Male victim transported to hospital with head injury
Bermuda Police Service update via press release:
Around 5:15 p.m. on Sunday, March 16, 2025, police received reports of a disturbance at the Hamilton Parish Workmen’s Club.
Upon arrival, officers were informed that a male had been injured when he was attacked by a group of individuals wearing face masks and helmets with dark tinted visors.
The injured male was reportedly transported by private vehicle to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital.
Checks at the hospital confirmed the victim was alert and receiving treatment for a head injury.
An investigation into this matter is now underway and anyone who may have witnessed or, who has any information about the incident is asked to call the main police number, 295-0011.
You may also call the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers number 800-8477.
If you’d prefer, you are urged to share the information with a police officer you’re comfortable speaking with or via the police community reporting portal at https://portal.police.bm
Minister of National Security praising the young artist’s achievement
Bermuda Government update via press release: The Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service (BFRS) is proud to congratulate 9-year-old Isabella Brielle Daniels, a student at BHS, for producing the winning entry in the 2024 Fire Safety Awareness Poster Contest.
Isabella’s imaginative and insightful interpretation of the theme, “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!” impressed the judges and showcased the importance of fire prevention in our community.
For the first time, BFRS has reproduced the winning artwork in a unique and impactful way—displaying it on a fire engine at the Hamilton Fire Station.
This initiative not only highlights the incredible talent of young artists like Isabella but also reinforces the critical role that smoke alarms play in fire prevention and safety.
“Preventing accidental fires is always the preferred option, and smoke detectors are an essential line of defence in achieving that goal,” said Dana Lovell, Chief Fire Officer of BFRS.
“We saw this as an opportunity to convey an important fire safety message while simultaneously recognising the creativity and imagination of our poster contest participants. We are thrilled to celebrate Isabella’s achievement and hope the public enjoys her artwork as much as we do.”
Minister of National Security, Michael Weeks, praised Isabella’s achievement, stating: “It is inspiring to see young minds like Isabella’s engaging with such an important message—fire safety is something that affects us all, and this initiative helps to reinforce that message in a creative and lasting way.
“I commend Isabella for her outstanding work and thank the BFRS for their continued dedication to fire safety education. Encouraging our youth to take an active role in community safety is invaluable, and I hope this contest continues to inspire future generations.”
Congratulations to Isabella and her family on this well-deserved recognition. The BFRS remains committed to fire safety education and looks forward to continuing this important tradition in the years to come.
Photo #1 Caption: (L-R): Isabella Daniels, Chief Fire Officer Dana Lovell, and Minister Weeks.
Photo #2 Caption: (L-R): Marc Daniels (Isabella’s father), Giada Daniels (Isabella’s sister), Isabella Daniels, Minister Weeks, and Chief Fire Officer Dana Lovell.
Move comes into effect on Wednesday 19th March 2025
Bermuda Government update via press release:
The Ministry for the Cabinet Office is advising that the Department of Planning is relocating to a new office space.
Effective Wednesday, March 19, the Department of Planning will now be located on the 3rd Floor, 44 Church Street West, City of Hamilton HM 12.
While the Department remains committed to providing critical planning services to the public during this transition, there may be some unavoidable interruptions.
Members of the public can seek assistance and information about services by visiting the Department of Planning’s website at www.planning.gov.bm or the Customer Self Service (CSS) at www.planningenergov.gov.bm.
The Department appreciates the public’s patience and understanding during this transitional time and looks forward to continuing to serve the community from their new location.
Gulden Leeuw is one of the world’s biggest three-mast-topsail schooners
Photos by Tony McWilliam
The Gulden Leeuw is the latest in a growing list of Tall Ships that have graced St. George’s in recent weeks. The ship is currently moored at Penno’s Wharf and is drawing lots of attention from visitors and local alike.
The Gulden Leeuw (Dutch for ‘Golden Lion’) is one of the world’s largest three-mast-topsail schooners and is used to train students to become skilled seafarers. The vessel is 54-feet in length and climbing its 130-foot mast to unfurl the square sails is equivalent to scaling a 12-storey building.
The Gulden Leeuw was first built in 1937 under the name Dana, as an ice-class ship for the Danish government. It spent many years conducting marine biological research and was completely restored in 2010.
The Gulden Leeuw can accommodate a crew of 24 plus 60 trainees – and up to 200 passengers for day sails. The ship’s home port is Kempen in the Netherlands.
Moongate Brewing Company establishing itself as a popular new entertainment spot with a joyful St. Patrick’s Day event
Moongate was packed to the rafters last night as revellers enjoyed live Irish music and dancing. Photo: Ian Clarke
Photo by Scott Stallard
Moongate Brewing Company – the east end’s newest hospitality venue – was rocking last night as it hosted its first St. Patrick’s Day bash. Hundreds showed up at Penno’s Wharf on a gloriously sunny Saturday for a full day and evening of entertainment which included live music, Irish dancing and, of course, lots of beer. The hosts laid on a mini-bus service from Hamilton and at peak times, customers were four-deep at the bar amid a jovial atmosphere that spilled out onto a broad, waterside terrace. The St. Patrick’s Day festivities at Moongate continue today – and at other pubs and bars across the island.
Grocery stores & BELCO in crosshairs, reducing hospital wait times, and more in the PLP’s legislative plans
Grocery Stores, wholesalers and BELCO were in the fiscal crosshairs of the PLP Government at the opening of the March 2025 Speech from the Throne (Watch in full HERE, or scroll to bottom for the PDF).
The stated aim is to reduce the cost of living…
COST OF LIVING
With the implication that duty relief on certain food items is not sufficiently reducing prices on the shop shelves, Governor Andrew Murdoch relayed that Government intends to “implement fair pricing control and pricing transparency measures”, while expanding the categories of essential goods that have no import duty.
…but it doesn’t stop there. A magnifying glass will hover over business practices in the food sector:
“Government will amend the Cost of Living Commission Act 1974 to expand the investigatory powers of the Cost of Living Commission to examine the books and records of all businesses involved in the supply of food and other essential goods. For far too long business has profited at the expense of everyday Bermudians and the sunshine of public scrutiny cannot just apply to the Government, it must also apply to those on whom Bermudians rely to purchase the goods to sustain themselves.”
Government will look to amend the Electricity Act, and limit the expenses that BELCO can pass on to consumers, and also review the the requirement for a mandatory connection to the monopoly power supplier.
The Regulatory Authority is set to get more power to implement fair pricing on retail electricity tariffs, and to oversee both regulated and and unregulated sectors – to ensure transparent pricing and fair competition.
How effective these cost-of-living measures will be remains to be seen.
EDUCATION, SENIORS…
The Throne Speech reiterated the PLP’s pre-election promise to support the ‘sandwich generation’ that is both raising children and caring for aging parents, and the construction of at least one new senior daycare facility.
“This will reduce the expenses of these families as they seek care for their loved ones during the workweek… Additionally, the government will make parental leave available to a legal guardian or adoptive parent, and amendments to the existing regime of paternity and maternity leave will be made to provide increased flexibility for parents in the critical early time of a child’s life.”
The development of Signature Schools will continue, plus expanded access to funding to pursue tertiary education, including government-supported partnerships with the private sector. Measures to protect public funds will be implemented in this instance:
“The Government will reintroduce a guaranteed loan programme, with additional legislation that will allow for the immediate garnishment of wages should persons not repay their guaranteed loan.”
HOUSING
The Government promises to leave “no stone unturned” in the effort to increase the housing supply, by partnering with the private sector to offer rent-to-own programmes and completing the amendments to the Landlord and Tenant Act to support mutually positive rental relationships.
“…during this Session, the Government will advance amendments to the Acquisition of Land Act 1970 and the Bermuda Housing Act 1980 to provide for a more efficient, streamlined means by which to address vacant and derelict properties. These units will be returned to the housing stock, providing additional housing for Bermudians.”
TAX REVENUE, DEBT & LIABILITIES
On the expected windfall of monies from the Corporate Income Tax in the next few years, Government promises to reduce the national debt, invest to upgrade infrastructure and public services, and set up a Sovereign Wealth Fund to invest for the future.
The eye-opening projection from November’s Throne Speech – that we could clear National Debt in 10 years – was not repeated.
Government will introduce amendments to eliminate the growing underfunded liability of the Contributory Pension Fund, and restore the annual cost of living increase for public sector retirees, which has been suspended for the last ten years.
LOCAL ECONOMY
The Throne Speech acknowledges that record growth in the international business sector has undergirded the local economy, but Government will also seek to foster growth of local business:
“Government will… Continue the implementation of Bermuda’s Economic Development Strategy… Complete the implementation of cooperative legislation and establish a Registrar for Cooperatives, supported by a dedicated Government department to administer and promote the sector… Develop and implement a National Entrepreneurship Strategy and a Digital Entrepreneurship Strategy that will support an expansion of small and medium-sized business ownership focusing on women, youth, and Bermudian business owners… Advance Bermuda’s position as a digital finance hub… Cut red-tape by streamlining business setup and operation processes…”
B.O.P.P… STOPPED?
Fishermen have won a battle, it seems, as the PLP have followed through on their platform promise to pause the implementation of new marine protected areas until an agreement is reached on, quote: “ better enforcement and fairer data collection rules” end quote.
TOURISM
In tourism, smaller guest houses and health and medical tourism sites could be included for concessions under the Tourism Investment Act.
HEALTHCARE
Long-awaited Universal Healthcare will continue to tarry, but in the meantime Government will expand HIP to include an annual preventative doctor’s visit, and look to expand specialist cover under FutureCare.
Government will seek to reduce pressure on Hospital resources and wait times, with measures to facilitate the timely discharge of patients who no longer need acute care, and support their care in the community.
“To support this transition requires affordable long-term community care, designed to ensure that support is directed to those who need it most… The power to discharge may free up space in the hospital, but if persons have nowhere to go that will only increase stress on families. There are currently 4 care homes that are in various phases of development, and the Government is committed to expanding the interest free loan scheme for home modifications for seniors and the disabled.”
Other Healthcare-related measures to be considered are:
Enforcing a ban on industrially produced trans fats;
Restrictions on flavoured vaping products
Allowing abortions without committee approval
A legislative review to ensure rights of accessibility and opportunities for individuals with disabilities
LAW, CRIME
Law reform will also be brought forward in this legislative session.
The age of criminal responsibility will be increased from 8 to 14, a statutory regime will be developed for for the compensation of persons wrongfully imprisoned and convicted, and access to Legal Aid will be reviewed.
Implementation of the National Violence Strategy, rolled out at the end of last year, will continue.
CONSTITUTION
Matters involving the Bermuda Regiment and Electoral practice will also be addressed, in collaboration with the UK:
“Government House and the Government have agreed that the 2014 Security and Defence Review must be refreshed, and how to accomplish this critical task will be the subject of discussions on those areas reserved to the Governor and those delegated to the Government of Bermuda”
“Our 1968 Constitution that was intended to be a bridge to independence within five years is approaching its own 60th anniversary. There is bipartisan agreement that reform of the 1968 Order is required. This, taken with the fresh call for voting reform, sets the stage for the commencement of a fulsome consultative process to discuss these matters, including reducing the number of seats in the House of Assembly, belonger status, and absentee voting for residents and students overseas.”
PUBLIC SECTOR
Government acknowledged the difficulty of retaining technical officers in the public sector due to enticing salaries in the private sector. A scholarship programme will therefore provide university support in exchange for a 5-year commitment to public service or public healthcare.
The digitisation of Government services will also continue.
Previous Throne Speech promises will roll over into this session, including amendments to Clean Air regulations, Cybercrime legislation, plus access to banking and over-the-limit fee regulations.
In closing his first Speech from the Throne in Bermuda, Governor Andrew Murdoch added a few words of his own…
“The importance of fairness, good governance and accountability are at the heart of the Constitution. I therefore welcome the Government’s commitment to serve every Bermudian with fairness and accountability… Madame President and Members of the Senate, Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Assembly, I declare this Session open and may God guide you in your deliberations.”
Charity’s 2024 Annual Report shows year-over-year increase in homelessness
Local charity HOME shedding light on the rising number of individuals suffering homelessness in Bermuda.
In their recently released 2024 Annual Report, HOME says that “the headline number of people experiencing homelessness has increased from just over 800 at the end of 2023 to over 1,100 at the end of 2024.”
Cross-collaboration between government, non-profits, and the private sector sees stakeholders attempting to address the issue.
The report states that “The shortage of homes and high rents in Bermuda cause homelessness. They also make it difficult for people to move on from homelessness. Accommodation for a minimum of 1,300 people is needed today (1,100 identified people experiencing homelessness and 200 applicants for Bermuda Housing Corporation housing).”
“There needs to be a steep change in the provision of secure, decent and affordable housing.”
OBA leader says “the island cannot afford any further lack of action”
Jarion Richardson, Leader of the One Bermuda Alliance, gave the below speech at his party’s headquarters this afternoon following the Government’s Speech from the Throne.
“Today’s Throne Speech lacked substance and doesn’t address the most important needs of the country.
The island just experienced an election like this island has ever seen.
The Progressive Labour Party did not gain the majority of the peoples’ vote, but yet it won the election. This, is in fact, sobering, and I would hope that the party is reflecting deeply on what this ‘victory’ actually means.
The One Bermuda Alliance, and other non-PLP candidates garnered more votes combined than that of the PLP alone. This cannot be ignored.
Another thing that can’t be ignored is that the people of Bermuda were calling for hope. They are desirous of a better Bermuda, not just for themselves, but for all residents on the island, regardless of background.
The PLP has not delivered that and this Throne Speech clearly demonstrates that there will be more of the same.
While I can appreciate that a Throne Speech was delivered just a few months ago, the only glimmers of hope were the initiatives which reflected our platform that was released in September 2024: Addressing the Landlord Tennant Act, reducing red tape for businesses and increasing efficiency. These are very similar to the OBA.
This speech lacked depth.
This was an opportunity for the Government to repeal the ineffective Sugar Tax, yet no mention of it being repealed. There was no mention of how the island is going to tackle food security. The bloc grant for the Bermuda Hospitals Board, although inefficient, will still remain in place. Where is any mention of the youth? Again the PLP is sending a resounding message that their voices don’t matter.
Education reform…just last week an announcement was made that there will an adjustment to the implementation of signature schools, yet today it has been said that an Education Authority will implemented.
The reform should be paused. The powers that be should listen to the parents and the teachers…and an independent education authority should be implemented.
The Government has been silent on the topic of domestic violence. The domestic violence court was due to be introduced in January this year…yet nothing. There is still no safe house on the island, despite its absence over the last few years. How are victims to truly feel safe when it feels like their needs are being ignored.
The PLP has said it will address building homes for Bermudians by assessing private buildings—but why not look at the Government’s inventory of buildings that are not in use.
Today, charity HOME reported that over 1100 people on the island experiencing homelessness so drastic action is required. We urge the Government to finding a solution a priority.
And quite frankly, the island cannot afford any further lack of action.”
Men and women’s team preparing for major event in Mexico
Bring your game face and apetite this weekend for a good cause. The Women’s National Field Hockey Team hosting their Saint Patrick’s BBQ fundraiser to assist with an upcoming competition in Mexico.
Player Georgia Harris and National Men and Women’s Field Hockey Head Coach Kovin Moodley gave us the details on this weekend’s festivities, and insight into an initiative that will see local students get involved with the sport.
Measures to reduce cost-of-living challenges a recurrent theme in Throne Speech
The Convening of the Legislature officially got underway this morning.
Governor Andrew Murdoch, who delivered the Throne Speech, which sets out the Government’s legislative agenda for the year ahead, focused heavily on reducing the cost of living in Bermuda.
Premier David Burt, in a news release, said it’s not a repetition of the speech delivered in November. He said items such as enhancing FutureCare and HIP, capping pension fees, cutting red tape, expanding apprenticeships and training programmes, and ending homelessness, remain firmly on the Government’s agenda.
The formal proceedings were held on the Cabinet Office grounds in Hamilton. Last night, it was confirmed the government would announce that the Cost-of-Living Commission will gain the authority to examine the financial records of businesses involved in food supply and essential goods, ensuring fair pricing for consumers.
“For far too long business has profited at the expense of everyday Bermudians and the sunshine of public scrutiny cannot just apply to the Government, it must also apply to those on whom Bermudians rely to purchase the goods to sustain themselves,” said Governor Murdoch.
In addition, legislation will be amended to allow the formation of an education authority.
Governor Murdoch explained, “The legislation to implement an Education Authority will change how public education is funded, governed, and led.”
As the Corporate Income Tax is set to come into effect this year, Governor Murdoch said priorities will shift to public sector workers to restore wages relative to cost-of-living increases.
Governor Murdoch said the government will advance legislative amendments to the Acquisition of Land Act 1970 and the Bermuda Housing Act of 1980 to provide streamlined means to address vacant and derelict properties.
He said the government will find ways to return the vacant units to housing stock for Bermudians. Governor Murdoch also said the areas of Mary Victoria and Alexandra Road neighbourhoods had been given ‘band-aid’ treatment, and a more expansive revitalisation plan will be created.
On the local economy, the government reiterated its commitment to fostering an environment that supports entrepreneurs and the growth of their businesses.
Regarding tourism, the government will advance amendments to the Tourism Investment Act 2017 to include smaller guest houses as well as health and medical tourism sites.
On the health front, measures will be rolled out to facilitate the timely discharge of patients from the hospital – a chronic issue that has been exacerbated by Bermuda’s ageing population and a lack of space in nursing/care homes across the island. The government’s approach this legislative session will include transitioning patients who no longer require acute care to suitable alternative care settings, thus freeing up hospital beds and reducing wait times in the emergency room.
“The power to discharge may free up space in the hospital, but if persons have nowhere to go that will only increase stress on families,” acknowledged Governor Murdoch. “There are currently 4 care homes that are in various phases of development, and the Government is committed to expanding the interest-free loan scheme for home modifications for seniors and the disabled.”
A comprehensive review of the Mental Health Act of 1968 will also be carried out to modernise processes and provide greater protection for service users.
The legislature will also consider enforcing a ban on industrially produced trans fats, restrictions on vaping products, repeal of the sections of the Criminal Code from 1907 that address pregnancy termination, and a legislative review to ensure the rights of accessibility and opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Turning to law reform, legislators will look at increasing the age of criminal responsibility from 8 to 14, as well as other amendments to the Young Offenders Act of 1950.
Meanwhile, Governor Murdoch said consultation has begun on electoral and constitutional reforms, with a report to be introduced for consideration of the legislature. Discussions include reducing the number of seats in the House of Assembly, status and absentee voting for students or residents overseas.
“Electoral and Constitutional reforms should mirror the times in which we live, and the strength of systems is in their ability to adjust to meet the demands of the times,” he said.
To attract the next generation of leaders within the public service, the government will launch a scholarship scheme providing university tuition support in exchange for a five-year commitment to public service of public health care.
In keeping with the digitisation of government services, it was stated that the amount of government information that is open and accessible online will be expanded to reduce the burden of PATI requests on public officers.
Governor Murdoch concluded: “The importance of fairness, good governance and accountability are at the heart of the Constitution. I therefore welcome the Government’s commitment to serve every Bermudian with fairness and accountability.”
The Speaker of the House is Dennis Lister II and Deputy Speaker is Lovitta Foggo.
Joan Dillas-Wright will return as President of the Senate.
You can read the full Speech from the Throne below.
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