Statement from Bermuda Police Service: “Shortly after 9:10 pm on Friday February 7, 2025, police officers on mobile patrol observed two persons wearing dark clothing traveling on a motorcycle with its lights turned off near the junction of Frog Lane and Palmetto Road, Devonshire. Officers activated their emergency equipment and approached the motorcycle but the driver failed to stop. Officers pursued the motorcycle which eventually came to a stop at the old Berkeley Institute. A foot chase ensued with both the driver and pillion passenger being detained and arrested. Subsequent checks revealed the bike which was seized by police, had previously been reported stolen. During the pursuit, two police vehicles collided, resulting in minor damage to both vehicles. However there were no injuries reported.”
Bermuda Youth Connect works with donors to fly young voters home
Update via Bermuda Youth Connect press release:
It is with great pride and gratitude that Bermuda Youth Connect announces the successful and safe return of the first group of students who are #HomeToVote.
Over the past three weeks, we’ve worked alongside generous donors—who share our unwavering belief that no Bermudian Student should be denied the right to vote because they are abroad pursuing higher education.
Bermuda Youth Connect previously expressed its concern over the timing of this election.
Many of our young people are overseas, striving to better themselves through education, yet they have been excluded from the process that shapes their future—twice under the current administration.
We firmly believe that noone, especially our youth, should have to choose between their future in the classroom and their future in the ballot box.
The Bermudian spirit illuminated this path for us—just three weeks ago, this initiative seemed like a dream, but it is now a reality, thanks to the commitment of donors who made it possible for students abroad to come home and vote.
Their generosity has been a beacon of hope for us, and we are proud of what we’ve achieved together.
Yet, this is only a first step, and we hope this is the last election without absentee ballots.
Too many students have had to choose between their academic commitments and their duty to participate in shaping their future.
No one should have to choose between their education and their democracy.
The anonymous donors added, “Students given this opportunity must exercise their democratic right to vote and be prepared to hold each Government accountable in relation to the outcome.”
Additionally, “each student was not brought back to vote for any particular party or independent.
This is a democratic effort, and hopefully, this is the last election without absentee ballots.”
Thanks to the foresight and generosity of our donors, we have worked to correct a decision that otherwise would have kept too many young Bermudians from having their voices heard.
We are deeply grateful to these donors for trusting us with this vital work, and we remain committed to ensuring that the voices of our youth continue to resonate in every election to come.
This journey has reminded us of why Bermuda Youth Connect was founded in 2020—during a time of political uncertainty—to ensure that young people would not be excluded from the democratic process.
In 2020, we called for debates and demanded that our leaders take youth concerns seriously.
In 2025, once again, we find ourselves stepping up to ensure that the voices of young Bermudians, even those studying abroad, are heard.
Our mission remains unchanged: promote civic engagement to empower youth and ensure they are meaningfully engaged.
The Founders of Bermuda Youth Connect —Tierrai Tull, Halle Teart, Ajai Peets, and Veronica Swan-DeGraff—were directly responsible for logistical efforts and contacted students directly to ensure their participation in this opportunity.
Nadhiri Worrell, [a student at the University of Leicester who was brought back last night], says, “The opportunity to participate in our democracy should not be determined by outdated systems or political convenience.
This year, thanks to the dedication, organisation, and generosity of Bermuda Youth Connect and its donors, many students have been able to return home to vote.
Their unwavering commitment to a better Bermuda has not only enabled youth participation in voting but has also fostered a powerful sense of unity among young Bermudians.
This experience has connected students with like-minded individuals, reinforcing that we are not just observers of Bermuda’s future; we are active participants in shaping it.
As always, we are reminded that change doesn’t come easily but comes when we work together.
Bermuda’s future is bright, and today, it shines brighter thanks to the generous commitment to our youth from donors and all who believe in the power of participatory democracy.
Bermuda bounces back from Friday’s 6-1 defeat to Curacao to beat Anguilla
And in under 17 football action, after going down 6 one to Curacao on Friday at the National Sports Centre, Team Bermuda bounced back yesterday with a 3 one win over Anguilla. In the first match of the day, Canada crushed the Turks and Caicos 6 goals to nil. Team Bermuda will face Turks and Caicos next on Thursday evening at 8 pm at the National Sports Centre
Calls for need to balance challenging our Bermudian workforce and incentivising businesses
OBA Deputy Leader Ben Smith via press release:
As the Deputy Leader of the One Bermuda Alliance, I must address the Progressive Labour Party (PLP) government’s approach to our work permit policy.
It is evident that the current administration often relies on rhetoric rather than presenting transparent data and honest assessments.
Bermuda’s limited population cannot fulfil all the labor demands across our diverse industries.
This reality necessitates a well-structured work permit system that both safeguards Bermudian employment opportunities and ensures that essential positions are adequately staffed.
The government’s role is to balance these priorities, making decisions grounded in comprehensive data.
However, the Minister responsible for immigration appears to make decisions without presenting the supporting data.
For instance, when certain job categories are closed to work permit holders, there should be clear evidence detailing the number of Bermudians who have been trained, hired, and retained in these roles, demonstrating the effectiveness of such policies.
To address this gap in accountability, we propose the creation of a public database that tracks the success rates of Bermudians in these roles, with updates on retention rates, promotions, and their ongoing career development.
This data should be made publicly available so that all stakeholders—Bermudians, employers, and government—are fully informed of the effectiveness of the policies in place.
To enhance transparency and efficiency, we propose the implementation of a data-driven system where all jobs and workers are assigned unique identifiers.
This system would provide real-time insights into available positions, qualified Bermudians seeking employment, and the necessity for work permits.
Such an approach would streamline the approval process, ensuring that compliant employers—those who diligently complete required paperwork, employ Bermudians, and offer opportunities for local workers—receive expedited approvals.
Conversely, employers with a history of non-compliance should undergo a more rigorous review process.
We must also develop clear guidelines and consequences for employers who do not adhere to these regulations, ensuring that they are held accountable for non-compliance.
In our globalized economy, we are competing for both jobs and talent.
Therefore, our processes must be swift and effective.
It’s also crucial to address the issue of workers identified as underperforming or exhibiting problematic behavior.
Instead of subjecting them to repeated interviews and hiring cycles—which can cause delays and negatively impact businesses—we should mandate retraining programs.
We should also explore partnerships with local training institutions and businesses to create specific upskilling programs aimed at improving the employability of Bermudians, particularly in industries with skill shortages.
Protecting such workers without addressing underlying issues can lead to frustration among employers and may inadvertently harm the prospects of diligent and qualified Bermudians.
We cannot afford to see more jobs outsourced overseas due to systemic inefficiencies or the protection of underperforming workers.
Our focus must be on challenging our Bermudian workforce to excel and incentivizing businesses to recognize and reward top talent.
Protecting workers who disregard basic workplace rules and standards jeopardizes both our businesses and the reputation of our hardworking citizens.
The One Bermuda Alliance is committed to implementing a data-driven system that accelerates the work permit process while protecting Bermudian jobs and expanding opportunities for our citizens to train for future openings.
We also recognize the importance of investing in long-term initiatives that promote the professional growth of Bermudians, with a particular focus on industries such as technology, healthcare, and sustainable tourism, where there is substantial potential for growth. Together, we can create a more transparent, efficient, and fair system that benefits all Bermudians.
Pickleball: Team Bermuda beats Cayman to win the inaugural Caribbean Championships
Trailing 2 – 0 in the gold medal match after the men’s and ladies doubles, Team Bermuda’s backs were seemingly against the proverbial wall. And when Captains Gavin Manders and Sasha Fisher went down 1-0 in the mixed doubles, it seemed the writing was on that proverbial wall. But the Bermuda Captains found another gear, taking the next 2 sets to put Bermuda on the board. Benjamin Jones and Imani Phillips followed that win up by winning their mixed doubles match in straight sets to tie things up. With the score tied at 2 all, the stage was now set for a Dream Breaker showdown.
Cayman and Bermuda faced off in similar fashion in the round of 16 at World Cup in Peru last fall, with Cayman edging out Bermuda by a mere 2 points to move on to the quarterfinals. And when the Caymanians jumped out to a 4-0 lead, it seemed that we were heading for a similar outcome.
But with that epic loss seemingly still fresh in their minds Team Bermuda once again found another gear. Great play by Imani Phillips gave Team Bermuda the lead and Benjamin Jones sealed the victory for Team Bermuda with a smash. Final score: 21-18.
Focus on strengthening Bermuda’s borders and enhancing public safety
Update via Bermuda Government Press release:
Organised by the Customs Department, the training session leveraged the BPS’ expertise in drug trafficking patterns, emerging smuggling methods, and enforcement techniques.
The specialised session equipped enforcement personnel with updated knowledge and strategies for detecting and preventing illicit substances and contraband from entering Bermuda.
This joint training is part of an ongoing initiative conducted in previous years to ensure officers remain well-prepared to address evolving threats.
This latest session included new recruits, ensuring that newer staff members are aligned with experienced personnel and fully equipped to perform their duties effectively.
This initiative reinforces both agencies’ commitment to strengthening Bermuda’s borders, enhancing public safety, and keeping the island secure.
Minister of National Security, the Hon. Michael Weeks, JP, MP stated: “This training is a critical part of our efforts to protect Bermuda’s residents from the dangers of drug and weapon smuggling.
“Criminals are constantly finding new and sophisticated ways to smuggle illicit substances and contraband, and we must remain vigilant. By strengthening our borders, enhancing public safety, and promoting collaboration between law enforcement agencies, we are taking significant steps to make Bermuda a safer place.”
The training covered topics such as identifying synthetic drugs, investigative tactics, and interagency coordination to disrupt trafficking networks.
A spokesperson for the Customs Department noted: “We are grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Police and benefit from their extensive experience in tackling drug-related challenges.
“This partnership enhances our ability to protect Bermuda’s residents from the threats of drug smuggling and illicit contraband, including the evolving tactics criminals use to breach our borders.”
Collector of Customs Lucinda Pearman highlighted the importance of interagency collaboration, stating: “The exchange of knowledge and resources between our departments is invaluable.
“By sharing best practices and intelligence, we are better equipped to address the complexities of drug enforcement in today’s environment.”
Acting Detective Inspector Zoenique Williams from the Drug Unit emphasised the necessity of joint efforts, adding: “Our fight against the illegal drug trade requires constant vigilance and a unified approach.
“By equipping Customs trainees with the knowledge and tools to detect and prevent drug and weapon trafficking, we strengthen the security of our borders and communities.”
Acting Superintendent Jason Smith, Officer-in-Charge of the Serious Crime Unit, reinforced the benefits of this initiative, stating: “The Bermuda Police Service is pleased to have partnered with our sister agency, the Customs Department, in this all-important initiative.
“The benefits for both the BPS and Customs are far-reaching and will ultimately ensure the safety and protection of our community against the dangers associated with the trade of illicit substances and weapons, while also securing Bermuda’s reputation as a safe place to live, visit, and conduct business.”
The Customs Department and BPS remain dedicated to ongoing collaboration and training initiatives to ensure enforcement personnel are well-prepared to confront evolving threats.
All Bermudian seniors aged 65 and over are eligible to vote in the Advance poll.
The Progressive Labour Party strongly encourages seniors to take this opportunity.
We know life gets busy and it makes sense to vote at a time that is convenient to you.
The Advance Poll affords you this opportunity.
If you are going into town this Monday or Tuesday, why not go ahead and vote when you’re going about your day?
“We remind all seniors that they can take advantage of the advance poll and we’re here to help,” said Party Chair Dawn Simmons. “If you are a senior and you need a ride to Advance Poll, call us at 703-8757. The PLP believes in empowering our seniors. That’s why we have increased pensions for our seniors 6 times. We are the party who introduced FutureCare and we have plans to expand FutureCare to cover a specialist visit. We encourage all seniors to vote in the Advance Poll.”
The Advance Poll is also open to persons who are traveling on election day.
Please bring your travel documents with you.
Members of the Bermuda Police Service (bring your warrant card) and election day workers are also encouraged to take advantage of the Advance Poll.
Incapacitated voters and voters with scheduled procedures should send a doctor’s note to pro@gov.bm.
All voters must bring ID to the advance poll.
The Advance Poll is open from 8 am to 8 pm on Monday, February 10th and Tuesday, February 11th at the Mount Saint Agnes Academy School. If you need a ride, we can help.
Five Bermudian artists will be joining the songstress during the international tour
Bermudian singer-songwriter Heather Nova will be launching her international tour featuring 30 shows in 35 days in northern Europe. The tour, promoting her brand-new album starts March 6th in Germany.
Nova discusses her passion for inspiring the next generation of singers and performers by previously hosting a singer-songwriter competition. In light of this, she announced 5 local artists will be opening her shows on tour.
She also revealed more about her early life in Bermuda, growing up as an artist, travelling the world with her family and her big break.
Government starts recruitment drive ahead of the summer season
Image: DCI
A recruitment drive for government’s Summer Day Camp 2025 programme has been launched, encouraging islanders with a passion for working with children to apply for various roles. A press release was issued today by the Department of Sport and Recreation. Owen Darrell, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, said: “We are seeking enthusiastic and dedicated individuals to join our team of counsellors, coordinators, and supervisors to help deliver an unforgettable summer experience for Bermuda’s youth. “Joining the Summer Day Camp team is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in youth engagement, leadership, and teamwork while making a lasting impact on the community. Whether you have a passion for sports, arts, or mentoring young minds, this programme offers a rewarding environment to develop skills and build connections.” Positions available include Camp Counsellors, Special Needs Counsellors, Specialists (Art/Dance/Sports), Camp Coordinators, Senior Supervisors, Assistant Supervisors, Custodians, Office Clerk, and Store Persons. Applicants must be 18 years or older and hold valid First Aid and CPR certification, as well as Safeguarding Children and Adults at Risk (SCARS) certification. Candidates must also be available for the full six-week summer camp programme. Applications can be found on www.sportsandrec.bm from February 10, until March 7, 2025. For more information, call 295-0855 or visit www.sportsandrec.bm
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