is properly maintained …
Not just investing in it —lights , but making sure it was maintained over the long . . . It is one thing to go build a house and say , Wow! We have got community housing. It is another thing to make sure that community housing is properly maintained over its lifespan. Money has to be set aside for that —a sinking fund, a maintenance fund —whatever you want to call it. I am sure that the Honourable Deputy Premier there in his career through construction is familiar in how these kinds of properties need to be managed over their life cycle. And I mentioned targeted social support. We need to make sure that we get the changes, the social improvements , happening as fast as possible, starting with those who need it the most. And that is why, Mr. Speaker, the One Bermuda Alliance would balance addressing the critical needs we have today with also the long-term fixes, not just light bulbs or 10 per cent off your TCD, because we have serious underlying problems in Bermuda. And so instead of using the CIT money to prop up a low -performing Government , Mr. Speaker, that is literally today in the House of Assembly rubbing its hands together in glee over the CIT money, —
Dr. Douglas DeCouto—we need to fundamentally change how we take care of our people and how we take care of our economy.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerJust let me interrupt you one minute. The clock had not started, but you got up at 6: 02. It is now 6:32, so I have got 30 minutes on it for you to let you know what your time is.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoVery kind, Mr. Speaker. [Inaudible interjection and laughter ]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoNo, I am mindful of everybody and it being Friday night, Mr. Speaker. As I was saying, Mr. Speaker . . . [You] gave me an opportunity to repeat myself, in fact. So instead of using the CIT money to prop up a low -performing Government . . . That …
No, I am mindful of everybody and it being Friday night, Mr. Speaker. As I was saying, Mr. Speaker . . . [You] gave me an opportunity to repeat myself, in fact. So instead of using the CIT money to prop up a low -performing Government . . . That is my opinion, which I think is no surprise, because if I thought it was good, I would not be up here. I would be, Crack on. You guys are doing good. We must fundamentally change—
[Inaudible interjections and laughter]
Dr. Douglas DeCouto—fundamentally change. And this is my request here to the Government and the aim of the OBA —fundamentally change how we take care of our people and how we grow and manage our economy. [It is] e asy to say, hard to do, and based on their track record, this …
—fundamentally change. And this is my request here to the Government and the aim of the OBA —fundamentally change how we take care of our people and how we grow and manage our economy. [It is] e asy to say, hard to do, and based on their track record, this Government i s not up to it. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. Does any other Member wish to make a contribution? [Desk thumping]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerJust so the clock is set correct, the opening speaker, both of you had 60 minutes, so the clock is set there. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I really did not hear much from the Honourable Member. Hon. E. David Burt: Not at all!
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberYou weren’t listening! [Laughter]
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberYou weren’t listening! Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Well, I do not believe too many other people were listening either. The Motion presented by this Honourable Member asks this Honourable House to take note of the opportunities, challenges, and risks from the Bermuda corporate income tax. I …
You weren’t listening!
Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Well, I do not believe too many other people were listening either. The Motion presented by this Honourable Member asks this Honourable House to take note of the opportunities, challenges, and risks from the Bermuda corporate income tax. I will simply not respond to the Motion presented by the Honourable Member, but to ensure that Bermudians —every senior, every worker, every business owner —understand why this Government has taken bold and responsible action to secure our economic future. The Motion requests that we take note of the corporate income tax. But, Mr. Speaker, this Government has done much more than take note. We anticipated global change. We stood by and stood up for Bermuda's sovereignty. We acted while others commented, and this is the difference between governing and observing, between leading and lingering. Mr. Speaker, there is a global shift taking place, and why action was required. The world's largest econ-omies —G7, G20, OECD —agreed to a global minimum tax of 15 per cent . This was not optional. This was not optional. This was not theoretical. This was real ! And it came here to Bermuda. We had two choices, and I be-lieve one of the choices the OBA would have taken. Lead and design a tax ourselves, keep the revenue, protect the jobs, and secure our reputation— or do nothing. We only had two choices, and we know there is a certain island in the south that pretty well has done nothing . But Mr. Speaker, s hould we allow foreign government s to collect billions from Bermuda's economy ? Because they could have done that. As a m atter of fact, I heard the Honourable Member praising the tax credits. I am not going to go into that, but they could have done the same thing. This Government , the Progressive Labour Party Government , decided to choose leadership. We refused to let other tax value [be] created here. We refused to sit idle and hope the world would stay the same. We made the decision that protects Bermudian jobs inside Bermuda, not overseas. So Mr. Speaker, let's look at the Motion —opportunities, challenges, and risks. So, what do Bermudians gain? The corporate income tax is a strategic asset. Even without CIT ( and I am going to emphasise this), even without CIT revenues, the Government has delivered a balanced budget.
Hon. E. David Burt: Yes. Say it again.
Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Even without the CIT revenues, the Government has delivered a balanced budget, which will improve health care, hospital im-provements, affordable homes, modern community infrastructure, stronger schools, pension security for our seniors when they were saying that we are not giving money to our seniors, [and] lower burdens on [Bermudian] families . We will reduce certain things within the custom duties to lower burdens for our fami-lies. The CIT is to be used strategically . We know that. You are not speaking to some dummies. Reduce debt. That is what the CIT . . . The Premier has already said that. We are going to reduce debt and the associated interest payment. You keep on saying we are saying . . . we have said it over and over again. It is not new to us. No. In case someone else speaks to me, do not bring that up again. We will tell you one more time. We will reduce debt and the associated interest payment, set up a sovereign wealth fund to invest for future generational prosperity, and support investment in key structure properties. What is so hard for you to hear? These are some opportunities that we get from CIT. But the taxes, the revenue that we will get . . . If we did not have CIT this year, we will still balance the budget. Mr. Speaker, another opportunity is protecting Bermudian jobs. International business employ ed thousands of Bermudians. What protects the future? Globally aligned tax policy. We put in place some situations. Stable regulatory environment —we have that. Proactive compliance —we are doing that. Companies stay here where confidence exists, and this Government inspires confidence. The growth in international business is beyond what most of us have ever even thought about. You cannot deny that.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberNo, you can’t. [Inaudible interjections] Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: You cannot deny that. There are companies coming here every year, additional companies. They are over and over again. They have confidence in this Government , and they have a confidence in Bermuda. [Crosstalk] Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Bermuda is no …
No, you can’t.
[Inaudible interjections]
Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: You cannot deny that. There are companies coming here every year, additional companies. They are over and over again. They have confidence in this Government , and they have a confidence in Bermuda.
[Crosstalk] Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Bermuda is no longer a target of criticism.
[Crosstalk] Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Bermuda is no longer a target of criticism. We were known to be the country where you paid nothing. We are in compliance. W e are respected. W e are trusted and seen as mature financial jurisdictions. This has boosted investment. Look at the building now on Front Street. Look at the building going up there on the S outh Shore.
[Inaudible interjection]
1696 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: No, no, no. Uh-uh. They have confidence in this country —
Hon. E. David Burt: Say it again.
Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: —economic partnerships, financial resilience. Bermuda's voice has grown louder because this Government was bold. Let's make it clear. So, Mr. Speaker, what are some of the risks? Yes, there are some risks. Any major reform includes risks. Any major reform includes risks. Business relocation concern—y es, there is a risk there— administrative structure, legal complexity, transition uncertainty. But leadership is not avoidance; l eadership is mitigation. We are not going to wait to make things happen. We are making things happen to give confidence to the market that is working here. We established consultation with industry leaders every time I have been with the Premier in these meetings. And he ends by saying, What else can we help you with? What else can we help you with? And I am saying, What else? He keeps on saying [it] because we want to make sure that we have assurance that this Government is behind them. Safe harbour provisions, phased implementation— we have been doing this thing in phases. Direct engagement with top legal and tax advisors —we have had the best , giving us confidence on making decisions and recruitment of skilled compliance personnel. Where some see risk, this Government prepared solutions. Mr. Speaker, I ask the H onourable Member DeCouto: Does he deny I have that ability?
[Inaudible interjection]
Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Yes. I am responding. You should know the rules.
[Inaudible interjections]
Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: You should know the rules. Does he deny that this world has permanently changed tax rules? Do you realise that this world has changed it? We cannot escape certain things. They are here. And we have to make changes. If he opposes this corporate income tax, where is his alternative? You talk in such a negative way that you kind of oppose it.
[Crosstalk]
Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, this Motion is late. This argument that the Honourable Member has put forward is very hollow.
Hon. E. David Burt: Yes.
[Inaudible interjections] Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: This country deserves clarity, not after -the-fact commentary. Hon. E. David Burt: Correct.
Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: We have debated this over and over again. Hon. E. David Burt: Correct. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, this Government leads and the Opposition follows. Let the record reflect that w hen bold decisions are required, the PLP decides ; the Opposition waits then issues commentary after the solution is delivered. Firm but respectful , we negotiate; they narrate.
Some Hon. Members Some Hon. MembersYes, yes. [Inaudible interjections] Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: This is why the public trusts this Government over and over and over again.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberYou guys should have never been a leader. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, if O pposition claims CIT threatens jobs, Mr. Speaker, job losses would have come from inaction, not compliance. We protected Bermuda's competitive edge. Others would have taken those jobs. I want to repeat again, Mr. Speaker, …
You guys should have never been a leader. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, if O pposition claims CIT threatens jobs, Mr. Speaker, job losses would have come from inaction, not compliance. We protected Bermuda's competitive edge. Others would have taken those jobs. I want to repeat again, Mr. Speaker, we protected Bermuda's competitive edge. Hon. E. David Burt: Yes, we have! Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Others would have taken those jobs. They would have left. If the O pposition claims the Government rushed the process, we began global negotiation and legislative planning years before they noticed. That is foresight, not rush.
Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: I am actually appreciating the speech here. The H onourable Member is misleading the House. He is quoting things that were never said during this M otion —at all. This speech is a prepared speech that he is reading …
Point of order.
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: I am actually appreciating the speech here. The H onourable Member is misleading the House. He is quoting things that were never said during this M otion —at all. This speech is a prepared speech that he is reading before we even got to talking because he is saying things that we have not said. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, the H onourable Member s have . . . Sorry.
Bermuda House of Assembly [Inaudible interjections]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAll right , Members — [Crosstalk and laughter]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMembers, let's just come back to focusing on what is before us this evening. And Junior M inister , just be mindful of the point made and continue on. Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, we have listened to the O pposition from time to time. And the implication and …
Members, let's just come back to focusing on what is before us this evening. And Junior M inister , just be mindful of the point made and continue on.
Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, we have listened to the O pposition from time to time. And the implication and things that you have said about corporate income tax, it is not the first time you have spoken about it, but you speak in such a tone as if something totally is going wrong. The Honourable Member said suppose we only get corporate income tax for the next two years . But suppose we get corporate tax for the next 50 years.
[Inaudible interjections ]
Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: We do. We do plan. That is the thing. We do plan. That is what I talked about at the end of the day, that the budget will still receive a surplus.
[Crosstalk] Hon. Wayne L. Furbert: Mr. Speaker, I am just going to close on this. The world changed. Bermuda [adapted, ] not reluctantly, not reactively, but with strength and strategy. We ensured Bermud ians keep the benefits of Bermuda's success. Our economic future is secure. International business remains strong. Government's revenue grows without bur dening our people. So yes. So let us take note. Take note that Bermuda has stepped comfortably into a new era. Take note that leadership lives on this side of the aisle. Take note that the PLP delivers on behalf of the Bermudi an public. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. [Desk thumping]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Junior Minister. Does any other Member wish to speak? MP Robin son, you have . . . Let me clear this one sec ond. You have the floor.
Mr. Dwayne RobinsonThank you, Mr. Speaker. I just rise to support my colleague in the spirit of this M otion because I believe that the opportunity part is the largest piece of this M otion because we are presented with a once- in-a-lifetime opportunity. And as it was mentioned earlier in debate …
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just rise to support my colleague in the spirit of this M otion because I believe that the opportunity part is the largest piece of this M otion because we are presented with a once- in-a-lifetime opportunity. And as it was mentioned earlier in debate (not to reflect on it ) we are, at the end of the day, Team Bermuda. And what you hear from this side—
[Inaudible interjections ]
Mr. Dwayne Robinson—what you hear from this side is passion to ensure that Government takes advantage of this once- in-a-lifetime opportunity and places Bermuda in a better position. This is not a course of us to come up into this House and simply rubber stamp what Government does. It is on us …
—what you hear from this side is passion to ensure that Government takes advantage of this once- in-a-lifetime opportunity and places Bermuda in a better position. This is not a course of us to come up into this House and simply rubber stamp what Government does. It is on us as the O pposition and as representatives of the people to make sure that we properly caution, advise, and give alternatives when necessary. And so, I think that it is interesting to hear that this debate has happened a few times or it needs to happen many more times, because of the severity and the weight of the decision that will be made. I mean, this is a potential windfall that could change the trajectory of our ent ire Island ’s financial futures and social futures. And right now, we have an economy that, if you are not in a certain sector you are struggling. You are struggling. And this is something that we all hear on the doorstep. We all h ear from our constituents. They are looking for a place to stay. They are looking for affordable rent. They are worried about health care costs. They are worried about all of these things that have been mentioned in the opening speech from my colleague. And so, we cannot discuss it enough. It cannot be discussed enough. And I really want to just highlight that we have, as the speaker before me spoke on, a changing economy. And a lot of these things that we have geared towards could potentially be eradicated by AI. We have a situation worldwide where manpower is being reduced. And certain jobs are being done where company profits are remaining. [Inaudible interjection]
Mr. Dwayne RobinsonAnd company profits are remaining, but manpower is reducing. So, if we are basing a lot of our hopes on rebates that are going to go to the community, we may not be able to save some of these jobs. And therefore, those rebates may not have as much effect …
And company profits are remaining, but manpower is reducing. So, if we are basing a lot of our hopes on rebates that are going to go to the community, we may not be able to save some of these jobs. And therefore, those rebates may not have as much effect on the Bermudians who really need them. So not to stay on that point ( because I do not want to reflect in the debate ), but my whole point is that we are having a discussion right now on what could potentially be the biggest shift our I sland has seen in many generations. My role here as a Member of the O pposition is to not only encourage Government but also to highlight that I am happy to see their focus on uplifting other industries because that is a very important piece of what needs to happen for the future of our Island. We need to encourage Bermudians to get involved in certain other jurisdictions and industries, certain other 1698 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly industries that are not necessarily the subject of CIT but could protect and support our I sland going forward. I mean, with corporate jobs on the ( I have to say) threat, not necessarily from anything that Government is doing, but just by the rate at which the global economy is changing, how can we utilise the CIT to properly boost and motivate Bermudians to head into other sectors and to also be able to make a living in their country working in other sectors that we need? At the end of the day, certai n jobs are protected from the evolution of technology and digital innovation, certain jobs like a S hadow [Minister] of Tourism. I would always want to see more Bermudians going into the tourism industry. How can we utilise this to make that more enticing, to make that more encourag ing to get our Bermudians into that industry? [I say that] b ecause at the end of the day, Bermuda has become a glass house. We have an industry that is propping up a lot of our income, a lot of what we are using day to day, and we need to make sure that if we get a historic windfall like this, that we use it to make sure that other industries can also prop us up just in case we come under the scrutiny of other powers who have made it very clear that they are looking to take this business from us and to reduce it. So, this is not a partisan issue. We are clearly under the scrutiny of much larger powers who do not like how successful our I sland has become at doing this. And we should always, always plan for the ability to pivot towards something or to grow other industries to support our economy and to provide more opportu-nities for Bermudians to come back to this I sland. So, this is why I rose today . I mean , my colleague really outlined a lot of the concerns that we have on this side, and obviously as many will know, this is not my Shadow [Ministry] , but I feel compelled to add my voice because of the pivotal moment that we are at. This is not a criticism ; this is an encouragement to Government that the decisions that will be made will have ripple effects on future generations, will determine whether or not Bermudians stay in this I sland, and will determine if many Bermudians come back. And at the end of the day, that is what the goal is. I am hopeful that the debate and this Motion is received in that vein, that it is meant to be supportive but provide scrutiny and also show our side's support but also our concerns about the direction in which we are going with this. So, I conclude my comments on that, but I just hope that the spirit of this debate is that we are on the cusp of something that could be potentially great but has many risks that we need to look at and also make sure that we understand that Bermudians should not have to cram into one industry in order to live, raise families, and survive in their own country. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Does any other Member wish to make a contribution at this time? MP Fa hy. Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Junior Minister of Finance did read out the Motion again, “That this Honourable House do take note of the opportunities, challenges, and risks …
Thank you. Does any other Member wish to make a contribution at this time? MP Fa hy.
Hon. Michael Fahy: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Junior Minister of Finance did read out the Motion again, “That this Honourable House do take note of the opportunities, challenges, and risks to Bermuda rising from Bermuda's C orporate Income Tax.” Mr. Speaker, Bermuda has been under threat in the last 10 years , as we know , from Europe, from the US, and other areas about how well Bermuda does and the tax es not paid in these other jurisdictions. We have faced down substance, and we have had bipartisan support in relation to how that has been achieved. We have had threats with beneficial ownership, and despite the valiant efforts of the Government and international business community in respect of ensur-ing that we get Bermuda's message out that Bermuda is a sophisticated jurisdiction, we have to fight that fight every day. Now, we are in the position of having to ensure that our economy survives by engaging in the global minimum tax. And it is quite correct to say that there ha d been numerous debates on this topic when it was first passed with bipartisan support. But when you are talk-ing about what some people have used ( the words ) bonanza of $600 million, $750 million, a billion dollars in tax, that is worth numerous debates. We come up here and debate about far smaller figures far more regularly than what these numbers represent. The Honourable Premier and Minister of Finance has said that we will hear more in the budget. And that is good. I am glad to hear that. But it does not take away from the fact that it is important still to debate, especially when we have the Tax Reform Commission's report that, as my colleague mentioned, [is] some 80 pages. My concern, Mr. Speaker, is that most people in Bermuda and probably a lot of people in this place do not really understand how this can detrimentally affect us and also give us major benefits. My colleague, Mr. Robinson, is quite correct to say that it is important to get that message out on both. And that is a whole package that we need to be considering when we look at global minimum tax and the corporate income tax for Bermuda. My concerns and the risks . . . And then I will certainly go on to the oppor tunities so we can finish my comments on positive notes. When it is a potential —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading and imputing improper motives ] Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. Scott Simmons: Mr. Speaker, I just reflected on the honourable colleague's words. I believe he is misleading the House , and he is [impu ting] improper motive. He stated quite clearly as it …
Point of order.
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading and imputing improper motives ]
Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. Scott Simmons: Mr. Speaker, I just reflected on the honourable colleague's words. I believe he is misleading the House , and he is [impu ting] improper motive. He stated quite clearly as it relates to us in this House that he is quite certain that some of us do not even understand the benefits or the risks of this. This has been in existence for quite some time. I cannot speak for what the OBA has done. I do not want to talk too much on it, but Mr. Speaker, at the end of the day, he cannot speak for this side of the House because we have had exhaustive comments and we have had exhaustive discussions on this particular issue. And so, it is unfair for him to assume that on this side of the House we have not debated it, that we have not reviewed it properly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberCorrect. [Crosstalk]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerHonourable Member , I think the point was made, and I am sure you are experienced enough to— [Crosstalk] Hon. Michael Fahy: I understand the point. It was certainly not with any intent, Mr. Speaker, to impute improper motives. I am just trying to get across the point that it …
Honourable Member , I think the point was made, and I am sure you are experienced enough to— [Crosstalk] Hon. Michael Fahy: I understand the point. It was certainly not with any intent, Mr. Speaker, to impute improper motives. I am just trying to get across the point that it is a very complicated area.
[Inaudible interjections]
Hon. Michael Fahy: That is okay. [Inaudible interjections]
Mr. Scott SimmonsMr. Speaker, I do not want to belabour it. Mr. Speaker, point of order.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order? Tell me your point of order. POINT OF ORDER [Imputing improper motives and misleading]
Mr. Scott Simmons—because it speaks to . . . The point of order is that he is imput ing improper motive, and he is misleading the House. And we have got to stop this. I will speak about it later, but it is wrong in that . . . Listen to what …
—because it speaks to . . . The point of order is that he is imput ing improper motive, and he is misleading the House. And we have got to stop this. I will speak about it later, but it is wrong in that . . . Listen to what he just said. He just felt and just made the statement that he feels that we . . . It is such a delicate and sophisticated topic that his . . . He feels that we probably could not grasp it, cannot seem to get it. And so , it is condescending, and it is not right . And it is . . . And this speaks to . . . This very much speaks to the way that you come across in that it is too sophisti-cated for them. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
[Crosstalk]
Mr. Scott SimmonsIt is nasty. Hon. Michael Fahy: Absolutely not . It is not my intent in any way. I take the Member 's point on board. Look, Mr. Speaker, when I read this 80- page report, I am certainly not a tax expert , and I am simply saying it can …
It is nasty.
Hon. Michael Fahy: Absolutely not . It is not my intent in any way. I take the Member 's point on board. Look, Mr. Speaker, when I read this 80- page report, I am certainly not a tax expert , and I am simply saying it can be very complicated. In no way am I say-ing that the Member s on the other side do not get it at all. I am saying it is a very complicated for all of us, for the entire Island, because it is a very difficult and complicated area. This has been put together, this legislation that we have done with tax experts, with people who know better than many of us about how this may or may not work. And we are still working on it , and we will continue to give the support to the Government to get this done in the most effective manner. Now, if my tone came across the wrong way or the Minister or the Member took it in a way that it should not have been, I am sorry for that. I genuinely am. What I am trying to do today is get across the fact that when we look at this potential bonanza of money , that we save for that rainy day, because it may not always be there. And that is the piece, I think, that some do not quite get. Because when I have conversations —
[Inaudible interjection]
Hon. Michael Fahy: No. When I have conversations . . . not in this place, but when you talk to people in the street about what corporate income tax is and you talk to them about how insurance and reinsurance works , and they are not in the industry, it is a fascinating conversation. It is not to say no one can get it at all. But the Member DeCouto made mention of the fact that if there are three or four hurricanes in the United States, the money that we think is coming, $ 750 [million] potentially in the next tax session, may not be there the following year because of losses. And people go, Oh my gracious, really? And you say, Yes, this is how it works. It is just what it is. That is all. And we have to continue to get that mess age out there. And so how do we protect Bermuda? And that is why our point is to pay down the debt and put money in a stabilisation fund so that money is there to use on that rainy day if it does not happen. Now , I hear —
[Inaudible interjection]
Hon. Michael Fahy: I hear — 1700 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly [Inaudible interjection]
Hon. Michael Fahy: I hear from the J unior Minister that we are already going to do that. I hope that we get that major detail that we are promised in February about how the money will be spent. Okay?
[Inaudible interjections] Hon. Michael Fahy: What we want to do is understand—
[Inaudible interjection]
Hon. Michael Fahy: No, it is not about that. It is, Is it going to be $200 million that is going to be put aside pursuant to what the T ax Reform Commission said?
[Inaudible interjections]
Hon. Michael Fahy: Is it then going to be —
[Inaudible interjection]
Hon. Michael Fahy: Or more . . . Or more. And it could be. But that is the purpose of this Motion —so people do understand what that money looks like. It is not just there to spend. So, to say that it is a tone, this actually scares me because it becomes a potential for serious over -reliance for Bermuda on an industry in which we are already over reliant. That is the concern. And it takes one or two small things to change the whole nature of what this Island is.
[Inaudible interjection] Hon. Michael Fahy: No, this is not . . . no, I am sorry. I hear this a lot. The sky is falling . No, I did not use that phraseology. I think everybody in this place knows how tenuous and fragile this economy is when it comes to international business. I have been in it. I have lived it. I hear it. Mr. Speaker, here is the thing. And Member s on the other side know this. Some of us are told some thing s. And then you go out to something else, and you are chirped in another ear about what they are really saying. And I do not like it. And my answer is, if you have a problem, go tell the Minister. Tell the Minister of Finance these are your concerns. And here is the point. The more that the taxes are paid, you have got to pay the piper. You are going to have to give them what they want. And that is an unenviable position for the Government to be in. I would not want to be the Minister of Finance when this bo-nanza comes —potentially $750 million and the 20 or so companies that are probably going to be paying the majority of that because that is the information that I have understood that are going to be paying the most . Okay? We have to be concerned about what they are going to be looking for in return. That is the risk. That is the risk. It is concerning. And for everyone to understand, I am not suggesting, Mr. Speaker — [Inaudible interjections]
Hon. Michael Fahy: —I am not suggesting, Mr. Speaker , that the other side is incapable of dealing with that. I am not.
Hon. E. David Burt: Yes, you are.
Hon. Michael Fahy: I absolutely am not because let me tell you, I would tell you if I thought that. I would absolutely make that point , and I have not. What I have said is that we have to be aware of those risks and the people of Bermuda need to understand those risks because not everyone is in the reinsurance world. They are not. And so, when you talk to people and explain what those numbers look like, it is shocking. I was sur-prised. I thought, Oh my, that is a lot of money. It could be a billion one time. Maybe the following year it is zero. Then what? And what we want to make sure, again . . . The Premier is putting his hand against his head. Perhaps if he engaged in the debate, he woul d put it up.
[Inaudible interjection]
Hon. Michael Fahy: You should not — [Inaudible interjection]
Hon. Michael Fahy: This again. If you are talking about a billion dollars , potentially, I think this House should be debating this far more regularly than what we talk about. [Inaudible interjections]
Hon. Michael Fahy: So, when we think about that , the risk is that over -reliance, potentially, if it is not managed in the proper way. And again— [Inaudible interjections]
Hon. Michael Fahy: Just a moment. No, just a moment.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMembers, Members, Members! [Gavel] Hon. Michael Fahy: Just a moment. I am not — [Inaudible interjections]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMembers, Members! Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Michael Fahy: I am not saying that. Believe me. There is one thing— [Inaudible interjections] Hon. Michael Fahy: I am more than capable of saying that. I am just saying those are the risks. [Inaudible interjections ] Hon. Michael Fahy: Those — [Inaudible …
Members, Members!
Bermuda House of Assembly Hon. Michael Fahy: I am not saying that. Believe me. There is one thing—
[Inaudible interjections]
Hon. Michael Fahy: I am more than capable of saying that. I am just saying those are the risks. [Inaudible interjections ] Hon. Michael Fahy: Those —
[Inaudible interjections ]
Hon. Michael Fahy: This— [Inaudible interjections ]
Hon. Michael Fahy: Those are the risks. Those are the risks. The benefits —yes, we know the benefits —number one, a billion bucks. That is a big benefit. And if it is spent in a manner in which we protect ourselves for the future no matter which Government is in, then we can ensure that there is enough money in the pot to continue over time to pay for the infrastructure investment that is desperately required in this country. Okay? Just in case. B ecause I will tell you, when you speak to some people, they go, A billion? Oh, we can do this. We can do that. We can do this. We can do that. Yes, you can, but we cannot . We have to be so prudent just in case.
[Inaudible interjections ]
Hon. Michael Fahy: Right? Just — [Inaudible interjections ]
Hon. Michael Fahy: I am not —
[Inaudible interjections ]
Hon. Michael Fahy: I have not once said today that the Honourable Member cannot. [Inaudible interjections ]
Hon. Michael Fahy: We need to be as a country — [Inaudible interjections ]
Hon. Michael Fahy: —as a country —
[Inaudible interjections ] Hon. Michael Fahy: —as a country —
[Inaudible interjections] Hon. Michael Fahy: So, the other point [is], opportunities, opportunities. [Inaudible interjections]
Hon. Michael Fahy: The concern is this.
[Inaudible interjections] Hon. Michael Fahy: The concern is this. It is something that we needed to do. We had to. We will be curious to see what happens to our neighbour down south by doing nothing. But what we have to do is make sure that we use the opportunity with this tax wisely. Okay? I do hope . . . I do hope that the Premier can continue to have a good balancing act in terms of trying to keep those that are going to be paying this tax in a position where they wish to remain here. And we are going to have to do what we can to make sure they are here. And not everyone is going to like that. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Member . Is there any other Member that would like to make a contribution at this time? Is there any other Member ? MP Pearman.
Mr. Scott PearmanMr. Speaker, it appears that the strategy of the Government is to not participate in this Motion.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberIt’s your Motion.
Mr. Scott PearmanThat is too bad. Because it is actually an important topic. It arguably is the most important topic. And what I am also struggling with is why a sensible suggestion that is coming from the Opposition of repaying our debt and taking advantage of opportunity, bank it while you can …
That is too bad. Because it is actually an important topic. It arguably is the most important topic. And what I am also struggling with is why a sensible suggestion that is coming from the Opposition of repaying our debt and taking advantage of opportunity, bank it while you can so you are ready for the future, is receiving such resistance from the Government because all the Government need do, Mr. Speaker, is stand up and say , We agree. Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order. Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: Must we really continue this charade, Mr. Speaker? The Honourable Member is misleading the House. There is a T hrone Speech, a budget document that says exactly what the Honourable Member is saying. There are multiple publications that have …
Point of order.
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading]
Hon. E. David Burt: Must we really continue this charade, Mr. Speaker? The Honourable Member is misleading the House. There is a T hrone Speech, a budget document that says exactly what the Honourable Member is saying. There are multiple publications that have come from the Government . Why is the Opposition just 1702 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly allowed to say things which are not factual? He must withdraw. That is not factual. Just because we are not responding to the T ake Note Motion of which he put down, because we have already said these things, Mr. Speaker . Does the Honourable Member really want me to quote the Budget Statement, the T hrone Speech? They criticise d the Throne Speech that says we will pay off the debt in 10 years. They criticise d it. Come on now, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMembers, just be mindful of the fact that we need not get out of hand right now. All day it has been stated back and forth that there are appropriate times for things to be fully released. And they will be released at appropriate times. It may not suit someone …
Members, just be mindful of the fact that we need not get out of hand right now. All day it has been stated back and forth that there are appropriate times for things to be fully released. And they will be released at appropriate times. It may not suit someone else's schedule, but that is the appropriate time that it is going to be released. When we come back, next week will be the final week before we break into the new year. And when we come back in the new year, in that second or third sitti ng, we will have the Budget Statement presented. And the B udget Statement will lay out all the issues financially that the Government intends to do for the next year, which would include this new funding that is now part of their budget projections.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberThank you, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Scott PearmanThank you, Mr. Speaker. And what the Opposition is seeking to do by this Motion is to identify the risks, opportunities , and challenges and call upon the Government when it comes back in the third week in February, or the first week in February, to confirm that it will …
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And what the Opposition is seeking to do by this Motion is to identify the risks, opportunities , and challenges and call upon the Government when it comes back in the third week in February, or the first week in February, to confirm that it will grasp the nettle and embark upon a major repayment of our debt. All we have heard from the Government so far around this issue is a commitment to repay over 10 years and a reference to the $200 million figure per annum that was in the tax report, which indeed has not still been tabled here. So that is all we know. And I think it is important, Mr. Speaker . I think it is important for the listening public to understand that we are here in Opposition to perform a democratic function, and it is a necessary democratic function. We are here to ask the Government what its plans are. And a number of Government s around the world actually like to go around telling people what their plans are and say, This is what we propose to do. And you are absolutely right, Mr. Speaker, and I do not challenge your comment, that there are ti mes when they do certain things. And we are saying, now is such a time. Now, if we have to wait to learn— [Laughter]
Mr. Scott PearmanI am being laughed at by the Honourable Deputy Premier, who happens to think that is funny. Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Yes, it is. [Inaudible interjections ]
Mr. Scott PearmanBut considering that we just in December, 12 months after the passage of the Bill, got to the tax credit point, one would think that would be an appropriate time. But we will wait , and we will see because we all know the expression, The Opposition gets its say, …
But considering that we just in December, 12 months after the passage of the Bill, got to the tax credit point, one would think that would be an appropriate time. But we will wait , and we will see because we all know the expression, The Opposition gets its say, and the Government gets its way. And so it will be. And so it will ever be thus. But that does not —
[Inaudible interjection]
Mr. Scott PearmanAnd someone from the other side just said, so shut up. But no, that is not democracy. Democracy is not you standing up and saying, I do not want to listen to you over there, because you are not the Government. Democracy is not saying, Mr. DeCouto, if you want …
And someone from the other side just said, so shut up. But no, that is not democracy. Democracy is not you standing up and saying, I do not want to listen to you over there, because you are not the Government. Democracy is not saying, Mr. DeCouto, if you want that, well, you have to win an election to become the Finance Minister . No, democracy is the people who are elected to this House, this Honourable House, by the citizens of Bermuda, are entitled to express their free opinion.
[Desk thumping]
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberExpress it! [Inaudible interjections]
Mr. Scott PearmanThat is what we are entitled to do. And I am expressing it. I am expressing. I am getting chirping fr om the Premier now. So let me turn to the substance.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerBefore you go on, the only comment I am going to make (and I missed it ) is that we should not be telling any Member to shut up because every Member here came to this Chamber the way we all equally came [as] Member s elected [by] t he …
Before you go on, the only comment I am going to make (and I missed it ) is that we should not be telling any Member to shut up because every Member here came to this Chamber the way we all equally came [as] Member s elected [by] t he public, who elected us to be here to represent them . That gives us the right to speak on their behalf. Whether we agree with what we say or do not say, we have the right to say it as a Member of this Chamber . So do not ask a Member to shut up.
Mr. Scott PearmanI am grateful for that, and I am not going to name and shame the Honourable Member who used that expression. What I will turn now to is the substance of what I would like to say, Mr. Speaker, and I am mindful of your direction at the beginning of …
I am grateful for that, and I am not going to name and shame the Honourable Member who used that expression. What I will turn now to is the substance of what I would like to say, Mr. Speaker, and I am mindful of your direction at the beginning of this M otion that we do not reflect on a debate. A nd I shall not. We had two different Bills. One Bill was about amending the tax collection Bill . The other Bill was about spending some credits. I am not going to talk about either of those things. What I am here to talk about is the opportunities, the challenges, and the risks. The opportunities, the challenges, and the risks. And we did hear a fair bit
Bermuda House of Assembly about the opportunities. So that is the one I am going to tread on the lightest. But I am going to start on the challenges. Now, the biggest challenge, in my opinion . . . And some may share this ; some may not . But the biggest challenge that Bermuda faces, in my opinion, is the challenge of affordability. It is the challenge of the cost of living. And that is the number one thing that I believe most of us hear when we are engaging with our citizens. We are hearing that Bermuda is not affordable. We are hearing that the cost of living is too high. We are being prevailed upon, and I do not doubt that the same is true across the ai sle. We are all being prevailed upon as leaders of this I sland to try to identify ways to make this I sland more affordable and to reduce the cost of living. And just like I said earlier today, with-out reflecting on the debate, just as the whole idea of corporate income tax is complicated, so too is cost of living. Cost of living is complicated. There are a lot of factors, and there are some people who take the economic view that government s could do very little to reduce the cost of living. But in my respec tful submission, there are things that we could do as a Bermuda Government to assist in the reduction of the cost of living. And I heard a “ such as. ” I think it was probably Minister Hayward, but maybe I got the person wrong. Such as . . . So— [Inaudible interjection]
Mr. Scott PearmanThat is exactly what I am going to do, if I may. And by the way, if the Government actually thinks any of the things I am about to say are good ideas, please take them. And please put them in that budget in March. You know, there is no …
That is exactly what I am going to do, if I may. And by the way, if the Government actually thinks any of the things I am about to say are good ideas, please take them. And please put them in that budget in March. You know, there is no monopoly on good ideas. The context here, again, without reflecting . . . The context is the possibility of surplus money . And we all want there to be surplus money. We all hope there will be. I know certain numbers have been bandied about. We heard $750 million at one point. That was quite sensibly ( again, praising the Government) quite sensibly reduced to a more conservative figure of $167.5 million because they took 25 per cent —
[Inaudible interjection]
Mr. Scott Pearman—$187.5 [million]. I stand corrected by the Premier . Twenty -five per cent of the $750 [million] . We now understand that maybe the number will be larger than $750 [million] . And certain people have said a billion. I do not know if that is accurate or not. But …
—$187.5 [million]. I stand corrected by the Premier . Twenty -five per cent of the $750 [million] . We now understand that maybe the number will be larger than $750 [million] . And certain people have said a billion. I do not know if that is accurate or not. But we shall see, a nd indeed, as the Opposition , we will probably be the last to see. But there we are. In that context of the possibility of surplus monies, I want to look at the challenges. And again, my lens for the purposes of this brief speech to the House this evening is the lens of affordability and cost of living. Now, often, when I talk about matters in this House, I try to take a systemic overview , and I look at the high level. But I do not want to look at that. I want to look at the meaningful drivers of cost of living and unaffordability to the everyday Bermudian tonight. It seems to me (and I may be wrong; there is no monopoly on correctness ) that the four big drivers of cost of living problems on this I sland are the four major things that someone has to pay for every month, namely food, electricity, health care, which, as MP Cannonier said earlier, is the new mortgage. Save all your life to get a mortgage, build a house, pay off your mort-gage, you own the house, and suddenly you get to an age (where I am not far off now ) where the health care bill is the new mortgage. So that is number three. And the fourth is housing. Now, I am sure we could have a debate about whether I am right in identifying those four factors, food, electricity, health care, and housing, as the four big drivers of —
[Inaudible interjections ]
Mr. Scott PearmanI am sorry . I am hearing some more chirping. But I guess that means they agree with me. So, let's just deal with each of those four categories. And indeed, I did say I would try and offer some solutions, and I will. And again, if they are appealing, …
I am sorry . I am hearing some more chirping. But I guess that means they agree with me. So, let's just deal with each of those four categories. And indeed, I did say I would try and offer some solutions, and I will. And again, if they are appealing, please, Government , pick them up and run with them, and you would have my support. The first —
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberDemocracy.
Mr. Scott PearmanDemocracy . Thank you. Thank you. The first is the cost of food. This Government made a significant wrong turn in 2018 when it imposed the sugar tax. One of the best ways to reduce the cost of food on this I sland would be to repeal the sugar tax. …
Democracy . Thank you. Thank you. The first is the cost of food. This Government made a significant wrong turn in 2018 when it imposed the sugar tax. One of the best ways to reduce the cost of food on this I sland would be to repeal the sugar tax. And you know what? It is okay to have a policy decision that you try that does not work, and [to] accept that it did not work, and to change course. That would be what a listening Government would do. Repeal the sugar tax. Why? Because there is sugar in almost every type of food. A nd whether you like it or not, the importers and the people sel ling the food are interpreting that tax across the board. And it has been . . . Instead of being a health tax, it has been a stealth tax . Right? It has been a stealth tax on the cost of food in Bermuda. The cost of food in Bermuda is more expensive now than it was in 2018 before that tax was introduced. Now, I accept that it is not necessarily correct that the sugar tax is the only reason why those costs have gone up. I accept that . And I see nods from the Minister of Economy and Labour . So, I accept that. But if you really want to tackle the cost of food, let's just get rid of the sugar tax. It is not really bringing in that much money. It was never ring- fenced. It is not being allocated to, 1704 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly like, healthy retraining. It was all just popped into the consolidated fund. So, let's just get rid of it. That is one. The second is electricity —and again, without reflecting on a debate. I t was said earlier that I like to throw the word B ELCO around, and I am going to throw the word B ELCO around again. If I am right that electricity is one of the two of the big four that every person must pay every month, how do we get that cost down? Now, I have a solution. It may not be perfect. It may not be full. But it is a solution, and I suggest it to you. And that is that the Regulatory Authority needs statutory reform so that it has the teeth to actually compel BELCO to reduce its rates as a matter of public policy. At this moment in time, having met with the Regulatory Authority (we, the Opposition, did; I know you do often), they will tell you they do not have the statutory teeth necessary. And I see a nod from the Junior Minister of Finance agreeing with me. They do not have the necessary statutory oomph to compel BELCO to do this as a matter of public policy. So, let's give the R egulatory Authority that necessary teeth. We have heard today , again, without reflecting. I am not going to look at the tax take or the credits. I am just going to —
[Inaudible interjection]
Mr. Scott PearmanThe Premier has just asked me what I am saying has to do with corporate income tax. [Inaudible interjection]
Mr. Scott PearmanNow he is asking me what R egulatory Authority having more power to deal with B ELCO has. These are the challenges that Bermudians face where surplus revenue could be put to good use. And I have been asked to give solutions. In fact, the Minister of Economy and Labour …
Mr. Scott PearmanI am sorry. Mr. Speaker, I am trying to speak to you, but I am also trying to give the courtesy to the Premier to answer the questions.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSpeak this way . Speak this way .
Mr. Scott PearmanIf the Premier chooses to stand up and speak in this debate —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerI understand that you were going to give examples.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWhether they are agreed to by others , they are examples.
Mr. Scott PearmanSo, they are examples. But that is a very good example of how this Government , with the support of the Opposition , could bring a legislative change, giving greater power to the R egulatory Authority to better regulate B ELCO by taking into account public policy considerations in relation …
So, they are examples. But that is a very good example of how this Government , with the support of the Opposition , could bring a legislative change, giving greater power to the R egulatory Authority to better regulate B ELCO by taking into account public policy considerations in relation to their costs. Now, we understand from today ( without reflecting) that there are going to be tax credits for B ELCO . I will say no more about it. What I am going to talk about is the spending. If there are tax credits, or when there are tax credits, it must be necessary for B ELCO to pass those along to consumers. I think we can all agree with that. And I just want to make sure that the Regulatory Authority has the necessary statutory teeth to make sure that B ELCO does so. Because if B ELCO were to get a massive credit and were not to pass that along, that would be demonstrably wrong. And I would like to think both sides of the aisle could agree. So, Mr. Speaker, that is the second of four points. The third of four points, the cost driver, is health. Now, of the four points that I identified, in my opinion, this is the most complicated. There is not an easy fix to the cost of our health care. You either have very, very good health care, which is very expensive, or you have cheap health care. And often, if you do have cheap health care, it is not very good. We also suffer, as we suffer in so many different ways on our Island, from the fact that we do not have economy of scale. So, while you have a country, say, like Canada or the United Kingdom, where you can have —
[Inaudible interjections ]
Mr. Scott PearmanI am getting some more chirping again, but I am trying just to offer solutions . And you can take them or not. So, whilst there are larger countries that have the necessary population to completely revamp their health care to have, effectively (and I will use the word socialist …
I am getting some more chirping again, but I am trying just to offer solutions . And you can take them or not. So, whilst there are larger countries that have the necessary population to completely revamp their health care to have, effectively (and I will use the word socialist in quotes so I am not being negative), a “socialist ” system . Or that, such as the NHS [National Health Service] , for example, that sort of system is not necessarily going to work here because we do not have a sufficient number of people. So, we have a very good health care system on this I sland, and we must all, I would suggest, respect the f act that the health care here is very, very good. It is just very, very expensive. What are some things that could be done? My honourable colleague, the W hip, Craig Cannonier , MP, earlier was talking about the need to lower premiums . And he is absolutely right. Let me add another two strings to the bow of potentially tackling health care costs. One is, of course, overutili sation. We are immensely tested for health care. If you have an issue and you go in to see someone, you are sent on
Bermuda House of Assembly to have your X -ray or your whatever. Now, that is very comforting. That is wonderful. That is a sign of advanced medicine. But it also escalates and elevates the cost of provision. The other thing is that we are getting older . And I hope I do not say anything that is completely crazy to suggest that whilst you can have health problems while you are young, you are also more likely as you get older to have more health problems . And I hope that premise is a safe terrain for me to stand on. [Inaudible interjection]
Mr. Scott PearmanSomeone in the back said sounds pretty solid. I will take that. I will take that. If we want to try to reduce our health care costs overall, we need more people paying into the health care pot . And we need more and younger people who pay into the …
Someone in the back said sounds pretty solid. I will take that. I will take that. If we want to try to reduce our health care costs overall, we need more people paying into the health care pot . And we need more and younger people who pay into the pot , but do not take out because, yes, you could have that rare case where someone is 30 years old, they get cancer, and they need very, very expen-sive treatment . But most of the time, 30- year-olds or so are paying into the health care system, but they are not taking out. We are tracking like this. When I first moved back here from the UK, I was tracking the median age. It is now past me. I mean, it is frightening. We need more people, and we need younger people . And we need more people because we need more people sharing the tax burden. If we have more people here who are employed, who have good jobs, they are able to pay into our health care system, and they are able to share the tax burden between them. So instead of fewer people paying more tax, you have more people paying less tax. So, Mr. Speaker, that is the third of the four points. The fourth economic driver, the challenge that we are trying to tackle, as I see it anyway, or the average Bermudians try to tackle, is housing. And again, actually . . . Well, I will not say who is in the Chamber and who is not , but it is clear that this Government is putting some thought into the housing crisis. I will call it a housing crisis. And I want to be clear what I mean by that because there are two different things . Right? There is an absence of housing, and there is an absence of affordable housing. And those two things are not the same. And it is unfortunate, I think, in this discussion or debate when we talk about housing, the answer is, Oh, let's build more houses. What I respectfully suggest is we should look at how to try to get the houses that we do build to become more affordable. There have already been conversations around this as to the impact of Airbnb. And I would very much encourage the new Minister of Housing to take a look at whether the Airbnb is skewing the system for housing costs for average Bermudians because I think there is an argument to be made, potentially, or at least it deserves a closer look. Likewise— [Inaudible interjection]
Mr. Scott PearmanI am sorry ? Anyway, Mr. Hayward said something about Airbnb, but hopefully he will share it in the M otion when he stands up to speak. But — [Crosstalk and laughter]
Mr. Scott Pearman—what I would like to say . . . Again, another solution, another hardcore solution, which this Government could do this tomorrow . This Government chose to increase the foreign currency purchase tax. Now, what do I mean by that? We live on a little I sland in the middle …
—what I would like to say . . . Again, another solution, another hardcore solution, which this Government could do this tomorrow . This Government chose to increase the foreign currency purchase tax. Now, what do I mean by that? We live on a little I sland in the middle of the Atlantic. Anything we want to buy is generally imported. Not always. We can grow some things, et cetera. But generally, we bring things in. And generally, those things are brought in from the United States. And in order to purchase those things, we have to pay not in Bermuda dollars but in United States [ US] dollars. And there is a tax when you take your Bermuda money that you are paid in and you buy US dollars to import anything to build a house. A nd that tax was increased by this Government . And again, just as I said it with the sugar tax, I think that , respectfully , that was a wrong turn. A nd I have said that before in this House during economic debates. I would invite this Government to consider reducing the foreign currency purchase tax. Otherwise, it is a stealth inflationary mechanism that drives the cost of everything going up because every time you try to get the US dollars to buy anything and bring it in, you are paying that tax. And so, Mr. Speaker, there are four pragmatic examples of how we might tackle what I believe to be the four major cost drivers for people who are suffering from a lack of affordability on this Island from people who recognise that the cost of living on this Island is one of our biggest challenges, if not our biggest challenge, and how it might be brought down. And before I sit down . . . And I will not take all my time, but before I sit down I do just want to touch on the debt again. Now, I know we talked about a B ill changing the tax take, and we talked about a Bill giving the credits. But I am looking at how one might spend that surplus. And I think there has been an interesting conversation in this Chamber over the course of today about debt repayment because it is definitely the position of this side of the aisle that we should grasp it now. And there are two reasons for that. One is ( and MP Mike Fahy made the point earlier ) this could be an amazing, huge bonanza. I say golden oppor tunity . This surplus from CIT could be an amazing opportunity . But it may not be an opportunity that lasts. And those who are aware of the insurance industry know that balance sheets on insurance indus-tries, they are not like normal companies . Right? Losses and profits and loss —it bounces all around. 1706 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly And there could be catastrophic events. We talked about that. We talked about the hurricane in Jamaica, or perhaps the California fires. So that is one. Because of the riskiness of that cash flow over the coming years, if we happen to be so fortunate as to land a billion dollars of tax revenue, take most of that and pay down the debt. That is one point. Second and final point —why do that? Well, not just for your rainy -day argument, which is, Wouldn ’t it be smart to do it now? Shouldn’t I clear my mortgage on my house now while I have that opportunity rather than go and spend that money on something frivolous or elsewhere? But also, we spend every year $125 million servicing our debt. That is money . . . It is like a giant sucking sound going overseas to our lenders. If we can pay down the debt, or even better, pay off the debt, that is $125 million more into this Government 's coffers for it to spend on Bermuda and Bermudians. So, it makes eminent good sense. I appreciate that some of the cut and thrust of this Chamber is boo -and-yeah politics . And so, we say it, and then we [go] back and forward. But I honestly do not think that what the Opposition is suggesting to the Government and its B ackbenchers today is a bad idea. I suspect there are probably some people sitting on the other side of the aisle who might think it is a good idea. And we would simply encourage you to explore that idea with your Government and see whether or not, if a billion dollars lands in our bank account —the Government 's bank account —next year, let's pay down our debt. It is a great opportunity. And you have that opportunity. And by the way, if you did it, you would be praised. And we are not just saying that as the O pposition, as some sort of political argument that we have thought up in a backroom. We are saying it because we are hearing it from all of the people in international business. If you ask people . . . and I know that you meet with people in international business all the time . If you ask them, What would you . . . what would be that thing ? That's the thing. I mean, there are things . There is infrastructure and there is social support, obviously.
Mr. Scott PearmanI'm sorry ; I am being asked a question by the Honourable Minister of Economy and Labour . So, I will sit down and allow him to stand and say what he would like. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, MP Pearman. Would any other Member like to participate in this debate this evening? Opposition Whip. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: I will not repeat what has already been said. I will only hon e in on a very specific area for about 10 minutes. I think we are at a point where we have an opportunity to really transform Bermuda to c reate a transformative …
Okay. Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: I will not repeat what has already been said. I will only hon e in on a very specific area for about 10 minutes. I think we are at a point where we have an opportunity to really transform Bermuda to c reate a transformative place, whether that be through infrastructure, you name it, iconic buildings, I am not sure. But we do have an opportunity to transform all of the ministries and take us into more of a futuristic . . . somewhat like a Dubai , actually, where people come to visit Bermuda to see iconic things within the ministries themselves. And there is a huge opportunity for what CIT [Corporate Income Tax] is presenting to us to start looking into the future. And as I said, I will just talk about this one specific area, because there has been so much already touched on. And so, the opportunities lie everywhere, quite frankly. I was going to speak to health, but my H onourable Members have already done that. So, what I would like to say is that much was learned during COVID -19 about opportunities. And I realise that our supermarkets, and the like, continue to buy from the same place. America. And I think that we have opportunity globally to now start looking at other things that we possibly can do. So, the opportunity that this windfall, if you will, or these monies that we have in conjunction to being able to, with concessions, tie into what we are looking to do socially to support Bermuda with the challenges that we are having, I think we also have an opportunity to start looking at things . And whether it is the right thing or not, I don't know, these are just suggestions . But to start looking at things like maybe we should own BELCO as an ongoing concern so that it is not profit driven, so that it can bring about a lower cost. We know that we can not control , necessarily , the cost of fuel. Maybe where we buy it from. If we take control of that, that will help. But maybe we should be looking at those kinds of opportunities with this kind of opportunity that the tax is giving us. Maybe it is now time to seriously have a talk and say, Listen , it has happened in many other jurisdictions . Albeit many of those jurisdictions were independent. But maybe now there are other small jurisdictions like ourselves that we should be looking at and say ing, Well, maybe we should own our own BELCO station , which is not necessarily profit driven, but that can still also provide a great opportunity for employment and the likes , and decent salaries . But not be bounded by shareholders and a profit -drive n type of philosophy. One of the other areas that I was very keen on . . . we never got to that point, but I spoke quite extensively that if we were able to get Bermuda into an economic position whereby we could buy our own cruise ship. Now, the reason I bring this up is because, quite frankly, our unemployment is low . But we are looking for opportunities to grow the population. A quick hit would be if we owned our own cruise ship. We are training our people in mechanical engineering, all kinds of
B ermuda House of Assembly things. Our comedians [would] have an opportunity. Right now, you can't even go to a club and have somebody singing, quite frankly, right? So, these are oppor-tunities that I think can be flirted with that we probably should look at. We have been reliant on international business . And I think that Government , going forward, should be looking at how it can be more self -sustaining, not to just one industry. And so with the opportunities [with] this kind of money that we are talking about, maybe it is now time to start bringing in something different to the economy that goes beyond just what we have right now, relying on international business and /or relying on tourism to grow, which probably [will] not [be] able to grow as fast as we would like for it to. But we can now infuse into the economy something like this that has many benefits to it, the training, knowing that we have expertise in being able to manage these types of facilities. It would be great . Feasibility studies could be done to this here to see how we can move into the future looking at industries like this . Because we just do no t know where we a re going in the future, the next 20 years, whether international business will be a primary contributor to our economy , and whether or not we go back t o the majority contributor to our GDP being tourism. We just do no t know . There are other opportunities out there. A nd many of us travel . And I might say that there are many in this room that are true entrepreneurs, and they have seen opportunities that are out there. I can recall being in a particular country in Africa where a bushel of bana-nas was incredible. If we owned our own freighter ship we could then start moving goods back and forth. There have been private companies who have attempted that . And obviously you know in Bermuda right now we have private enterprises that own freighter ships . But why not have our own and start looking at these opportunities ? Do you know how much a banana costs right now ? It is the most frequently -bought fruit on the Island; the number one fruit bought on the Island . The kind of cost that we could reduce it to if we were in that industry, in that area. So, I will leave it at that. I said it would be 10 minutes. I think that we really need to look at some of these opportunities . And sometimes some of these things may look far -fetched . But I will tell you what. It may sound far -fetched now . But let another COVID -19 situation come where we cannot get goods , and the United States decides, Oh no, we're going to hold on to these goods for ourselves. And then Europe says , We're going to hold on to these goods for ourselves. And an Island that is isolated, out there all by itself, they are first on the list that won't get. And maybe you might want to depend on the UK to come to our rescue. But why not take it into our own hands so that we do not have to rely on them entirely for these kinds of things ? So, with that in mind, Mr. Speaker, I will close out by saying there are huge opportunities out there that we must take a look at . And I think that with these monies we can do studies . We can sit down and hire the right people to help us move and manoeuvre through some of these opportunities , and then start really creating opportunities that Bermudians have shareholdership in. [Inaudible i nterjection] Hon. L . Craig C annonier: Average B ermudians. [Inaudible i nterjection] Hon. L. Craig Cannonier: They own a freighter ship, so the dividends that come from that, because government is now in control of it . Right ? Those dividends can go to every single Bermudian. I am saying this here because I have had the opportunity to have a meeting with a particular company that is seeking out to own a fund and seeking funds for this fund. A nd what they are looking at is . . . they are looking at places like Bermuda and the Caribbean and how we can work together . So that, for instance, a container ship of sugar will come to Bermuda, drop off its section; it will go down to the island, drop off its section . But the cost difference . . . the cost difference in what sugar would be in Bermuda [would be] dramatic. If anyone in here has been involved in sales to governments and the likes . . . I happen to have been on the board [of] a company that was doing that. To see the cost of a five- pound bag of sugar is incredible. It would transform Bermuda's cost of living overnight. If we started maybe looking at studying and putting some money behind, understanding how we can become more self -sufficient, as opposed to waiting for something to happen, and then, you know, as the Premier said, you know, we’ve got to accept trinkets from the UK. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. [No audio] [Inaudible i nterjections] Hon. Robert King: I m ight not b e as f resh later on . Good evening there, Mr. S peaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerSpeak t o me, s peak t o me. Hon. R obert King: No, n o, no. Used to ; not any more. Much has been said tonight about the opportunities that the CIT [Corporate Income Tax] presents for this country. And fundamentally, I think M embers on both sides …
Speak t o me, s peak t o me. Hon. R obert King: No, n o, no. Used to ; not any more. Much has been said tonight about the opportunities that the CIT [Corporate Income Tax] presents for this country. And fundamentally, I think M embers on both sides of the H ouse recognise this and want what is best for Bermuda. And that is the reason why we a re having the quality of debate and discussion this evening. Nothing more, nothing less. 1708 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly We are not trying to be difficult. We understand the profound significance of this watershed moment in Bermuda's history and what it can do for us as a country. We also know that the world is changing, as the Junior Minister said, and that trust in this domicile, in this jurisdiction, is based in large part in terms of how we manage our affairs. We cannot overlook the fact that our debt is 200 . . . debt rate to revenue is 270 per cent . Our debt service to revenue is 12 per cent . Our Contributory Pension Fund is underfunded. And by 2026, $ 100 million more will be coming out than is going in. Our Public Service Superannuation Fund [PSSF] is underfunded by $1 billion. We will be required to pay approximately $2 billion more in the next five years. At the current rate, we are paying $130 million a year in interest, which is essentially the fourth larg est ministry. That money could be put to good use if we actually were able to use it. But we cannot . We are also hearing, which is concerning, the same concerns that Bermudians are having about housing. International businesses are now saying that they are having problems getting housing for their people. You would not expect to hear that. The other thing that they are talking about —
[Inaudible interjections ]
Hon. Robert King: The other thing that international business is telling us is that the value proposition of coming to Bermuda versus other jurisdictions, given the high cost of living, lack of appropriate housing and affordable housing ( well, you know, within certain limits ), is now becoming a problem. A more alarming bit of information that they shared as well is that they too are now being concerned about crime. Infrastructure. When they are considering the cost of doing business here they expect the roads to be paved, the hedges to be trimmed, for buildings and structures to be maintained. Because when you are living in one of the most expensive places in the world, you expect the service that is commensurate with the high costs. We are not delivering that . And yet we have a balanced budget. So, what is being said and what is being experienced are two fundamentally different things. A budget surplus . . . and yet when you look out the window we are having a surplus of potholes and overgrowth. And we are also having a surplus of murders in this country. We are having that as well . But things are going well. We also have patients at the hospital who cannot get treatment because they are lined up in the hallway, because seniors do not have suitable housing. So we have a surplus, so then how do we explain the fact that we have a surplus and these fundamental problems still exist? Why should we then believe that with the bonanza and this golden opportunity that things will get better, because now, when we have a surplus, that does not appear to be the case.
[Inaudible interjections and laughter ]
Hon. Robert King: So, what they are telling us is that it is important that this country, the Government, focus on paying down the debt. The business community is saying that they have options to move off Island.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMembers, Members! [Inaudible interjections] Hon. Robert King: The business community is also saying that persons who would ordinarily work here do not have the luxury of time and will then go to another jurisdiction. So , when we are talking about writing business and things are looking good, they could …
Members, Members! [Inaudible interjections] Hon. Robert King: The business community is also saying that persons who would ordinarily work here do not have the luxury of time and will then go to another jurisdiction. So , when we are talking about writing business and things are looking good, they could be a lot better if we were more efficient . And we know that we are digitising and putting online computerised systems, et cetera, but the drivers of this economy are saying that the level of service is not where it needs to be when they are paying exor bitant prices. That's them . And then you have the people, the average Bermudian who does not have a choice —71 applications for critical housing —they cannot afford to go to Bermudiana Beach R esort. Imagine what Christmas is like for them this year. We have an opportunity to do the right thing, and it means that we put the money where it is going to make the biggest impact —reducing our interest payments, making sure that the basic needs of our seniors, our youth, and Bermudians are taken care of. We recognise that we have more people drawing out of the pensions than are paying into it. We have an ageing and sick population, which means the cost of health care, which is already high, is going to get worse. We need to put the money towards programmes that are going to reduce reliance on health care. We need to make sure that we have kids that are trained for the jobs in the community, international business and trades. We need to be strategic. We need to measure performance in those various sectors if we are truly committed to preserving the future of this Island and its inhabitants. Thank you.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, MP , the Opposition Leader. Would any other Member like to make a contribution at this time? MP Richardson, you have the floor. [Inaudible interjections ]
Mr. Jarion RichardsonThank you. Yes, you sound v ery excited to hear me. Bermuda House of Assembly [Laughter]
Mr. Jarion RichardsonThank you. Good evening, Mr. Speaker. Yes, thank you. I think this would be a great opportunity to make some points. [Inaudible interjections ]
Mr. Jarion RichardsonThank you. I appreciate it. Very welcoming. Mr. Speaker, hindsight is 20/ 20. And we all know that. I was speaking with a friend of mine earlier, and we were remarking how you never know when the good old days are over. You just look back and know they are …
Thank you. I appreciate it. Very welcoming. Mr. Speaker, hindsight is 20/ 20. And we all know that. I was speaking with a friend of mine earlier, and we were remarking how you never know when the good old days are over. You just look back and know they are over ; but you are not quite sure of the precise point of when it happened. And I am thinking about Bermuda's good old days . Right now, we do not know what tomorrow is going to bring. And is this the opportunity to make a significant change? Will we look back and say this was our opportunity and we missed it? Mr. Speaker, romantically, Bermuda is another world . But practically that is not the case. We live in a global environment, and so I would like to provide some global context for why the One Bermuda Alliance is so careful around the corporate income tax. Mr. Speaker, our lived reality in this new world is one of extreme uncertainty. As you spoke to before, there is not just the matter of the Gaza conflict, but there are numerous other conflicts that have shaped the way that Bermuda operates in this world. I will get to the point of Russia’s war against Ukraine and the impact on our aircraft registry, because I think a lot of peo-ple see Bermuda as being entirely separate and not at all related to the ongoing matters around the world. And the corporate income tax is a great example of what happens when the world is paying attention to you, but you are not paying attention to it. They have systematically and methodically, over a number of years, attempted to interfere in the matters of B ermuda and Bermuda business. I think there is something about our little plucky success that grinds on them. What I would definitely say is that they were wrong before, they are wrong today, and they will be wrong in the future. Bermuda has always been a c lean jurisdiction. We do not tolerate the kinds of things that you see in peer jurisdictions. Nonetheless, we are here, and we are dealing with the latest attempt to smear and demean and otherwise constrain our success. I am very thankful that the former Premier, the Honourable Craig Cannon ier, had told the UK exactly what they could do with their faux outrage. At this stage, we must stand up for what we have, because we are indeed fragile at this time, but we are standing in a fragile world as well. If we look to our largest trade partner, and we see the radical reordering of trade relationships, not just in the tariff policy, but also in the expansion of the executive function and the reduction of courts and the use of courts to resolve issues. Lord knows we saw on January 6 how the new political conversation in the US is now going to be largely resolved through insults, in-jury, and assault. We are therefore going to be subject to the downstream consequences of that new lived re-ality. Fortunately, we do have colleagues in Canada and other places . But we have to be mindful that the vast majority of our trade is from and with the US. Also, Mr. Speaker, I would speak to the United Kingdom, which obviously we have a close constitutional relation-ship with, and who is seeing a rise in populism. As it stands right now there, we do not know what their next government is going to look like. So, we do not know what we are going to be facing coming from that relationship. I spoke briefly about the Russian war in Ukraine because that is a great example of how we are impacted by something that is extremely far away and that most Bermudians . . . well, certainly, . . . I will speak for myself. I have never been to Ukraine . I do not plan to go to Ukraine, and I do not really speak to anybody there.
Mr. Jarion RichardsonThe simple fact of the matter is the Russian aggression has caused us to lose a good portion of our aircraft registry. That aircraft registry provided certain fees and services, or we provided certain services into that registry, and we have lost that contribution to our economy. So, I am …
The simple fact of the matter is the Russian aggression has caused us to lose a good portion of our aircraft registry. That aircraft registry provided certain fees and services, or we provided certain services into that registry, and we have lost that contribution to our economy. So, I am [talking about] all of this global impact because I am trying to provide the context that we are, in fact , closely connected with the entirety of the world, and that is why this opportunity is so rare. I need not go too far to talk about the AI threat to our job market. As it stands right now, Mr. Speaker, with some 35,000 employees, the vast majority of our payroll tax (which makes up the vast majority of our receipts ) comes from a little over 5,000 people employed in IB [International Business]. The loss of any IB job is damaging to our tax receipts. So, the threats that we are facing, not only from corporate income tax, but also emerging threats like AI, are definitely real . And it is not that the sky is falling, because that is just children's stuff. Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER [Relevancy, Standing Order 19(11)(a)] Hon. E. David Burt: And I think the Honourable Member is on a decent line and length, but can I please draw to the attention of everyone in this Honourable House, Mr. Speaker, to Standing Order 19 (11)(a ), which …
Point of order.
POINT OF ORDER [Relevancy, Standing Order 19(11)(a)]
Hon. E. David Burt: And I think the Honourable Member is on a decent line and length, but can I please draw to the attention of everyone in this Honourable House, Mr. Speaker, to Standing Order 19 (11)(a ), which asks 1710 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly that debate be restricted to the matter that we are discussing ? We are talking about risk from corporate income tax, not risk from AI, not risk from everything else. And it would be good [if] we can actually focus on this so that maybe we can, you know, progress. That is the only thing I am asking, Mr. Speaker . I am asking and seeking a ruling pursuant to [Standing Order] 19 (11)(a).
The SpeakerThe Speaker[Standing Order] 19 is very clear in my head what it is. I am allowing the Member a little latitude to paint the picture that he is trying to get to. We are hoping he gets to that point rather sooner than later. But every comment . . . every …
[Standing Order] 19 is very clear in my head what it is. I am allowing the Member a little latitude to paint the picture that he is trying to get to. We are hoping he gets to that point rather sooner than later. But every comment . . . every time we are on our feet, [we] should make reference to the reason we are here for whatever matter we are discussing at that time.
Mr. Jarion RichardsonThank you, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate your guidance, as always. As I was saying, and I suppose that drawing a reference back to the corporate income tax, my point is that it is something that has manifested from overseas and has impacted us, and like these other risks, they are …
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate your guidance, as always. As I was saying, and I suppose that drawing a reference back to the corporate income tax, my point is that it is something that has manifested from overseas and has impacted us, and like these other risks, they are taking place overseas and are impacting us. The difference is that we have a once- in-a-lifetime opportunity to chart a course that could radically change Bermuda's current glide path. The fact is that once- in-a-generation opportunities are, like I said, once in a generation. And there was a time in Bermuda when our country was debt free. There was a time in Bermuda when there were significantly fewer potholes. There was a time in Bermuda when health care was particularly far more affordable. You could do housing, et cetera. There was a time in Bermuda when these things existed, and there is a time in Bermuda's future that they can exist again. This corporate income tax is one such opportunity . And this is really what we are driving at here, Mr. Speaker.
[Inaudible interjection]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerLet me just say before the point of order. You made a reference to the corporate income tax three times at least since the Premier made the point. We are not on the corporate income tax. We debated that earlier this morning. What you are supposed to be speaking to …
Let me just say before the point of order. You made a reference to the corporate income tax three times at least since the Premier made the point. We are not on the corporate income tax. We debated that earlier this morning. What you are supposed to be speaking to now is the motion. I cautioned everyone beforehand. The fact that this motion is coming after those other matters were discussed today , there are potholes that have been created that you cannot step into . And those potholes are you cannot repeat any reference to the earlier debate. In context, you can speak to the fact that it was discussed ; but you cannot go into items that talk like or sound like or speak like they are speaking to the earlier matters. And those comments about you keep re -referencing to the corporate income tax make it sound like you are addressing a Bill that was spoken to earlier today. So, speak to the motion, and the motion is the matter you should be referencing your points to.
Mr. Jarion RichardsonThank you, Mr. Speaker. If I could get some clarification or guidance from you, the motion as I read it is that this Honourable House do take note of the opportunities, challenges, and risks to Bermuda arising from Bermuda's corporate income tax. That is what I'm referring to.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerBe careful not to relay it back to the earlier debate, though .
Mr. Jarion RichardsonSo, to that end, Mr. Speaker, we have this once- in-a-lifetime opportunity. My colleagues called it by various names, “ bonanzas ” and other such opportunities. I see this as an opportunity to course correct in a way that would radically change Bermuda and Bermuda's future. As it stands right …
So, to that end, Mr. Speaker, we have this once- in-a-lifetime opportunity. My colleagues called it by various names, “ bonanzas ” and other such opportunities. I see this as an opportunity to course correct in a way that would radically change Bermuda and Bermuda's future. As it stands right now, we do have problems in education and crime and other areas, and these are areas that all Bermudians know very, very well. When we encounter this much money, it can be directed to some truly life -changing benefits for the entire country and for everyone in it. I brought up all of those earlier contexts to say that the future is not stable the way it was in the early 2000s. We are now living in a very, very different world, a world where we are not even sure if our preexisting relatio nships will protect us from the things that are coming. Again, I used the example of the Russian war of aggression on Ukraine that impacted our aircraft registry, because who could have seen that coming? There are other things that we know that are out there, and the Honourable Shadow Minister of Finance mentioned some of those. So, my point only is that this matter is being brought up and debated because it is of such signifi-cance that, were we not to do so, we would be in neglect of our duties. It is key that the Opposition of Bermuda holds this Government, ask s these questions of this Government —not just of this Government, but any Government . . . any Opposition would ask any Government these exact same questions —because this world is no longer a kind place, and Bermuda needs to stand up to it. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Honourable Member. Would any other Honourable Member . . . Okay , MP Smith, you have the floor. Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. Ben Smith: Good evening. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Ben SmithMr. Speaker, I am solely going to speak to the opportunity part to this, because normally it is the doom and gloom part that you guys think that I am going to talk about. But for me, I am looking at the opportunities. Potentially, there is a significant amount of …
Mr. Speaker, I am solely going to speak to the opportunity part to this, because normally it is the doom and gloom part that you guys think that I am going to talk about. But for me, I am looking at the opportunities. Potentially, there is a significant amount of money that is available. And with that, it is important for us to look at some of the things that are priorities to the people in the country. And with an aged population, we have lots of our seniors. And the truth is, many of us are heading in this same direction, where you realise that your savings, your pension, whatever you have put aside, might not be able to cover some of the costs that happen when you reach those ages. And in a community where the cost of living has reached this point, I think that it would be important for us to make sure that we are pri-oritising those spec ific areas. Just quickly, I will talk to the point and thank the Minister of Health for what she put forward today with FutureC are. But I bring up that specific point because many of our seniors that even have F uture Care are not able to pay that other portion after the coverage for the caregiver. That is the reality that they live in. And we have heard multiple times that really a lot of the people that are needing financial assistance are actually our seniors. So, we have to make sure that , if we have the ability to help, this is an area that we are going to have to focus on because so much of our population is actually going to be senior citizens quite short from this moment today. The feedback that I have been receiving from constituents . . . and I believe that everybody in Bermuda, and specifically the people in this Chamber who hav e talked to seniors , knows that this is the struggle that a lot of them are dealing with. We have talked about the premiums from the local insurance companies . But, Mr. Speaker, in most cases, if not in all cases, but I can stand to be corrected, those private insurances do not cover the caregiver option that is covered by FutureC are. So , I am really pleased that FutureCare has that because we have so many of our population that is dealing with dementia, dealing with the need to have caregivers. But the hard part is if they can not pay that difference, that is putting them in a struggle position. And I know that the Minister has talked about it before. Sometimes the loved ones have dropped them off at the hospital when they were healthy going in, and now they are in a situation where they need a caregiver. And rather than be stuck in a situation where they cannot afford to pay for these services, even with FutureC are, they are leaving them in the hospital, which is now putting us in a situation where we have multiple people who are staying there that are taking up the beds, which then causes the str uggle with having people in the hallways and the emergency room. So, as something that is so critical for the population, I think that is one area that I would hope that we would be trying to focus on if we have the money to give that support. Because having seniors making those decisions is something that I think all of us struggle with when we have those conversations with the seniors in our constituencies and the seniors in our in our families. When you reach a point in your life that you need the care and you might not have the finances to be able to cover that, that is a critical spot . And they do not really have anywhere to turn once they are in that position. So, knowing that we have the sandwich generation who is now having to take care of their kids and take care of their parents, this is an area that more and more people are finding themselves in. And the truth is, until you are in that specific situation, you do not know what that struggle is. And you are so close to being in a situation where you cannot take care of yourself or you cannot take care of your loved one, that you end up making decisions that you never thought you were going to make, that you were going to leave that person in a hospital , because without it the financial ruin of the rest of the family would be a reality. So that to me is one of the things that I would want us to focus on just because that is an area that when our people have reached that senior part of their lives, after they have given back to our community, for them to be in that struggle is something that I think all of us would want them to not have to go through. But, Mr. Speaker, the other part is education. One of the things that comes up all of the time is that that is the priority. It is going to be the priority for the people who are going to be paying the CIT tax. It is going to be the priority of the community that we talk to. It does not matter if you are a senior, a parent, a grandparent, or just somebody who believes that education is our way to help our young people to flourish in the future. But we also hear that there is a significant need for support s ystems. We have had reports that have been done that show that we need to have more psy-chologists, more counsellors, more people within those industries in order to support our young people so that they can flourish. The Minister of National Security would be able to tell you that we find out that when our young people get in Westgate, there [were] some services that potentially would have helped them on that path to not end up in that situation because they did not get the proper assessment at some point in their life that would have given them the critical support that [wa s] needed so that they would have been able to get the correct level of education, to get the correct level of support. Because sometimes we do the assessment, but we do not have the resources to be able to give them the support that they need in order to be on the correct track. And when you have a young person who does not feel they have 1712 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly that support, sometimes they are going to make the wrong choices. So once again, this is an area where giving more resources to have counsellors, to have people in the health care, in the mental health area, and specifi-cally when you look at some of our young people [who] need more and more attention because they are not getting the kind of support that they need in their households because their parents are having to work double shifts, their parents are not being able to be there for them the way that potentially the generations before were able to do. These are real issues that are happening in our community. So sometimes you are going to have to come up with solutions on how we are going to intervene, how we are going to help with that support to make sure that those young people have breakfast in the morning, maybe dinner in the evening. These are the things that the Minister of National Security has said are going to be needed. But we also know that it is going to take more resources in order to fill all of those gaps that we have in our community that potentially are not allowing our young people to flourish at the highest level. We also have the ones who are flourishing. But they also need to have the support systems, the ability to have those mentorships. Every time that you want somebody to help out, because everybody is stretched so thin in your community, they might need resources in order to be able to give that extra time to help our young people. So, for me, the focus point is at the youngest age and at the senior age. If we have this ability to pay down the debt, as the Government has said will be a priority , I am also hoping that we will make sure that we have a significant priority on taking care of our seniors, making sure that their golden years are done in a comfortable way, that they are not feeling as restricted as many of them are feeling now. And at the same time, with the low birth rate that we have, we have to make sure we are giving all the resources [to] our young people so that they never have to think that they have to look towards a life of crime. We have to make sure that we are giving them every bit of resource to give them the path to a positive life. Both sides of this House have continued to talk about those issues and talk about those solutions . But many times there is a gap, because we do not have all of the resources to be able to pay for those things. Now that we have this golden opportunity, let's make sure that we are focussing on giving that support to our young people, to our seniors, so that we can continue to build our community in the correct way. This is [that] opportunity for us . And we are not saying that the Government is not. We are jus t saying this is something, for me, for our side, to say [that] we would hope would continue to be a priority so that we can take care of our people. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Honourable Member. Does any other Honourable Member wish to make a comment? MP Campbell.
Mr. Vance CampbellThank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we have heard from most of my colleagues on this side. They have outlined opportunities, risks [and] challenges . And I would take a slightly different tac k in addressing some of those same issues in that the biggest risk of all, in my …
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we have heard from most of my colleagues on this side. They have outlined opportunities, risks [and] challenges . And I would take a slightly different tac k in addressing some of those same issues in that the biggest risk of all, in my opinion, was the Government setting out on this road to create a CIT regime when our competitors in the region did not follow suit. And I want to commend the Government for following through on that in spite of the risk. [Inaudible interjections and laughter ]
Mr. Vance CampbellAnd also, and also — [Inaudible interjections and crosstalk ]
Mr. Vance CampbellYes, you are trying to anticipate where I'm going, you know. [Crosstalk]
Mr. Vance CampbellAnd I also want to commend the civil servants who have supported the Government in putting together the regime. And I want to make it clear, Mr. Speaker, that I am really hopeful —
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberYou are coming home.
Mr. Vance CampbellNo, I’m not coming home; I'll go home once we finish here in the House, you know. [Laughter]
Mr. Vance CampbellBut I am really pulling, pushing, hoping for the success of this regime. And why would I? Not just for one year, the initial year or second year, but well into the future. And why would I? Because I am hoping for the success of this for the sake of …
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberHear, hear!
Mr. Vance CampbellFor the sake of Bermudians who have emigrated for whatever reason. And perhaps if things improve here, they will come home. For Bermuda House of Assembly Bermudians who cannot afford insurance. For Bermudian seniors and others who continue to suffer due to our high cost of living. I am talking …
For the sake of Bermudians who have emigrated for whatever reason. And perhaps if things improve here, they will come home. For
Bermuda House of Assembly Bermudians who cannot afford insurance. For Bermudian seniors and others who continue to suffer due to our high cost of living. I am talking about the opportunity that this could bring to address those needs ; for the sake of our charities that play a critical role in the eve-ryday lives of Bermudians. For the Bermudians who struggle to find affordable housing. And those who struggle with underemployment or unemployment. Premier, the regime is obviously in its infancy. And there will be continuous challenges that will have to be faced. And the regime will naturally evolve. How-ever, Bermudians , over the 400- plus years of our history, face many challenges. We have overcome those challenges for the most part and we have proven to be quite resilient. And I trust, Mr. Speaker, and I promise, and I stand in this House, and I promise to be a part of the solution when future challenges come in this region, this area of our tax regi me. And I hope that my One Bermuda Alliance— and I know they will , as I will—continue to critique, to also commend the Government and to offer solutions in this area. Because the ultimate opportunity, Mr. Speaker, with this regime being successful, is for all Bermudians to be able to meet their needs and to enjoy a high quality of life. And with that, Mr. Speaker, those are my comments ; brief but hopefully appreciated.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Thank you, Member . Does any other Member? MP Tucker, you have your moment.
Ms. Robin TuckerThank you, Mr. Speaker. I will just be a few minutes . As I listen ed to my colleague speak, I felt compelled to actually add my little piece.
Ms. Robin TuckerSo, my piece specifically relates to an opportunity, and it is actually at the top of my wish list. [Inaudible interjection and laughter ]
Ms. Robin TuckerChristmas is coming. So, at the top of my wish list is when we think about the fact that we are going to be . . . or what is going to be created in Bermuda is a medical tourism facility up at Morgan's Point for largely for certain people. …
Christmas is coming. So, at the top of my wish list is when we think about the fact that we are going to be . . . or what is going to be created in Bermuda is a medical tourism facility up at Morgan's Point for largely for certain people. Right? It is not going to be open to every single person. We also know that we have a serious bedblocking issue and issues about senior housing and all of those types of things. So, at the top of my wish list would be that we use some of those CIT funds to create a skilled nursing facility and r ehabilitation unit that would be available to everyday Bermudians , because in the way that I think of it there are a lot of initiatives that are being done and the everyday Bermudian is not feeling the impact of that . And how we can address that . . . this is just one way which is specifically important to me [how] we could address that . Because that unit will help to alleviate the pressures on the hospital in a very serious way. I understand that there is a plan for a daycare centre which , in my opinion if we were not in such a situation where we so critically need to have a skilled nursing facility in this country then I think that the daycare centre could come after. That is my opinion. However, I think that having a skilled nursing facility and rehabilitation centre for our people who have [had] strokes and , you know , all of the other sort of serious illnesses and obviously , you know , dealing with other more critical issues . . . . So that would be at the at the very top of my wish list. We need it. It is something that is critically important to the entire country that we are able to alleviate some of the burden on the hospital and put people in a unit that would be helpful. Thank you, Mr. Speaker . That's all I have.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you MP. Does any other Member wish to make a contribution at this time? Any other Member? Premier . Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker my comments will be all of two minutes long and I promise you the debate has taken place. …
Thank you MP. Does any other Member wish to make a contribution at this time? Any other Member? Premier .
Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker my comments will be all of two minutes long and I promise you the debate has taken place. I will just draw Members ’ attention to two things (Members opposite) . Number one , there is a Tax Reform Commission report which was a bipartisan report that set out a number of various things and items. We have a budgetary process that runs through our Pre-Budget Report which will be released on the 18th of December and all members of the community including the Opposition may feel free to make any recommendations or suggestions therefore about going forward. On the matter related to the budget in the main I will draw Honourable Members ’ attention please to page 37 or page 1a of the Budget Book which was pub-lished this year when we tabled it inside the House. It lists the forward estimates for the current fiscal year and the next two fiscal years . In that it notes an increase in capital spending and in addition to that it has a reduction of taxes. It has a projection for corporate income tax receipts going forward and it also has a pay-ing off of at least $500 mi llion of debt and a reduction in interest payments in the third year because of that reduction.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberMy, my, my. Hon. E. David Burt: All the things which are being stated, Mr. Speaker , we know , recognise, and understand it . And the Government will take on board any 1714 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly comments from all members of society …
My, my, my. Hon. E. David Burt: All the things which are being stated, Mr. Speaker , we know , recognise, and understand it . And the Government will take on board any 1714 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly comments from all members of society as we prepare the budgets as we do in any given year. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Does any other Member wish to speak? Any other Member? There are none? No other Members . [Inaudible interjections and desk thumping]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerRight. I didn't know that anyone was calling for a vote on the matter , but should Members wish to call for a vote on it . . . [Laughter]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerIt is a take note [motion], so we don't call for a vote, but the discussion has been full. The Opposition presented the matter , and they spoke strongly to the matter . And we have had a response, additional comments from a couple of Members of the Government . …
It is a take note [motion], so we don't call for a vote, but the discussion has been full. The Opposition presented the matter , and they spoke strongly to the matter . And we have had a response, additional comments from a couple of Members of the Government . And I think the matter has now exhausted itself for today's exercise. With that said we now come to the next order on the paper which will be the third readings of the Bills that were done earlier today that require the third readings. And the Junior . . . Premier you are doing it ? Junior Minister ? No, the Junior Minister is not here. Hon. E. David Burt: I'll do it. I'm sorry.
SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDER 21 Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that Standing Order 21 be suspended to enable me to move that the Bill entitled the Tax Credits Act 2025 be now read for the third time by its title only.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberI’ll do it. Hon. E. David Burt: You'll do it ?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerIt's given to you to do. Okay. Any objections to that? There are none. Continue. [Motion carried: Standing Order 2 1 suspended.] BILL THIRD READING TAX CREDIT S ACT 2025 Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker I move that the Bill entitled the Tax …
It's given to you to do. Okay. Any objections to that? There are none. Continue. [Motion carried: Standing Order 2 1 suspended.]
BILL
THIRD READING
TAX CREDIT S ACT 2025
Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker I move that the Bill entitled the Tax Credit s Act 2025 be now read for a third time by its title only and pass ed.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThe Bill has been read by title only and is now passed. [Motion carried: The Tax Credit s Act 2025 was given a third reading and passed.]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWould you like to do your second one? Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDER 21 Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker , I move that Standing Order 21 be suspended to enable me to move the Bill entitled the Corporate Income Tax Amendment (No. …
Would you like to do your second one?
Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDER 21
Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker , I move that Standing Order 21 be suspended to enable me to move the Bill entitled the Corporate Income Tax Amendment (No. 2) Act 2025 be now read for a third time by its title only.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAny objections? There are none. Continue. [Motion carried: Standing Order 21 suspended.] BILL THIRD READING CORPORATE INCOME TAX AMENDMENT (NO. 2) ACT 2025 Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker I move the Bill entitled the Corporate Income Tax Amendment (No. 2) Act 2025 be …
Any objections? There are none. Continue.
[Motion carried: Standing Order 21 suspended.]
BILL
THIRD READING
CORPORATE INCOME TAX AMENDMENT (NO. 2) ACT 2025
Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker I move the Bill entitled the Corporate Income Tax Amendment (No. 2) Act 2025 be now read a third time by its title only and passed.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThe Bill has been read a third time by title only and is now passed. Thank you. [Motion carried: Corporate Income Tax Amendment (No. 2) Act 2025 was given a third reading and passed.] ADJOURNMENT Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker , I move that this …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerAre there any objections to that ? There are none. Would any Member wish to speak to that? Let me just adjust the clock for you here. Any Member? Bermuda House of Assembly [Crosstalk]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMP DeCouto, would you like to speak to the motion to adjourn?
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYes, thank you , Mr. Speaker. I can assure you it won't be about the corporate income tax — [Laughter and general uproar]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoBut I could talk more if you like. [Laughter and crosstalk ] GOVERNMENT ACCUSED OF “REGULATORY CAPTURE ”
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoMr. Speaker , are you familiar with the term regulatory capture ? That's a rhetorical question.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoIt's when the organisations that are supposed to be paying attention to something, in charge of something, are in fact having their behaviour influenced by the thing that they are in charge of. You could call it the fox in the henhouse , perhaps , if you like. And frankly …
It's when the organisations that are supposed to be paying attention to something, in charge of something, are in fact having their behaviour influenced by the thing that they are in charge of. You could call it the fox in the henhouse , perhaps , if you like. And frankly I have been observing a whole bunch of stuff for the past few years, and I am afraid that unfortunately this G overnment is suffering some severe regulatory capture by an outfit called Genc om. Let's just start off with Tucker's P oint. And in my personal view , Genc om enjoyed the benefit of severe regulatory arbitrage up there, i.e., they were allowed to do things because of changes in regulations made by the G overnment ’s special dispensations , waivers and so forth, environmental waivers given for them that were not in the normal course of the laws and regulations . And that allowed that company to unlock millions of dollars in value and to sell off property to people who could build.
Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order , Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes. POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: The Honourable Member is completely misleading the H ouse. If he's referring to things that happened in 2011, that was not Genc om. That was the previous owners of the property . That was something that was done, supported on a …
Yes.
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: The Honourable Member is completely misleading the H ouse. If he's referring to things that happened in 2011, that was not Genc om. That was the previous owners of the property . That was something that was done, supported on a bipartisan basis , in order to make sure that we did not have the failure of a bank and a hotel property . Those were things that were clearly ventilated inside of the Legisla-ture in 2011, and the permissions of which were given at that time to secure to make sure that we did not have those challenges. The Honourable Member is misleading the House and he must withdraw.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerIf the matter , as has been stated just now to clarify two separate issues , you have to acknowledge that they are two separate issues and withdraw and restate what you said earlier .
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoMr. Speaker , we have several examples where with this particular set of investors and companies have received multiple waivers of environmental rules and regulations . We can see in the building on Harrington Sound. We see all kinds of existing examples that have allowed them to monetise property which …
Mr. Speaker , we have several examples where with this particular set of investors and companies have received multiple waivers of environmental rules and regulations . We can see in the building on Harrington Sound. We see all kinds of existing examples that have allowed them to monetise property which prior owners were not able to monetise due to environmental —
Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker , point of order.
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. E. David Burt: The Honourable Member is misleading the H ouse. I understand that he has a political point to make, but I will try to learn him up as I was the Junior Minister respons ible for E nvironment , Planning and Infrastructure Strategy in 2011 in another place when the special development order [SDO] did have to get pass ed and the reasons around it at that point in time were due to a failure risk to the banking system during a critical time and trying to make sure. So, it was an agreement between . . . clearly disclosed —if the Honourable Member wants to go back to the Hansard— between HSBC , between the developers and all to make sure that value could be put on that property . Whenever Genc om bought the propert y, is when Gencom bought the property . But what he is referring to about those particular things which were done were well preceding that company . And it is not right for him to try to tie the two together . He can make his point if he wants to, but he cannot make things up.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThe point , the point . . . let's try and provide some clarity . The point that is being raised by the Member and the point that is being expressed by the P remier is that the point that is being raised is tying that point to the . …
The point , the point . . . let's try and provide some clarity . The point that is being raised by the Member and the point that is being expressed by the P remier is that the point that is being raised is tying that point to the . . . that matter to the current owners of the property . And the point that is being tried to clarify is that the matters that were done back in 2011, I believe it was , you 1716 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly stated it, or 2000, right, were actually for another ownership. A nd so, you’re tying the benefit , or you are trying to say that this company has benefited over and over again when in fact their company was not the beneficiaries at that time.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoMr. Speaker , we can put that example to the side because there are other examples . Right? There is the house at Shark Hole. T here's the SDO in Southampton. There is the sweetheart deal for financing and supporting the financing of the hotel in Southampton. There is the …
Mr. Speaker , we can put that example to the side because there are other examples . Right? There is the house at Shark Hole. T here's the SDO in Southampton. There is the sweetheart deal for financing and supporting the financing of the hotel in Southampton. There is the bailout of unemployment severance pay for the workers . I can tell you, Mr. Speaker . . . you tell me another company that has benefited from such Government largesse. I know a lot of companies around here would love to get those kinds of benefits .
[Inaudible interjections and laughter ]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoAnd so . . . and so it seems , Mr. Speaker . . . actually , I am thinking about that deal . That deal was so good for G encom, it is as if they had government officials , senior government officials over a barrel . And I …
And so . . . and so it seems , Mr. Speaker . . . actually , I am thinking about that deal . That deal was so good for G encom, it is as if they had government officials , senior government officials over a barrel . And I can only draw the conclusions that our government officials are incredibly weak negotiators or something else.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberWhoa! [Inaudible interjections ]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoI don't know . That's what I call regulatory capture because for me the only conclusion is that — Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Point of order , Mr. Speaker . [Inaudible interjections ] POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I think the Honourable Member …
I don't know . That's what I call regulatory capture because for me the only conclusion is that — Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Point of order , Mr. Speaker . [Inaudible interjections ]
POINT OF ORDER [Misleading] Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: I think the Honourable Member is certainly misleading the H ouse, unless he wishes to clarify what he means by they held the government over a barrel . [Inaudible interjections ]
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberThat’s what he said.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoMr. Speaker , that was such a sweetheart deal that in my view this Government was severely out negotiated by Gencom—
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberNonsense!
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoAnd Gencom forced their hand to provide the kind of financing that most companies would be pleased to have. [Laughter and inaudible interjections ] Hon. E. David Burt: Point of order , Mr. Speaker . Point of order , Mr. Speaker .
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order . POINT OF ORDER Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, the Honourable Member has no idea what he's talking about . He is just coming here . . . and I know the rules of the H ouse mean that you must prove matters factually of which …
Point of order .
POINT OF ORDER Hon. E. David Burt: Mr. Speaker, the Honourable Member has no idea what he's talking about . He is just coming here . . . and I know the rules of the H ouse mean that you must prove matters factually of which you are speaking. We had the best legal advice on the planet . Some of the best negotiators , some of the most expensive lawyers managing this particular matter . So, the fact that he is making these things up is only for the point of which he is making. It is not factual , Mr. Speaker, and persons should be able to justify the facts . If he is going to say that it is a sweetheart deal, he must justify the facts of which he is laying out. That is not factual , Mr. Speaker .
[Crosstalk ]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerBe mindful of the fact that the evidence has to support your points and— Premier —the evidence has to support your points . So, we need the evidential . . . the evidence of the points you are making in this regard
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoThe evidence is the sweetness of the deal . Mr. Speaker , I think we all know you can have as many advisors as you want . You might still make some bad decisions . And in my personal opinion a lot of companies would have loved to get a …
The evidence is the sweetness of the deal . Mr. Speaker , I think we all know you can have as many advisors as you want . You might still make some bad decisions . And in my personal opinion a lot of companies would have loved to get a deal like that . That is all I can say . Okay? We did some classic car legislation when I was in the S enate . We were rushed back to the S enate. We thought it was going to be something very important —
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoAnd then we arrived, was it was for classic cars! And there is a core in there, but my personal view is that was a personal favour to principals of Gencom . That's my personal view . You may disagree. We know that senior government officials have been having cosy …
Some Hon. Members Some Hon. MembersOoh! Bermuda House of Assembly [Inaudible interjections ]
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberYes, yes.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoWe know that the G overnment has made special changes to immigration regulations to allow C uban workers up there at G encom. Hon. Jason Hayward: Point of order, Mr. Speaker .
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. Hon. Jason Hayward: Point of order.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerPoint of order. POINT OF ORDER Hon. Jason Hayward: There have been no special regulations or changes to immigration laws to allow for workers to come in. And let me be abundantly clear: what we did was we removed workers from the [Bermuda Immigration and Protection] (Prohibition of Entry) Order …
Point of order.
POINT OF ORDER Hon. Jason Hayward: There have been no special regulations or changes to immigration laws to allow for workers to come in. And let me be abundantly clear: what we did was we removed workers from the [Bermuda Immigration and Protection] (Prohibition of Entry) Order that had the ability to transit through the UK. The Cuban workers remain on the Prohibition of E ntry Order despite . . . despite having the ability to transit through the UK. So, for specific reasons we left some countries on the O rder. That is not making special provisions for any company . And I am ashamed that you would say something like that. You are becoming offensive now. Because, Mr. Speaker , he still has not justified what he means by over a barrel . As a grown man I am somewhat offended by that comment. So, I understand he wants to make a point . But allow him to tread lightly and speak factual . And you have already reminded him.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerBe guided by the— [Inaudible interjections ]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerBe guided by the clarity of what the Minister just said in that there were no special immigration benefits provided for them to be here.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoMr. Speaker , my understanding is that various regulations were modified to give Cu-ban nationals — [Inaudible interjections ]
Dr. Douglas DeCouto—specifically —opportunities to come to Bermuda without the transit visas. There is a very long list. Cuba and one other country — Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Point of order, Mr. Speaker .
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWait, wait, wait. Have a seat, have a seat. Member, have your seat for a minute. The Minister — [Inaudible interjections ]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWait, wait —the Minister rose to his feet just now — [Inaudible interjections ]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMinister, Minister. The Minister rose to his feet just now and spoke to the matter. The M inister said clearly that there were no special amendments or compromises given in this regard to those particular workers. You have to be guided by what the Minister said, unless you have some …
Minister, Minister. The Minister rose to his feet just now and spoke to the matter. The M inister said clearly that there were no special amendments or compromises given in this regard to those particular workers. You have to be guided by what the Minister said, unless you have some factual proof which you will have to produce. You cannot make innuendos now that the Minister rose to his feet and clearly stated that that was not done. If you have evidence, you have to produce the evidence.
POINT OF INFORMATION
Hon. Jason Hayward: Just a point of information, Mr. Speaker , and just to put this matter in context. When we brought the last [Bermuda Immigration and Protection] (P rohibition of Entry) Order to the House of Assembly , we removed 45 countries —
Hon. E. David Burt: Forty -five!
Hon. Jason Hayward: Forty -five countries from that Order. And so, there were no special provisions made for Cuban nationals. Forty -five countries were removed. Cuba remained on. Haiti remained on. Venezuela remained on for specific reasons.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Minister. Thank you, Minister. So, with that said you have to be guided by the fact that the Minister who is responsible for signing such Orders or changing such policies , et cetera, et cetera, has indicated that such was not done. So again, if you have evidence, …
Thank you, Minister. Thank you, Minister. So, with that said you have to be guided by the fact that the Minister who is responsible for signing such Orders or changing such policies , et cetera, et cetera, has indicated that such was not done. So again, if you have evidence, if you have . . . if you want to stress that what he is saying is incorrect you have to produce the evidence that supports it being incorrect.
1718 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly Dr. Douglas DeCouto: Mr. Speaker, I cannot put my fingers on that Prohibition Order right now.
[Inaudible interjections ]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoIf you would like me to take a minute to pull it up, I could pull it up.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerIf you have the information for this debate, produce it. If you don't have it, I would suggest you hold it for another time.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoIt is a fact that Cuba had an asterisk on that list , along with one other country , and they were granted special conditions compared to the other countries on that list. That's the fact. Now I understand that there could be up to 100 or 150 Cuban workers …
It is a fact that Cuba had an asterisk on that list , along with one other country , and they were granted special conditions compared to the other countries on that list. That's the fact. Now I understand that there could be up to 100 or 150 Cuban workers up at the Fairmont Southampton project . And I don't know , Mr. Speaker , if there are many other companies with a lot of Cuban workers. And logic tells us that that asterisk was put on that Order to facilitate —
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberPoint of order.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerWait, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait. You stepped over a line just now when you said logic.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberYes, you did!
The SpeakerThe SpeakerLogic. Logic is not evidence. Logic is not evidence. We can go back and forth on logic; we can go back and forth on opinions. The M inister has . . . the Minister has stood to his feet —Members —the Minister has stood to his feet and clearly stated …
Logic. Logic is not evidence. Logic is not evidence. We can go back and forth on logic; we can go back and forth on opinions. The M inister has . . . the Minister has stood to his feet —Members —the Minister has stood to his feet and clearly stated what is and what is not. We have to accept that as the Minister responsible and we are going to take the word of the Minister. If . . . again I state, I'll restate : If you have evidence to prove that something different was done, you have to produce it because the M inister stood clearly on a point of what is and what is not. He has stated it clearly . He has restated it and we cannot move from that unless there is some evidence to prove that. I may think differently . You may think differently . Everybody else may think differently. We cannot go down those different roads if we do not have evidence. We have to accept that the person responsible is the Minister . And the Minister has clearly stated what provisions , that allowed all this to happen, took place , that it [was not] anything different that [has] been done outside of what was in the provision provided for.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoMr. Speaker, I will defer to you. I do know that there are a lot of Cuban workers up there. And my understanding is they are here without transit visas. I do not think that is a false statement, but I stand to be corrected. I know there are a …
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoThird-party . . . third-party travel visas. Now, if I refer back to my notes . . . so I have given you a couple of examples where this particular company, which I believe has regulatory capture over the Government, seems to be receiving outside favourable attention. Most recently we …
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberThere’s no “perhaps.”
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoBut I understand that there have been — [Inaudible interjections ]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoI understand that there have been discussions between this company and senior government officials about possibly purchasing the government quarry. Now, I don't know if there's an agreement or not, but I understand there have been discussions. Oh!
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoIt makes no sense to me because we heard . . . this is one comment about the CIT, Mr. Speaker . We have heard about all of this money, so why does the G overnment need to sell property? And if the G overnment would need to sell property, …
It makes no sense to me because we heard . . . this is one comment about the CIT, Mr. Speaker . We have heard about all of this money, so why does the G overnment need to sell property? And if the G overnment would need to sell property, we know that . . . which should not be about private conversations. There should be a tender . There
Bermuda House of Assembly should be an RFP [request for proposal]. All the usual things. And so even if this, even if this —
[Inaudible interjection]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoEven if — Hon. Zane J. S. De Silva: Like there was for the airport.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoThe airport was approved by multiple blue -ribbon panels, the most transparent deal— [Laughter and general uproar]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoAnd even if, Mr. Speaker — [Laughter and general uproar continuing]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoWhat I would say, Mr. Speaker, there are— [Inaudible interjections ]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoWe know, Mr. Speaker, there are many small countries out there where one or two or a handful of rich and influential people can have an out-side influence on government policies. We know that. [Inaudible interjections ]
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoAnd this G overnment is behaving, in my view (this is obviously up for personal interpretation, but my view, and many people who approach me to discuss this topic ), as if they're okay with that happening here in Bermuda. And we know Bermudians aren't okay with that. And, Mr. …
And this G overnment is behaving, in my view (this is obviously up for personal interpretation, but my view, and many people who approach me to discuss this topic ), as if they're okay with that happening here in Bermuda. And we know Bermudians aren't okay with that. And, Mr. Speaker, I would tell you my view . Sometimes I doubt if the . . . some certain . . . and I don't want to paint a broad brush here.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerNow, now, don’t . . . watch where you are going because you just took a little —
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoBut in my opinion, there are some Members of this G overnment that are working more for themselves than for the people. [General uproar] The Speaker: Members, Members , Members — Member, have a seat. Have a seat. Have a seat. Have a seat. [Inaudible interjections ]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerHave a seat. Have a seat. Have a seat. I was, I was . . . you saw that whole time I was trying to give you some guidance of where not to step and where to step. That one steps over a line that, again, if you don't have …
Have a seat. Have a seat. Have a seat. I was, I was . . . you saw that whole time I was trying to give you some guidance of where not to step and where to step. That one steps over a line that, again, if you don't have evidence to produce, then don’t introduce it. Don’t introduce it. Don’t introduce it.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerI just addressed it. I just cautioned the Member on it. I think you heard me caution the M ember on it, didn't you? Did you hear me caution the M ember?
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. Listen next time, please. Thank you. Member, you have been cautioned. Okay ? MP . . . MP, if you're going to continue, you have been cautioned. You got . . . if you're going to go down these roads, you have to stand up on your feet like …
Okay. Listen next time, please. Thank you. Member, you have been cautioned. Okay ? MP . . . MP, if you're going to continue, you have been cautioned. You got . . . if you're going to go down these roads, you have to stand up on your feet like this with the evidence that you are prepared to give. Okay ?
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoYes, sir. 1720 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly The Speaker: All right.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoMr. Speaker, well noted. Thank you. I will keep that in mind. [Crosstalk]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMembers, Members , Members . The only voice I want to hear —
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMember, the only voice I want to hear while we deal with this matter is the voice of the person on their feet. No one else. No one else. If you can't control your tongue, I suggest you go outside for the moment. The M ember who is on his …
Member, the only voice I want to hear while we deal with this matter is the voice of the person on their feet. No one else. No one else. If you can't control your tongue, I suggest you go outside for the moment. The M ember who is on his feet, because of how sensitive it’s getting, I need to hear clearly what's going on here.
Dr. Douglas DeCoutoThank you, Mr. Speaker. I will move forward. I am going to reflect on the Members of the G overnment who participated in today's debate. And I a m going to reflect back to the Members of Government that participated in the general economic debate of the budget. Now, there …
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will move forward. I am going to reflect on the Members of the G overnment who participated in today's debate. And I a m going to reflect back to the Members of Government that participated in the general economic debate of the budget. Now, there are some missing pieces here because I couldn't quite get to it all. Their lack of engage-ment in this democratic process, to me, is an illustration . . . not an illustration. To me, it shows disdain to the people of Bermuda.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerLet me , let me, let me assist you. Let me assist you. Members, I ask ed everybody just now, the only voice you're going to hear is the person standing on their feet , or my voice. Any other voice? Leave now, if you can't control yourself . Just …
Let me , let me, let me assist you. Let me assist you. Members, I ask ed everybody just now, the only voice you're going to hear is the person standing on their feet , or my voice. Any other voice? Leave now, if you can't control yourself . Just leave. Member, I have been in this H ouse a long time, a very long time. I have sat in this H ouse and seen many different debates , budget debates and other debates , where debates have started and closed where there have been very few participating from any side, no matter who the G overnment was at that time. And I have been in this House when it was not just the PLP G overnment. I have been in this H ouse when there were governments that have been in Government for 30 years before change took place. And some of their behaviours were behaviours that we would not want to see repeated. We would not want to see repeated, because they had been Government for so long they thought they could . . . they owned the right to carry on the way they carried on. So, the conversation you are going down right now speaks to practi ces that we will not . . . that were not introduced today by anybody in this H ouse. The practi ces that are practi ces that have been longstanding by other governments beforehand. That there are matters that have been on the floor that you would have thought everybody would have spoke n to, but no one spoke to— meaning just one or two people. And they were not —
[Timer chimes]
The SpeakerThe Speaker—were not compelled to force M embers to get on their feet to speak to any matter . To any matter. It could be the G overnment , or it could be the O pposition who brought the matter. No one is compelled to speak. We would like to think …
—were not compelled to force M embers to get on their feet to speak to any matter . To any matter. It could be the G overnment , or it could be the O pposition who brought the matter. No one is compelled to speak. We would like to think that people will speak and speak factually and speak from information that is relevant to the topic that is being spoken to. But they are not compelled. So, to make it . . . to try and go down a road that says that there is an issue or something untoward because only a few members spoke, we can go down a history book for the last umpteen years and bring up stuff that should be considered untoward because only a few members of the Government spoke, and it didn't matter who the Government was. So let me just give you that caution and advice. Your 20 minutes have expired. It expired because we got time taken up with what I think was some important understanding that we all need to appreciate in this House. If accusations are going to be made in this House, you have got to support it with evidence. You have got to support it with evidence. You cannot just get up and make an accusation, particularly when the person in the room is saying that it is not the case. It is not the case and they laid out what is the policy that it is being governed under. Then if you feel that something different was done, that feel-ing has to be supported by evidence and not just a feeling. And I want us to all understand that as we continue whatever debate takes place here tonight or any-time in the future. Does any other M ember wish to make a contribution? MP Famous .
CONGRATULATORY AND/OR OBITUARY SPEECH
Mr. Christopher FamousMr. Speaker, I am going to be bowling line and length tonight because I see if I slip, I'm going to slide. [Laughter]
Mr. Christopher FamousMr. Speaker, over the last seven years, eight years, this Government, your Government, has made a concerted effort to work with—
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThe country's Government. I'm neutral.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberYes. Another Hon. Member: That’s right. Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. Christopher Famous: The country's Government.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYou know I'm going to hold you up.
Mr. Christopher FamousWe have made a concerted effort to build and maintain relationships with our cous-ins to the south, especially those other British colonies. We are not Overseas Territories, we are colonies. One of which is the [British] Virgin Islands —somewhere you've been a few times. Mr. Speaker, this morning, well during …
We have made a concerted effort to build and maintain relationships with our cous-ins to the south, especially those other British colonies. We are not Overseas Territories, we are colonies. One of which is the [British] Virgin Islands —somewhere you've been a few times. Mr. Speaker, this morning, well during these times, we have had interactions with the Premiers and their staff. One of which went out of her way to help bring Bermuda’s story to the rest of the region. This morning I got a WhatsApp message that the Director of Communications for the [British] Virgin Islands Government, Mrs. Karia Christopher , passed away suddenly. You would have met her, the Premier would have met her, and as a matter of fact, at the last CARICOM meeting she took her time to interview Minister Lightbourne, gave her a very good spotlight. So, I just wanted to make mention of her because she was integral in helping to bridge the gaps, the geographic gaps, between the Overseas Territories.
HOUSING COSTS IN BERMUDA
Mr. Christopher FamousMr. Speaker, today will be nine years to the date almost, 2 December 2016. We all know what led up to persons standing outside of Par-liament. I won't get into the details here. But the reason that people stood there, people of all ages stood there, was to protect public …
Mr. Speaker, today will be nine years to the date almost, 2 December 2016. We all know what led up to persons standing outside of Par-liament. I won't get into the details here. But the reason that people stood there, people of all ages stood there, was to protect public property. They wanted transparency. They just wanted answers. Mr. Speaker, the Progressive Labour Party is the party that has stood on the foundations of protecting the rights of the small person, or people that are considered small. A large proportion of our voters in constituencies 7 and 8 are descendants of those who had land taken from them forcibly in Tucker’s Town. In 2017, or somewhere after 2017, we had a Commission of Inquiry on the land theft (for lack of a better word). Some may call it other things, but basically people of all colours had their land taken from them. What is my point, Mr. Speaker? There is no way that a party that has represented people of that . . . a party that asked for people to come out and stand up for democracy on December the 9 th, 2016 . . . as an MP of that party, even before an MP, as a member, lifelong member of that party, just like y ou, Mr. Speaker. My family and most of our families have put blood, sweat, and tears into this party. There is no way, Mr. Speaker, I am supporting anything that's going to be too detrimental and represents what happened in Tuckers’ Town years ago. You can interpret that how you want. But I am telling you right now, I am not supporting that. Moving on, Mr. Speaker. I have a cousin . . . well a lot of us have, all of us have cousins. I have a cousin who, when I was young, lived right next door to me. When all the cousins were slapping up the little young boys, Go get that ; go get them loquats for me. Go get them cherries . Cherries in the trees, I mean. Right?
Mr. Christopher FamousSurinam cherries . In case anybody thought I meant maraschino cherries . I meant Surinam cherries. [Laughter]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYes, yes, yes. [Inaudible interjections ]
Mr. Christopher FamousMr. Speaker, I had a cousin that looked out for the younger boys in the neighbourhood and guided us. Right? And in his life, he has continued, dedicated himself to the young people of this country. And for some reason over the last month or so I have seen countless …
Mr. Speaker, I had a cousin that looked out for the younger boys in the neighbourhood and guided us. Right? And in his life, he has continued, dedicated himself to the young people of this country. And for some reason over the last month or so I have seen countless attacks on him in this media, that media, the other media. Right? From people who say they want to stop violence who are now perpetrating verbal violence in the media. So, I am just saying, Mr. Speaker, some people know him as an MP, some people know him as a doctor, some people know him as a pastor, some people know him as a bishop. I know him as my cousin Roy. He's not here right now, but I just want to tell him thank you for —
Mr. Christopher Famous—all that he has done for me and a lot of the young people on Hermitage Road, because that is why we know that we stick together as a family. Right? 1722 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. Speaker, I am going to move on. …
—all that he has done for me and a lot of the young people on Hermitage Road, because that is why we know that we stick together as a family. Right? 1722 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly Mr. Speaker, I am going to move on. And I am going to possibly slide a little bit now, but give me leeway. Mr. Speaker, I couldn't come here earlier today because of a situation at my job. But that's not what I want to talk about today. Mr. Speaker, I heard about, I didn't actually hear it myself —
Mr. Christopher Famous—but I heard about a lot of back and forth earlier between a Minister and an MP. A Minister and an MP. Mr. Speaker, quite frankly, I don't really agree with Minister De Silva. We couldn't be further in thought. You know what? He’s for Liverpool; I'm for U nited. …
Mr. Christopher FamousHe's for Somerset; I'm for St. George's. But where we stand together is the need for housing for our people —all of our people. And the methodologies getting there. Mr. Speaker, allow me to read something. Earlier this week, or last week, we heard South P is coming online. It's …
He's for Somerset; I'm for St. George's. But where we stand together is the need for housing for our people —all of our people. And the methodologies getting there. Mr. Speaker, allow me to read something. Earlier this week, or last week, we heard South P is coming online. It's almost like this Chicken Little thing. South P is coming online, and they need 500 workers, 700 workers. Which is actually a good thing. Where are they going to come from? Where are they going to live? Which is an actual reality, right? The reality is Bermudians are going . . . some Bermudians are going to get displaced. There are go-ing to be landlords who are going to not necessarily kick out their tenants but may not renew their leases in the hopes of renting to workers at South P. That 's the reality that we're dealing with. We can't tell people what to do with their property. People are going to say, W ell, I'm getting $2,000 from a Bermudian. I could get $3,000 from a foreigner. All right? People got a mortgage to pay. We also heard the Construction Association [of Bermuda] say that the cost of construction is nearing $1,000 a square foot. All right? The net result is you are going to have a perfect storm when it comes to housing. You are going to have Bermudians not get ting their leases renewed. And you are going to have Bermudians that want to build who can't afford to build because the price is just too high. So, we have a problem. So, we as a Government . . . the private sector is not going to do it. So, we as a Gover nment must do it. Allow me to read something from Bernews , Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Christopher Famous“[I]n my view, we need to have a totally different holistic look at the entire matter. Housing cannot be examined in a simple vacuum. I have written previously about changing planning height restrictions and considering different building materials is a start. In short, if we are to encourage building for …
“[I]n my view, we need to have a totally different holistic look at the entire matter. Housing cannot be examined in a simple vacuum. I have written previously about changing planning height restrictions and considering different building materials is a start. In short, if we are to encourage building for our future, we need to consider many things, not only renovating existing units for low -income needs. ” March the 3rd, 2025, the Honourable Michael Fahy, Shadow Minister of Housing. Hold that thought, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, over the last week, couple of weeks, in an effort to be transparent with the people and show them what we are doing, we have had different press conferences. Some units down in Chelsea, down in St. George's, five units. Units in St. David's, 1 2 units. Four units in Middle Town. Do you know that (I'm not going to call the name of the reporter, but it's a kind of funny name) a reporter, instead of reporting that we are actually building 12 units, decided to twist it all up and say, you know, the whole thing was about container houses. As if people were building places, shipping containers, to put people in. I go back to [what] our Minister, Mike . . . well, former Minister said —we must think about doing things differently , Mr. Speaker. The Government cannot . . . most people cannot afford $1,000 a square foot. The number of buildings that we need to build for our people at $1,000 a square foot, we will need 10 CITs —forget everything else, the wish lists that everybody else has , if we went that route. Now, it is for the Minister to speak about the alternative things that are happening. But it is for this room, including MP Michael Fahy, to show up when we send out invitations for press conferences, because it is a Bermuda issue. It is not a PLP issue. I t is not an OBA issue. For the economy to grow, the biggest proponents for growth [and] immigration are on this side. The only way we are going to grow immigration is by building more houses. So, I would encourage those on that side, that when these plans are rolled out, yes, ask critical questions. Ask, Okay , where is the money coming from? Ask those things. But do not allow a negative narrative to commandeer. Right? Because the Ber-muda Housing Corporation (BLMC) chaired by the Honourable Neville Tyrrell, [JP, MP] and the Bermuda Housing Trust, chaired by the Honourable John Barritt, [JP] are not going to be building structures that are not safe. The key thing that we are worrying about is safety, number one (category 5, category 6 hurricanes are coming), and affordability. Because I can guarantee everybody in here has had a WhatsApp in the last month or so, somebody's looking for a place to live. Not because they are indigent, not because they are jobless, but because landlords are asking astronomical prices. So, with that, Mr. Speaker, I close up and I still say there is not much I agree with Minister De Silva when it comes to sports. But I am with him 100 per cent, or he's with me 100 per cent, when it comes to housing. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Bermuda House of Assembly The Speaker: Thank you, MP. Is there any other Member? MP . . . now you both jumped in next to each other. MP Swan.
OPPOSITION IRRESPONSIBLY THROWING STONES
Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. SwanThank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I am prompted to speak tonight, and I just want to start off by thanking a Minister who did something significant. This week I have been taking a very prominent industry colleague around Bermuda, singing the virtues of Bermuda in hope that tha t …
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I am prompted to speak tonight, and I just want to start off by thanking a Minister who did something significant. This week I have been taking a very prominent industry colleague around Bermuda, singing the virtues of Bermuda in hope that tha t gentleman who came to this House this morning , Mr. Cranfield, would continue what he came here to d o, and that is to promote Bermuda between November and . . . in fact, October to April, globally, because he has a global portfolio in the profession of go lf, of which I am well - versed and have spent all my life. And persons ask questions about Bermuda, and one of our Ministers who, when we were walking here this morning, she was on the street. I took the pleasure of introducing her, and I am going to call her . . . Minister Kim Wilson, because persons that come to Bermuda, like him, ask people a lot of questions, and they know people in other spaces. And I said, you know, during COVID -19, notwithstanding varying positions, the Government navi-gated that situation extremely well with the benefit of all people in mind, notwithstanding criticism that it would have even received in- house. And many people know that it was a great divide that took place over COVID - 19 and different views. And I was very appreciative and very proud to have introduced that person who moves in spaces where persons have the means to be able to come here and invest a great deal of money should they like a place. Relationships are the cornerstone of the tourism industry. But I said that in the context of the current narrative that keeps getting pushed out about the lack of beds and the overcrowding at the emergency [department]. And recently in a news report, it was shared that that is a common problem in many countries. A nd I looked it up tonight and I would urge persons just to look it up. Our good friend AI sort of pulls things together as well, and shares that. Indeed, the problem that we have in that space in Bermuda is shared in many less developed countries and many developed countries that we even trade with, the United States, the UK and the like, some of the things that you hear persons talking about, persons in emergencies, in hallways. And I must declare that I have a family member, a daughter, a stepdaughter, wh o works as a hospitalist at a very large hospital. One that in fact admitted the President of the United States in Pennsylvania a year ago. And she was on duty. But I say that in the context that sometimes we look at our problems like potholes and the stuff and other infrastructure issues and use them to make political points, but do not always appreciate that there are many other jurisdictions around the world gr appling with the same problems, with shortages of nurses and the like. I heard a good comment about trying to find ways to get more nurses in Bermuda and in other professions as well. And sometimes, you know, in our zeal to grab headlines, we can be . . . people can be duplicitous. And I just want to say that I can remember over the last . . . let's go back. Let's go back four or five years. There was a narrative, W e need more people in Bermuda. Anybody heard that? We need more people in Bermuda for various reasons. Everybody used to say it and pointed their finger at the Government. Well, today, because of tough decisions that the Government made about three or four years ago working hard, we are going to have a situation where we are going to be faced with a good problem. We are going to have a lot of jobs created in Bermuda. And had we not been in that position, we would have been still at that same narrative of, you know, Why are you not creating jobs for people? So, we are going to have jobs for people. I would encourage the people leading that narrative that is contrary to the narrative that came out of that same organisation— I am speaking in this respect to my friend in the Chamber of Commerce to say, listen, you know, come with some solutions to how we can . . . because if you are in business and stuff, it's easy to get the camera and say we've got a problem. But a problem that is because of some good economic decisions that were made in the best interest of the country. I would expect persons to be com ing with some solutions in that regard. I applaud the Minister responsible for Economy and Labour for acknowledging that, yes, we are going to have challenges in this regard. But that's the same Minister who would be criticised because we had to move the needle so that we could have more reasons for people to come to Bermuda as tourists to cause air-lines to be coming to Bermuda in greater numbers, to encourage us to have the opportunity to even encour-age the thousands of Bermudians who left to even consider coming back home. So, you know, it's easy to find a way to tickle the Government up, you know, and be an irresponsible Opposition. I am reminded that a couple of sessions ago, usually around this time, when Mr. Famous and myself and a few faithful were speaking on the motio n to adjourn. There were no people sitting in those benches. None! No one representing, not the UBP, the One Bermuda Alliance. It was their mantra to walk out of this Parliament. And I spoke to it. Okay? Not even sit here and listen as we did today. So, you know, when you are throwing stones, sometimes you need . . . when you are pointing fingers, 1724 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly you need to look at the ones pointing back at yourself as well. [Inaudible interjections ]
PRIVATE SECTOR ENCOURAGED TO BE FAIR TO WORKERS, ESPECIALLY PENSIONERS
Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. SwanMr. Speaker, I want to speak ever so briefly to the plight of Bermudians. And I want to thank the Government for FutureCare and the seniors that avail themselves of FutureCare. I want to thank the Government for our commitment to make sure that there are pension increases for seniors …
Mr. Speaker, I want to speak ever so briefly to the plight of Bermudians. And I want to thank the Government for FutureCare and the seniors that avail themselves of FutureCare. I want to thank the Government for our commitment to make sure that there are pension increases for seniors every year. As a senior, I declare my interest. Persons who are seniors know that when the 15th is coming, they are looking. But I just want to point out that . . . and I would encourage because I have heard the Honourable Opposition Whip speak on numerous occasions about some unsavoury practices with the type of holding hands in the private sector as it impacts the health care industry and the detriment that that proves [to be]. But let me just point out something. Right? In the private sector, you have banks that are holding hands with insurance companies that are in partnership as well. And you know what? I want to declare my interest. I have a mother who worked probably 30 years at Butterfield Bank. And she wasn't in management. And she was a well -liked person, and she thought the world of Mr. Colin Benbow. May he rest in peace. She worked in the printing department. Right? She worked hard raising her two boys on her own after a divorce. She never remarried. She owns her own home. And she has a Butterfield pension that does not cover even the health insurance that she . . . that goes. And, you know, the same Butterfield Bank boasts profits. The same Butterfield Bank who almost went under had it not been for a PLP Government, that I wasn't a part of at the time, that I supported . . . the decision by the Progressive Labour Party's Financ e Minister at the time to come to the aid of Butterfield Bank.
Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. SwanTo be able to make sure that not everybody who had shares lost everything, as they were set out to do, so that another company could come in and piggyback on that. This Government commits to increased pensions. But you got private companies that when person have given you their …
To be able to make sure that not everybody who had shares lost everything, as they were set out to do, so that another company could come in and piggyback on that. This Government commits to increased pensions. But you got private companies that when person have given you their all, if they can, they will give you a package to get rid of you so that they don't . . . you can't participate in its success going down the road. And they make no apologies about all the profits and can't even give a senior who worked for them 30 years, who because of good care and the like and the longevity that people can live to be 90 years old and live to see that the pension that might have looked good when they offered them a package . . . My mama didn't take a package, by the way. Right? And some others didn't. But they've lived to see that what they get in a pension doesn't even cover the health care cost. But yet, those persons who st ill have shares, who might have been at the brink ( Oh, thank you, PLP Government .) are seeing increases.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberHeavy dividends.
Mr. Hubert (Kim) E. SwanAnd I have got some other things to say, but I am going to save it for another day. Because when we talk about the type of problems that this country still grapples with—the two Bermudas —it's real. And I implore every Member of this House to rec-ognise that privilege …
And I have got some other things to say, but I am going to save it for another day. Because when we talk about the type of problems that this country still grapples with—the two Bermudas —it's real. And I implore every Member of this House to rec-ognise that privilege still exists in Bermuda. Still exists. Institutional racism is as alive in this country today as it was. And you know what? Bermuda grass sits dormant when the temperatures go below a certain temperature. If you were around golf or you were around firemen, I grew up around both, you would know. But it doesn't die. It sits dormant. Roots are sitting live underneath the surface. That is what we are coming up against in some aspects in this country. You know, pretty soon I will get a chance to look at my faithful Troy on national TV once again. They're playing right now. I hope we can cause an upset against James Madison up there in the western part of Virginia. But, you know, I remember a good friend of mine from Harrisburg, Mississippi. He was a lawyer. And he came to Bermuda and stayed at the Southampton Princess. And he said, you know, my good friend Marshall Lusk said, You know, in my job I'm a lawyer. And my job is to chase up those predatory lenders who caused the recession. Those ones who lent all that money and caused that stack of cards to collapse. And, you know, I heard people talk about the debt and the like. And when Mr. Cox, who was a great Minister of Finance who presided over the most buoyant economy Bermuda ever experienced . . . one of the things that he had introduced was a reserve fund. And one of the criticisms I had was that we didn't build on that reserve fund. I criticised that those . . . didn't build on that reserve fund. But I'm here to say that in that spirit, between 2008 and 2012, Bermuda endured tremendous financial hardship. The PLP Government didn't cause the exodus of persons. XL going down to $2 in share prices might have had something to do with that. AIG changing their name to . . . I think they changed their name back now, but they changed their name. Chartis, I think, t heir global headquarters. People who had their life savings and pensions and life insurance policies that they might have left in their gas tubes at British American and persons who worked for them, you know, didn't have that anymore. People who worked there. That wasn't caused by the PLP.
Bermuda House of Assembly Butterfield Bank, relying on the PLP to save them, wasn't caused by the PLP. It was caused by decisions made by people who sat in boardrooms there. And let me tell you this. My friend, Mr. Lusk, said, Swan, you need to make sure that you get some good predatory lending laws in place down there and do some of the things . One of the reasons why people said money doesn’t grow on trees and found $150 mil-lion for . . . And I love sailing, let me tell you. And I moved a motion for us to have SailGP, let me tell you this, because I come from a sailing family. But I can tell you what, if you can find $100 million to facilitate that and tell seniors that money doesn’t grow on trees, your mindset . . . that's a dangerous mindset. That's a mindset . . . I've heard some of the utterances, some of the undertones expressed here today. I'm here to say, in the spirit of seniors, that we need to maybe look at challenging the private sector that have pensions to have the type of spirit of incremental cost of living increases for those persons who work for them so that they can at least keep pace with their occupational pension. It's important. And we need to keep a mindful eye on the insurance market, local insurance, as it relates to peo-ple's pensions and their health policies and the like, and how people are buying up other things. I've heard an Honourable Member declare his interest. He has s ome . . . and you declare your interest because that's what your trade is. He shares with us that he has worked in that field in pharmaceuticals and the like. And he has family members who are very close. So, he speaks from a passion. But those are things that impact Bermudians . And we need to look at it. Because people are recalibrating on how best they can take care of themselves in the private sector. And so, whilst I will always advocate for a private sector to be thriving, I will always advocate to the private sector to be fair to workers. Especially pensioners and those approaching pension age. And be mindful if you needed a Government that was not ( was never really when it was in Government) your ally to do the right thing because of the good of the country . . . and that came around the same time that Dr. Brown, myself, the Honourable Gregory Slayton as US Consul Gen-eral, and my good friend from Ari el Re , and Mr. Butterfield down at Bank of Bermuda held hands together in the best interest of this country to form Bermuda First as a collaborative that was not politicised . . . deliberately. And sometimes you certainly had to hold some things in the safe and sacred repository because you couldn't reveal it to persons who would take it and exploit it —in the interest of this country. And I heard people talking about Bermuda First going [Bermuda] Forward. But the first iteration came at a very volatile political time. And it came at a time when the first group of people in this country to recognise in earnest that there was a recession was the Bermuda Industrial Union. And I apologise to the BIU for not being able to be there tonight. We're doing the people's business. Right? And we will go over there. But I want to say that down at their conference that I attended as an Opposition Leader was when I heard the resolution come forward that the workers, the hotel division, accepted a pay freeze in the interest of a recession that Bermuda was blaming on the PLP in the first place, which was global. And many people, even persons in business, were saying that it didn't even exist. Working class persons were the persons who took the lead. And so, we need to have some appreciation and respect for people from all stations of life in this country. It takes all of us to make this country tick. And I am proud of all Bermudians from all walks of life as I go forward. But I am particularly concerned from a personal, and I declared my personal interest (and sometimes you've got a he or she that feels it knows it), [and] express my concern [about] companies like Butterfield who have pensioners out there and they're boasting about profits. And it wouldn't even put a dent in it to those ones that are still living to boost it up to at least give them something liveable. Because they're the same ones with a cocktail glass in their hand, zipping there, up where they're looking at golf over there . . . and I was not able to be there. I haven't been invited up there by anybody ever since I've been there. And that's some of the things that we still see. You know? That nine-to-five integration and that five to . . . when you show up for work, separation.
The SpeakerThe Speaker[INAUDIBLE] You have your time on the clock. APOLOGY DEMANDED FOR MP’S LOW LEVEL OF RESPECT IN THE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY Hon. Jason Hayward: Good evening, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGood evening. Hon. Jason Hayward: Mr. Speaker, I am not going to go back and forth and throw stones at somebody else's house.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerI wouldn't expect you to, Minister, because I know you are a very skilled gentleman. Hon. Jason Hayward: What I want to do today is speak to my own integrity. See, you can't come to the floor of the H ouse, attempt to be a verbal assassin, and just willy …
I wouldn't expect you to, Minister, because I know you are a very skilled gentleman.
Hon. Jason Hayward: What I want to do today is speak to my own integrity. See, you can't come to the floor of the H ouse, attempt to be a verbal assassin, and just willy -nilly make accusations that impugn people's reputations, that impugn people's integrity. In the context of some politicians are in politics for their own benefit, being “bent over a barrel, ” and things of that nature, to then include decisions I have made in that context would have one believe that 1726 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly somehow I am making decisions, not i n the best interest of this country, but to serve some personal interest of some company or even myself.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberDisgusting. Hon. Jason Hayward: I know you provided intervention. But what was done tonight was wrong. It was deliberately done to paint the picture of a group of individuals with no evidence. The motive was wrong. And the impact of it is real. Typically, things that get under my skin, …
Disgusting.
Hon. Jason Hayward: I know you provided intervention. But what was done tonight was wrong. It was deliberately done to paint the picture of a group of individuals with no evidence. The motive was wrong. And the impact of it is real. Typically, things that get under my skin, I'm able to brush it off. But what was done tonight was actually triggering, because it went back to what I have always been told. No matter how hard you work — you can continue to do the right thing; you can operate with integrity —it does n't matter . I have debated with people as it pertains to policies back and forth. We have had a little bit of banter. But I don't go after anybody in that particular manner. He has to understand that that individual is an influential member of this society. People believe and listen to what he says whether it's true or not.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberWe have families. Hon. Jason Hayward: I have to represent this country internationally as a matter of my role. I have to deal with businesses and make business decisions and make decisions that impact people's livelihood. Being the Minister responsible for immigration in a country like Bermuda is not an …
We have families.
Hon. Jason Hayward: I have to represent this country internationally as a matter of my role. I have to deal with businesses and make business decisions and make decisions that impact people's livelihood. Being the Minister responsible for immigration in a country like Bermuda is not an easy task. I have revised policies so that I can be consistent. You ask anybody, the first thing that happens is, What does the policy say? There are no special favours that come from Hayward’s office. My colleagues will tell you the same thing. If there's one man who operates his role with integrity, it's me. In the context of removing 45 countries from a list and then looking at certain countries and saying that they must remain on a list for that to be viewed as some type of negative or malicious action, or some action to serve some special group of people, it is the wrong characterisation. I saw it in the newspaper . I just glossed past it. But then the Member doubled down tonight with inac-curacies. I brought that [Bermuda Immigration and Protection] (P rohibition of Entry) Order to the House of Assembly. I explained what we were doing. Companies come to my office on a basis where we've granted them permits [but] they've been unable to secure visas. So, you will find now, a country like [the] Philippine s, [their] nationals are removed from the list because they were having challenges with getti ng visas. You can find 45 other examples of countries that are completely removed from the list. To paint the picture that I have done something malicious to serve the benefit of one company is wrong. And, Mr. Speaker, I honestly demand an apology.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberThat’s right. Hon. Jason Hayward: It's really offensive. And if I don't speak up for myself, do you know what's going to happen? The story is going to run with wheels. It continues in our society. And now we are standing on different sides of the aisle. [Do] you know …
That’s right. Hon. Jason Hayward: It's really offensive. And if I don't speak up for myself, do you know what's going to happen? The story is going to run with wheels. It continues in our society. And now we are standing on different sides of the aisle. [Do] you know what happens? As a people, we continue to take the short end of the stick every time. And I am tired ! You can't find a positive Royal Gazette article attached to Hayward. For my entire career. I am serious! It's evidence. We talk about December 2nd [2016]? on December 3rd, there were two people in front of the news-paper. Myself and Chris Famous. The Royal Gazette then wrote an opinion piece. In that opinion piece, they called Hayward a “ wide-eyed, foul -mouthed . . . raving lunatic. ” I continue to get the short end of the stick, even when I do my best . It's unfair in this society. Let me tell you something. I'm now onto 21 years of public service . . . 22 this year, actually, gone June. I started my career in public service. I was pro-moted through the union. I went on to become the president of the union representing workers' rights , negotiating for benefits , keeping people employed. I was asked to join a member of a team. I was appointed to the Senate. I ran in a by e-election. I won fair and square. In 2020, I was appointed a M inister. And I have worked my butt off ever since, Mr. S peaker.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberYes. Hon. Jason Hayward: I am going to be clear with Members o n both sides of the aisle. We endure a lot by being Members of this G overnment. By the nature of just being a politician , somehow you are evil, you are corrupt. It permeates in our …
Yes.
Hon. Jason Hayward: I am going to be clear with Members o n both sides of the aisle. We endure a lot by being Members of this G overnment. By the nature of just being a politician , somehow you are evil, you are corrupt. It permeates in our society. [Do] you know why? Because no matter how hard you work, to some it's never good enough. They can never find it in their hearts to give you credit when credit is actually due.
[Desk thumping]
Hon. Jason Hayward: We're always getting the short end of the stick. I don't want to make it a B lack and White thing , but it's hard for me to sit here and listen to a White man act as though sometimes this Black Government is corrupt. That's [how] he was painting the picture.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberAll the time. [Inaudible interjections ] Hon. Jason Hayward: No, no, no— [General uproar] Hon. Jason Hayward: Let me tell you— Bermuda House of Assembly The Speaker: Members — Hon. Jason Hayward: Tonight will be the night.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMembers, Members, Members — [Inaudible interjections ]
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMembers, Members —I have said clearly already today. The only voices we need to hear are the voices of people who are on their feet. At this moment, I am going to let the Member finish because it's getting very emotional. And I'm not going to let anything else be …
Members, Members —I have said clearly already today. The only voices we need to hear are the voices of people who are on their feet. At this moment, I am going to let the Member finish because it's getting very emotional. And I'm not going to let anything else be interjected into this at this time. Hon. Jason Hayward: Painting this Government as corrupt, when we know our own history. We know where we emanated from after emancipation. We then knew who ran this country. We then knew who was the Government thereafter. The United Bermuda Party only came as a response to the Progressive Labour Party. But who was the group of men running this country prior to that? And what interests did they represent? And what laws directly benefited them? And to this day —
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberThey are still benefitting! Hon. Jason Hayward: And to this day, they're still benefiting from this.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerJust the Member speaking. Just the Member. Hon. Jason Hayward: Just those laws that were passed. To this day, profits of slavery then get into institutions that lost support in this country. I just want people to know , in context they have to be mindful of the history of …
Just the Member speaking. Just the Member.
Hon. Jason Hayward: Just those laws that were passed. To this day, profits of slavery then get into institutions that lost support in this country. I just want people to know , in context they have to be mindful of the history of Bermuda. You have to be mindful of the struggle of some people. You don't know what the next man is going through . . . to come up here and malign him. Like that was a stray bullet , for what? What was he trying to accomplish tonight? I ask for clarity as it pertains to “ bent over barrel .” What does that mean? I've got the most vile thought or image in my mind of what “ bent over barrel ” is. Why did he feel comfortable saying that to a group of men , or women, or colleagues in a political context ? We can't make that sort of behaviour comfortable in this H ouse of Assembly. We have to protect the integrity of individuals. Look, if I make bad decisions, I'm happy to be called up on that bad decision. And we go back and forward regarding the policy. I will defend it. I will defend whatever actions that I have made, committed. But please don't accuse me of doing something I've never done. And painted this story to create this notion as though, somehow, we are personally benefiting from this. I have an MBA in finance. I have made it in my mind that you know what? As long as I have energy, I am going to serve the people of Bermuda. I made a personal choice. I know politics gets muddy. But we are human beings as well. And at least we should have the level of respect in this House of Assembly. Let’s debate policy. Let’s debate on ideological differences. Let’s debate on where you believe money should be spent versus where we are spending money. But this imputing improper motive is a reason why people rise on a point of order. And we don't allow for that to happen. But he came with premeditated written notes , guns loaded to assassinate Members of this side of the House of Assembly. To impute improper motives goes against the very essence of the rules. I know you intervened on him multiple times. But he should be made to offer an apology. Because what he did today was actually wrong. And even if I rose to my feet and clarified it, he still doubled down. I don't know what the M ember is trying to accomplish , what he wants to accomplish. But he failed miserably. And what he actually did was wrong. It was immature. It was offensive. And, Mr. Speaker, I am demanding an apology.
SPEAKER’S RULING
APOLOGY DEMANDED FOR MP’S LOW LEVEL OF RESPECT IN THE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, MP. Before I acknowledge any other M ember on their feet , I think this is an ample time to address this matter —not just for tonight , but for how we perform in this House going forward. There have been occasions in this H ouse where comments …
Thank you, MP. Before I acknowledge any other M ember on their feet , I think this is an ample time to address this matter —not just for tonight , but for how we perform in this House going forward. There have been occasions in this H ouse where comments have come from both sides of the House that have been below the belt . There are comments that have come that have been personally directed at individuals in a sly off -the-cuff way , and sometimes more direct. We see tonight the impact that it has on us personally when a M ember gets up as emotional as the M ember was just now , and how the comment affected him. I'm not singling him out. And I'm not singling out the comment that was made today. My point here is that this isn't the first time. This isn't the first time. It's the first time that a Member has risen and put the emotion behind it that we saw tonight. But I'm sure if we go back and think of other occasions when this has happened, the person who was receiving that probably felt just as emotional as the Member who spoke tonight felt. And I don’t care what side of the floor you are on, we are all human. We all sacrifice ourselves to be here in the best interest of those we represent —which 1728 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly is Bermuda. No matter what side of the House you sit on. If we are going to continue in the best interest of Bermuda, we need to ensure that no one else who sits in this House feels like that Member felt just now. No one. That means each of us ha s the control to correct that by what comes out of our mouths —our mouths. So, when you speak in this House going forward, let this incident today and the M ember ’s emotion just now turn a new page in this C hamber. I don't care who speaks. Let it be a new page turned that from now on we respect the fact that it's a human being that we're talking to. It's a human being we're making accusations against. It's a human being who has feelings and has family who has to listen to the stuff that's been said to him about their mother or their father. That's who were hi tting; not just individual, but his family . His children have to listen to that. Your children have to listen to that. And you know , if someone was saying that to your child, how you would react in defence of your child? Don't put any of us in that position going forward from here. Let's understand what is expected of us in the real sense of deco rum of how we should conduct ourselves. And let this be an example. I'm going to do something different tonight. You asked me to formally ask the M ember to retract. I'm not going to do that. I'm going to ask the Member to be a big enough individual to have a private retraction with you personally. Because I think at this point, the ac-countability is on us individually —us individually. I shouldn't sit here . . . have to stand here and be that type of policeman on how you use the tone to address each other in a way that's going to be negative to the individual. That shouldn't be what my job is here. My job is to make sure you follow the proper procedures of how we conduct the business. But not personal attacks. Yes, I have to do that. But the point is today, I shouldn't have to do it going forward because we've seen the result of personal attacks. We have seen the result. And I'm not just singling out the Honourable Member who just spoke because I'm sure, as I stated just now, every one of us who has been on the receiving end has felt the way he has felt. Every one of us. Let's not let it continue from here going forward. Does any other Member wish to speak , or are we going to close tonight? Minister Darrell.
Hon. Owen Darrell: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And, Mr. Speaker, I must admit that the motion to adjourn speech that I am going to bring this evening is one that I was actually going to develop and save for the final sitting of the House. But following on with the words of my colleague I think it's fit ting that I bring it this evening. And I will leave next week for another time. The Speaker: Let me just caution every Member. Let me just caution every Member. Just take a seat for a moment. Take a seat. I just spoke to this. Please don't go down that road again. No, no, and I'm just saying, you said based on what just happened you want to continue on from there, basically. That's the interpretation I got. Hon. Owen Darrell: I'm going somewhere totally different.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay. So, I'm asking all Members. This matter has just been dealt with. Move on from it. Okay? No, no, you said based on what happened. So, I'm just making sure that you are not going down that road. Okay? Continue. Hon. Owen Darrell: Mr. Speaker, following on some of …
The SpeakerThe SpeakerOkay — Hon. Owen Darrell: I think it's fitting to give my motion to adjourn speech this evening. And that is on the topic of service.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerMm-hmm. PUBLIC SERVANTS AND THOSE WHO SERVE ON BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND HELPING ORGANISATIONS THANKED FOR GOING THE EXTRA MILE IN SERVING THEIR COUNTRY Hon. Owen Darrell: Mr. Speaker, as my colleague mentioned that he had been in public service for 21 years, I started doing some quick math on my …
Mm-hmm.
PUBLIC SERVANTS AND THOSE WHO SERVE ON BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND HELPING ORGANISATIONS THANKED FOR GOING THE EXTRA MILE IN SERVING THEIR COUNTRY
Hon. Owen Darrell: Mr. Speaker, as my colleague mentioned that he had been in public service for 21 years, I started doing some quick math on my fingers. And I was like, oh, wow! It's 23 years for me, starting at two of the Island's high schools, then being asked to come ov er and assist in another role, and then being appointed to a couple of other roles, and here I am.
[Inaudible interjection]
Hon. Owen Darrell: Yes, I'll put that in the education sphere. But this motion to adjourn about service is not about Owen Darrell. It is about the individuals who put themselves forward to serve on government boards and committees. And you ask, Well, why , now, do you want to talk about this ? It's because, as you know, most of these boards and committees every year, one of the roles of a minister is to review the boards and committees, reappoint, and ask if there's anyone else that would like to assist the government in bringing any
Bermuda House of Assembly advice or any of their skill sets to assist the running of the government. And to essentially serve their committee. And as I prepared to (as most ministers do) review my boards and look over my boards, I asked my office, I said, C an I please have the files of all the boards? And they said, M inister, do you want to review them all? I said, Yes . They said, Are you sure, Minister? You have 25 boards that come under your M inistry . I said, Y es, I'll look at every single one of them. And it was at that point that I realised that just in my Ministry alone, that's over 250 people who take it upon themselves, whether it be on weekdays or once a month or a couple of times a month or whenever, to put themselves forward and serve in the capacity of being on a board [or] committee. Now, as I learned from a former colleague who is no longer in this House, he made it a point (And I served on one of his boards at one point.), and he said, If anyone asks to be on my board, the first thing I do is ask to meet with them. And when I actually sit down and meet with these individuals, I hear their passion and I ask, ‘Well, why is it that you want to be on this board?’ And I read through their expression of interest forms. And almost every single one of them start with, ‘I have a skill set, I h ave an interest, and I want to serve my community , or I want to serve my country .’ Now, some boards have many individuals. They're very popular. And some boards, you have to go out and ask people, Well, I think you're happy to be here. But then when you dig down a little bit, you say, Well, do these people want to be on boards for a pay cheque? And the majority of my boards, Mr. Speaker, and most of us would know this, based on the laws and the remuneration of these boards, most are only getting $50 a meeting. Which is, if you're meeting once a month, it is $50 a month. And by the end of the year, that's not much. In my particular Ministry there is a group of boards called the parish councils. And I was shocked, as I met with many of the parish council members, that they said, Well, what we do, Minister, is we take our stipend, our payment, and at the end of the year we donate it back to the parish council so that these parish councils could put on seniors' teas for seniors, so that they can just scrape together a couple of dollars to support young people in their parish, to send them off to university. And some of them buy decorations for Cup Match. If you go down to Somerset and you go to St. George's. And I said, You know what? These are the individuals that do this for service. I had my first opportunity to be on a board in 2010 when the Honourable (then the Honourable) Terry Lister actually asked me. [He said] I'm the Minister of Transport . What board would you like to be on? I said, I've never been on a board. He said, H ere's a list ; take a look at it . I showed the list to one of my mates, and he said, Hey, you want to be on the Ports Authority Board. I said, Why? Well, I don't know . . . Ports Authority? He said, Yes, because every year they go on the cruise ship and you have breakfast . I said, Okay , great . I signed up to be on the Ports Authority Board. But I will tell you this, Mr. Speaker. It was once I got on that board that I was able to see how the Department of Marine and Ports (at that time) worked. I was able to dig into things such as the marine (What do you call them?) . . . moorings (yes, moori ngs) and, you know, different marine plannings and stuff that you go in. And not only is it service, but it is a great opportunity for individuals to really learn and dig in and advise at the same time and also learn what the government is about and what i t's doing. So, then I just did a little bit more research. And there are well over 100 boards and committees that individuals around this community can sign up for. And I would like to commend the Premier, because there was something that I saw done a couple of years ago that I had never seen done before in another capacity. He said, What I want you to do is send out some communication to the general public so that they can fill out an expression of interest to be on these boards. And what that does is increase the reach of the individuals in this country that we can bring in to inti-mately serve their country, their community, or an area of their enjoyment or expertise. And I know that that link and that opportunity is going to come out again soon. And I just want to say first and foremost, again, thank you to those who are already serving. Thank you to those who are going to continue to serve. And thank you to those who are going to come behind them and carry on the important work of the government. Now, just the other day in the press, Mr. Speaker, you would have seen that there was another committee that I rolled out. And it was the National Entertainment and Events Committee. We went through and we put a couple of people on the board. And, you know, in my thought I said, Well, this is a newer [committee] . It's not that serious of a [committee] . And, you know, let's put it out and see who we get . And in that first meeting, Mr. Speaker, when I walked in and I saw the individuals sitting around the table and just the excitement . . . and I had a quote here, but I can't find it. But the excitement of those members. Many who had never been on a board or committee before [said], Wow, we are so honoured to be asked by the government to serve in a different ca-pacity . It actually sent chills up my spine. And to see I think the chair of the committee put something on social 1730 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly media recently. And I didn't realise at the time of making those appointments how much it meant to individuals to actually be asked to come in and serve their community. So, I want to say thank you to those individuals. I know there are over 250 in my Ministry who serve on boards and committees. And if I do the quick math, then that is over 1,000- plus people who are on boards and committees who continue to serve and advise their respective ministers for the betterment of this country. And I want to say, especially at this time of year as in-dividuals are coming to the end of one term and maybe going to another, I want to say thank you. Your advice that you give is much respe cted. If I may, Mr. Speaker, I would like to just read that quote that came from one of the committee members who was recently appointed, if I may.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerGo ahead. Hon. Owen Darrell: It says, I am honoured to serve. (That's how it starts.) I'm incredibly proud to share that I've been appointed as the chair of the Bermuda National Events and Entertainment Committee. It's more than just a new role. It's a calling to help shape the …
Go ahead.
Hon. Owen Darrell: It says, I am honoured to serve. (That's how it starts.) I'm incredibly proud to share that I've been appointed as the chair of the Bermuda National Events and Entertainment Committee. It's more than just a new role. It's a calling to help shape the fu-ture of Bermuda's cultural and creative landscape. We have de ep gratitude for the journey that has brought me here. From working in other sectors I see this as an opportunity to build something lasting for our community and for our economy. Bermuda has the talent. We have the stories. And now with the right collaboration, we have a chance to reimagine how events and entertainment can powerfully reflect who we are and what we can become. It finishes like this : Over the coming months, our committee will be listening. It will be collaborating. It will be building. This isn't just about fulfilling a calen-dar, but it's about creating an ecosystem that supports local creatives, attracts global attention, and elevates Bermuda's brand through unforgettable experiences. And it says, Let's make this more than events . I read that quote, Mr. Speaker, because I came across it by chance the other day, and I was like, Wow. I never knew that service to some meant so much. So, I want to say thank you. And, Mr. Speaker, before I sit down I'm going to do this. And my father always used to say, Y ou're not supposed to thank people for doing their jobs . But I'm going to say this. Because, as we know, this evening there was a very large event down on the eastern end of the Island. It has become a huge part of Bermuda's cultural calendar around this time. And I'm talking about the [Bermuda National Trust] Christmas Walkabout. And I went for the first time a couple of years ago, and I could not believe how long it took me to get down there. And then I talked to other people and they said, Well, you got it all wrong. You have to leave work at three o'clock to get down to St. George's in time if you want to get there at a decent hour. I said, Well, that's ludicrous. So honestly, I was sitting one day in my office, and I said, Well, the Walkabout's coming . I'm in the House. I probably won't be getting there, so I don't have to worry about it. But then I said, You know what? What if we took a ferry and left St. George's around work time and see if we could beat all the traffic and get down there? Do you know what the first thing said to me was? Well, Minister, I don't think you could do it because of the weather . I don't think you could do it because we're going to have to get staff to work it, and I'm not sure if the union is going to be on board with it . And I said, B ut what if they are? What if the weather is good, and what if it alleviates some of the traffic that we have going to the east? I said, well, we will ask . And I want to say thank you to the Department of Marine and Ports because at 5:15 I asked someone, What is the turnout looking like for this ferry? And they said, It is standing room only. Immediately, Mr. Speaker, I panicked. I said, Oh, people are going to be angry because there are going to be some left at the dock . And I said, I want the stats. I need to know. The next message I got was, Minister, there are 370 people that have gotten on the ferry ; 45 were left at the dock.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberWow. Hon. Owen Darrell: My heart sank. I said, How am I going to explain that we left people on the dock? I guess I didn't think about it right. Thirty minutes later you would have seen me step out. It was a voice note from the MP of the …
Wow.
Hon. Owen Darrell: My heart sank. I said, How am I going to explain that we left people on the dock? I guess I didn't think about it right. Thirty minutes later you would have seen me step out. It was a voice note from the MP of the area who said, Minister, as one ferry was leaving, the “Serenity ” was pulling up to take the additional 45 people to St. George's. [Desk thumping]
Hon. Owen Darrell: Now, I can tell you this. When we initially talked about the additional budget or what type of logistics were going to go in, there was never any talk about an additional ferry or an overflow. But I can tell you in this theme of service, Mr. Speaker, that the staff, the men and women, the ferry pilots, the deckhands, the . . . I don't know the correct name, but the individuals that collect tokens.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberToken collectors. [Laughter] Hon. Owen Darrell: Thank you. Bermuda House of Assembly All got on board in the name of serving their community —after hours —to make sure that this was a success. Now, I didn't alleviate everyone's traffic problems. I've seen some issues about that. But I can tell …
Bermuda House of Assembly All got on board in the name of serving their community —after hours —to make sure that this was a success. Now, I didn't alleviate everyone's traffic problems. I've seen some issues about that. But I can tell you this. Over 450 people were able to get to a destination on time, stress free, because of the additional service that was put in by the men and women of Marine and Ports.
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberAnd they are back into Hamilton now. Hon. Owen Darrell: And they are on their way back —
An Hon. Member An Hon. MemberThey are back. Hon. Owen Darrell: Oh, they're back. So, a ferry ride that I told was going to take an hour seems to be even more efficient than that. So now, there is a group of people, over 400, that had a wonderful enjoyment at the eastern end of …
They are back.
Hon. Owen Darrell: Oh, they're back. So, a ferry ride that I told was going to take an hour seems to be even more efficient than that. So now, there is a group of people, over 400, that had a wonderful enjoyment at the eastern end of the Island. I've already gotten thank you’s from the mayor and others. And that is what it looks like, whether it be where I started, boards and committees, whether it be public officers who go the extra mile. Mr. Speaker, it is this time of year that you have many helping organisations that take their service lev-els up to another level to make sure that those in need are taken care of. So, as I started, Mr. Speaker, I didn't intend to bring this this evening. But as my colleague did touch on service, I want it to be highlighted at this time of year that there are many —some that are recognised, some that are not —that go the extra mile to serve the people of this country. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, MP. Would any other Member wish to — MP Tucker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerYou have the floor. UNPAID CHILD SUPPORT AND COURT MAINTENANCE ORDERS
Ms. Robin TuckerI do recognise that everybody is tired and wants to go home, so I promise I won't be long. As I mentioned earlier, I've been speaking about feral chickens for three years. And I'm happy to say that there has been some movement. So, I'm hopeful that continuing this conversation …
I do recognise that everybody is tired and wants to go home, so I promise I won't be long. As I mentioned earlier, I've been speaking about feral chickens for three years. And I'm happy to say that there has been some movement. So, I'm hopeful that continuing this conversation I think that it's a good thing that . . . I don't know if you've ever heard the saying that people in Bermuda have a two- week attention span. So, you hear something and then, you know, it has your full attention until the next thing happens. And then two weeks later people forget and then they move on. I wasn't blessed with a two- week attention span. And when things are extremely important to me, that I deem particularly important, I feel that I am very patient and I will keep talking about it until we get some movement. There are a lot of issues that I will continue to bring up. But one that is particularly near and dear to me that I want to talk about tonight is the issue of unpaid child support. Mr. Speaker, we know that there are some serious issues as it relates to custodial parents being able to get their maintenance payments. It's not always just a matter of non- custodial parents not paying, and I do recognise that there are certain circumstances in which that doesn't happen. I have spoken to women, and I have spoken to fathers as well, who feel as though paternity may be a question, and so they are hesitant to pay. That's a separate . . . in my mind that is an important issue to address. I don't think that that's neces-sarily a government thing, although there could be some guardrails to put around that. To park that for maybe another time, but more importantly right now the low -hanging fruit in my mind, which I cannot understand why we are not addressing in a more assertive way, is helping to ensure that our custodial parents receive the child support pay ments that they are supposed to get. Once the courts have said that the custodial parent, and in most cases it's women . . . but in some cases there are men also that are owed child support payments. And they are not get-ting them for whatever reason. Now, there are, as I said, many reasons. One key reason is because the courts are understaffed as it relates to dealing with and making sure that those monies are collected. This has been an issue that has been going on for years. For years. And why there has been no real appetite to make sure that it is corrected is be-yond me. We have outdated systems that are still in place in our courts, and in our court systems, I should say, that are unable to appropriately track those funds. In my mind the things that are important to you, you pay attention to. So, as we talk about helping our people, let's focus on helping the people that are not collecting or not receiving their child support payments and the stress, the mental stress that it has on custodial parents who are trying to make sure that they feed their chil-dren, that they hous e their children, that they clothe their children. In the cases that I've spoken to, I spoke to one parent who is having an issue right now who has been reaching out to everybody that she can possibly think of because her child's father is overseas. And the courts here are doing work to help. But, again, s he's having to constantly chase and chase and chase and chase for, guess what, Mr. Speaker, $13 a week, because she has been awarded $50 [a month]. In her 1732 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly particular case, the father is almost $44,000 in arrears, and that didn't start when he got overseas. There is a fault in this system. I've spoken to another parent who was owed just over $100,000, and she said that eventually the stress and the pressure and the mental strain was too much, so she gave up. She let the father go because she couldn't do it anymore. I've spoken to another parent who is in a similar situation. I've spoken to a parent recently who talked to me not just about the fixed amount that she's owed, but she also talked about the fact that the courts are not really paying attention to the fact t hat while she's getting a fixed amount it doesn't take into account that summer camps are coming up and she's got to find money for that, that special events that her children have to attend by virtue of school things and whatnot, school clothes are needed, the whole nine . . . that payment doesn't take any of that into consideration. So, she gets her little bit of money, but she still has to find additional money. Whereby we have the non-custodial parent who is travelling, who is buying their house, who is living their best life, who has moved on doing their thing. And I'm not talking about circumstances in these most recent particular situations. I'm talking about where there is a paternity issue. These are parents who know these are their children but decide that they're not going to pay for whatever reason. It's unacceptable, especially in circumstances where we do have laws in place which need to be re-visited to bring them up to present day. But in circum-stances where we have laws in place that are still insufficient, we don't have enough staff. What? In the meantime, we have parents, custodial parents, going to Financial Assistance because they can't . . . they're under . . . they don't have enough resources to be able to survive. Not to mention, on the other side we have the . . . where fathers are saying things like, you know, the child's mother is travelling, or she's getting her nails done . Who cares if your child is getting food and a roof over their head and their school clothes and everything else that they need? Do your part. Mr. Speaker, one of the things that we have to really be mindful of as we ignore these types of problems is looking at it as just being a child maintenance issue, but not looking at the impact, the social impact that it has. And I'm telling you, Mr. Speaker, from my own experience, because I was the child for . . . so that people . . . I have heard people say that I have been bringing this up because I am just trying to make it political. I am telling you that my mother had me when she was 17 years old. My father wasn't much older. I was the child who had to make the phone call to my father while my mother was grumbling because she wouldn't talk to him. So, I had to because of the stress that she was dealing with. She was taking some of this stuff out on me. I don't mind saying it. It's the truth. And then I had to listen to my father when I was chasing him for the child support payment. I had to listen to my father complain to me because I was chasing him for stuff he ought to have done. This is the real life that people are living. So, when we look . . . when we consider that parents are not being held to account to pay for their children and ensure that their children are taken care of . . . because their children are not a bill. It's not something that you ought to even have the op-portunity to decide what you're going to do. In my mind, when you have been issued a . . . the court has decided or has agreed that you will have to pay, that should be an automatic garnishment. And let's be clear, Mr. Speaker, it's not just people who are on hourly wages or low wages or whatever, because there are some people in IB who are not paying either. Now, what we ought to be doing is automatic garnishments. And those garnishments should be tied to social insurance numbers so that they are portable. I also know that there are stories where fathers, in the cases that I know of, I don't know if it's happened with mothers in this situation, but I do know that . . . I mean, I have . . . I work in HR. And I have had situations where I've had people say to me that they had garnishments and they hadn't been portable. So, in other words, people haven't always told their bosses when they move jobs, so that garnishment doesn't just move with them. We have to close those gaps. We have to. Because it's not just a situation whereby people are . . . these situations are isolated. So, the mental stress, the mental strain, the pressure that the parents are under has a spillover effect. The additional peop le who are applying for financial assistance who wouldn't necessarily normally do that in a situation where they were getting adequately compensated, and in circumstances where they didn't have to pay out extra. So, Mr. Speaker, these conditions that I'm talking about, the stress, the mental anguish and all of that, has a serious impact on our social fabric. We talk about wanting to change and improve our society and the social responsibilities and the impacts and all of that. But we have to make some tangible impact, and by doing so we can actually touch some of the areas. So, Mr. Speaker, to my mind we must staff those courts so that the people who are going out to find the parents who are not paying are able to do so because they're adequately resourced. We have to have a system. And I do know, it's not lost on me, I read the Judicial Annual Report 2024 that talked about a new system. But as far as I can see and from inquiries that I have made that is not necessarily (maybe not in the first phase anyway) to address the court maintenance issues. Not immediately. As I said, Mr. Speaker, I'm going to take my seat. But just to reiterate, because this is a vitally important situation, we have to make sure that we alleviate the stresses and the pressures on custodial parents and make non- custodial parents deliver on their
Bermuda House of Assembly responsibility to take care of their children. It's not for the government to have to take care of people's children. It is for parents to do so. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerDoes any other Member wish to make a contribution. Thank you, Member. Does any other Member? Nobody moving? Premier — GOVERNMENT PROVIDES UPDATE ON QUARRY OPERATIONS AND ASPHALT PLANT SHIPMENTS Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I noted your admonishment earlier, and therefore I …
Does any other Member wish to make a contribution. Thank you, Member. Does any other Member? Nobody moving? Premier —
GOVERNMENT PROVIDES UPDATE ON QUARRY OPERATIONS AND ASPHALT PLANT SHIPMENTS Hon. E. David Burt: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I noted your admonishment earlier, and therefore I will not go back to this substantive matter of discussion, save and except for sharing matters for the public record so items can be clarified. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful for your admonition and your intervention reminding people that we all have families, that words matter, that things matter, and the fact is when people represent the country internationally the comments that are made without bac king or other things can be detrimental to all of us. And if we care about all of us, we want to make sure we do that. And statements such as (which I'm trying to tread carefully) . . . can imply illegal activity on behalf of members of the Government, and that is not helpful for anyone, Mr. Speaker. And I'll just leave it at that.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you. Hon. E. David Burt: What I will say, Mr. Speaker, is I will read a 4press statement that was issued by the Government of Bermuda on the 6th of November, 2025, for the record, because a lot of people will take WhatsApp forwards, but they won't take what …
Thank you.
Hon. E. David Burt: What I will say, Mr. Speaker, is I will read a 4press statement that was issued by the Government of Bermuda on the 6th of November, 2025, for the record, because a lot of people will take WhatsApp forwards, but they won't take what has actually been said, and for the benefit of the Honourable Member, so he can understand what is taking place. The press statement [is titled], “Government Provides Update on Quarry Operations and Asphalt Plant Shipments.” It says, “ The Ministry of Public Works and Environment today advised that the shipment of the new asphalt plant has been delayed by approximately three months to allow an independent assessment to be completed regarding the potential relocation of the Government Quarry’s operations. “Earlier today, union partners and Ministry management met with Quarry staff to provide an up-date on this development and outline the next steps in the assessment process. “The Ministry emphasised that despite this delay, the existing asphalt plant remains operational, and Bermuda’s road paving and maintenance programme will continue as scheduled.”
4 The Royal Gazette 6 November 2025 It goes on to say, “Since 2016, the owners of the adjoining Rosewood Hotel have expressed interest in the Government’s Quarry property as part of its plans to expand hospitality operations. The Government has reviewed and respectfully declined all previous offers for the site. “Recently, the owners approached the Government requesting time to prepare one final proposal. The Government agreed only to permit an independent assessment to fully understand the cost and implications of relocating the Quarry’s operations. No negotiatio ns have taken place, and no agreement has been reached. “The Government has made clear that if any future proposal were determined to be in the best interest of Bermudians, the owners would be required to cover the full cost of relocating the Quarry’s operations and constructing modern, fit -for-purpose faciliti es. “Many of the Quarry’s existing buildings are outdated or in poor condition, and addressing them will require significant investment. “The Government will continue to ensure that all decisions protect the public interest and deliver value for the people of Bermuda.” That's the end of that, Mr. Speaker. I will say, this is what we do every single day. We work hard. And I expressed to the Deputy Premier who said that he left because he was so angry . . . I recognise that I've been doing this job for so long, I have had everything and been called everything but a child of God, that my skin is so thick I could be mistaken for Godzilla . . . that doesn't phase me. But I always have to remember, Mr. Speaker, that others are not me, and it does phase. And I thank you for the words which you said, and I sincerely hope that Honourable Members will take that into account. With that, Mr. Speaker, I look forward to returning back to the House Assembly next week on those particular matters to debate.
The SpeakerThe SpeakerThank you, Members, for your participation today. It's been a long day, but I hope it's been truly a learning exercise, not only in the matters that were discussed, but the intervention that was given later in the evening. We trust that we will all have a good weekend. Get …
Thank you, Members, for your participation today. It's been a long day, but I hope it's been truly a learning exercise, not only in the matters that were discussed, but the intervention that was given later in the evening. We trust that we will all have a good weekend. Get rested up, because we're back next Friday rather than the Friday in between. And we look forward to seeing each and every Member come here next week will-ing to participate in the manner that the people expect us to conduct ourselves in. With that said, the House now stands adjourned.
[Gavel]
1734 5 December 2025 Official Hansard Report
Bermuda House of Assembly [At 10:10 pm, the House stood adjourned until 10:00 am, Friday, 12 December 2025.]