Coding course launched following UAE partnership
The Bermuda Government’s Memorandum of Understanding with the United Arab Emirates is bearing its first fruits – a free coding programme to advance local tech skills.
As part of a strategic partnership that gives the UAE access to Bermuda’s extensive knowledge in financial services and other areas, Bermudians can now up-skill in emerging tech such as artificial intelligence, data science, cell phone software and programming.
The Bermuda Coders initiative is an online programme available for the next year at www.bermudacoders.com.
Jason Hayward, Labour and Economy Minister, said Government will seek to integrate the training across public services. He also called on employers and educators to incorporate these courses into their plans.
Minister Hayward said more initiatives will come from our partnership with the UAE, including the Government Experience Exchange Programme to utilise some of their best practices and integrate them into local Government departments.
Gary Foster Skelton asked the Minister what UAE gets from Bermuda in the partnership. Minister Hayward answered, “Bermuda is first in class in financial services, insurance and reinsurance, and have a world class regulator.”
“We can have strategic meetings as to how they actually develop their financial services industry in the UAE.”
“We have certain initiatives in terms of the blue economy and the green economy… expanding our digital economy… where we can leverage information and knowledge back and forth.”
Fairmont Southampton Groundbreaking is pending
Demolition inside the Fairmont Southampton Hotel has begun, and a groundbreaking ceremony is pending.
The Fairmont Southampton Hotel, Bermuda’s largest hotel, has been closed since 2020
Westend Properties, the local arm of hotel owners Gencom, stated today that some of the construction materials have arrived, and local contractors have been engaged to replace the ar conditioning.
A Westend spokesperson said, quote: “Unfortunately, the delivery of scaffolding
and swing stages has been unavoidably delayed, but we expect they will be installed around
the exterior of the building in December as we prepare for the next steps in the renovation.” end quote.
Westend also advised that employment ads for various construction jobs have been published.
The Waterlott Inn remains on target to reopen on December 4th, the spokesperson said, and construction will be completed in the coming weeks.
Alessandro Colantonio, Chief Investment Officer at Gencom, said “We are pleased that visible progress is being made at the Fairmont Southampton.”
“As we forge ahead, we look forward to reaching important milestones on the journey to reopening this iconic property, including the upcoming official Groundbreaking Ceremony.”
Greenpeace calls on UK lawmakers to support Sargasso Sea Sanctuary
Environmental activists presented their case for marine conservation to UK lawmakers today, unveiling plans that prominently involve Bermuda.
The Sargasso Sea, known as “the golden floating rainforest” of the Atlantic Ocean, has been highlighted by Greenpeace as a “sea of opportunity for ocean protection.”
In May, the organisation led an expedition to the Sargasso Sea on their vessel, the Arctic Sunrise, where they conducted wildlife surveys and docked in Bermuda to engage with local marine stakeholders.
Insights from this visit have shaped their latest report, presented to legislators today during a launch event at the Palace of Westminster in London.
The report calls for the establishment of the world’s first high seas ocean sanctuary within Bermuda’s vast blue, backyard, the Sargasso Sea.
“We think this is a really important move that the new Government can make on the world stage by demonstrating that they are very clear in their plans for climate and global biodiversity loss,” said Reshima Sharma, political campaigner at Greenpeace UK.
Greenpeace credits the UK for playing a significant role at the United Nations in negotiating the Global Ocean Treaty—a landmark agreement aiming to establish a legal framework for marine conservation in international waters, which span over 60% of the ocean’s surface.
While the UK has signed the treaty, it has yet to be ratified into UK law. Ratification is essential, Greenpeace notes, for governments to create ocean sanctuaries.
“Until that treaty is ratified, nothing can be done to protect the ocean,” Sharma explained. “We know how important it is to protect the ocean, not just to preserve the magnificent wildlife and biodiversity that exists there, but also to protect us against a changing climate. The ocean is one of our greatest defences against a changing climate.”
Scientists have identified the Sargasso Sea as a priority area for protection under the Global Ocean Treaty, but Greenpeace warned today that swift action is essential, calling on both UK and Bermudian governments to collaborate on drafting a proposal now.
“This is through a multilateral process at the United Nations, and it can move quite slowly,” Sharma noted. “At the current rate, we wouldn’t meet the global goal to protect at least 30% of the world’s ocean by the end of this decade until the next century. We are calling for governments to accelerate this process, designate protected areas, and create ocean sanctuaries.”
Activists say a Sargasso Sea sanctuary would cover 1.5% of the world’s high seas, with Bermuda uniquely positioned to champion the efforts.
Bermuda is already an established leader in marine conservation. Earlier this year, Walter Roban, the Minister of Home Affairs put his support behind the idea onboard the Arctic Sunrise.
Greenpeace’s latest report outlines a roadmap for safeguarding the Sargasso Sea and highlights potential benefits for Bermuda, including economic advantages and spillover benefits for local fisheries.
“A Sargasso Sea sanctuary around Bermuda would put some human pressures off-limits, such as industrial fishing,” Sharma said. “Currently, the main countries fishing in the Sargasso Sea are not Bermuda but countries from afar. A sanctuary would have a spillover effect into Bermuda’s waters, benefiting local fishermen. It could also have a positive impact on Bermuda’s economy.”
During the launch event today, Bermudian environmentalist and COP29 Youth Delegate Noelle Young joined other speakers in presenting their case for the preservation of our oceans.
Greenpeace also urged policymakers to commit to a timeline for ratifying the Global Ocean Treaty.
“As soon as we establish ocean sanctuaries, we know that within a couple of years, we will start to see the benefits and witness nature’s recovery,” Sharma said. “Healthy oceans are essential for tackling climate change, so we need these protections in place as soon as possible.”
Minister bangs the drum for veteran musician
Event salutes the inspirational work of Eddie Ming
Paying his respects: Minister Owen Darrell with Professor Eddie Ming at Saturday’s gathering. Photo supplied
One man’s vision of a community strengthened by discipline, creativity and healthy living was recognized at an event this past weekend.
The Drum School’s Vegan Jazz & Percussion Gathering was hosted by Professor Eddie Ming, one of Bermuda’s most renowned musicians and tutors.
The venue was Professor Ming’s Drum School on Old Military Road in St. George’s, and the event showcased the talents of Gene ‘Stacker’ Joell and the Drum School’s Ensemble ‘Mañana’.
In recognition of Professor Ming’s contribution to Bermuda’s cultural heritage, the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sport awarded a grant of $2,500 to the Drum School.
“Professor Ming’s work embodies the spirit of Bermuda’s cultural richness,” said Owen Darrell, Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sport. “We are grateful for the positive influence he has on our youth and for the way he has used rhythm to create a profound sense of belonging, growth, and hope.”
Over many years, Professor Ming has encouraged students of all ages to connect with music and learn life lessons beyond the drums.
Ming’s Rhythm Lab has served as both a sanctuary and a classroom, where Professor Ming teaches not only the art of drumming, but also promotes a vegan lifestyle and the value of discipline. His mission is to pass on his legacy to the next generation, and his dream is to see one of his students take over his studio.
Minister Darrell, who was present at Saturday’s gathering, said: “Eddie Ming has transformed his love for percussion into a legacy, inspiring countless young people to find purpose, discipline, and joy through music.”
Police release delayed 2021 crime stats
Crime in 2021 was at its lowest since 2000 in terms of offenses recorded, according to Police.
However, the number of road fatalities were high – with 17 lives lost, and more firearms incidents year-on-year.
The 2021 BPS Official Statistics were delayed due to the necessity of supporting core police service, according to Commissioner Darrin Simons
Police have released the latest Official Statistics on BPS activity from three years ago.
There were 3,165 offenses recorded in Bermuda in 2021, 132 fewer than in 2020.
A reduction in crimes against the person, against property and against the community was attributed to COVID regulations being in place.
There were 7 murders in 2021, 3 of those by firearms, and 13 people were shot and injured.
27 firearm incidents were recorded – 17 confirmed, 4 unconfirmed, and 6 firearm and/or ammunition recoveries.
329 COVID-19-related offenses were recorded in 2021, compared to 316 in 2020. These include offenses such as breaking curfew or mask rules.
Road traffic collisions had increased by 141 incidents year-on-year to 1,263, with 17 fatalities. This is one of the highest numbers recorded, according to Police Commissioner Darrin Simons.
The Commissioner has acknowledged that the report is not timely, given a two-and-a half year delay.
Mr Simons says it was delayed due to the necessity to support core police services.
Bermuda Union of Teachers Pressure Education Ministry to Address Staffing Problems
Lack of substitute teachers, outdated contracts, and safety concerns…the B.U.T. said these and other issues are unaddressed by the Ministry of Education even after filing their grievances.
Dante Cooper, the Bermuda Union of Teachers General Secretary in a letter today sounding the alarm over a shortage of substitute teachers within the public school system.
They said the issue of adequate staffing, safety and contracts has been raised several times to the ministry in recent months.
Last week, a majority of teachers at the Cedarbridge Academy called in sick, closing the school for a day. They have further described similar urgent staffing and safety concerns requiring immediate attention at the Dame Marjorie Bean Hope Academy, Dalton E. Tucker Primary, and Harrington Sound Primary.
“Recent actions have exposed the Department of Education’s failure to properly prepare for teacher absences by keeping a robust, or even adequate, substitute Teacher list. This is an ongoing concern and this Union has articulated this concern several times in recent months. Blaming Teachers for
a systemic failure is untenable, and we will not let it stand,” said Mr. Cooper.
He added, “Furthermore, issues of safety, scheduling, contracts, staffing, and air-quality continue to plague schools, and school staffs, throughout Bermuda, and, for us, enough is enough.”
Meanwhile, Dwight Jackson, the Independent Candidate in C9, Smith’s West, described the education system as “dysfunctional” following last week’s action by teachers.
The educator argues that millions of dollars funneled into an overseas consultancy firm assisting the Ministry with the reform is unjustified, considering day-to-day needs of the schools are not being met.
Diallo Rabain, the Education Minister recently pledged an additional $370,000 for services at the Dame Marjorie Bean Hope Academy.
“We need an additional adaptive physical education teacher. Our caseloads are exploding and the minister said that he was providing [support]..he mentioned speech, he mentioned occupational therapy, he mentioned physical therapy. But those remits come under health.”
BBC has contacted the Ministry of Education for a response.
MP calls for united effort to address non-profit food shortages
Progressive Labour Party MP Wayne Caines is calling on the community to come together and support an upcoming food drive, aimed at supporting Bermuda’s most vulnerable residents.
In a post shared on the popular Facebook group, MAJ’S List, Mr. Caines reminded Bermudians of the spirit of generosity shown in 2019, when the community rallied to provide more than a million dollars in food and supplies to the Bahamas following Hurricane Dorian.
“Today, our own community faces a similar challenge,” he wrote. “Many local charities and organizations that provide meals to at-risk individuals are experiencing food shortages, threatening their ability to support our brothers and sisters in the coming months.”
“We call upon all Bermudians—regardless of creed, color, religion, or political affiliation—to come together once more to support those less fortunate,” he added.
The Caines Family will host the community food drive on Thursday, November 28, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Hamilton Seventh-day Adventist Youth Center, located on King Street. Residents are encouraged to bring donations of canned goods, fresh vegetables, dry foods, and other non-perishable items, as well as essential baby supplies like formula and diapers.
“Bermuda has always demonstrated a generous and charitable spirit. Together, we can make a significant difference in our community,” Mr. Caines said.
In addition to donations, volunteers are needed to help with traffic management, sorting donations, and ensuring a fair distribution to local charities and churches.
For more information or to volunteer, email maxanne@tpgbda.com.
Bermuda celebrates its deep bonds with the Portuguese
President of Azores helps to mark key milestone
Premier David Burt hosts José Manuel Bolieiro, President of the Azores, at Cabinet. Photo: Instagram @davidburtmp
Events have been held to celebrate the 175th anniversary of the first Portuguese immigrants arriving in Bermuda.
José Manuel Bolieiro, President of the Azores, was among the distinguished guests who gathered at the Grotto Bay Resort at the weekend.
Governor Rena Lalgie was in attendance, along with Deputy Premier Walter Roban and Opposition Leader Jarion Richardson.
Mr Roban highlighted the shared heritage and commitment to ocean stewardship between the Azores and Bermuda, and the enduring contributions of the Portuguese community to our cultural, social, and economic landscape.
In a speech, Mr Roban said both regions are leaders in marine protection, mainly through the Sargasso Sea Commission and shared goals in marine ecosystem management.
He noted that The Azores have protected 30% of their waters, while Bermuda’s Blue Prosperity Plan aims to protect 20% through community-driven initiatives.
Mr Roban described the 175th anniversary of the first Portuguese arrivals as “a milestone that highlights the profound ties we share”.
He concluded with some personal reflections: “From Red Bean Soup, codfish and potatoes, codfish cakes, to Portuguese donuts (malasadas) and the shared value of family, Bermuda’s identity has been profoundly influenced by those who have arrived since the ‘Golden Rule’ first came to our shores 175 years ago.
“The Bermudian identity has been shaped and enriched by all who have joined this community over the years. I personally can speak to this and am extremely proud of this connection and relationship we have to the Azores. We are one people of the Atlantic just as we have all become one people of Bermuda. This is a strong bond and long may this continue. Happy 175th Anniversary.”
President Bolieiro has also met with Premier David Burt and Cabinet members, where topics of discussion ranged from air connections and driving licences to ocean protection.
Yesterday, the City of Hamilton hosted President Bolieiro and he met with CEO Dwayne Caines, who extended greetings on behalf of Mayor Charles Gosling and City Councillors.
A press release issued by the city stated: “President Bolieiro expressed deep pride in witnessing firsthand the influence and accomplishments of the Portuguese-Bermudian community, which has played an integral role in shaping Bermuda’s history and development. His words conveyed both appreciation and admiration for the thriving legacy his people have established in Bermuda.
“The visit served as a symbolic moment of unity and mutual respect, as Bermuda and the Azores celebrated shared heritage and enduring friendships.”
OBA: Protect consumers during grocery store merger
The merger of two major grocery stores has ignited cost-of-living concerns, according to OBA Leader Jarion Richardson.
Last week’s news that MarketPlace and SuperMart are now one entity was lamented on social media.
However, Mr Richardson told Gary Foster Skelton that consolidations or buyouts aren’t necessarily a bad thing – but Government must try to protect the consumer.
Mr Richardson compares this situation to the BF&M/Argus merger, in terms of creating concern over prices and reduced competition.
“These consolidations, mergers and buyouts are not, quote unquote, bad”, he says. “The question is, what is the role of the authorities, and how will the authorities make sure that the consumers are protected.”
“…we’re not calling for more regulation. What we’re calling for is a proactive approach in the relevant ministry.”
“…just explain to us what’s being undertaken, what’s being considered, and how we’re going to make sure that the ultimate end goal, which is the protection of consumers and keeping prices the way they are in so much as we can within the bounds of law.”
We reached out last week to Government, MarketPlace and Supermart for response to Mr Richardson.
We had not received anything by newstime.
