Four-way race in Sandys North shapes up as one to watch
Continuing our election spotlight series, we turn our attention to Constituency 36, Sandys North, where voters face a four-way contest in the upcoming election.
This race sees Dr Rev. Emily Gail Dill of the Progressive Labour Party defending her seat against Carl Neblett of the One Bermuda Alliance, Independent candidate Cire Bean, and the Free Democratic Movement’s Shalleya Codrington.
You’ll recall that Rev. Dill won the seat for the PLP in a by-election last year.
“We will replace distrust, reluctance and apathy with hope, vision and initiative.”
Update via One Bermuda Alliance press release:
In less than 24 hours, we get to decide who will lead Bermuda for the next five years. That’s no small thing. Especially considering the challenges we face.
We all know about the state of the roads, the backbreaking cost of living, the confusion around education reform and the healthcare system that seems to provide neither care nor health.
We know about our increasing homelessness, our lack of housing and our food insecurity. We know about our stagnant wages, closing businesses and crime.
We all know about the sense of apathy, reluctance and a lack of trust in politics, “more of the same”.
We also know that problems do not fix themselves. We know that it is insane to do the same thing over and over again and expect a different result. And we know that these problems will remain so long as good people do nothing.
I can assure you that good people have decided to act. Good people with vision and hope, relentless in effort, focused and determined.
People who have a history of working on solutions before others even knew there was a problem.
The One Bermuda Alliance has the team, the solutions and willingness, to get things turned around, and can start on day one.
We will replace distrust, reluctance and apathy with hope, vision and initiative. We will respect your vote because we know that which we obtain too easily, is esteemed too lightly.
We will respect your voice, not find ways to diminish it. We will build a government that you will be proud of, and that will fulfil the dreams of our forefathers and -mothers.
Vote for a better Bermuda, vote for better politics, vote for inclusive solutions, vote for hope and change, vote for the One Bermuda Alliance.
Update via Progressive Labour Party press release:
PLP Leader Offers to Discuss Ideas with Independents, FDM Candidates If Elected
In Saturday night’s speech at the PLP Eastern Region Family Reunion, Party Leader David Burt called for unity.
He noted that after the election, either the PLP or the OBA would form a government.
However, if the PLP is honoured with the opportunity to serve, he pledged to meet with unsuccessful candidates who previously ran as FDM or independents.
Party Leader Burt said, “On Wednesday, there will not be an FDM Government or a Government of Independents. The next Government will be led by the OBA or the PLP. And it will be for you, the voters, to decide which party will build the fairer Bermuda you deserve.
“If the PLP wins, I pledge to reach out to FDM candidates and independent candidates to meet with them to discuss their ideas and how we can work together for Bermuda and Bermudians. Because, family, this is not just about the PLP; it is about coming together to build a fairer, more stable, and more affordable Bermuda for ALL of us.
“But family, know this…the government for the next five years will be either an OBA or a PLP government… and a vote for the FDM or an independent candidate or staying at home could well result in an OBA government… and that is something you will have to live with for five long years,” the Party Leader concluded.
Party Chair J Dawn Simmons, JP, stated, “There are some candidates of goodwill who are running, and there are some good ideas that have been shared—some of which even appear in our platform. Following the election, there will be a need to heal the divisions on our island, and therefore, we fully support the pledge made by our party leader of unity and inclusion to see if ideas that other candidates have shared can be incorporated.”
Claims the Premier is undermining the FDM and independent candidates
Update via press release from The Emperial Group’s Eugene Dean:
Premier Burt’s Disingenuous Calls for Unity
The Emperial Group finds Premier David Burt’s recent remarks about national unity to be disingenuous and misleading.
While he speaks about bringing people together, his actions tell a different story.
True unity cannot be achieved when he continues to ignore and exclude the One Bermuda Alliance (OBA) from any meaningful engagement.
A leader committed to unity does not pick and choose who is worthy of dialogue—especially not in a democracy where diverse voices should be acknowledged and respected.
Instead of fostering genuine inclusivity, Premier Burt persists in using race as a political tool to divide the electorate.
This tactic only serves to deepen societal fractures, undermining the very unity he claims to champion.
At a time when Bermuda needs collective leadership and solutions, his rhetoric remains stuck in an outdated playbook of division.
Additionally, it is evident that Premier Burt is attempting to discredit and diminish the role of Free Democratic Movement (FDM) and independent candidates.
These candidates represent a growing portion of the electorate who are increasingly dissatisfied with the two-party system.
Their presence on the political landscape is a reflection of the people’s demand for greater accountability, transparency, and fresh perspectives.
Rather than embracing this shift, the Premier seeks to undermine their legitimacy, fearing the threat they pose to the PLP’s traditional stronghold.
Bermudians deserve better. They deserve a government that unites, not divides; a leadership that engages all voices, not just those who serve its political interests.
The Emperial Group calls on Premier Burt to back his words with action—by engaging all political entities in good faith, by abandoning divisive tactics, and by respecting the evolving will of the electorate.
Anything less is a betrayal of the unity he so readily claims to support.
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A bird’s eye view of our economy tracks the big changes over the last 30 years
Two in three workers are in sectors where salaries have fallen behind inflation.
This means the majority of local workers have not experienced the growth that our overall economy has seen.
According to economist Craig Simmons, the divide between blue-collar and white-collar workers exposes unfairness.
He says the high-salary International Business sector is keeping our economy afloat, but its success has also led to an increase in the cost of living.
The trends identified in this report are not necessarily tied to any political party; in the last 30 years, both OBA and PLP administrations have faced similar internal and external economic challenges.
Mr Simmons wants the Government voted in on Tuesday to specifically target policies at supporting those at the bottom of the socioeconomic ladder. He also suggests widening the tax base by taxing ‘local’ profits, as distinct from the Corporate Income Tax which is geared towards the International Business sector.
In this extended report, Gary Foster Skelton takes a big-picture view of Government revenues, spending and debt over the last 30 years, painting a picture of what the next administration will inherit.
Then, we zoom in to see how the majority of employment sectors have not seen incomes keep up with the cost of living.
*Data sources for this report include Bermuda annual budgets, 2024/2025 Pre-Budget Report, Employment Survey Tubulations, Bermuda Employment Briefs, 2024 Fiscal Responsiblity Panel Annual Assessment. Statistics are available at gov.bm/bermuda-employment-statistics, https://www.gov.bm/department/statistics, or by contacting the Bermuda Department of Statistics.
“Vote for a true democracy, where every citizen’s voice is heard”
PHOTO CREDIT: CARIGENETICS via ESSENCE Magazine
I have been overwhelmed by the support from my endorsement of the Independent Candidate last week.
As a follow-on, I present for consideration a new mindset when voting in this election, that ensures Bermuda gets the best team of representatives in the House to steer our country forward for all.
As the upcoming election approaches, citizens are facing a pivotal choice—one that goes beyond the traditional party lines of the system with the emergence of so many independent candidates.
For too long, our election process has been dictated by party loyalty, often sidelining the true measure of a candidate’s performance.
It’s time to embrace a system where our vote is based on what our leaders do—and what they fail to do—rather than simply who they represent.
Imagine our national football teams. We want the best players, regardless of what club teams they play for, to be selected to represent the country.
The focus isn’t on loyalty to a particular club team but on individual skill, commitment, and performance.
This is the kind of standard we need in our government—a system that rewards ideology, principle, and hard work, ensuring that the working people are heard and represented by those with the most to offer.
Currently our elections are often swayed by the strength of political parties, leaving little room for personal accountability.
Voters find themselves choosing candidates based more on party affiliation than on the candidates’ ability to deliver tangible results.
This approach sidelines the voices of hardworking individuals who are ready to make real change.
A merit-based voting mindset flips this dynamic on its head. Each voter ensures that every vote counts towards performance and character rather than a party banner.
In this system, leaders are judged on their actions and their commitment to public service—much like those national football players are evaluated on his or her performance on the field, regardless of which club team they play for.
This shift in mindset promises not only a more inclusive and representative government but also a more dynamic one.
By electing leaders who have demonstrated real dedication and tangible achievements, we can foster a political landscape that genuinely reflects the needs of all citizens—from blue-collar workers to community organizers and innovators.
It’s about selecting the best people based on merit and principle, ensuring that our democracy remains robust and responsive.
In the words of the great Julian Hall, “This island was built by not just black people, but white people too who have a lot to offer. I don’t want to be a part of a black political party. I don’t want to be a part of a movement that is based on race.”
“I want to be a part of a movement that is based on ideology. I don’t want to be a part of a winning political machine. I want to be a part of a political machine that has beliefs. That has principles. That believes in what it is doing. That never forgets its core support, the working people of Bermuda.”
The time has come to rethink our election culture.
Let’s move away from a system that often obscures individual accountability and instead champion a model where every vote is a direct reflection of a candidate’s promises backed up by performance.
This election, consider castingyour vote for a system that values the best qualities of leadership—the ones that come from hard work, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to serving the people.
Much like our national football team is assembled from the finest talent across the country, our government should be a true reflection of the very best that our society has to offer.
Whether PLP, OBA, FDM, or Independent, let’s vote for the best individuals in our constituencies to make up our national political team. Embrace the change.
Vote for a true democracy, where every citizen’s voice is heard, and every leader is held accountable.
Points to potential of Pathways to Status making a reappearance
PLP C8 Candidate Lauren Bell via press release
“The Choice: A Fairer Bermuda with the PLP or Taking a Risk on the OBA”
After the polls close on Tuesday, there will not be a government of independents or an FDM government. There will either be a PLP or an OBA government. Here’s what both means for you and your future.
A PLP government means a team of Bermudians – a record number of women and the right combination of experience and wisdom with youth and new ideas – that is committed to building a fairer Bermuda for all.
It will be a team that will focus on:
· the cost of living by supporting price transparency and controls on essential goods,
· further reducing taxes on workers,
· increasing senior pensions,
· opening at least one senior daycare centre,
· adding a free primary care visit under HIP and specialist visit under FutureCare.
This PLP government won’t be perfect, but it will build on its record of reducing taxes on 86% of Bermudians, raising senior pensions six times, expanding childcare, introducing the minimum wage, and bringing over 70 affordable homes onto the market.
But what does taking a risk on the OBA mean for you and your future?
We remember what the OBA did the last time they were in power:
· the bad Morgan’s Point deal that cost us over $200 million,
· the bad airport deal that cost us over $50 million,
· no pension raises for 4 years,
· underfunded public schools,
· attempts to restrict mammograms, and
· an attempt to redefine what it means to be Bermudian through Pathways to Status.
Now, we know what they’ve done. What do we know about their real plans for the future? Well, we don’t know for sure because they won’t tell us. They’ve often touted their “platform,” but it is only an 8-page pamphlet with no details whatsoever.
But we get glimpses of their real plans based on what they’ve done during the campaign. They brought back Michael Fahy and put him in a position of power, and that move should signal to Bermudians their objective for immigration reform. Doug Decouto complained about the cost of senior pensions and said they should signal their real plans for pensions. They told us they would stop education reform, which is bringing expanded access to technical education, with no plan other than to bring in some unknown outside experts.
When you go to the polls on Tuesday, you may see a few options on the ballot. However, at the end of the day, only the OBA or the PLP will lead the country after the polls close. So, while you make that choice, ask yourself, with all that is going on in the world, is the OBA worth the risk?
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.
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