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Bermuda celebrates ‘Data privacy day’

Office of the Privacy Commissioner closed until the 29th of January

Data Privacy Day 2025: This year’s theme is Take Control of Your Data. A spokesperson for the Office of the Privacy Commissioner says that the aim of the day is to educate and empower residents on
protecting their personal information.

“Almost a month after the Personal Information Protection Act 2016 (PIPA) entered into force on 1 January 2025, the theme is most topical and brings home the importance of Bermuda residents knowing their rights: a campaign and Individuals’ Guide to PIPA that PrivCom launched back in December 2024.”

The event is set to feature a keynote speech by Privacy Commissioner, Alexander White, which
will explore practical steps to safeguard data in an increasingly digital world focusing on urging
Bermudians to embrace a culture of privacy and data protection.

The spokesperson continues, “PrivCom has been celebrating Data Privacy Day since the appointment of the Commissioner and the office inception at the beginning of 2020.”
“In 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023, respectively, PrivCom explained the history and importance
of celebrating International Data Privacy Day by publishing a series of posts and holding a
series of events, including an interactive AI workshop organised in cooperation with an
overseas organisation.”


“In January 2024, PrivCom launched its Road to PIPA implementation plan during Data
Privacy Week 2024 and published a blog post about teaching young people how to use
ChatGPT in a safe and ethical way.
For tips on protecting your personal information, visit www.privacy.bm.”

In celebration of Data Privacy Day 2025, the Office of the Privacy Commissioner will be
closed for business. Normal operations will resume in Wednesday 29 January.

Story provided by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner

One small step from Penno’s Wharf … a view of the Neil Armstrong

Research vessel is covering for the Atlantic Explorer

The Neil Armstrong, pictured here at Penno’s Wharf, can carry 20 crew and 24 scientists.   Photo: Tony McWilliam

A spectacular research vessel has been turning heads in the east end.
The Neil Armstrong arrived in Bermuda on January the 13th and has been in and out of Penno’s Wharf.
The vessel is standing in for the Atlantic Explorer, which is owned and operated by the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences, and is currently undergoing scheduled maintenance at a shipyard in Jacksonville, Florida.
The 238-foot Neil Armstrong, named after the first person to walk on the moon, was launched in 2014.
It is owned by the U.S. Navy and operated by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.
The Atlantic Explorer is due to return to Bermuda at the end of February.

Fairmont Southampton Construction continues

Work on the new Beach Club set to commence in February

Construction work continues at Fairmont Southampton Hotel

Construction work continues at Fairmont Southampton Hotel

Photo supplied by Westend Properties

Construction work continues at Fairmont Southampton Hotel

Construction work continues at Fairmont Southampton Hotel

Photo supplied by Westend Properties

Construction work continues at Fairmont Southampton Hotel

Construction work continues at Fairmont Southampton Hotel

Photo supplied by Westend Properties

Construction work continues at Fairmont Southampton Hotel

Construction work continues at Fairmont Southampton Hotel

Photo supplied by Westend Properties

Construction work continues at Fairmont Southampton Hotel

Construction work continues at Fairmont Southampton Hotel

Photo supplied by Westend Properties

Construction work continues at Fairmont Southampton Hotel

Construction work continues at Fairmont Southampton Hotel

Photo supplied by Westend Properties

Construction work continues at Fairmont Southampton Hotel

Construction work continues at Fairmont Southampton Hotel

Photo supplied by Westend Properties

Photos: Westend Properties

A Statement from Westend Properties today highlights ongoing work at the Fairmont Southampton Hotel site, such as interior demolition of guest rooms, scaffolding being erected for ongoing work, and upcoming orders of new guestroom furniture.

50 construction workers are on site regularly, the statement reads – 80% of whom are local. Waves of new workers are expected in the coming weeks as broader construction starts at the Beach Club, pending approvals.

Alessandro Colantonio, Chief Investment Officer at Gencom, said “…every container delivered, every trash dumpster removed, and every new worker hired represents a critical step towards the reopening of the iconic Fairmont Southampton… Stay tuned for additional updates in the weeks and months ahead.”

The Fairmont Southampton Hotel and Beach Club, Bermuda’s largest hotel with 593 rooms, was shuttered in October 2020. Financing for the renovation and reopening was finalised last year, with a groundbreaking ceremony shortly afterwards.

The hotel is due to reopen in Spring 2026.

Full Statement from Westend Properties below:

To mark the beginning of a new year, Westend Properties is pleased to offer a series of updates about the ongoing renovations at the Fairmont Southampton.
The Waterlot successfully relaunches
As promised, Bermuda’s beloved steakhouse, The Waterlot, reopened its doors on December 4th, 2024, after an extensive renovation that was thoughtfully executed. The feedback on the updated restaurant has been overwhelmingly positive, with guests highlighting how the balance between tradition and modernity exceeds their expectations and has elevated the overall dining experience.
A recent visitor to the restaurant diner noted, “What strikes me most is how beautifully you’ve restored this Bermuda institution. The warmth of the space, the impeccable service and the perfectly executed menu all speak to the care and vision you’ve brought to this project. You’ve managed to honour The Waterlot’s storied history while breathing fresh life into every aspect of the experience.”
Construction continues throughout the property
Since our last official update and the groundbreaking ceremony in November, we have activated building permits for the renovations to the hotel and shipping containers filled with construction materials and equipment have been systematically arriving to the site.
Construction at the work site continues, with interior demolition of the guestrooms and on-site staff dorms under way, including the removal of all furniture that will not be re-used, carpeting, wall coverings, vanities and other finishes. This liquidation prepares these areas for the more comprehensive demolition works which will start in the coming weeks. As part of this undertaking, a mast climber – a piece of scaffolding equipment that is vital to the liquidation, demolition and renovation – has been installed outside the hotel’s façade. Lobby level liquidation will also commence shortly.
Work on and around the Beach Club is ongoing and is expected to ramp up in the weeks ahead. A new utility trench between the club and the hotel that will be used to facilitate the transfer of critical water, power, fibre and sewage to and from the club is in the process of being built. We’re gearing up to commence work on the new Beach Club in February, pending receipt of the required applicable building permit.

Other work scheduled for the upcoming weeks includes:
– Resealing and repainting the exterior of the Boundary Sports Bar and Grille building
– Finalising the approvals of shop drawings and placing the orders for the guestroom furniture, plumbing fixtures, carpets and tiles
– Demolition of the hotel pool hardscape, beginning with removing the existing pavers

There are currently approximately 50 construction workers on site on a regular basis, including management. About 80% of these employees are locals. We are expecting to onboard additional waves of workers in upcoming weeks as the broader construction starts on the Beach Club and continues at the hotel.
“As this important project moves forward, every container delivered, every trash dumpster removed, and every new worker hired represents a critical step towards the reopening of the iconic Fairmont Southampton,” said Alessandro Colantonio, Chief Investment Officer at Gencom, the managing partner of Westend Properties. “Stay tuned for additional updates in the weeks and months ahead.”

OBA suspicious of Government’s current budget…

…PLP says OBA misunderstands budgets, and financial updates are provided regularly

The timing of the general election means the latest budget, due in February, won’t be tabled until after the next administration is chosen.

At the candidate rollout last week, Gary Foster Skelton asked OBA Leader Jarion Richardson for specifics of what they would do if they won.

Mr Richardson intimated that they must be cautious about promises because there might be something we’re not being told about Government spending.

“One of the things we have to do when we first get in is ascertain the state of the government’s finances”, he said.

“We were well aware that we were going to get audited financial statements going into the budget season. As it stands right now, we don’t have any of that information.”

Shadow Finance Minister Douglas De Couto backed up the party leader.

He said, “the PLP Government has increased the net debt by $106 million over the past two years… that’s why our leader says we need to see what’s in the budget, because what else is in there that we’re not seeing today?”

A PLP spokesperson responded to the OBA below:

“The OBA’s comments reveal a clear misunderstanding of Budgets and finance. The suggestion that the PLP government is withholding information is both unfounded and misleading. Public financial updates are provided regularly, including through the Pre-Budget Report, which outlines the state of Bermuda’s finances and proposed fiscal measures​​.
“Our commitment to sound public finances has never wavered, that is why Bermuda has its first budget surplus in 21 years​​. This is due to fair economic policies such as reducing payroll taxes for 86% of workers and every local business while implementing modest increases for high earners. The public needs to remember – the OBA opposed this cut of taxes for 86% of workers – but the PLP delivered tax fairness and a budget surplus.
“The opposition’s comments are just an excuse to hide their lack of concrete plans and Bermudians deserve clarity on their proposals. Whose taxes will they increase…?
“This government remains focused on results: affordable childcare, increased pensions, reducing the cost of living, and expanding healthcare access while reducing co-pays. Those are our plans – that are funded. What are the OBA’s plans?”


US reports first outbreak of H5N9 bird flu in poultry

Comprehensive epidemiological investigations underway

FILE PHOTO (2024. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic)

PARIS (Reuters) -The United States has reported its first outbreak of H5N9 bird flu in poultry on a duck farm in California, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) said on Monday.

U.S. authorities also detected the more common H5N1 strain on the same farm in Merced County, California, they said in a report to Paris-based WOAH, adding that the almost 119,000 birds on the farm had been killed by Dec. 2.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), commonly called bird flu, has spread around the globe in recent years, leading to the culling of hundreds of millions of poultry. It also spread to dozens of mammal species, including dairy cows in the U.S. and killed a person in Louisiana.

The strain that has caused most damage in recent years has been H5N1. H5N9 is rarer.

“This is the first confirmed case of HPAI H5N9 in poultry in the United States,” the U.S. Department of Agriculture said in the report to the WOAH.

“The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), in conjunction with State Animal Health and Wildlife Officials, are conducting comprehensive epidemiological investigations and enhanced surveillance in response to the HPAI related events,” it added.

(Reporting by Sybille de La Hamaide. Editing by Gus Trompiz and Mark Potter)

Police commissioner condemns ‘defamatory’ social media video

The video attempts to implicate senior PLP figures in the death of celebrated footballer, Marco Warren, who died May 2023

Darrin Simons, Commissioner of Police Photo: File Image

The Commissioner of Police is calling on the community to refrain from sharing a video which contains defamatory content in connection to the death of Marco Warren.

Darrin Simons, Commissioner of Police stated, quote: “Since this unfortunate incident, the Premier has been in contact with police and willingly assisted us with our ongoing inquiry.

“Additionally, I must state clearly, there is no information to suggest that government Minister, Tinee Furbert, has had any involvement in the matters alleged.” end quote.

Marco Warren, a talented footballer, died in May 2023 after a road collision on North Shore Road, just west of Trinity Church Road. A former PLP Senator, Curtis Richardson, was charged with causing his death and a case is before the courts.

49-year-old Richardson pleaded not guilty to causing the death of Marco Warren by driving without due care and attention during last November’s Supreme Court arraignment session.

Urging residents to think before sharing the content of the video, the Commissioner stated that sharing unsubstantiated claims or defamatory content can have serious consequences – not only for the individuals targeted, but also legally, for those responsible.

The ruling Progressive Labour Party also commented on the video, and said the “false smear campaign” of dishonesty and baseless personal attacks are despicable, unacceptable, and go far beyond the realm of acceptable public discourse.

The party expressed regret for the family of those affected, and implore all parties to condemn the malicious act.

The Free Democratic Movement’s chair, Omar Dill, addressed the video during a press conference where they party rolled out several new candidates this morning at Sessions House in the City of Hamilton.

On social media site ‘X’, the FDM posted, “The Free Democratic Movement firmly condemns the use of social media to spread false statements that cause unnecessary harm. These actions are deeply troubling, as they often reopen wounds for families already enduring unimaginable pain.

“The real victims are not just those targeted but the loved ones left to bear the emotional toll. We must strive to uphold a sense of integrity and compassion, recognizing the lasting impact such behavior has on families and communities.”

Deputy leader of the OBA, Ben Smith said his party denies any involvement in the creation of the video nor condones how the incident was used to disparage public figures. 

He stated, “Such abhorrent, slanderous accusations have no place in Bermuda, and we urge whoever is behind this video to delete it and refrain from posting any further similar content. Videos such as this only serve to divide our community.” 

The BPS further encourages anyone with relevant information in connection to the death of Marco Warren to contact Acting Detective Superintendent Jason Smith on 717-0864.

Whitney Institute sends students home due to low staff numbers

The school board says not enough substitute teachers were available today

Whitney Institute, Flatt’s Village Photo: File image

Classes at the Whitney Institute Middle School were cancelled today due to insufficient staff numbers and a lack of available substitute teachers.
All students were released from school.
Chair of the Whitney Institute Middle School Board, Pastor Terence Stovell, confirmed that an email was sent to parents and phone calls were made to arrange transportation for students from school.
Some parents collected their children while others consented for their children to take a bus home.
A large number of staff called out sick although the board could not provide exact numbers.
Pastor Stovell added, “To my knowledge there was not a sufficient amount of substitute teaching staff that could have been brought in today” end quote.
A department of education spokesperson this afternoon confirmed they are addressing the matter with the principal, school board and the teachers union.
Apologising to those affected by the “unexpected closure”, the spokesperson said the school will update parents this evening.
Health officials last week issued a warning of unusually high numbers of respiratory illnesses being reported on island for this time of year.

FDM unveils five candidates

From east to west: Bermuda’s third political party introduces five new contenders

The Free Democratic Movement (FDM) has announced five candidates who will contest the upcoming General Election, each described as well-connected to and active in their respective communities.

Ricardo Nesbitt, a hospitality industry professional with over two decades of experience, will stand in Constituency 17, Pembroke Central. He stated his intention to “work for the people of Bermuda and everyone,” with a particular focus on representing employees in the hotel sector.

Kelzine Thompson, representing Constituency 21, Pembroke South East, said she is running to restore hope for residents and to address what other parties have failed to accomplish.

Ms Thompson expressed her desire to foster unity and hopes to “be the change” by bringing people together for the betterment of the community.

Shermaine Riley will contest Constituency 16, Pembroke East Central. She said she joined the FDM because they “have what it takes to change Bermuda and start the healing process for our island.”

Working closely with young people, Ms Riley highlighted concerns about anti-social behaviour, stating: “It’s important for us to create an atmosphere and an island where [young people] feel safe and loved, and see that they can build a future for themselves and their families.”

Business owner Shakera Richardson will stand for the FDM in Constituency 3, St David’s, following in the footsteps of her relative, the late Hilton Richardson. She shared his legacy, noting that he was a founder of St David’s Primary School and an advocate for the community. “I’m here to take the lead from him,” Ms Richardson said.

Asked by Bermuda Broadcasting’s Grae Minors about changes she would like to see in C3, she pointed to the restoration of “neglected” parks.

In the west, Bermuda College student and business owner Shalleya Codrington will represent the FDM in Constituency 36, Sandys North. She emphasised the need to advocate for young people, particularly in financial management education, to help them secure a better future.

Last year, FDM party leader Marc Bean contested the C36 seat in a by-election, where he finished second to the Progressive Labour Party’s Rev. Dr. Emily Gail Dill.

The party has announced that additional press conferences will take place in the lead-up to Nomination Day on Friday, likely to introduce more candidates.

Watch the full press conference below:

Police report “no fewer than six” weekend collisions

Of the serious crashes, one left a motorcycle hanging from a tree branch

Police reported “no fewer than six serious road traffic collisions” over the weekend.

In a post to social media, the Bermuda Police Service said the crashes happened on Saturday night and into the early hours of Sunday morning, with one resulting in a motorcycle left hanging from a tree branch.

“Yes, you read that right, the bike was hanging from a tree branch,” the post read.

It was confirmed that the rider of that particular incident had serious but not life threatening injuries.

The weekend activity prompted police to issue a warning to motorists. The post further stated: “Once again, please slow down, don’t drive while impaired, avoid using handheld devices and doing your makeup while driving. The life you save could well be your own.”

Reminder: Nomination Day

Parliamentary Registry Office: candidate nominations set for 31 January 2025

The Parliamentary Registrar reminds that the General Election is scheduled for Tuesday, February 18, 2025.

In advance of that date, the Parliamentary Registry Office (PRO) is advising that the nomination of candidates for the 2025 General Election will take place on Friday, 31 January 2025, at Mount Saint Agnes Academy School Hall, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Nomination packages are available for download at elections.gov.bm. 

Candidates who are unable to attend in person and will send their Proposer or Seconder on their behalf must contact the Parliamentary Registrar immediately following nominations to arrange for their official photographs to be taken.

This step is essential to avoid delays in the ballot paper production process.

The Parliamentary Registrar can be reached at 293-8683 or via email at pro@gov.bm.

For all other election-related information, the public is encouraged to elections.gov.bm.

Local salons contribute to student learning experiences

Cosmetology entrepreneurs will teach sessions on-site

Vivian Millings, owner of Impressions Hair Artistry & Beauty Supply; Kenneth Caesar, Principal of Cedarbridge Academy, Acting Minister of Education, Hon. Crystal Caesar, and Tasha DeVent, owner of Allure Hair Salon (Photo supplied)

Ministry of Education update: Allure Hair Salon and Impressions Hair Artistry & Beauty Supply are key stakeholders

The Ministry of Education’s Education Reform Unit (ERU) has recently signed Learning Partner agreements with two local beauty salons, Allure Hair Salon and Impressions Hair Artistry & Beauty Supply, opening unique opportunities for Cedarbridge Academy students. 

Signature Learning equips students with vital skills for further education, workforce readiness, and excellence in their chosen pathways. Signature Learning Partnerships delivers authentic, real-world learning experiences that young Bermudians need to build knowledge and skills. 

Both salons will actively engage students with hands-on projects and experiences in the Cosmetology Signature Strand. The Learning Partnership’s purpose is to:  

  • Expose students to careers and professional services available within cosmetology to increase their knowledge of the various pathways in this industry.
  • Increase student and teacher knowledge of the various applications of chemistry and biology within the cosmetology industry.
  • Create opportunities for students to develop professional cosmetology skill sets to ensure they reach their full potential and career goals.
  • Connect students to Bermuda’s Cosmetology heritage to foster their knowledge of how this service industry plays a vital role within our community.
  •  

As Signature School Learning Partners, Impressions Hair Artistry and Beauty Supply store and Allure Hair Salon will open their business doors to students and provide on-site sessions. 

“The Acting Minister of Education, the Hon. Crystal Caesar, JP, MP, stated, ‘Our partnership with Impressions and Allure enriches Cedarbridge’s curriculum, offering students hands-on experience in both the creative and business aspects of salon and retail management. This initiative not only cultivates practical skills but also empowers students with entrepreneurial knowledge, inspiring them to lead and innovate in their future careers.'”

Vivian Millings, owner of Impressions Hair Artistry, said, “At Impressions Artistry & Beauty Supply, we believe in nurturing the next generation of cosmetology professionals. Our commitment to investing in young people and their passion for the industry drives us to provide unparalleled support, training, and opportunities for aspiring artists.” 

Tasha DeVent, owner of Allure Hair Salon, said, “The children are the future, so it’s important that we invest in them early. It takes a village, and I’m grateful that Allure gets to be a part of Bermuda’s future.” 

A spokesperson for ERU stated, “Bermuda’s industries and communities are stepping up to bring relevance and sector expertise into Signature Learning. They contribute inside the classroom by co-teaching modules, designing real-world projects, and extending learning beyond the school walls through internships, work placements, facility access, field trips, and employment compacts.

“As we continue to expand our Signature Learning Programmes and Parish Primary schools, we are actively seeking community and industry partners to join us. If your organisation is interested in contributing, please visit www.learningfirstbda.com/for-partners for more information or call 441-278-3375. Together, we can shape the future of education in Bermuda.”

International Customs Day 2025

26 Officers with Long Service Awards will be honoured

City of Hamilton docks (Brandon Morrison, 2024)

Government update: Customs Department to Celebrate International Customs Day 2025

The Customs Department under the Ministry of National Security will celebrate International Customs Day on January 26th, 2025.

This year will be dedicated to Customs administrations’ efforts to support the Customs officers of the future, encourage knowledge-sharing and heighten the sense of belonging to the global Customs community with the theme “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security and Prosperity”. This theme aligns with the efforts to increase the Declaration and Release of Imported Goods, provide security with the data we hold, and facilitate the introduction of rates of duty announced by the government. As we continue this year, we will remain focused on fulfilling our mandate by enabling legitimate trade while enforcing our customs laws. 

As per tradition, officers attended the church service on Sunday, January 26th, 2025, at St. Paul AME Church at 11 a.m., where special mention was be made of officers who have died in service. 

This year, 26 Officers with Long Service Awards will be honoured, with 5 years, 15 years, 20 years, 25 years, and 35 years, with a presentation of certificates and commemorative gifts.  Their service equates to over 610 years of experience.

The C.A. Smith Road Race will be on Tuesday, January 28th, and the T.D. Robinson Golf Tournament will be on Saturday, March 15th, 2025. Additionally, on Monday, January 27th, 2025, Customs representatives will be out in the community, greeting early morning commuters in the East, West, and Central parishes. On Wednesday, the Department’s new Trainee Customs Officers will visit selected Primary Schools to interact and read to various classes.  

Collector of Customs Lucinda Pearman said, “The Customs Department continues to play an essential role in the Bermuda economy and has maintained our mission, ‘Protecting Bermuda’s Border and Promoting Economic Development.’ In 2024, the Department has steadily moved towards protecting our Data and upgrading our CAPS system through new buildouts and Officer Training. All customs officers and support staff are commended for their ongoing commitment to facilitate legitimate trade, assess and collect revenue and interdict drugs and other contraband.”

Minister of National Security Michael Weeks said, “The Customs Department plays a vital role in safeguarding our borders, ensuring national security, and facilitating trade, all of which contribute to Bermuda’s economic stability. As we celebrate International Customs Day, we recognize the dedication and professionalism of our customs officers, who work tirelessly to uphold these responsibilities. This year’s theme, ‘Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security and Prosperity,’ reflects their unwavering commitment to excellence. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to this year’s Long Service Award recipients and commend the entire team for their service to our island.”

The Customs Department encourages the public to visit their social media page at www.facebook.com/bermudacustoms to view some of the highlights of 2024.”