Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, Tinee Furbert confirmed all 300+ beds are occupied while projects are underway to alleviate the shortage.
A Bermuda Broadcasting exclusive now that will be a real eye-opener to families caring for elderly relatives. Our research has found that all 300 plus rest and nursing home beds across the island are full. There is literally ‘no room at the inn’ and it’s a situation the government describes as a “huge concern”. For the full report, click the link to the video above.
‘No case to answer’ for Assistant Commissioner Martin Weekes
Returning to work: Assistant Commissioner Martin Weekes. BPS photo
Just in – an update from police on a disciplinary matter. Following an independent investigation into allegations of Gross Misconduct on the part of Assistant Commissioner of Police Martin Weekes, it has been determined there is no case to answer. However, an allegation of discreditable conduct arising from the same matter was re-assessed, with the outcome being Management Advice, in accordance with Order 18 (5b) of the Police Conduct Orders 2016. Deputy Commissioner of Police Na’imah Astwood stated: “The allegations arose from a personal WhatsApp conversation, which took place in 2018, between ACOP Weekes and a former BPS officer. “This conversation, which was referenced in a Court of Appeal in its judgment, was later brought to the attention of the Commissioner of Police. The investigation was conducted by a ranking officer from a United Kingdom police force.” ACOP Weekes is scheduled to resume the role of Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations on Monday. Deputy Commissioner Astwood explained: “As a delegated Appropriate Authority in the Bermuda Police Service, I do not typically provide detailed outcomes for such matters. “However, given the rank of ACOP Weekes, the public attention this matter has garnered and in the interest of transparency, this outcome has been shared.”
Latest figures, from August, show a rise in the cost of goods and services. File image
The latest inflation figures have been released by the Ministry of Economy and Labour. The Department of Statistics’ Consumer Price Index shows that consumers paid 2.3 per cent more in August 2024 than a year before for goods and services. This level of inflation marks an increase of 0.4 percentage points from the July 2024 annual inflation rate. Comparing August 2023 to August 2024 by sector, the fuel and power section rose some 7.2 per cent; food went up 3.5 per cent; health & personal care rose by 3.3 per cent and rent increased by 1.9 per cent.
“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.”
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.”
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.
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.”
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.”
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.”
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.”
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.”
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