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Government launches recruitment drive for uniformed services

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“Step Up, Take the Challenge”: new campaign launched to recruit for Bermuda’s uniformed services.

Photograph supplied

The Ministry of National Security has launched a new recruitment campaign encouraging Bermudians to “step up, take the challenge” and explore various careers in the island’s uniformed services.

Minister of National Security Michael Weeks announced the multi-month initiative, aimed at attracting men, women, young individuals, and Bermudians living overseas to consider a “fulfilling career” in one of Bermuda’s five uniformed services:

  • Bermuda Police Service
  • Royal Bermuda Regiment
  • Customs Department
  • Bermuda Fire & Rescue Service
  • Department of Corrections

“This campaign is a call to all Bermudians,” Minister Weeks said. “Whether you are a young person exploring your future or a Bermudian abroad thinking of returning home, these roles offer stability, personal growth, and a meaningful way to give back to our island.”

The recruitment effort will centre around a dedicated webpage, which will serve as a one-stop resource for detailed information about each service.

While each service recruits at different times based on needs and vacancies, Minister Weeks urged individuals to stay informed: “Even if your desired service isn’t recruiting at this moment, don’t be discouraged. Stay engaged, check the website regularly, and prepare yourself for when the opportunity arises.”

The campaign will run for several months and include video advertisements, radio promotions, and social media engagement.

Minister Weeks also encouraged community involvement in spreading the word: “Our uniformed services are the backbone of Bermuda’s safety and well-being, and we need dedicated individuals to continue this vital work. I urge everyone to share this message with friends and family.”

Health minister stresses mental well-being this holiday season

Minister Wilson shares advice on managing stress, spreading kindness, and finding joy during the festivities.

The holidays are a time of joy, but they can also bring stress and challenges for many.

Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, has delivered a timely reminder to prioritize mental well-being during the festive season and shared steps to help cope with holiday pressures.

“Caring for one’s mental health is just as vital as physical health, especially when facing emotional challenges,” Minister Wilson said. “By taking time for self care and kindness, and reaching out for help when necessary, navigating the holiday season can be done with greater resilience and peace of mind.”

To help manage stress, Minister Wilson offered practical advice, such as setting realistic shopping budgets and making time for activities that bring you happiness such as engaging in hobbies and spending time with loved ones.

She also encouraged giving the gift of time as a meaningful alternative to material presents. “Thoughtful gifts don’t need to come with a high price tag,” she said. “This Christmas, consider giving the gift of your time—whether it’s volunteering with a local charity or offering assistance to a neighbour in need. A heartfelt gesture can often mean more than a material gift, and it helps spread holiday cheer in a meaningful way.”

As the island comes together to celebrate, Minister Wilson emphasized the importance of kindness and dialogue to ensure no one feels alone during the holidays.

“By having open conversations and offering compassion to one another, we can build a community where everyone feels supported and valued,” Minister Wilson said.

For those who need extra support, she urged reaching out to community groups, mental health providers, or faith-based organizations.

“It takes courage to recognize when you need support, and reaching out is a proactive step toward healing and maintaining your mental well-being.”

Who said pigs can’t fly?

Smelly hogs cause Mexico-bound plane to divert to Bermuda

The cause of all the stink: KLM flight 685, seen here at Bermuda’s L.F. Wade International Airport        Photo: Bernews

A flight carrying 100 live pigs in its cargo hold finally left Bermuda after an eventful weekend.
KLM flight 685, flying from Amsterdam to Mexico City, made an unscheduled landing in Bermuda on Friday night.
The reason? The unappetizing aroma of 100 pigs in the cargo hold prompted the flight crew to divert to the island for a fresh-air break.
Quick action by authorities saved their bacon: Skyport and Delta Air Lines – KLM’s airline partner – helped to arrange hotel rooms for the 259 passengers and crew.
Meanwhile, the pigs were cared for at a secure location, with help from a government vet.
Skyport stated in a release on Saturday: “This unexpected event adds a curious chapter to Bermuda’s history. Wild pigs were among the island’s earliest settlers, their night-time grunts mingling with the haunting calls of the Bermuda cahow to create eerie sounds that mystified early sailors. These echoes earned Bermuda the nickname ‘Devil’s Isle’ …”
Social media feasted on the story, with commentators salivating over the inadvertent delivery of “Christmas hams” courtesy of “BLT Airlines.”
One post on Bernews struck a more serious tone: “Why are live pigs being flown from Europe to Mexico? That is the question that needs to be answered? Seems inhumane and wholly unnecessary to me.”
The incident even drew coverage overseas. Bild, the German tabloid equivalent of The Sun newspaper in the U.K., ran the sizzling headline: ‘100 Schweine zwingen Urlauber-Boeing zur Landung’. Rough translation: ‘100 pigs force vacationing Boeing to land.’
But the story didn’t hog the headlines for long … Passengers left Bermuda for Mexico on Saturday evening and the pigs followed on another flight roughly 24 hours later. 

Senior cop cites ‘honest mistake’ after firing

Nick Pedro dismissed after disciplinary panel found against him

Sacked: Nick Pedro, 32-year veteran of the BPS.      File images

A superintendent has provided an explanation after he was dismissed from the Bermuda Police.
In a statement shared with Bermuda Broadcasting, Nick Pedro cited an “honest mistake” in connection with a search warrant.
The warrant was part an investigation – into two fellow police officers – which also involved a superintendent on secondment from the U.K..
Mr. Pedro says that unbeknownst to him, information submitted for the search warrant contained “inaccuracies”. He stresses that any notion that he had acted dishonestly or with bias had been found to be unproven.
In a statement on Friday, police said that the dismissal of the superintendent had taken place following a disciplinary hearing, and came after a panel found him, quote “guilty of conduct that was deemed incompatible with the high standards of integrity required for continued service within the BPS,” end quote.
Darrin Simons, Commissioner of Police stated: “This decision, while difficult, reflects our unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of integrity within the Bermuda Police Service. We recognize that public trust is paramount in our ability to serve and protect effectively.”
In his statement, Mr. Pedro describes what transpired: “I was found against by the Panel following an honest mistake when a fellow Officer was swearing the information for the Search Warrant.  My colleague had asked me to attend with him before the Magistrate in support due to the seriousness and sensitivity of the matter.  The allegation that I acted dishonestly was found to be unproven.
“The Magistrate himself confirmed many months ago that I had played no part in the application for the Search Warrant.  It has never been suggested I did. However, as I was present, I should have informed the Magistrate that I was referred to in the application.
“This was not a dishonest mistake, albeit my honest omission was viewed seriously.
“I had incorrectly understood that by remaining mute during the application (so as to not be accused of having attempted to influence the process), I could not be accused of trying to influence that part of the process as I did not actively participate in the application at court.  
“However with hindsight, I accept I had a responsibility to inform the Magistrate to address any perception of bias and my omission in not doing so breached the Standard of Integrity, and not Dishonesty.  Any suggestion I was in any way biased was found to be unproven.”
Mr. Pedro concludes: “I am grateful as a born Bermudian with centuries of family ties to the island, to have served my community with distinction for nearly 32 years, and look forward to new and greater challenges.”

Police identify Tribe Road No. 5 firearms murder victim

Khiry Furbert, 34, a former Cup Match cricketer was shot in the early hours of Monday morning and later succumbed to his injuries, police said.

Police have launched a murder investigation after the shooting death of 34 year old Khiry Furbert in Paget early Monday morning.

A member of the public reportedly found Mr. Furbert outside a car that appeared to in the bushes with the motorcar engine still running, along Tribe Road No. 5 around 12.42am.

Acting Detective Chief Inspector Clifford Roberts said, “It is with regret that the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) can now confirm the death of Mr. Khiry Furbert, in his 34th year of life and father to an 11 year old daughter. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Furbert during this time.”

According to police, lifesaving efforts were commenced and he was transported to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital by ambulance.

Upon further examination at the hospital, Mr. Furbert had succumbed to a fatal gunshot wound.

The scene has been processed by the BPS Forensic team and forensic evidence was recovered.

Police said officers from the Serious Crime Unit have commenced and are actively conducting inquiries with neighbourhood residents to retrieve possible CCTV footage of the incident as part of the murder investigation.

During a news conference, ADCI Roberts asserted there was no information to suggest the act may be retaliatory following recent firearms activity in the Warwick and Southampton areas.
Asked about two previous shootings at Tribe Road number 5 in February and May this year, Assistant Commissioner Antoine Daniels says there’s nothing, at this stage, to suggest the matters are linked – referring to this area as a “hot spot.”

Encouraging anyone with information related to the incident, Mr. Roberts added, “you may contact the Senior Investigative Officer, Detective Sergeant 2193 Odessa Philip at ophilip@bps.bm, 717-2193, or you can call the Crime Stoppers hotline 800-8477.”

“You can also utilise the BPS online community reporting portal https://portal.police.bm. “

No suspects have been identified.

Government opens doors to foreign investment in urban housing

A new initiative aimed at boosting urban development in the City of Hamilton through foreign investment has officially opened for applications.

The Approved Hamilton Residential Scheme, launched by the Government, allows non-Bermudians, exempted companies, and overseas or exempted partnerships to develop residential units in the city.

Minister of Economy and Labour Jason Hayward emphasized that growing Hamilton’s residential population is key to driving economic growth.

“By increasing the number of residents in Hamilton, we anticipate a significant boost in investment in complementary services such as shopping, dining, and entertainment. This, in turn, will enhance the prospects for investors to see positive returns on their city investments,” Minister Hayward said.

Outlining the application guidelines in the House of Assembly on Friday, Minister Hayward noted that an Approved Hamilton Residential Scheme approval, once granted, will remain in effect indefinitely.

“This provision protects against revocation and expropriation risks, providing long-term security for investors. Furthermore, it guarantees that the ownership of any subsequently purchased residential unit will be unaffected by the immigration status of the buyer, ensuring stability and confidence in the market.”

Minister Hayward summarized: “This initiative not only facilitates foreign direct investment but also reinforces the City as the island’s premier international business, retail, and recreational hub.”

A warm welcome for the Sky Princess

Cruise ship made its first voyage to Bermuda last week

The delegation that took part in the welcoming ceremony.     Photo supplied

The inaugural voyage to Bermuda of the Sky Princess was celebrated with the exchange of a commemorate plaque.
Wayne Furbert, the Minister of Transport, led a delegation on board the ship last Thursday.
This marks the Sky Princess’s first call to Bermuda since its launch in 2019. The ship arrived in Bermuda on December 11, one day earlier than scheduled, due to a medical emergency onboard.
The vessel brought 3,395 passengers from its previous port of call in Madeira and departed Bermuda on December 12, continuing her journey to Florida.
The delegation that participated in the welcoming ceremony included the Pilot Warden and Harbour Master, plus officials from the Bermuda Tourism Authority, the Bermuda Land Management Corporation, the Ministry of Transport and Meyer Agencies.
Minister Furbert, said: “The Bermuda Government and its partners extend a warm welcome to the Sky Princess and look forward to continued collaboration with Princess Cruises to showcase Bermuda as a premier destination for visitors to our shores, especially this time of year.”

Closed schools to be repurposed for sports, seniors, and community use

Repurposed government assets could support projects focused on community development, sports, and senior care in the future.

Lt. Col. David Burch, the Minister of Public Works, announced plans during the House of Assembly to repurpose schools that have closed or are set to close as part of ongoing education reforms.

Heron Bay School will take on two new roles. The upper level will be dedicated to co-operative enterprises, while the lower level and field will be leased to cricket legend Janiero Tucker, also known as “Mr. Cup Match,” for the establishment of a cricket academy.

Clearwater Middle School, currently closed, will be temporarily repurposed as it awaits its long-term transformation into a senior school. Minister Burch explained: “The school remains under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Education, who have indicated that it will be temporarily repurposed for use as a special school so that the current vandalism and destruction can be arrested and the asset protected.”

Meanwhile, the Gilbert Institute, scheduled to close next year, will be converted into a facility to meet the island’s growing need for senior care.

Minister Burch stated: “To meet the high demand for seniors’ care, the government has decided to convert this site into a Seniors Care facility. The Ministry of Youth, Social Development, and Seniors, under whom this will fall, is already collaborating with the Ministry of Public Works to advance this initiative before the school closes so that conversion works can commence immediately upon closure.”

He concluded: “The opportunity to repurpose these buildings preserves their community impact and extends their legacy of positively influencing our communities.”

Man hospitalised following shooting incident in Paget

Police confirmed that a suspect has not yet been identified in connection to the shooting incident.

Units were dispatched to the location where they found the male unresponsive with an apparent head wound, lying near an unattended motorcar with the engine running.

They responded to the emergency around 12.45am Sunday, December 16th.

EMTs were on scene and commenced life-saving efforts which continued as the victim, a “young man”, was transported to the hospital for further treatment.

A forensic support unit attended the scene and recovered evidence to suggest a firearm had discharged at that location. However, there were no reports of gunshots in the area.

Acting Chief Inspector Clifford Roberts spoke to from the scene of the incident at Tribe Road No. 5 near Ord Road in Paget confirmed that the severity of the victim’s condition in hospital is unknown.

He also could not disclose how many rounds of ammunition were recovered from the scene as the investigation is in its early stages.

Police are asking anyone with information or witnesses to the incident this morning to contact them on 295-0011 or 211.

Members of the public were also encouraged to speak with a police officer you may know.

The investigation continues.