Minister Jache Adams tables new strategy to modernise laws, strengthen coordination and sharpen enforcement across Bermuda’s waters
Government has unveiled a new strategy aimed at strengthening enforcement across Bermuda’s vast maritime waters.
Earlier today in the House of Assembly, Minister of Public Works and Environment Jache Adams tabled the Marine Resources Enforcement Strategy, a plan designed to modernise how Bermuda monitors and protects its ocean.
The Minister acknowledged that while most fishermen and boaters follow the rules, marine enforcement has at times been limited by outdated legislation and inconsistent follow-through.
He says this new strategy marks a significant shift.
“… this Strategy moves Bermuda from a reactive and sometimes fragmented enforcement model to one that is modern, coordinated, and intelligence-led,” said Minister Adams.
“It means using better data to identify high-risk areas, improving coordination between agencies, modernizing laws so officers are not required to “catch someone in the act” in order to prosecute, investing in the right tools and training, ensuring that when violations occur, they are followed through properly.
“In short, it means making sure that enforcement leads to real consequences when necessary, and real deterrence overall. Because enforcement that is inconsistent is enforcement that is ineffective.”
The strategy outlines five key priorities, including updating decades-old marine legislation, investing in officer training and surveillance technology, strengthening partnerships with regional agencies, and promoting voluntary compliance through education.
Minister Adams also addressed concerns that marine violations have not always resulted in meaningful consequences.
“Too often, cases did not reach what experts call “legal finish.” This Strategy supports a cultural shift. When serious violations occur, there must be credible consequences. Not to punish for punishment’s sake but to maintain deterrence and protect fairness.”
“At the same time, proportional tools, including administrative penalties where appropriate, will allow enforcement to be efficient and practical.
“This is about balance.”
Minister Adams says that fishers, enforcement officers, environmental groups and members of the public contributed to the strategy through consultations held last fall.
While some measures can be implemented immediately, he noted that more resource-intensive initiatives will be rolled out as funding and capacity allow.
Read the Minister’s full remarks below.
