Thursday, October 22, 2026
Home Blog Page 1000

Premier Burt meets with new US Consul General

Antoinette Hurtado arrived in Bermuda late last month

Government update via press release:

The Cabinet Office advised that the Premier, the Hon. David Burt, JP, MP, met with the newly appointed US Consul General, Antoinette Hurtado, during an introductory visit following the start of her tenure in March.

The meeting provided an opportunity to reaffirm the enduring partnership between Bermuda and the United States. Discussions encompassed a range of shared priorities, including trade, national security, and the strengthening of economic ties. Both parties explored avenues to further align and enhance bilateral relations.

The Shiprider Agreement, signed in early March, was highlighted as a strong example of ongoing cooperation. The agreement aims to bolster joint efforts in addressing issues such as illegal immigration, drug smuggling, human trafficking, and illegal fishing within and around Bermuda’s territorial waters.

The Premier also raised concerns about proposed US policy changes that could have significant implications for Bermuda, highlighting, in particular, the potential economic impact of new port fees discussed during his recent visit to Washington, DC.

Premier Burt underscored how such measures could increase shipping costs and affect the cost of living for residents, while also noting broader concerns around the stability of Bermuda’s reinsurance sector and other key areas requiring ongoing dialogue and consideration.

The Premier said, “The Government welcomes the new U.S. Consul General, Antoinette Hurtado, to Bermuda. With over 20 years of experience as a Foreign Service Officer in the U.S. Department of State, and a career spanning numerous international postings—she began her tenure as Consul General in Bermuda this past March. Our objective is to remain a trusted ally, and we anticipate that U.S. policy decisions will fully consider the depth of our shared interests, the strength of our bilateral ties, and Bermuda’s strategic relevance.”

US Consul General, Hurtado said, “I want to thank Premier David Burt for his warm welcome. We had a fruitful conversation about our areas of shared interest including security, business, and trade.  The United States is Bermuda’s closest neighbor and we have a four-centuries long history and partnership.  I look forward to working with the Premier and Government of Bermuda officials to continue and strengthen that partnership and to enhance our already close ties.”

Government issues warning about fake AI social media post

Fraudulent accounts and posts misleading the public in an attempt to defraud

Government update via press release:

The Cabinet Office advised this evening that a recent video post circulating on Facebook purporting to be a statement from the Premier, the Hon. E. David Burt, JP, MP, and/or the Government of Bermuda is a fake AI-generated scam.

A Cabinet Office spokesperson noted that fraudulent accounts and posts promoting AI generated false information, are being used to mislead the public and potentially defraud unsuspecting individuals.

Often such social media posts or direct messages use the likeness of local public personalities and copy the design of local news outlets, to make their offerings look more legitimate.

A Cabinet Office spokesperson said, “With the rise of artificial intelligence, fake videos, false representations, and messages are becoming more common.

“Unfortunately, individuals have been scammed in the past, and we urge all residents to exercise caution and remain vigilant when online. It is crucial to verify the authenticity of any social media account, particularly if it is claiming to represent the Premier or any other Government of Bermuda official. Only trust information from verified sources.”

“Lastly, if anyone receives the referenced fake AI post, they should report it directly on the platform. As a reminder, no government official will ever use social media to promote an investment. The public is once again encouraged to only rely on official information and official advisories from the Government of Bermuda.”

U17 Women Bow Out After 9-1 defeat to Costa Rica (Updated)

Football: It’s the end of the road for Team Bermuda in the Concacaf U17 women’ World Cup qualfiiers

Bermuda took an early lead in their final match of the Concacaf Under-17 Women’s Qualifiers in Toluca, Mexico, when Janya Sealy fired a free kick into the back of the net in the 4th minute.

However, after that, it was all Costa Rica. The Central Americans dominating every aspect of the proceedings. Leading 5-1 at halftime, Costa Rica would continue their dominance in the second half, adding 4 more unanswered goals. The final score was Costa Rica 9, Bermuda 1.

AXA XL Bermuda promotions

Six employees promoted across multiple divisions

Update via press release:

AXA XL is pleased to announce the promotions of the following employees in its Bermuda office as of April 1st:

Kaisey Blackman – Senior Officer, Compliance & Regulatory Affairs

Charmaine Cann – Underwriter II, P&C

Keisha Eve – Assistant Vice President, Senior Underwriter, P&C

Carla George – Senior Claims Specialist, Professional Lines Claims

Rical Showers – Assistant Vice President, Senior Underwriter, Professional Lines

Laurie Thompson – Senior Claims Specialist, Excess Casualty Claims

The company said: “As the P&C and Specialty risk division of global insurance leader AXA , AXA XL is known for facing into risks and providing innovative solutions for its clients most complex risks. This would not be possible without our greatest asset – our people.”

“We appreciate all our colleagues for their commitment to excellence and congratulate these colleagues for their individual and collective contributions to the company’s strong performance in 2024. We wish them much success in their new roles.” 

Minister meets with Alternative Investment execs

New York trip is part of effort to “promote Bermuda’s leadership in the global investment space”

Photo: Jason Hayward, Minister of Economy and Labour, with Michelle Noyes, Head of Americas at AIMA (photo supplied)

Government of Bermuda Press Release

The Hon. Jason Hayward, JP, MP, Minister of Economy and Labour, recently met with senior executives of the Alternative Investment Management Association (AIMA) during a strategic visit to New York City as part of ongoing efforts to promote Bermuda’s leadership in the global investment space.

Minister Hayward engaged in high-level discussions with Michelle Noyes, Head of Americas at AIMA, and Joseph Engelhard, Senior Counsel, U.S. Policy and Regulation. AIMA is the world’s largest membership association for the alternative investment industry, representing over 2,000 members across 60 countries.

The dialogue centred on strengthening Bermuda’s strategic relationship with AIMA and its members, with a shared focus on positioning Bermuda as a premier jurisdiction for fund management.

Key topics included strategies to expand Bermuda’s market share in the global alternative investment and hedge fund sectors and our readiness to support innovation in digital asset funds to remain competitive in an evolving financial landscape.

Minister Hayward emphasised, “Bermuda’s regulatory strength, commitment to innovation, and world-class financial services infrastructure make it uniquely positioned to attract and support forward-looking investment managers. We are working proactively with global industry leaders to ensure Bermuda remains a hub for excellence in fund management and digital asset innovation.”

The meeting reaffirmed Bermuda’s role as a collaborative, forward-thinking partner and leader in alternative investment markets.

BermudAir takes flight to Connecticut

New route brings Bermuda closer to New England

BermudAir officially launched its inaugural direct service between Bradley International Airport and L.F. Wade International Airport yesterday – starting a new chapter in travel between Bermuda and New England.

Founder and CEO of the boutique airline Adam Scott stated,“The launch of our service between Bradley International Airport and Bermuda marks an exciting milestone for BermudAir. This new route strengthens our commitment to providing seamless, premium travel experiences while deepening the connection between Bermuda and New England.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome Connecticut travellers aboard and look forward to introducing them to the warmth and hospitality that define BermudAir and Bermuda.”

The new service will operate year-round, twice weekly on Thursdays and Sundays.

Bermuda Broadcasting had an exclusive front-row seat for the inaugural flight.

WATCH the full report above.

U17 Coach: Still a lot to fight for

Football: Lady Gombey Warriors aim to end World Cup qualifiers on high note

In football, the Lady Gombey Warriors will take on Costa Rica tomorrow in their final match of the under 17 women’s Concacaf qualifiers in Mexico. And although Team Bermuda has no realistic chance of qualifying for the knockout stage, Coach Gary Adams says there’s still a lot to play for.

Lightbourne: ‘Lived realities’ must inform cost of living policies

Website launched to gather public and business feedback “to shape national policy”

Government of Bermuda Press Release:

As Bermuda continues to confront the global and local pressures of inflation and affordability, the Ministry of Home Affairs has launched a new survey to invite residents to share their lived experiences to shape national policy.

The Minister of Home Affairs, the Hon. Alexa Lightbourne, JP, MP, today announced the launch of the Government’s new Cost of Living website, www.costofliving.gov.bm, along with a public feedback survey aimed at gathering insights from residents on their experiences with Bermuda’s high cost of living.

As highlighted last week during the Minister’s post Throne Speech Remarks and House of Assembly Ministerial Statement, this initiative is a pivotal component of the upcoming Cost of Living Summit, designed to unite key stakeholders in developing actionable solutions to alleviate financial pressures on Bermudian families.

Minister Lightbourne said, “The Government of Bermuda remains steadfast in its commitment to tackling the rising cost of living, a challenge that affects every household, business, and community on our island.

“Introducing this engagement mechanism is a clear demonstration that we are committed to taking decisive action informed by data and feedback from members of the public. It’s more important than ever to ensure that policy solutions are informed by the lived realities of our people, meeting the moment with honesty, collaboration, and action.

“The Cost of Living website will serve as a central hub for information on government’s cost-of-living initiatives.”

The Public Survey, accessible through the website, invites Bermudians to share their personal experiences with rising costs, their perspectives on affordability challenges, and their recommendations for targeted government action. Responses will directly inform policy development and the Government’s approach to addressing cost drivers such as food prices, energy costs, and housing affordability.

The Ministry also notes that in addition to the Public Survey, a targeted Business Survey is also currently being conducted, and a business-centric focus group has taken place. Both feedback mechanisms have already yielded invaluable insights from stakeholders.

Residents can visit www.costofliving.gov.bm to complete the survey which will close at the end of April 2025.

‘Do not share your bank details’

HSBC issues fresh warning to combat fraudsters

Scam artists falsely claim to be HSBC staff, alleging that there is ongoing fraud on your account.

Press release:
HSBC Bermuda reminds the public to stay vigilant in the presence of attempts by scammers to trick the public through phone calls (otherwise known as vishing).
The caller falsely claims to be HSBC staff, alleging that there is ongoing fraud on your account. They request you to share your online banking login information and may instruct you to click on links to download an app. Their ultimate goal is to gain remote access to your computer/device to authorize fraudulent transactions.
“We would like to remind you that HSBC will never ask customers to disclose their PIN, security code or one-time password. In addition, HSBC would never request customers to engage in a transaction to help identify or catch a fraudster. We encourage our customers to remain vigilant.  If you have any doubts during a call, it is recommended to end the call and directly contact the HSBC Contact Center at 299-5959 or reach out to your Relationship Manager for assistance.”
For comprehensive information on fraud and common scams, please visit our recommended resources at www.hsbc.bm/help/fraud-guide/common-scams or www.business.hsbc.bm/en-gb/regulations/fraud-guide.”

Spotlight on Bermuda women in Dubai

A delegation of 15 Bermudian women including Minister Tinee Furbert attended the International Women’s Leadership Conference in Dubai.

Bermuda women attend the International Women’s Leadership Conference in Dubai. Photo: Government of Bermuda

A full news statement from the Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors:

Bermuda took centre stage last week as Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, the Hon. Tinee Furbert, JP, MP, led a delegation of 15 Bermudian women to the International Women’s Leadership Conference in Dubai. The event was hosted by African business leader Madame Ibukun Awosika.

Under the theme “Women in Leadership: Living the Dream,” the 2025 conference welcomed over 600 influential women from around the world, including heads of state, entrepreneurs, academics, and activists, for a transformative gathering focused on leadership, legacy, and global collaboration.

In her address, Minister Furbert delivered a powerful message, highlighting Bermuda’s history and progress while encouraging women to expand their ambitions.

“My dream did not envision being here, but here I am. My dream did not envision running for Parliament, or becoming a Minister, but here I am. We must release fear and embrace possibility, for we are meant to expand beyond the limits of what we once believed possible.

“And, as I reflect on the journey that brought me here, I am reminded of another Bermudian woman, one whose legacy shaped history. This famous sister once said, “To be free is very sweet.” That was her eternal dream, to one day be free. Mary Prince dared to DREAM of freedom, and this was reflected in her ‘super-power’ in that…she refused to be silenced.

And, although Mary Prince never lived to taste the sweet fruit of freedom; she left a legacy impacting women to this day. It’s because of Mary Prince, and so many women like her, that I stand here today.

“Bermuda’s contribution was both symbolic and substantial. Two Bermudian women participated in the open forum: Dr. Crystal Clay, executive coach and leadership strategist, and Sherry Lilly, entrepreneur and advocate for wellness and community engagement. Their contributions resonated with the global audience and reinforced Bermuda’s leadership in multiple sectors.”

The delegation’s attendance was made possible through a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation (BEDC), and organisational support from Dr. Dana Selassie, who played a key role in coordinating Bermuda’s participation. Dr. Selassie, who attended last year’s conference as part of the UN Women delegation, was instrumental in advocating for Bermuda’s deeper involvement in the global women’s leadership movement. Her efforts in 2024 led to the establishment of Bermuda’s first Mary Prince Women’s Entrepreneurial and Leadership Conference, which launched last summer.

Building on this momentum, it was announced that Madame Ibukun Awosika will return to Bermuda to headline the second annual Mary Prince Women’s Entrepreneurial and Leadership Conference, scheduled for 6–8 August 2025.

“The energy, purpose, and power coming out of Bermuda is undeniable,” said Dr. Selassie. “This is no longer just a moment, it’s a movement. We are proud to help shape a global platform that connects women of Africa, the Caribbean, and the Diaspora with real tools, real impact, and real sisterhood. I want to thank Minister Furbert, Permanent Secretary Valerie Robinson-James, and the team at BEDC for believing in this vision for Bermuda’s women entrepreneurs and leaders.”

Minister Furbert added, “I am incredibly proud of the delegation that represented Bermuda. The 15 Bermudian women who attended spanned industries including education, finance, health, technology, cultural preservation, social innovation, and entrepreneurship. Several attendees were self-funded, demonstrating the passion and commitment of Bermudian women to lead on the world stage.”

Bermuda’s growing influence in global leadership conversations is evident, and the Mary Prince Conference is rapidly establishing itself as a key forum for these discussions to continue at home.

For more information or to register interest in the 2025 Mary Prince Women’s Entrepreneurial and Leadership Conference, please email info@zhyoninternational.com.

Dock undergoes beautification in Devonshire

Sandy’s was known by neighbouring residents as favourite summertime hangout though it had fallen into disrepair

A dock which holds fond memories for neighbourhood families has been spruced up.


Sandy’s dock on Devonshire’s North Shore had become rundown and an unsightly hangout.


On Thursday, police set up a canopy at the dock, to hear from locals about social ills that plagued the spot for many years.