Official Senate Minutes November 07, 2014
Electronic Version
Senator the Hon. Carol A.M. Bassett, JP President
Disclaimer: The electronic version of this Official Senate Minutes is for informational purposes only.
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BERMUDA Senator Vic Eugene Robert Calvin Ball then made and subscribed to the Oath of PROCEEDINGS OF THE SENATE Allegiance before Senate, as administered by Senator the Hon. the President. SESSION OF 2014-2015 Madam President congratulated Senator Ball on his appointment, and welcomed him to the Senate. No. 1
FRIDAY, 7th NOVEMBER, 2014 10:33a.m.
Senate met at 10:30a.m. in Senator the Hon. M.M. Fahy moved accordance with the Proclamation published that the Senate do now adjourn to 10:55a.m. by His Excellency the Governor and and re-assemble in the Senate Chamber for Commander-in-Chief in the Official Gazette on the reading of the Throne Speech - which Wednesday, 29th October, 2014. was agreed to.
PRESENT: At 11:00a.m. His Excellency the Senator the Hon. Mrs. C.M. BASSETT, J.P., Governor entered the Senate Chamber, and PRESIDENT Members of the Honourable House of Senator Mrs. J.E. DILLAS-WRIGHT, Assembly having been summoned by Black M.B.E., J.P., VICE-PRESIDENT Rod and being therefore in attendance, His Senator J.S. JARDINE, J.P. Excellency was then pleased to open the Senator the Hon. M.M. FAHY, J.P. Session with the following Speech:- Senator Mrs. L.A. WOOLRIDGE, J.P. Senator Ms. A.L. SWAN, J.P. SPEECH FROM THE THRONE Senator J.C. BARON, J.P. Senator V.E.R.C. BALL, J.P. Madame President and Members of the Senator D.V.S. RABAIN, J.P. Senate, Senator Ms. R.D.L. MING, J.P. Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Senator M.G. DANIELS, J.P. Assembly,
------History is replete with examples of people and their governments facing challenges that tested and revealed what they are made of. 10:30a.m. The United States of America showed The following Message was received innovation, energy and optimism in from His Excellency the Governor and weathering the Great Depression. Commander-in-Chief:- The United Kingdom demonstrated courage, (No. 1) composure and defiance when it stood alone Mr. George Fergusson against the might of Nazi Germany. Governor and Commander-in-Chief And South Africans, following the lead of I have the honour to inform the Nelson Mandela, turned the other cheek to Senate that I will deliver the Speech on the “work together” in their first post-Apartheid occasion of the Convening of Parliament at election. 11:00a.m. today, Friday, the 7th November, 2014 in the Senate Chambers. These countries survived and progressed because their people faced the challenge and Government House, came together for the greater good. 7th November, 2014.
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Bermuda today is facing its own distinct These are significant facts of life for Bermuda, challenges. reflecting a situation that is unacceptable and unsustainable, constituting a national The one-two punch of Tropical Storm Fay and challenge that must be confronted and Hurricane Gonzalo, coming just five days reversed. apart, formed a challenge Bermudians have proven over time that they are well prepared It is a challenge that involves everyone to meet — drawing on the wisdom of because the consequences involve everyone. ancestors and deep-rooted community spirit. How Bermudians respond as a people will have an impact on the future. In the storms’ aftermath, Bermudians did what we have always done to recover — Madame President and Members of the repairing the damage while reaching out to Senate those in need; working as a society of helping Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of hands to move the Island forward once more. Assembly The storms revealed the living character of Bermuda, anchored to qualities of composure, The Government is focused on actions to pragmatism, compassion and pride. stimulate economic recovery and build a new foundation of opportunity to help Bermudians These are qualities that matter, qualities a grow and prosper. society needs to face down the challenges that inevitably arise. It is pursuing a two-track strategy to grow the economy while imposing discipline on the Madame President and Members of the public purse. Senate Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of The primary aim is to invigorate the engines Assembly of the economy — principally tourism and international business — because of their There is another challenge confronting potential to improve the lives of more people Bermuda, and, unlike Fay and Gonzalo, it will more quickly than anything else. not move off on its own accord. It is an economic storm that poses a grim threat to To achieve this, the Government is working on Bermuda’s way of life. a broad front to rebuild investor confidence in the Island, opening new job and revenue- In the simplest terms, Bermuda is being tested creating opportunities and new pathways for by an economy no longer big enough to meet Bermudians to make a living. the needs of many Bermudians, and by cost and debt pressures that, if left unchecked, This is the context within which reforms to threaten the Island’s solvency and financial immigration, changes in corporate law, independence. negotiations for new hotel developments and The situation is deeply challenging. the pursuit of the America’s Cup can be seen.
Government deficits in the past two fiscal The Government is also bringing forward years added nearly $600 million to the changes to halt the unsustainable cost of national debt. government through strict spending controls, new efficiencies, contract negotiations and Interest on the debt this year totals $113.5 public reform. million, with debt service charges costing an average of $447,000 a day. The strategic objective is to expand possibilities for people to get a job, support Economic hardship is widely felt, with their families and pursue new opportunities, Government this year setting aside an while using the resources generated to unprecedented $46.9 million in financial strengthen community life through assistance to help people in need. programmes that support better health, safer
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streets, effective schools and financial in construction worker income of balance; in short, to build an Island that works 9.4%. for its people. • The number of building permit The Government’s programme for the year applications in 2014 to date is 30% ahead, therefore, will continue to focus on the more than the 2013 total. need to grow the economy and stabilize • Interest in hotel development has surged government finances while implementing a with work underway at Pink Beach and broad range of commonsense, progressive measures to improve the quality of life for all the Hamilton Princess and with plans in Bermudians. progress or under negotiation at Ariel
Sands, Morgan’s Point, Grand Atlantic, Bermudians can expect social support South Beach and the St. George’s hotel programmes to continue, new protections for project. the vulnerable, reforms to strengthen government accountability, worker retraining • Crime remains at its lowest levels since initiatives, the end of conscription and reform 2000. of marijuana laws. Progress is being made, but it is going to take Economic recovery will continue to be the community-wide effort to achieve a level of national priority. Without recovery, there can recovery that reaches into the lives of those be no broad-based human recovery from the who are suffering. setbacks of recent years. In his 1961 Inaugural Address, US President Progress in the form of jobs and rising John F. Kennedy spoke to questions that all incomes will come as economic activity picks Bermudians should consider going forward. up; building on the strong body of evidence that shows the Island is moving in the right He said to the American people: “Ask not what direction. For example, your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country”. • Bermuda’s Gross Domestic Product — the measure of economic activity on The President was urging the American the Island — increased by almost one people to think about their civic responsibility per cent in 2013, the first growth in — that the state needs the support of its five years. citizens just as citizens need the support of • New insurance company registrations the state. for 2013 showed a remarkable 72% increase over 2012, reflecting strong The circumstances confronting Bermuda increases in both traditional and today require the support of all who can help. alternative risk transfer sectors. The Government is confident Bermudians will • The 16% growth in international rise to the occasion not just because of the company registrations in 2013 was qualities manifested in the aftermath of Fay the highest number of new exempt and Gonzalo, but because there is a clear companies added since 2008. The opportunity to use these tough times to re- resurgence continued in the first half shape the way people live and work together, of 2014 with an 11% increase over to forge new understandings, new the first half of 2013 followed by a connections and new bonds across the rise in commercial property rentals. community; to make sure the road to recovery and renewal narrows the distance between • Also in the first half of 2014, the value of people. new construction starts was up more than 25%, with a follow-on increase To get there, Bermudians will need to exercise faith, collaboration and trust — faith to
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overcome the uncertainty and fear brought on And to Bermuda’s grocers, in particular by significant challenge; collaboration for Lindo’s, Supermart and The Marketplace, the solutions to issues that impact people in Government applauds their commitment to different ways; and trust because nothing ease the cost of groceries with 10% discount meaningful can be achieved without it. Wednesdays from November 2013 to November 2014. Thousands of customers The Government understands that trust will respect and appreciate them for it. These be a big step for many, but the seriousness of grocers have agreed to extend the discount the challenges confronting the Island is such regime until 15 February 2015 to help that it will be necessary for Bermudians to families through the Christmas and the New exercise the benefit of the doubt, to trust in Year period. The Government takes this the process, trust in each other and make opportunity to urge its continuation through headway towards a better way of life. the year, for the greater good.
Let there be no mistake, the long road to These are a few of many opportunities that recovery will be made shorter if Bermudians people and organizations can support to help walk it together. people in need. More must be done because the hardship is felt every day by many. Bermudians have already shown they are willing to step up and play their part for the The greatest pressure is on the family, with greater good. Since the start of 2013, incomes insufficient to meet the cost of basic unionized workers agreed to pay reductions living, with out-of-work parents struggling to and furlough days, Cabinet Ministers took a provide and with the needs of children falling 10% pay cut, grocers kicked in with 10% through household cracks. discount days and BELCO introduced a new discount regime to benefit lower consumption The Government has strengthened and customers. expanded the network of support to meet people’s needs, including financial assistance, The Government believes that people and business skills training and loan support for organizations not on the frontlines of small businesses and unemployed community support can join with those who Bermudians turning to entrepreneurial are to say: “We are with you. We can help.” endeavours.
Opportunities to demonstrate solidarity and Bermuda is also blessed by the work of many support are all around. Specific sectors of the caring and concerned residents who are community can step forward to set the committing their time and their skills to help example. ease the pressures.
Bermuda’s accounting firms, for example, can But the situation calls for more, and so the support the good work of community clubs. Government takes this opportunity to urge Paying for their operations is a continuing people, who have yet to get involved, to challenge, in particular the cost of any audit or commit to the life of the community and review required by the Charities Act. extend a helping hand wherever possible. Accounting firms can adopt a club to help them in this regard, freeing up precious Madame President and Members of the dollars to support their worthy operations. Senate Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Bermuda’s banks can address the island-wide Assembly need to increase the flow of credit to help reflate the economy, providing Bermudians The success of both arms of the Government’s with the support they need for their business economic strategy is vital for improving the ventures, their educational ambitions and quality of life. their dreams of home ownership. The Government is encouraged by the gathering signs of recovery and by positive
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change in its fiscal position, with the first half Phase 2 of the $90 million Hamilton Princess of the current fiscal year showing a 6% redevelopment is underway, creating more reduction in spending and a 1.1% rise in than 250 construction jobs at the historic revenue. Hamilton Harbour property and at South Beach in Southampton where the Princess If current trajectories hold, the Financial Year Beach Club will be built. With Phase 2 2014/15 will be the year in which the Island, construction completed by summer 2015, the after years of recession, finally moves from hotel will be looking to hire 115 more people decline to real growth. to staff its operations.
This macro-economic shift, however, has not Bermuda’s pursuit of the America’s Cup is yet had an appreciable effect on quality of life another example of the Government working across the Island. The Government will to achieve economic growth and job creation. continue to put in place confidence-building To that end, the Government will introduce policies for broad economic recovery, but legislation in this session to establish an there clearly is some distance to go before the America’s Cup Act — legislation that will be turnaround generates the level of activity that required for an America’s Cup World Series enables out-of-work and underemployed Racing Event in 2015, and, if Bermuda is Bermudians to regain their role as providers ultimately selected, to host the America’s Cup for their families and dependents. Finals in June 2017. The work to revive the Island’s economy is, first and foremost, for their benefit. In the event Bermuda has the privilege of hosting the Cup Finals, experience from Madame President and Members of the former host venues indicates it will have a Senate powerful impact on our economy over the Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of next three years, attracting worldwide Assembly attention and generating jobs, investment and revenue across multiple sectors including, Growing Bermuda’s economy is a Government hospitality, construction, transport, security, priority. retail, wholesale, real estate and telecommunications. It will highlight Attracting new investment, whether it be in Bermuda’s heritage as a maritime sailing the form of hotel development, new company destination and give our tourism product formations or the America’s Cup, is the key to unprecedented exposure. generating sufficient jobs and business growth to meet the needs of Bermudians. Hosting an event of this magnitude on
Bermuda’s shores will require teamwork, The Government continues to work on support and participation from all spheres of multiple levels to build the conditions and the our community and a continuation of the confidence to bring about infusions of new spirit and dedication of the team of private investment. The goal is sustainable economic sector volunteers, civil servants and other growth and job creation. professionals who have worked tirelessly
together to advance Bermuda’s bid into the In the hotel sector, a groundswell of investor final two. The America’s Cup Event Authority interest in new developments is translating is expected to make a decision between into job and career opportunities for Bermuda and San Diego before the end of the Bermudians. year. Regardless of the final decision,
Bermuda will benefit considerably by hosting Groundbreaking is set to take place next week the World Series Event in 2015. at Ariel Sands, the start of an $85 million cottage colony development that will create Madame President and Members of the between 50 and 70 jobs during construction. Senate
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Assembly
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The Government is committed to integrity of the computing and strengthening the Island’s reputation as the telecommunications systems is more vital preferred domicile for a variety of than ever. The Department of E-commerce international business activities. And in will use the year ahead to research best partnership with the Bermuda Business practices for the adoption of a new Development Agency as well as the private customized cyber-security framework for sector, it has been working to diversify and Bermuda and complete their work on data improve the Island’s business potential in a privacy and protection legislation. number of areas including fund and asset management, high net worth and trust The Government, in keeping with its strategic services, and insurance-linked securities. goals to ensure a secure supply of energy for the Island and to reduce energy costs, fossil Accordingly, the Government will introduce fuel dependency and greenhouse gas legislation to create a new limited liability emissions, will use the year ahead to achieve corporate vehicle, to be known as the regulatory reform and promote alternate Bermuda Limited Liability Company (LLC). In energy use. the private equity arena, the LLC is well established in the United States and coming A new Energy Act will be introduced to into greater use in competing jurisdictions. transfer responsibility for regulating the The global recognition of the LLC and its energy sector from the Ministry of Education administrative ease and flexibility will and Economic Development and the Energy strengthen Bermuda’s competitiveness. Commission to the Regulatory Authority of Bermuda. This will provide greater clarity and The Ministry will also introduce amendments scope to the regulatory decision-making to the Partnership Act 1902, the Exempted process, an increased level of competition Partnerships Act 1992 and the Limited between power producers, equitable Partnership Act 1883, enabling Bermuda to interconnection to the grid and the compete effectively with other jurisdictions development of a robust licensing regime. by providing greater flexibility relating to partnership conversions, re-domiciling, In the coming year, the Government will seek registering of charges and partners’ powers. proposals for using the ‘finger’ peninsula at the airport as an ideal location for a large Amendments will be introduced to the utility scale solar photovoltaic facility. Government Fees Regulations to establish new fees for Bermuda’s Radio Frequency And on 13 November, the Department will co- Spectrum. host an Energy Summit that will discuss Bermuda’s energy future, the reform of the The amendments are in keeping with a new energy regulatory environment, the spectrum policy on the allocation, use and diversification of Bermuda’s energy mix, pricing of radio frequencies for wireless including the introduction of Liquefied telecommunications providers, such as cell Natural Gas (LNG) and measures to address phone companies. energy conservation and efficiency. Madame President and Members of the The policy has been designed to ensure fair Senate access to the spectrum’s frequency bands for Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of all existing and new service providers. The Assembly new fee structure was designed to encourage greater competition amongst service The Government is acutely aware that plans providers, leading to customer benefits such to control public sector spending have as enhanced network speed and reliability generated uncertainty and fear amongst and more rapid introduction of new mobile public sector employees. products to the market. These feelings are understandable. Public With the ever-increasing reliance on online sector workers were duly hired by the services in daily life, the protection and
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government and the need to reform the civil The Government will also bring forward service has come about through no fault of amendments to various tax laws to strengthen their own. its debt collection capabilities. These changes will provide the additional resources The overarching reality that must be Government needs to aggressively reduce the addressed is that they are employed in an amount of money it is owed. organization that Bermuda can no longer afford to maintain at current levels. The facts The Government is considering the benefits of the situation are indisputable. and applicability of initiating a reverse mortgage programme for seniors. Finance Ministry figures show that the cost to run the government in Financial Year There are many elderly people in Bermuda 2013/14 produced a deficit of $333 million. who own their own homes — many valued at This year the deficit is expected to be $267 more than a million dollars — but who do not million. have the cash flow to maintain an adequate
lifestyle or to pay for rising healthcare costs. While the figures show that the Government, Reverse mortgages can be an option for with the cooperation of the Bermuda Trade people who want to turn substantial home Union Congress, has made headway on deficit equity into cash in order to ease these reduction, the situation requires deeper challenges. The Ministry is currently action. consulting with the Bermuda Bankers’
Association on this initiative and the The Government, consequently, will continue Government will report to the House of working with the BTUC to get under control a Assembly in due course. situation that presents a clear and present danger to the Island. Madame President and Members of the
Senate A working group comprised of Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of representatives of the Government and the Assembly BTUC as well as senior technical officers has been formed to identify opportunities to Banking remains an important foreign achieve a 5% savings on its operating budget exchange earning sector of the Bermuda for 2014/15. economy. The Government is concerned about
shrinkage in the banking sector, in terms of its In the meantime, the Government’s Public lending policies and employee numbers. The Bodies Reform Act will be deferred should Ministry of Finance, as a result, is examining collaborative efforts continue to achieve policy reforms to expand and diversify the budget reduction targets. banking sector and, by extension, Bermuda’s
foreign exchange earnings and the capacity Madame President and Members of the for job creation. Senate
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of The Government is currently in consultation Assembly with stakeholders for feedback on its reform
plans, which would involve amending the The Government will introduce amendments Banks and Deposit Companies Act 1999. The to the US-Bermuda Tax Convention Act 1986 Finance Minister will provide the House of and the International Cooperation (Tax Assembly with an update on the consultation. Information Exchange Agreements) Act 2005
(‘the TIEA Acts’) to ensure consistency, Madame President and Members of the transparency and compliance with new Senate international standards for the automatic Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of exchange of tax information. Assembly
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The protection of Bermuda’s economic more direct intervention tools in the case of a security through the development and troubled bank.” implementation of fair, transparent and predictable regulation is a core responsibility To address this recommendation, the of the Government and its relevant agencies. Government will bring forward legislation to To that end, the Government, in conjunction establish a special resolution regime for banks with the Bermuda Monetary Authority (BMA), licensed in Bermuda. will continue supporting Bermuda’s market competitiveness and development as a The purpose of this resolution is to address leading financial centre by bringing forward the situation where all or part of the business amendments, amongst others, the Money of a bank has encountered, or is likely to Service Business Regulations 2007 and the encounter, financial difficulties that cannot be Insurance Act 1978. In addition, the resolved by any other means. The Banking Government will enact legislation that will Special Resolution Regime Act 2014 will enable the BMA to intervene in the case of a establish a comprehensive bank insolvency troubled bank. framework that would meet international standards and operate independently of The growth of Money Service Businesses general insolvency law. globally has created new businesses in line with the changing electronic marketplace. Madame President and Members of the Over the past 18 months, the BMA has Senate received an increasing number of enquiries Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of from entrepreneurs representing payment Assembly services businesses. The Authority has been unable to license these businesses because the The Ministry of Home Affairs is working on a Money Service Businesses Regulations do not variety of fronts to facilitate economic provide sufficient details for appropriate recovery and maximize Bermudian oversight. participation in that recovery.
The amendments to the Money Service The Bermuda Economic Development Business Regulations 2007 will provide for Corporation plays a vital and busy role in that regulation of this evolving industry and allow mission. for the issuing of licences by the BMA. Between January and May, the Corporation The (re)insurance sector is one of the most met with 351 clients seeking business advice important business sectors for Bermuda. In and supported 46 small businesses with loan this regard, it is critical that the Bermuda guarantees of $2,282,885, enabling a further Monetary Authority regularly keep under $6,537,710 in bank financing approvals. review and update where appropriate, Bermuda’s insurance legislative framework in Within Economic Empowerment Zones, BEDC order to keep pace with major, insurance guarantee certificates supported more than related international developments. $250,000 in commercial bank financing to Accordingly, the Insurance Act 1978 is assist six new businesses and an existing proposed to be amended in 2015 (along with business, bringing 21 new jobs to the relevant and related legislation) in order for marketplace. Bermuda to continue to maintain a favourable business environment for (re)insurers to The Department of Workforce Development is thrive. another arm of Home Affairs supporting the development of Bermudians in the workplace The International Monetary Fund’s — assisting in résumé preparation, building “Assessment of Financial Sector Supervision qualifications through certification training and Regulation in Bermuda”, published in and sponsoring overseas training. 2008, and recommended that “legislation should be enacted to provide the BMA with
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The Ministry of Home Affairs will oversee new legislation consolidating seven labour laws opportunities for Bermudian workers when into one Act. This initiative will modernize the the new work permit policy comes into effect legislation infrastructure underlying labour on 1 December, requiring all employers law to make it more fair, more responsive and seeking work permits to advertise on its more inclusive. online jobs board. The Government will introduce legislation to The Department is also looking at Bermuda’s repeal the 1894 Pedlars Act and replace it future employment needs, developing The with a Vendors Act. The new legislation will National Training Plan as a tool to match make provisions for a tracking system to training needs with the job market over time. monitor expired pedlar licence permits, Part 1 of the Plan, which was completed improve oversight of pedlar licence permit earlier this year, produced an analysis of the holders and work permit holders receiving economy and its anticipated development pedlar licences. This initiative will also amend over the short and long term. Part 2 of the the Bermuda Economic Development Plan will focus on the development and Corporation Act 1980 to include regulations implementation of training and entry-level to govern vendors and vending. positions across industry sectors. Madame President and Members of the The Government sees the National Training Senate Plan helping Bermudian workers to anticipate Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of and meet the needs of the economy going Assembly forward, reducing reliance on overseas labour and helping sustain economic growth. The Government will complement and support the effective and important work of One of the Ministry’s main objectives is to the Bermuda Tourism Authority. In the streamline processes to stimulate economic coming Parliamentary session, legislation will activity that contributes to job growth. be introduced to establish a domestic gaming industry. The Planning Department has made significant strides in this regard, reducing the The primary policy objectives of the average time determining planning legislation are to promote and enhance applications from 12.1 weeks in 2013 to 8.8 development of the hotel industry through weeks so far in 2014; and the average time new construction and redevelopment of taken to issue building permits from 5.4 existing facilities and to increase tourism weeks in 2013 to 3.6 weeks so far in 2014. arrivals and investment to create jobs.
Streamlining these processes helps job- The legislative and administrative framework growing activities happen faster, most notably for gaming will include a Casino Gaming with the Department turning around the Pink Commission and provisions for strict Beach and Hamilton Princess Phase One oversight of problem gaming, with casino applications in record time — approvals that gaming implemented on a limited basis. created more than 200 construction jobs. The Government will also introduce The Government will introduce legislation to amendments to streamline the Hotel increase the powers of the Director of Concession Act to assist developers and Planning, giving the Director authority to investors of new tourism resorts and products investigate and correct breaches of Planning and upgrades to existing properties, which control, including the introduction of a can lead to jobs and training for Bermudian planning contravention notice and civil hospitality workers. penalties for unauthorized development. The Government is preparing for the The Government, after extensive consultation transition to new business models for with trade union leaders, will introduce Bermuda’s Aircraft and Shipping Registries.
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This work has been undertaken to modernize Mirrors Programme with that of Team Street the registries to ensure that high standards Safe ensuring that there are no gaps in the are maintained and Bermuda remains an delivery of services and that at every attractive jurisdiction for registration. The opportunity young people are provided with registries are important for the revenues they meaningful alternatives to the destructive generate for the government and for the cycle of gang activity. career opportunities they create for Bermudians. Recent events demonstrate that periods of relative calm cannot be interpreted as Work will continue on a feasibility study for justification for inaction. The dialogue, focus Bermuda to become a certified Air Navigation and intervention must be continuous. To Service Provider. This would enable counter the influence and allure of the gang Bermuda-based Air Traffic Controllers to lifestyle, the Government will facilitate a provide air traffic management services to means by which sports clubs, educators, aircraft landing at and taking off from community leaders and parents are joined in Bermuda — a service currently provided by a network of constant interaction designed to the US Federal Aviation Agency. keep every aspect of the community in tune with the development of our young people Madame President and Members of the and providing a consistent message of hope. Senate This national strategy will build upon the Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of recommendation of the Report of the Joint Assembly Select Committee from 2011 for a national youth summit, expanding that vision from a The Government, with the assistance of the one-off event to a continuum of intervention Bermuda Road Safety Council, the Bermuda and assistance. Police Service and other agencies, has completed research on roadside sobriety As promised, the Government has led the testing and its feasibility in Bermuda. The debate on the issues surrounding cannabis working group reviewed relevant legislation use in this community. Significant public and schemes in several other jurisdictions. engagement, augmented by scientific research The research also included identifying a and a full consideration of the criminal justice suitable testing device for Bermuda. implications, has helped to shape the Government’s position on these matters. The Government will therefore introduce Therefore, in this Session, the Legislature will amendments to the Motor Car Act 1951 be invited to approve amendments to the creating provisions for preliminary breath Pharmacy and Poisons Act 1979 and the testing, an approved instrument order Misuse of Drugs Act 1972 to permit the use of authorizing police to administer the proposed specific forms of cannabinoid drugs breathalyzer and ‘test before arrest’ for (cannabis-containing products) for medical roadside breathalyzers. purposes. Madame President and Members of the Senate Additionally, in consultation with the Office of Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Assembly Bermuda Police Service and the Ministry of Legal Affairs, the Caution Policy will be Too often the peace of these Islands is amended to permit greater discretion on the shattered by violence rooted in the gang part of police officers when dealing with first- lifestyle. There continues to be bipartisan time offenders who might otherwise have support for the multi-faceted approach been charged with simple possession of required to address the issues that derive cannabis. The Government will also examine from this social phenomenon. To capitalize on the ramifications of fixed penalty notices for the strengths of existing programmes, the certain minor offences. Fixed penalties allow Government will better align the work of the police to issue on-the-spot fines to persons
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committing an offence, giving them the devolve the responsibility for the police to opportunity to pay the fine out-of-court. Fixed attend and investigate minor road traffic penalties can ease the burden on the criminal accidents. Suitably qualified individuals, justice system through the elimination of including existing Traffic Officers can be unnecessary court appearances. licensed to conduct these investigations to the satisfaction of the parties, the Courts and In May of this year the Legislature took note insurers. of the Report of the Security and Defence Review Committee for Bermuda. The Madame President and Members of the recommendations from that Report remain Senate under active consideration and, where Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of feasible, will form part of budgets prepared Assembly for the coming fiscal year. During this Session the Legislature will be In the spirit of one finding of the Report, the invited to consider amendments to the Government has supported the secondment of Defence Act 1965 and related Orders to a senior police officer to the Ministry of provide for the end of conscription and the National Security to act as disaster planner, requirement for an all-volunteer Bermuda secretary to the Emergency Measures Regiment. In keeping with the Government’s Organization and to develop a strategy for the public statements, this will not be done to the management of large-scale public events. This detriment of the Regiment’s critical role and role will enhance the Island’s preparedness responsibility in Bermuda. for natural disasters and provide a single point of contact for those who have found it Additionally, arising from the Report of the difficult to navigate the bureaucracy of Security and Defence Review for Bermuda, permissions required to successfully promote Cabinet has considered detailed options and host large public events in Bermuda. available for the assumption by the Regiment of the inshore maritime patrolling and During this session, the Legislature will be enforcement responsibility. This expanded advised of a comprehensive plan to extend role will form part of the post-conscription ambulance coverage in the Eastern and Regiment and will enhance maritime Western ends of the Island whilst maintaining enforcement across agencies thereby the core service in the central parishes. strengthening this aspect of national security.
Specifically, the Bermuda Hospitals Board Madame President and Members of the Ambulance Service and the Bermuda Fire and Senate Rescue Service will partner to ensure an Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of improved emergency response across the Assembly island. These jointly manned ambulances will ensure a timely response to emergencies in Bermuda needs a criminal justice system the Eastern, Western and Central Parishes. which is efficient, effective and fair; a system that addresses the needs of criminal In the wake of its successful 135th defendants, the victims of crime and the anniversary celebrations, the Bermuda Police public in general. All of us have an interest in Service remains focused on a mission to lead a system that acquits the innocent and the fight against guns, gangs, drugs and convicts the guilty expeditiously. violence. The support of the community, effective partnership with the criminal justice To these ends, and with the view that “justice system and the commitment of the Service delayed is justice denied”, the Government is itself has yielded landmark results in this reviewing Criminal Procedure for the purpose effort. To further assist the police in the of modernizing the administration of justice strategic focus demanded in these times, the to make it more efficient and effective. Government will devise a means by which to
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Madame President and Members of the The Government also recognizes that Senate Bermuda’s healthcare system in its current Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of form and as it currently operates is not Assembly financially sustainable in the long term.
Bermuda must continue to be a society that To address the strain the cost of healthcare protects its most vulnerable. The recent places on families and Bermuda’s economy meeting of the Interpol Specialist Group on and to provide the most effective care Crimes Against Children was a sobering possible, the Government will introduce the opportunity to hear from leading experts on a Bermuda Health Plan, which will put prior problem that is ravaging lives, families and healthcare proposals in the context of today’s communities across the world. Bermuda is no economic climate and re-prioritize health exception. Government, accordingly, is system goals. assessing what new measures can be taken to protect and support children, starting with The purpose of the Bermuda Health Plan is to amendments to the Criminal Code Act 1907 provide a strategic approach to improve outlawing simple possession of child equity, quality and sustainability of our health pornography. system. Its mission, and that of the Ministry, is “Healthy People in Healthy Communities”. Madame President and Members of the Senate Key objectives of the Plan will be to: Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of • Review the Government’s hospital Assembly subsidy programme to provide for universal access to basic health Domestic abuse is a serious problem in coverage based upon need, Bermuda, creating untold trauma for its victims — women, children and men — and • Expand the standard hospital benefit to giving rise to other social ills. The extent of enhance preventive care and reduce the problem is particularly troubling, with a reliance on hospitalization, 2011 Government Health Survey reporting • Develop strategies to meet the long- one in three women affected by domestic term healthcare needs of seniors and abuse. the disabled, and
The Government recognizes there is a need to • Enhance the effectiveness of our health do more in terms of education, intervention promotion programmes as a means to and support for the victims and the encourage healthy lifestyles. perpetrators of domestic violence. To that Madame President and Members of the end, the Government will form a committee to Senate review domestic violence in Bermuda with an Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of initial focus on protective legislation. Assembly
Madame President and Members of the The emergence of regional and global public Senate health threats such as Ebola, Chikungunya and Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Assembly MERS has highlighted the fact that legislation governing the arrival of ships and aircraft at The Government recognizes that poor health Bermuda’s ports of entry needs updating to can have serious ramifications for individuals bring it into line with new international health and families, and that the cost of care may regulations. limit a person’s ability to provide for their dependents. To keep Bermuda safe, the Government will introduce amendments to the Quarantine Act 1946 and associated Regulations to update
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Bermuda’s ability to manage and control the approach in line with the US Food and Drug entry of contagious diseases via ships and Administration; aircraft. • Regulate electronic cigarettes and their Madame President and Members of the refills under the Pharmacy and Senate Poisons Act by requiring them to be Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of sold behind the counter at Assembly pharmacies only, the same as is nicotine gum; and There is a legal requirement for employers to • Designate cigarette-rolling papers as provide their employees and their employees’ tobacco products. unemployed spouses with health insurance. In difficult economic times employers may be Madame President and Members of the tempted to cut corners, but it is critical that Senate employees be protected to ensure they have Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of current health insurance. Assembly
The Bermuda Health Council, as the The Orange Valley Centre and the Opportunity responsible arm for ensuring health insurance Workshop have made great strides in is provided to employees, will have its Act improving the services provided for a amended to give it the authority to publish the segment of Bermuda’s cognitively and names of employers who fail to provide such physically disabled population In order to coverage. further enhance their services, the Orange
Valley and the Opportunity Workshop will Madame President and Members of the merge to become one unit providing a full Senate range of day programmes for their clients. The Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of consolidated programme, located at Roberts Assembly Avenue, will be able to provide a wider range
of services to a greater number of clients. A 2012 survey conducted for the Department of National Drug Control reported that Madame President and Members of the children first start using cigarettes at 7.7 Senate years of age. Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of
Assembly The introduction and rising popularity of
Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS), To help protect Bermuda’s inshore waters otherwise known as e-cigarettes, which are from pollution, amendments will be made to devoid of health warnings, often lead minors the Water Resources Act and Regulations to to assume that they are a “healthy” tobacco require boats with heads to have holding cigarette alternative. tanks for black water to prevent its discharge
into inshore waters. In addition, new marinas Candy flavourings increase their appeal, will be required to have pump-out facilities to providing a gateway to tobacco product remove black water from boat holding tanks. consumption.
To address these concerns, the Government Madame President and Members of the will Senate Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of • Introduce further controls of tobacco Assembly products to prevent children from obtaining and using tobacco products, Bermuda has a long and distinguished history • Introduce controls for the use of e-cigarettes of vegetable and flower production. As our by including them as a tobacco product, an population has grown, less land has been available for food production and farming the
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land has become less important to Bermuda’s Young people have always played a role in the economy. civic life of Bermuda, but circumstances today warrant getting them more involved, to make However, the potential for aquaculture, sure the expression of their views is part of including fresh water aquaculture, marine the decision-making structure. aquaculture, and combined freshwater aquaculture with hydroponic vegetable The future depends on the young and it needs production, is a concept that needs to be them participating today to prepare for that explored. The Government has already issued future. a permit for a small-scale fish farm, and will investigate how the infrastructure required The Ministry of Community, Culture and for larger scale aquaculture can be developed Sports, therefore, will develop a National to help Bermuda to address long-term issues Youth Policy to recommend ways to give of food security. Bermuda’s young people greater voice in decisions affecting their lives and the life of Madame President and Members of the the country. Senate Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Integral to the policy is the need to build and Assembly encourage qualities of decision-making and leadership, helping them to influence public The Ministry of Community, Culture and policy, particularly issues affecting them Sports will introduce a National Cultural directly, such as youth unemployment, Heritage Policy to promote understanding and education, bullying and gang culture. appreciation of the Island’s rich and diverse heritage both locally and abroad. Madame President and Members of the Senate A draft policy will be put before the Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of community and stakeholders for consultation Assembly and input during the course of the Parliamentary year. Bermuda’s sporting heroes reflect the best of A National Cultural Heritage Policy will Bermuda — talent, ambition, discipline and provide a framework for Bermuda to flair. Their record reflects the rich history of showcase its rich cultural heritage here on the the local sporting scene and the Island’s Island and to the world through cultural remarkable success on the world stage. tourism opportunities and a sustained exposure of our cultural identity. To capture this history and the great athletes who populate it, the Government will work The Policy will also provide a foundation for toward the establishment of a permanent an Action Plan to focus on the exposure, location for a Sports Hall of Fame. preservation and celebration of Bermuda’s unique culture and heritage for the benefit of Madame President and Members of the current and future generations of Senate Bermudians, strengthening national identity. Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Assembly Madame President and Members of the Senate The Government has recognized the value of Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of having both parents involved in a child’s Assembly upbringing and will take steps this Parliamentary session to ensure that parents The Government believes decision-making who are separating remain involved. has a better chance to succeed when it is informed by the views and interests of the Accordingly, the Government will introduce people affected by the decisions. the Children Amendment Act 2014 requiring
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the courts to offer mediation to the parents of student behaviour, and a framework will be a child whose custody or access is being introduced to require specific academic and determined by the courts. behaviour interventions for the improvement of student academic achievement. The aim of mediation is to facilitate amicable agreements between parents concerning the The System Improvement Plan will be upbringing of the child before the court issues followed by all public schools as the basis for co-parenting orders. heightened school improvement and professional development of our educators. This process will be fortified by the establishment of a Co-Parenting Mediation Expansion of the Career Pathways Council to provide regulatory oversight and Programme will also see the coordinators of support for dispute resolution. the programme introduce M3 students to various pathways within the programme in Madame President and Members of the Applied Technology, Business and Hospitality, Senate Health and Human Services, the Arts, Athletics Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of and Community and Academics. The aim is to Assembly begin preparing M3 students for career employment experiences such as work The Government will continue to implement shadowing, workshops and job visits to help its strategy to transform the public education them focus on post-secondary education and system for the achievement of its vision: to career opportunities. deliver a first-class education of global standards, ensuring students reach their full The Ministry of Education and Economic potential. Development will review and upgrade the Bermuda School Curriculum in the key Key components of this strategy are the subjects of Business Studies, World History, execution of a System Improvement Plan, Design and Technology and Physical expansion of the Career Pathways Education and Health as part of a larger Programme, an upgrade of the Bermuda comprehensive revision of the current National Curriculum in key subjects, the curricula. Teachers will also receive training continued promotion of parental and to effectively implement an information and community involvement and public communications technology curriculum consultation supporting the revision of the across all primary schools, hence acquiring 1996 Education Act. the tools and supports needed to deliver a first class education. The execution of a System Improvement Plan will give specific direction to teachers, school Work on the priorities outlined in the Green leaders and support staffs, who are key Paper on Inclusive and Special Education is drivers of transformation in the public school continuing. To that end, an Inclusive and system. This direction encompasses the roll- Special Education Advisory Committee will be out of a Middle School Transformation Plan established to harness the experiences and that identifies 10 high-impact actions knowledge of parents and community necessary to improve the learning outcomes organizations to advise on the execution of of middle school students. the Government’s priorities in these areas.
The System Plan also details a phased The Government has been consistent in approached to the introduction of national emphasizing the importance of parent and strategies for Mathematics and Literacy. community involvement. This remains a These national strategies will be system wide priority for the Ministry as studies have starting at preschool and continuing through shown this to have a positive impact on to senior school. There will also be a new student learning, academic achievement and school code of conduct focusing on improving behaviour.
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A Parent Involvement Committee will be A public awareness campaign will be established. Changes to the Education Act launched to provide guidance on how a PATI 1996 to improve parental and community request can be made and how it will be involvement will be introduced and parents, processed. community members and educators will be called upon to help shape its implementation. PATI, which was passed into law by the This Committee is a direct response to parent Legislature more than four years ago, will interest in better communication between finally enable the public to shine light on the parents, schools and the Department of work of government — asking questions, Education. getting answers and bringing new levels of transparency and accountability to the public The Ministry of Education will work in sector. partnership with experts in early childhood education including the Child Development Madame President and Members of the Programme and other child-focused agencies Senate and specialists to produce recommendations Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of for key actions and policies for young children Assembly and their families. This work will reflect local To further realise its commitment to make and international research and knowledge in government more open, transparent and the foundational area of early childhood accountable, the Government will strengthen education, and result in a national policy for public engagement in its decision-making early childhood education development. This process. policy will highlight the importance of parental involvement and free access to Members of the public soon will be invited to universal screenings for all young children. serve on one or more of the 100 statutory and
advisory boards and committees that support The Bermuda College Act will be updated and the Ministries. modernized to improve board governance and to meet the requirements of its In the past, Department Heads, Permanent accreditation with the New England Secretaries and Ministers would recommend Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). persons they thought would be good
candidates to serve. The process will be now Madame President and Members of the opened to the general public, with access to Senate the Government website where they can Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of complete an application to join a Board or Assembly Committee that interests them.
In July, the Government tabled regulations to This change will enable greater participation advance Public Access to Information (PATI) and enlarge the pool of qualified persons to and announced the plan to have PATI fully assist government in its deliberations. operational by April 2015.
Madame President and Members of the Much work has been done to prepare for the 1 Senate April launch, including the search for an Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Information Commissioner, the completion of Assembly a readiness assessment to support the lead-up to the 1 April launch, the production of Bermuda’s territorial waters, which cover guidance materials for all public authorities, some 180,000 square miles, is our largest the completion of requirements for a PATI physical asset and yet it is an asset whose request tracking system, the development of a potential has been largely unexplored. Last PATI website and the preparation of training year, the Government announced its intention materials for staff. to consult widely with both the general public
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and interested stakeholders on the approach the Island for tax purposes every five years. that Bermuda should take with respect to the This is a significant project involving the future use of the Island’s Exclusive Economic revaluation of more than 35,500 valuation Zone. Its approach to the consultations was to units and requiring all available department listen carefully to all stakeholders with a view resources to complete. to getting right the planning for this vast asset. The current 2009 Valuation List was scheduled to be replaced at the end of 2014. The first phase of this important consultation However, because of a Supreme Court ruling, has now concluded, and the report of the there was a need to revise certain sections of findings and conclusions has been published. the legislation pertaining to the revaluation Government is now moving ahead with the and the compilation of the next Valuation List. second phase investigating the feasibility of a The necessary legislative changes were range of economic and conservation completed in July 2014, the next Valuation opportunities proposed for the EEZ. List will need to be postponed to 2015. The Government, consequently, will seek approval Madame President and Members of the for the one-year postponement when the Senate House of Assembly resumes business in this Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of session. Assembly The Bermuda Land Development Company In keeping with the Government’s support for Limited, in keeping with its mandate to St. George’s, the Ministry of Public Works will reintegrate the former base lands into the conduct a study to provide the Government Island’s social and economic fabric, has with a strategy to improve wastewater opened Ships Wharf to developers for servicing and infrastructure in St. George’s, Expressions of Interest. The aim is to including the wastewater collection system, transform the wharf area into a vibrant ocean outfall and flushing water system lying commercial site creating job opportunities for generally to the east of the Old Town. The Bermuda. study will consider several wastewater servicing solutions and will recommend a The company also will replace the ageing preferred option. Southside wastewater treatment plant and realign St. David’s Road for a smoother The Ministry, working with Ministry of commuter transit at the junction with Tourism Development and Transport, will Southside Road. finalize channel upgrades to accommodate the next generation of cruise ships, such as Royal The Department of Parks, in partnership with Caribbean Cruise Line’s Quantum Class vessel the Friends of the Bermuda Railway Trail, will in 2016. install a new footbridge above Store Hill. The project will provide walkers with a safe Work has progressed well to date with crossing while continuing the Department’s engineering, consultation and planning for the work to connect separate sections of the project conducted by local professionals. The Railway Trail Park. coming financial year will see Requests for Proposals issued for the main contract. Following the completion of the John Smith’s Bay rest room and lifeguard facility, Parks Madame President and Members of the Department will use the year ahead to Senate implement a phased plan to upgrade and Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of improve rest room facilities in National Parks. Assembly Madame President and Members of the The Land Valuation and Tax Act 1967 Senate mandates a revaluation of all properties on
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Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of These are the people, one and all, who make Assembly community real and a better Bermuda possible. Bermuda has what it takes to overcome any challenge, any storm. The assaults of Fay and Madame President and Members of the Gonzalo were just the latest episode in a Senate history of storms the Island has absorbed to Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of grow again. The economic storm Bermuda Assembly faces today is the challenge of our time, confronting the Island with uneven pressures, In addition to those legislative items already uncertainty and difficult decisions. mentioned, during this Session the Legislature will be invited to consider some new statutes Bermudians have all the qualities necessary to and amendments to a number of existing Acts, emerge from the storm in better shape, including: upholding the greater good to secure individual growth and family life, spread new Stamp Duty Act (1976) understandings and enlarge the future for all. Payroll Tax Act 1995 (PTA 1995)
The challenge of our time is also the Taxes Management Act 1976 opportunity of our time; the opportunity to make sure goodness prevails and Bermuda Corporate Services Tax Act 1995 builds a better world for its people. Land Valuation and Tax Act 1967
Success will depend on Bermudians Foreign Currency Purchase Tax Act recognizing that this is a moment of truth for 1975 Bermuda and their future. The Insurance (Prudential Standard)
Rules made under the Insurance Act And if there is a question about the way 1978 ahead, people need look no further than the example set by hundreds of emergency The Bermuda Monetary Authority Act workers in the aftermath of the storms, 1969 (Fees Bill) helping fellow Bermudians and their By kind tradition, I am allowed to add a few communities get back on their feet. words to this speech.
In closing, the Government of Bermuda takes Bermuda is often said to be at a crossroads. this opportunity to thank the men and women This seems to have been said for many years, of the emergency services who manned the even decades. If so, we seem to have dealt front line for Bermuda in the aftermath of Fay with a very complicated road layout and Gonzalo, day and night, in difficult remarkably well. But it is probably as true as conditions, protecting, serving and assuring it has ever been that we are at one of those — helping hands leading the way to recovery crossroads again. There will clearly be and renewal: the Emergency Measures difficult decisions ahead. And, in a rapidly Organization, the Bermuda Police Service, changing world, not to change means going Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service, the backwards. Bermuda Reserve Constabulary, the Bermuda
Regiment, the Bermuda Weather Service, The recent past has been tough for many. It BELCO restoration crews, Works and may also be tough work to the way ahead. It is Engineering, the Parks Department, Bermuda a welcome feature of a mature democracy like Hospitals Board hospital workers, municipal Bermuda that policies are developed and employees and many others. debated in a robust and open way. But I would
urge everyone to avoid stirring unnecessary division. Bermuda’s size and intimacy give us advantages. But they also give a particular
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obligation to exercise these rights On the motion of Senator Mrs. J.E. responsibly, on all sides. Dillas-Wright, the minutes of the meeting of Wednesday, 23rd July 2014 were taken as Going around Bermuda, on foot, or pushbike, read and confirmed. or car; at official gatherings or sports or social events, I have the privilege of meeting a wide range of people. All are friendly. Some are generous with giving their clear views. More Senator the Hon. M.M. Fahy gave recently our twin storms have tested the notice that at the next day of meeting, he community: they underlined that it really is a would move that the following Message be community. There is much more sense of sent to His Excellency the Governor:- purpose and unity than any observer would guess from the politics as reflected in our "MAY IT PLEASE YOUR EXCELLENCY: media, our radio phone-ins and, above all, the The Senate has the honour to thank blogs — which everyone claims not to read Your Excellency for the most gracious Speech but everyone discusses. with which Your Excellency was pleased to
open the present Session of Parliament." Bermuda’s divisions, whether between rich and poor or different races and nationalities, and our other problems are blessedly small Senator Mrs. L.A. Woolridge gave an when we look at almost all of the rest of the undertaking to provide Answers at the next world. I hope that, as we address our day of meeting regarding Parliamentary nonetheless very real problems, we can keep Questions submitted in the preceding week by in mind the enormous challenges elsewhere Senator D.V.S. Rabain and Senator Ms. R.D.L. and — as many do already, individually and Ming. collectively – give help where we can and keep our problems in perspective.
12:33p.m. Madame President and Members of the
Senate Senator Mrs. J.E. Dillas-Wright Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of expressed condolences for the Assembly Commonwealth Parliamentary Association I declare this Session of the Legislature open; Secretariat in London on the recent passing of and may God guide you and grant you wisdom the Secretary-General Dr. William F. Shija, in your deliberations. whom she noted was the first Black Secretary- General of the CPA, a very accomplished man George Fergusson in his political and academic careers, and was Governor and Commander-in-Chief a good friend to many Bermuda Bermuda Parliamentarians and the Bermuda Branch in CPA affairs. 7th November 2014 Senator Dillas-Wright paid tribute to the late Mrs. Beverly Ann Cunningham, who His Excellency then withdrew and was a fabulous woman, a beloved wife and Members of the Honourable House of mother, and a respected no-nonsence nurse Assembly retired to their usual place of for many years before she began working at sitting. Senators returned to the Senate the Bermuda Airport, where she was well- Chamber. known and liked by all. Senator Rabain and Senator Ming associated themselves with these remarks.
12:30p.m. Senator Dillas-Wright also paid tribute to the late Mr. Reginald “Toby” Cyril
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Dillas, a cousin whom she noted was Senator the Hon. the President distinguished as the first Black Manager of a associated herself with the obituary and major hotel (‘The Bermudiana’) in Bermuda, congratulatory remarks of all Senators. a long-time outstanding hotelier and tourism ambassador, and a former Overseas Office manager in the Bermuda Department of 12:39p.m. Tourism who was well-known and loved by many. All Senators associated themselves Senator the Hon. M.M. Fahy moved with these remarks. that, at its rising, the Senate adjourn to Wednesday, 19th November, 2014 – which was agreed to. Senator Ms. R.D.L. Ming expressed condolences for the family of the late Mrs. Senator the Hon. M.M. Fahy moved Natalie Dowling of St. George’s, whom she that the Senate do now adjourn – which was noted was a long-time respected agreed to. owner/operator, along with her husband, of Dowling’s Marina. 12:39p.m. Senator Ming paid tribute to the late Mr. Alvin George Sinclair Baker, whom she Adjourned until Wednesday, 19th noted was a former firefighter and a November, 2014. respected and well-loved member of the community.
Senator Ming also paid tribute to the late Mr. Sinclair Hewetson “Charger” Reid Sr. PRESIDENT of St. George’s, whom she noted was a very- well known and highly respected member of the community over many years, the former proprietor of Reid’s Restaurant and a renowned outstanding footballer and athlete in his younger years. Senator Baron and ORDERS OF THE DAY Senator Dillas-Wright associated themselves with these remarks. Wednesday – 19th November, 2014
(1) Consideration of the Throne Speech with Senator D.V.S. Rabain expressed which His Excellency the Governor was condolences for the family of the late Mrs. pleased to open the present Session of Marionette Sylvia Hyacinth (Burgess) Parliament. Lambert, whom he noted was a well-known and beloved member of the Smith’s Parish community, who was popularly known as Nana Lambert to many.
Senator Rabain also paid tribute to the late Miss Cecilia Theodora Moore, whom he noted was a well-respected member of the community.
Senator Rabain paid further tribute to the late Mrs. Beverly Cunningham, whom he noted was a wonderful lady who will be greatly missed by her family and all who knew her.
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