New website aims to reduce processing times for social insurance applications
Update from the Bermuda Government via press release
As part of the Government of Bermuda’s commitment to modernising public services and improving efficiency, the Department of Social Insurance is pleased to announce the launch of new online application services. This initiative aligns with the Government’s broader efforts to reduce red tape and streamline processes for the benefit of the public through digital transformation.
The site is now live, and effective Monday, February 24th, 2025, the following applications must be submitted through the department’s website athttps://socialinsurance.gov.bm:
Application for a Social Insurance Number
Application for Voluntary Contributions
Request for a Letter of Good Standing
Request for a Record of Contributions
Personal Name Change
Application for Pensions
Application for Widows/Widowers Allowance
Application for Disability Benefit
Applications for Pension Re-Assessment
Reporting of Violations of The Contributory Pensions Act 1970
These improvements reflect the Government’s pledge, as outlined in the 2023 Throne Speech, to leverage technology to create a more efficient and user-friendly public service. The move to online applications will reduce processing times, enhance convenience, and ensure a more seamless experience for Bermudians accessing vital social insurance services.
The Premier and Minister of Finance, the Hon. David Burt, stated: “Enhancing government services is about making life easier for the people we serve. By digitising these applications, we are cutting down on paperwork, reducing wait times, and ensuring that Bermudians can submit applications and requests for services quickly and efficiently. This initiative is another step in the Government’s ongoing efforts to enhance service delivery, reduce red tape, and meet the expectations of a modern, digitally connected population.”
To support those who may need assistance with the new online application system, the Department of Social Insurance staff will provide in-person support for any residents. Residents are encouraged to bring the necessary documents when visiting the office for assistance.
The Department is also continuing to work on automating additional applications, with further applications to be available digitally in the future.
The Government remains committed to delivering accessible, efficient, and high-quality public services through digital innovation.
For further information, please contact the Department of Social Insurance:
Includes proposals for education, healthcare, and social justice
Update from independent candidate for C25 Justin Mathias via press release
Justin Mathias, a dedicated candidate for Constituency 25, is excited to announce a comprehensive platform developed in collaboration with the voters and the wider community.
Coming to the end of his short campaign, Justin Mathias realized that his canvassing efforts wouldn’t allow him to visit every voter given the short nature of this election and his full-time job commitment.
This election has been dominated by the perpetual blame war between the PLP and OBA and we need to focus this election on what truly matters, the future.
Therefore, Justin Mathias, has gathered valuable insights and ideas to address the pressing issues facing our community.
This platform has 15 central pillars that represent a collective effort to bring about meaningful change and improve the quality of life for all residents.
Reducing the Size of Bermuda’s Parliament: A Comprehensive Plan
Establishing Election Financing Laws in Bermuda
Strengthening Families and Communities in Bermuda
Revisioning Education
Comprehensive Plan for Reducing Living Expenses for Seniors in Bermuda
Plan for Universal Health Care in Bermuda
Cultural Investment Fund for Bermuda
A Self-Sustainable Future for BermudaBermuda1.
Residential, Commercial, and Tourism Infrastructure Plan for Bermuda
Transportation Plan for BermudaBermuda12.
Bermuda Environmental Protection and Sustainability Plan
Enhancing Regulatory Authority in BermudaBermuda17.
Social Justice and Human Rights Plan for Bermuda
Plan for Bermuda’s Press, Media, and Journalism
Strategic Plan to Improve the Civil Service in Bermuda
A highlight of some of the central points of the plan are below.
Reducing the Size of Bermuda’s Parliament
One of the key proposals is to reduce the size of Bermuda’s Parliament. This plan aims to optimize governance, reduce costs, and enhance democratic representation. By cutting the number of seats in Parliament by half, from 36 to between 18 and 24 seats, we can save taxpayers an estimated $1.5 million to $2 million annually. This proposal also includes providing elected representation in the Senate and enhancing its powers to create a more balanced and accountable legislative process.
Strengthening Families and Communities
The platform emphasizes the importance of strong families and communities. We propose new and sharper penalties for domestic violence offenders, comprehensive rehabilitation programs, and an increase in social workers to address abuse and neglect. Additionally, we aim to establish a standardized minimum child support payment and offer financial assistance and job training for non-paying parents. To combat declining birth rates, we will introduce initiatives such as monetary incentives for married couples and support programs for single mothers and fathers.
Revolutionizing Education
Education is a cornerstone of our platform. We plan to restructure the Ministry of Education, decentralize management, and grant autonomy to individual schools. Significant improvements to school infrastructure, including modern facilities and recreational areas, will boost morale and enhance the learning environment. We also propose the creation of a Sporting & Arts Chartered School and the transformation of Bermuda College into Bermuda University, offering four-year degree programs in various fields.
Supporting Our Seniors
Ensuring a comfortable and dignified life for our elderly is a priority. Our platform includes the implementation of free universal healthcare services, reduced taxes on food and utility inputs, and improvements to food sustainability. We also propose a support worker program for seniors to assist with daily activities and healthcare needs, reducing the need for costly rest homes.
Promoting Environmental Sustainability
Our environmental protection and sustainability plan focuses on conservation and restoration of native areas, marine conservation, and sustainable fishing. We will also invest in educational programs, increased patrols, supporting our fishermen and harsher penalties to protect our natural heritage.
Enhancing Transportation
To create a comprehensive and cohesive transportation system, we propose dedicated minibus routes for each parish, improved ferry services, and measures to enhance taxi services. Extending service hours and investing in green transportation options will support local nightlife, reduce driving under the influence, and contribute to a sustainable future.
Advancing Social Justice and Human Rights
The platform is committed to advancing social justice and human rights. We will strengthen legislation against hate crimes and hate speech, include gender identity and sexual orientation in the Human Rights Act, and reform consent laws to eliminate discrimination. Housing protections, equal legal recognition for all civil unions, and modernizing prison rules are also key components of our plan.
Empowering Education and Economic Development
The platform places a strong emphasis on education and economic development. We plan to invest in teachers by offering competitive salaries, professional development opportunities, and resources to support their growth. Curriculum development will reflect Bermuda’s culture, history, and future needs, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education. Additionally, we aim to make education accessible for all by providing scholarships, financial aid, and support services.
On the economic front, we propose inclusive economic development initiatives that encourage local entrepreneurship and small business development. By offering business grants, networking opportunities, and establishing business incubators focused on cultural and environmental sustainability, we aim to create a thriving economic environment. The platform also includes affordable housing options for low and middle-income families, ensuring that everyone has access to safe and affordable living conditions.
This comprehensive platform is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Justin Mathias and the voters of Constituency 25. Together, we have developed innovative solutions to address the challenges facing our community. Justin Mathias is committed to working tirelessly to implement these ideas and create a brighter future for all residents no matter the outcome of the election on February 18th.
Acting Education Minister seeks “comprehensive plan” that will be clear for parents
Acting Education Minister Crystal Caesar. File Photos
Educators on “the front lines” of significant changes to the public school system are being given “an opportunity to come up with a comprehensive plan”, according to Government.
Crystal Caesar, the Acting Education Minister, said that she is aware of the concerns raised about what will happen to current M2 and Y8 students in September 2025.
As part of school reform and the phasing-out of middle schools, Sandys Secondary Middle is set to become the third public senior school for the new academic year, alongside CedarBridge Academy and the Berkeley Institute.
All senior schools would then receive an additional academic year as M2 and Year 8 students transfer to senior schools as well as the usual M3s.
However, Government announced today that readiness reports from senior schools are being reviewed – and updates for parents are pending.
Acting Minister Caesar said, “I’ve been made aware, as the Acting Minister of Education, that parents of year 9 students have concerns regarding the plan for their children in September 2025.”
“I want to reassure parents that we have their children’s best interests at heart.”
“With that said, I had a meeting convened two weeks ago with senior school leaders, members of the Education Reform Unit, and representatives from both the Department of Education and the Ministry of Education.”
“We are giving the senior school leaders and staff on the front lines an opportunity to come up with a comprehensive plan that can be clearly communicated to both parents and students for September 2025.”
M2 and Y8 students set to transition in September, but principals’ and parents’ concerns are being reviewed
The Berkeley Institute, CedarBridge Academy and Sandys Secondary Middle School. File Photos
The planned transition of public middle-schoolers to senior schools appears to be less certain today, after school leaders cited concerns over readiness.
Government announced today that readiness reports from senior schools are being reviewed – and updates for parents are pending.
In November, Education Minister Diallo Rabain said the current M2 and M3 year groups, plus Year 8 students from already-transitioned Parish Primaries, would move on to Senior Schools in September 2025.
Sandys Secondary Middle is set to become the third public senior school, and alongside CedarBridge and Berkeley would transition to a five-year programme, taking on an additional academic year as M2 and Year 8 students transfer to senior schools as well as the usual M3s.
Questions now hang over these plans after the Ministry of Education advised that school leaders, teachers and parents have brought concerns to the acting minister.
A Ministry Spokesperson advised, “Understanding that this transition impacts students and families directly, the Ministry is now in the crucial phase of reviewing the readiness reports and recommendations from the three senior schools.”
“This review is essential to ensuring that the Year 9 curriculum is delivered effectively and that teachers receive the support they need to provide the best learning experience.”
“We recognise that parents and students have many questions, and we are committed to keeping school communities informed.”
Many M2 and Year 8 students have already attended Senior School taster sessions and selected Signature Programmes. The outcome of this current situation may determine what happens to them in September.
A source who asked to remain anonymous told our newsroom that this could affect parents who might have chosen to send children to private school instead, as they have missed deadlines.
The Ministry said the final senior school readiness report is expected next week, and updates will be shared with parents and students as soon as possible.
We asked to speak with the Acting Minister to get more clarity on this issue, but were told no further comment will be made at this time.
Germany’s defense minister rebuffed Vance’s criticism of German and European political powers
U.S. Vice President JD Vance gives a speech at the Munich Security Conference (MSC) in Munich, Germany February 14, 2025. REUTERS/Leah Millis
International news via Reuters – BERLIN / U.S.
Vice President JD Vance on Friday backed a German far-right party as an eligible political partner in remarks rebuffed by Berlin as unwelcome interference in an upcoming election.
The anti-immigration AfD, currently polling at around 20% ahead of the February 23 general election, has pariah status among other major political parties in a country with a taboo about far-right politics because of its Nazi past.
In a policy dubbed the “firewall”, parties have formed a consensus not to work with the AfD, which is under surveillance by the German domestic intelligence service.
In an apparent reference to the catchword, Vance said: “Democracy rests on the sacred principle that the voice of the people matters. There’s no room for firewalls.”
“No voter on this continent went to the ballot box to open the floodgates to millions of unvetted immigrants,” Vance also said, speaking at the Munich Security Conference on Friday.
In an interview with Deutschlandfunk radio due to be broadcast on Sunday, Chancellor Olaf Scholz criticized Vance’s remarks as highly unusual, adding that Germany had a firewall against extreme right-wing parties for a good reason, citing Germany’s past under National Socialism.
Germany’s defense minister on Friday rebuffed Vance’s criticism of German and European political powers as unacceptable.
“This democracy was just called into question by the U.S. Vice President, not just the German democracy but that of Europe as a whole,” Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said at the Munich Security Conference on Friday.
“If I understand him correctly he compares the condition of Europe with what prevails in some authoritarian regimes … this is not acceptable,” he added.
Conservative leader Friedrich Merz, who polls show is likely to be Germany’s next chancellor, was accused by rivals last month of breaking the firewall by initiating parliamentary motions that relied on AfD support. But he, too, has ruled out forming a government with the far-right party.
Earlier on Friday, a German government spokesperson said Vance should not interfere in Germany’s election, when asked about a Wall Street Journal report in which Vance was quoted as saying he would urge German politicians to work with all parties including the AfD.
“I don’t think it is right for foreigners, including those from friendly foreign countries, to interfere so intensively in an election campaign in the middle of an election period,” the German government spokesperson said at a press conference.
Billionaire U.S. businessman Elon Musk, the biggest donor to President Donald Trump’s election effort and now head of Trump’s task force to cut U.S. government spending, has publicly backed the AfD.
Reporting by Ludwig Burger, Riham Alkousaa and Andrey Sychev, editing by Friederike Heine, William Maclean
The Free Democratic Movement leader explores his agricultural roots
If a big part of politics is personality, there is a particular pressure on leaders to be likeable and engaging, as well as effective.
In a new series, we sit down with four leading figures in the 2025 election – David Burt, Jarion Richardson, Sir John Swan and Marc Bean, to find out what makes them tick – with a focus not on policy, but on the person behind the public image.
For our first candidate profile, we make our way west to speak to Marc Bean. He sees echoes of himself in the land he’s seeking to represent. Mr. Bean reflects on his ties to Constituency 32 Southampton West, and his tutelage under Dame Lois Browne-Evans.
The Department of Tourism, Culture, and Sport to be the title sponsor of the summer celebration
The Government has increased this year’s Carnival grant by just over a quarter of a percent.
At a recent press conference, it was announced that the Department of Tourism, Culture, and Sport will serve as the title sponsor for the summer festivities, which will run from June 11th to June 16th.
In total, the government revealed that Carnival funding has increased by 46% since 2023.
Organizers emphasized that Carnival is “more than just a weekend of revelry; it is a cultural and economic event that benefits the entire country.”
Owen Darrell, Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sport, spoke about the government’s ongoing support for the celebrations.
He stated: “This event has grown tremendously since its inception 10 years ago, and its impact on our culture, tourism, and local economy is undeniable.
The Government of Bermuda is proud to again offer significant support to this celebration, ensuring its continued success and expansion. Through strategic investment, we aim to expand its reach, using targeted marketing efforts to attract more visitors to our shores. Recognizing the importance of efficient logistics and infrastructure, our support will facilitate the seamless execution of this large-scale event.
We see this as an important opportunity to foster greater community involvement and outreach. This means creating spaces for local artists, musicians, and performers to showcase their talents and contribute to the cultural dynamism of the Carnival in Bermuda festivities.
Bermuda and the Caribbean are family, and you can see it in the way we move, eat, and celebrate. These roots run deep, shaping how we come together, lift each other up, and keep our culture alive. Carnival is more than just a celebration: it is a symbol of freedom and togetherness.
I would like to extend my gratitude to all organisers, stakeholders, and volunteers who are working tirelessly to bring this event to life. Your passion and dedication ensure that Carnival in Bermuda continues to thrive and leave a lasting impression on all who experience it.
The Carnival in Bermuda celebrations not only represent a boost to our economy, but also an invitation to the world to experience Bermuda’s unique culture. With our collective efforts and the support of the community, this year’s carnival promises to be the biggest and best yet.”
$5 million requested in next fiscal budget for preliminary work
Bermuda Government update via press release:
“We have been working with these plans since 2017, after inheriting the initial designs from the previous administration,” stated Minister of Public Works, Lt. Col. the Hon. David A. Burch, OBE (Mil), ED, JP, MP.
The Ministry of Public Works is taking decisive steps to replace the ageing St George’s Swing Bridge, ensuring a long-term solution for residents and motorists.
While substantive repairs to the existing bridge are being carried out this year, the ultimate goal is to construct a brand-new bridge alongside it.
The replacement bridge, which has been in the planning phase since 2016, has now reached a stage where construction must move forward.
Minister Burch confirmed that $5 million has been requested in the next fiscal budget to advance the preliminary work, including finalising designs and preparing for public tender.
“Over the years, we have carried out work to extend the lifespan of the existing Swing Bridge, but we are now at a point where we must move ahead with the replacement,” the Minister explained.
“The new bridge will be erected adjacent to the existing one (on the eastern side)”, the Minister said.
“This is a complex process, and we estimate it will take around three years to complete, barring unforeseen circumstances. Once finished, the transition to the new bridge will happen overnight, and the existing Swing Bridge will be dismantled.”
The Government has engaged with St George’s community throughout the process, ensuring that public input is considered in the design.
“We consulted residents on the type of bridge that will be built, and their feedback has been taken into account,” the Minister stated.
“We now have local expertise within the Ministry, thanks to a Bermudian engineer who trained abroad specifically for this project. While he is no longer an employee with us, we remain in close contact with him”.
Securing land rights has been a key development in advancing the construction of the new bridge.
The Minister confirmed that the Bermuda National Trust (BNT) and the Government have successfully negotiated the purchase of land on the St George’s side, where the new structure will come ashore.
Football: Bermuda’s U17 Men dominate Turks and Caicos
It was a must-win match and Team Bermuda delivered. A hattrick from Kaylen Brunson, followed by goals from Captain Logan Jimenez and substitute Harlem Bean-Fox in the final moments of the match, capped off a dominant 5-nil victory for Bermuda’s U17 men over Turks and Caicos last night at the national sports centre. Standing in their way is Team Canada. Undefeated in the tournament so far, the Canadians crushed Curacao in the first match of yesterday’s double-header by a score of 7 goals to one. The Bermuda Canada showdown for a place in the 2025 World Cup will take place on Sunday at 8pm.
In football, despite splitting their first two matches in the Concacaf qualifier, Bermuda’s men’s Under 17 team are still in with a chance to qualify the under 17 World Cup in Qatar, but it won’t be easy. After going down 6 one to Curacao on Friday, Team Bermuda bounced back against Anguilla on Sunday. And Aaron Lugo Head Coach of the Bermuda Under 17 National Team says that when they take on Turks and Caicos this evening however, there will be no margin for error.
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