The potential impact of proposed marine restrictions on commercial fishermen is to be scrutinised.
Proposed Offshore Marine Protected Areas, or MPAs, will also be reviewed to balance ecological protections against the practicalities of fishing.
Government will integrate these objectives and others into their Blue Prosperity Plan, following an independent review that also called for more data to back up the plan, and demonstrable enforcement against current fisheries violations.
Meaningful engagement with commercial fishermen is critical to moving forward with plans, the panel said, and Government has committed to ongoing dialogue focused on enforcement and MPAs.
The Fishermen’s Association had previously withdrawn from the BOPP consultation process, in part saying there is insufficient data to justify proposed marine restrictions that could impact their livelihoods.
The FAB welcomed the independent panel review, and said they have been asking for years for better data on fish stocks and improved enforcement. Both have been recommended by the panel.
Praise heaped on PGA event that shines a global spotlight on Bermuda
Hundreds of spectators enjoyed world class golf during the Butterfield Bermuda Championship at Port Royal Golf Course. Photo by Tony McWilliam
The Butterfield Bermuda Championship continues to bring global recognition to the island while promoting tourism and local businesses. This from the Government today in a press release stating the four-day event, which wrapped on Sunday at Port Royal Golf Course, solidified its place as a key event on Bermuda’s sports calendar. Government says this PGA TOUR tournament continues to draw international attention, create significant economic benefits, and provide charitable support to the local community. Owen Darrell, Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sport, said: “This event showcases Bermuda’s ability to host world-class sporting events while bringing tangible benefits to our economy and community. It’s a testament to the hard work of everyone behind the scenes and an opportunity to inspire the next generation to see what’s possible in the sport of golf.” A special moment during this year’s championship was the presentation of a Lifetime Achievement Award to MP Kim Swan, recognizing his decades of contributions to the sport of golf in Bermuda. Today’s press release from the government stated: “From his remarkable achievements as a professional golfer to his ongoing commitment to mentoring and inspiring young golfers, MP Swan’s legacy continues to shape the future of the sport on the island.” Minister Darrell extended his congratulations, calling it a “well-deserved honour for an individual who has dedicated his life to promoting golf and its values”. Government stated today that beyond the competition, the Butterfield Bermuda Championship “offers opportunities for Bermuda’s youth to engage with the sport and see first-hand the doors it can open”. Chairman of the Bermuda Tourism Authority, Wayne Caines, said the tournament “not only attracts international visitors, but also boosts local commerce, strengthens community ties, and showcases Bermuda as premier destination for year-round travel”. The winner of the 2024 Butterfield Bermuda Championship was 36-year-old Rafael Campos of Puerto Rico, who picked up $1.2 million in prize money.
The funds will support training, grounds management, and educational initiatives to preserve the historic 32-acre Botanical Gardens located in Paget.
New ways of funding the upkeep and development of the Botanical Gardens in Paget. could be in the pipeline, according to Public Works Minister Lt. Col. David Burch.
The Bermuda Botanical Society has entered into an M.O.U with the government to support the gardens through grants, corporate sponsorships, donations, and community group fundraising efforts.
Public Works Minister Lt. Col. David Burch said the MOU provides access to a wider range of funding sources for projects to improve the historic land.
During a news conference on Tuesday, he explained the idea to enter into an M.O.U. was born out of the National Gardens Plan 2022 – 2026.
Part of that plan includes a mandate to bridge a stronger partnership with the Bermuda Botanical Society and keeping public costs low while exploring new funding methods.
The 32-acre Botanical Gardens in Paget had fallen into disrepair over the years.
Minister Burch said, “The MOU establishes the Bermuda Botanical Society as the Bermuda Botanical Gardens Registered Charity holding grants and privately donated funds to be disbursed on the direction of the Department / Ministry and solely for agreed Bermuda Botanical Gardens improvement projects, assets or initiatives described in the MOU scope of works.”
“This agreement modernises the Gardens’ funding model,” he added.
Minister Burch stressed that under the agreement the Department of Parks remains fully responsible for the maintenance of the gardens.
The difference now is the Society will have more options to finance projects such as past contributions to renovate the Horticultural Hall and Visitor’s centre.
The investments will go towards training, management, restoration, research and educational initiatives to enhance the work the Department of Parks and the Botanical Society already do.
The Society tends to the Garden’s Native and Endemic Plant Collection home of the Olivewood and the Palmetto and a key supporter of the site since their formation in 1985.
President Jennifer Flood said with additional funding, the gardens can play larger part in conservation efforts.
At this time, they are not actively fundraising however, the Government’s landscape architect, Danny Simmons is currently sourcing grant opportunities.
Ms. Flood said it will be awhile before the public will see upgrades in the gardens until foundational work is completed after funds are secured.
The Botanical Society relies entirely on volunteers to encourage the study and promotion of the botanical sciences within Bermuda.
The botanical gardens is also most notably known as the home of the annual Agricultural Exhibition
Lifting spirits: Young carol singers will serenade passengers at the airport. Photo from last year’s Carol-Off supplied
The sounds of the festive season will fill L.F. Wade International Airport in December as more than 700 students from 22 schools compete in Skyport’s second annual Great Bermuda Carol-Off. A press release states that this three-day event promises festive performances, community connections, and more than $15,000 in prizes for local music programmes. Schools will compete for the titles of ‘Best Primary School Choir’ and ‘Best Secondary School Choir,’ each earning $5,000 for their music programs. Runners-up in both categories will receive $2,000 each, and the audience will have their say with the ‘People’s Choice Award,’ where the most popular choir will win $1,200. Online and in-person voting will open during the event. Performing under the island’s largest Christmas tree, students will serenade travellers, Skyport staff, and visitors with 15-minute sets. The event will take place at L.F. Wade International Airport on Monday, December 2; Wednesday, December 4 and Thursday, December 5. Performances will run throughout the day, culminating in the announcement of the shortlisted choirs on December 6. A new feature of the Carol-Off this year is the Winners’ Concert, where the top five choirs will showcase their talents once more. The concert will take place on Thursday, December 12, from 7pm to 8:30pm, and is free to attend. Performances will be judged by a panel of three experts, led by Dale Butler, who will evaluate choirs based on their “harmonic skill, creativity, professionalism and — most importantly — Christmas spirit”. Nikki Fagan, Head of Brand Development & Communications at Skyport, said: “We are excited to be hosting the Great Bermuda Carol-Off again at L.F. Wade International Airport. Skyport is committed to supporting youth in the sciences, arts, sports and education, and we believe this event supports that mission in the spirit of the season.” Skyport will provide all transportation for participating schools and senior care homes. A complimentary lunch will be offered to students and seniors. Senior care homes interested in attending should email communications@skyport.bm to arrange seating.
An independent review of government’s plan for ocean prosperity has been welcomed by both policy makers and fishermen.
The review panel was appointed by Home Affairs Minister Walter Roban in May, after the final draft Blue Prosperity Plan was published for public feedback.
The panel reviewed submissions – more than half of them from commercial fishers – and calls for more data about fishing stocks and enforcement options before protected marine areas are finalized.
Gary Foster Skelton sat down with Home Affairs Minister Walter Roban, who says the panel endorsed the Marine Spatial Plan’s goal of achieving a healthier marine environment.
Allan Bean, President of the Fisherman’s Association of Bermuda, along with secretary Jamie Walsh, are happy with the review panel’s findings.
Mr Bean also said the independent review was actually submitted to Government in July. A public version has now been shared, only just after the F.A.B. received a copy via a PATI request.
Mr. Gordon was the brother of former Premier Dame Pamela Gordon and son of National Hero and labour stalwart Dr. E.F. Gordon. The 70-year-old died following an altercation with 48-year-old Clinton Smith.
Clinton Smith, 48-year-old had pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the 1st of November this year.
The prosecution accepted that Smith had no intent to murder Mr. Gordon nor to do grievous bodily harm.
In his judgment today, Justice Alan Richards, Smith had “pummeled” Mr. Gordon during an altercation, administering blows about his body and head.
Mr. Gordon, he said, had stayed down for four minutes. He was unable to walk and was in pain when he tried to leave the scene, on the 10th of June 2022.
The 70-year-old was found dead at his Victoria Street residence the following day.
The court heard that the blows contributed to his death, though no one can say precisely what happened.
Justice Richards said he has no idea how the altercation began but noted that no weapon was used – though he believed if Smith had stood trial, it was likely he would have been acquitted.
Nevertheless, he said, Smith, who was 46 years old at the time, should have been aware that being in an altercation with an older man posed a serious risk to Mr. Gordon’s health.
Kings Counsel Jerome Lynch, representing Smith, noted that the matter was an issue of “self-defense”. His client has never been charged with a violent offense though he did cause the death of a 21-year-old woman by careless driving – an incident described as “unfortunate.”
KC Lynch also highlighted Smith’s willingness to enter an early guilty plea to the charge of manslaughter, a few weeks before a trial was due to begin this month.
Expressing the pain of missing her father’s laughter and wisdom, Mr. Gordon’s daughter Karen Sewell said, “the horror of learning two weeks after that he had been violently beaten has left me in a state of shock and grief that is difficult to put into words.”
“The loss of my father in such a brutal manner is overwhelming. I find myself constantly grappling with feelings of anger, confusion and sorrow.”
She added, “His untimely death has robbed him of the chance to meet his first great-grandchild, an opportunity that was taken from him far too soon.”
It was noted that Smith had served a prison sentence for causing the death of a bike rider by careless driving in Southampton when he fell asleep at the wheel while driving a delivery truck in 2017.
Justice Richards said this fact was, “all the more reason not to offer Gordon more violence.”
Based on his guilty plea to the lesser offense of manslaughter, the court ruled he is entitled to a full discount of one-third off his sentence.
Smith has been in custody since the 27th of June 2022.
He was jailed for 6 years and 8 months with time served taken into consideration.
The Eliza Doolittle Society has received a $25,000 financial boost from the government to support its ongoing efforts in combating food insecurity in Bermuda.
Minister Tinee Furbert and Executive Director of The Eliza DoLittle Society, Clare Mello-Robinson
Minister of Youth, Social Development, and Seniors, Tinee Furbert, visited the charity’s food pantry in Warwick to announce the donation, which was made possible through Government’s grant application and the mid-year budget review.
“This funding underscores our commitment to supporting organisations that make a meaningful and measurable difference in the lives of Bermudians,” said Minister Furbert. “It is a call to action for all of us to ensure that no child, senior, or family goes without the means to nourish their bodies and minds.”
Over the past year, the Eliza Doolittle Society has served nearly 1,000 families, distributing more than 16,000 bags of groceries. Minister Furbert added, “These numbers tell a powerful story—neighbours helping neighbours, volunteers dedicating their time, and a community united in bridging the gap for those in need.”
Minister Furbert also addressed the growing issue of food insecurity in Bermuda, revealing that nearly 30 percent of residents face some level of food insecurity, with 10 percent experiencing severe deprivation.
For many in the community, the Eliza Doolittle Society serves as a lifeline, and CEO of the charity, Claire Mello Robinson, expressed her gratitude for the generous donation. “Thank you to the Minister and to the government for this very generous grant of $25,000,” Robinson said. “These funds will support our pantry operations and ensure that all 375 households we serve will have food on their tables this holiday season.”
Questions have been raised by Shadow Transport Minister Susan Jackson over whether payroll tax relief for taxi owners will be retroactively honoured
Susan Jackson, the Shadow Transport Minister says taxi owners were expecting a rate reduction to licensing fees from $1,000 to $600 in September but the legislation for the change has yet to be tabled.
Ms. Jackson claims taxi owners were met with resistance from TCD staff which has left them wondering if they’ve paid original relicense fees after a “false promise.”
She is also critical of the pace of government implementing recommendations from the transport green paper published five years ago.
Only two out of 80 recommendations have been implemented, including new electric buses and a digital payment system.
The Bermuda Taxi Owners and Operators were also hopeful for news on further updates to the Motor Car Act 1951 and the Dispatch Act to support the integration of new technology as the industry evolves.
They further asked for TCD to strengthen its vetting process for public service vehicle license holders.
“BTOA stands ready to work with policymakers to drive progress and ensure the prosperity of Bermuda’s licensed transportation industry,” said a spokesperson for the BTOA.
Withdrawing from the Hilton brand deal at the Bermudiana Beach Resort came with a $400,000 price tag
Bermuda Beach Resort, South Shore, Warwick
The Government’s decision to withdraw from its deal with Hilton Hotels was disclosed on Friday in the House of Assembly. Minister of Public Works, Lt. Col. David Burch, confirmed that ending the agreement, which aimed to transform the Bermudiana Beach Resort into a boutique condo hotel, came at a cost of just under $400,000.
Previously, Minister Burch had indicated the cost would be less than half a million dollars but had withheld the exact figure until after consulting with Hilton. On Friday, he updated the House, stating, “This decision results in a separation from the Hilton agreement at a cost of $399,600.”
Over the past 12 years, more than $100 million had been invested in the property, which struggled to attract buyers as part of the Grand Atlantic Residences project.
Minister Burch defended the decision to convert the site into rental units, emphasizing the need to secure the best return on investment. “We were faced with a very difficult decision and chose the option that will secure some return on our investment and meet the payback of outstanding loans while also relieving some of the pressure on the rental market,” he explained.
He also confirmed that some individuals on the Bermuda Housing Corporation waiting list could qualify for housing at the site. An analysis is now underway to determine the next steps.
First top-level meeting between the territories and new Labour government
Premier Burt will meet with both political and business leaders in London. File images
Premier David Burt is in London this week participating in the annual Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council Meetings. The Joint Ministerial Council is chaired by Stephen Doughty, Minister for the Overseas Territories. A press release states that it’s the first JMC under a Labour government and will focus on, “transforming the relationship” for the cooperation of shared interests. The Premier said: “The U.K. Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council will once again bring together the OT leaders to discuss critical matters … These are important opportunities for each of our islands. Economic, social, health, financial, immigration and climate and environmental matters will be part of our conversations this week.” While the key focus of the Premier’s U.K. visit will be the JMC Meetings, other engagements are planned, focusing on the financial services and the banking sector. Premier Burt and team members will attend the BDA Wealth Forum, and also meet with the Bank of England and Lloyd’s of London. Governor Rena Lalgie will also attend some of the OT meetings in London. The Premier’s engagements will also include meetings with Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons, and Tulip Siddiq, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Tulip Siddiq. Premier Burt will be the honoured guest at The Bermuda Society Annual Dinner, and he will also attend a dinner for Bermudian students and recent graduates to highlight the 15th Anniversary of the Government of Bermuda’s London Office. Premier Burt returns to Bermuda on Friday.
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