With so many road accidents occurring in recent days, we reached out to the public to ask what the priorities should be when it comes to road safety.
Kendal Trott reports.
Street poll: How do we make our roads safer?
Youth invited to help shape future of electoral system
Young Bermudians are encouraged to share their views at a Town Hall on Monday, December 22
The Minister for the Cabinet Office and Digital Innovation, the Hon. Diallo V. Rabain, JP, MP, invites young Bermudians to participate in a Youth Electoral Reform Town Hall to share their views on how Bermuda’s overall electoral system can be strengthened for future generations.
The town hall will take place on Monday, December 22, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at the Cedarbridge Academy, Kalmar Richards Room. Members of the public who are unable to attend in person may register and join online here:Youth Electoral Reform Town Hall Registration. Light refreshments will be served.
This engagement session forms part of the Government’s ongoing work to modernise Bermuda’s electoral system and to ensure that the voices of young people are meaningfully included in shaping the future of the island’s democracy. The discussion is particularly relevant for young voters who faced barriers to participation in recent elections, including Bermudian students studying overseas.
A strong democracy depends on the participation of every generation. This forum provides our youth an opportunity to share their experiences, voice their ideas, and contribute to reforms that reflect the realities of today’s voters.
The discussion will focus on key areas under consideration as part of broader electoral reform, including:
- Implementing absentee voting for eligible Bermudian Students studying overseas;
- Establishing clear and transparent standards for political parties and campaign financing;
- Ensuring the voters’ register remains accurate, private, and transparent;
- Embracing practical modernisation of our electoral systems and technology; and
- Setting consistent and fair rules for polling day administration.
The town hall will include a brief presentation followed by a moderated discussion, allowing attendees to ask questions and contribute directly to the conversation.
Minister Rabain explained, “Democracy works best when everyone has a voice, and that includes our young people. This town hall is about listening to their experiences, ideas, and ensuring that Bermuda’s electoral system works for the next generation. I encourage young Bermudians, especially students, to join us, share their perspectives, and help shape a system that is fair, accessible, and reflective of the people it serves.”
Young Bermudians are encouraged to attend in person or register online to participate and take part in this important conversation on the future of Bermuda’s elections.
‘Restoration is progressing at a significant pace’
Wayne Caines, who chairs a regional power corporation, issues update on hurricane recovery in Jamaica
(Castries, Saint Lucia – Tuesday, December 16, 2025) – The Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (CARILEC) reaffirmed its full regional support for Jamaica following a high-level visit to the island by CARILEC’s Board of Directors.
As part of the visit, CARILEC convened its 141st Meeting of the Board of Directors in Jamaica on Sunday, December 7, underscoring the importance of situating regional governance alongside real-time operational realities. The delegation visited the Incident Command Centre, at JPS’s Headquarters in Kingston, System Control, and a Regional Command Centre, in Montego Bay, where teams are directing a complex, island-wide restoration effort involving generation, transmission, and distribution networks.
The meeting was followed by an extensive island-wide assessment on Monday, December 8, during which Directors observed power restoration efforts and crisis-management operations first-hand, and engaged directly with regional crews supporting the restoration.
Since Hurricane Melissa impacted Jamaica in October 2025, CARILEC has supported JPS through the deployment of approximately 170 lineworkers and critical equipment from utilities across the Caribbean, coordinated through the CARILEC Disaster Assistance Programme (CDAP), in collaboration with the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), and assistance from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, of the United Kingdom (UK FCDO). Progress continues at a strong pace, with approximately 80% of the island now restored, with remaining areas requiring focused attention due to severe infrastructure damage.
“It was important and intentional for the CARILEC Board to hold its meeting in Jamaica,” said Wayne Caines, Chairman of CARILEC. “This was a clear demonstration of regional solidarity and a strong signal of confidence. What we saw on the ground was a disciplined, well-led, and highly coordinated national response operating under extremely challenging conditions. Restoration is progressing at a significant pace, and Jamaica is very much open for business and firmly on the path to full recovery. CARILEC is proud to stand with Jamaica at this critical moment, and I commend Hugh Grant and the entire JPS team for their extraordinary leadership and execution.”
What is unfolding in Jamaica underscores the real and enduring value of CARILEC as a regional institution. The Directors’ visit reflects the power of shared expertise, coordinated action, and collective responsibility in moments of crisis. CARILEC remains fully committed to standing with JPS through every phase of restoration, maintaining sustained engagement, unwavering support, and a shared resolve to rebuild stronger and more resilient energy systems for the Caribbean.
About CARILEC:
The Caribbean Electric Utility Service Corporation (CARILEC) is an Association of over one hundred and twenty (120) energy solution providers and other stakeholders operating in the electricity industry in the Caribbean. CARILEC was established in 1989 with nine (9) members as part of an Electric Utilities modernization project funded by USAID. CARILEC’s mandate is to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, capacity building, business development, advocacy, and mutual assistance.
Knife and drugs seized as prowler is arrested
Around 9:15 a.m. on Sunday, December 14, 2025, police responded to a report of a prowler at a residence on Middle Road, Southampton.
Upon arrival, officers observed a male at the location. He was unable to provide a reasonable excuse for his presence at the residence.
A subsequent search of the individual resulted in the recovery of a knife, along with a quantity of illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia.
Further checks, revealed the subject had several outstanding warrants.
He was subsequently arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug equipment, possession of a bladed article in a public place, as well as outstanding warrants.
Spread cheer … but not germs
Government issues a reminder that flu shots are still available, as festive gatherings heighten the risk of infection
The Ministry of Health is reminding the public that flu season is not over and urges residents to protect themselves, their families, and friends by getting vaccinated. The influenza vaccine is available at the Department of Health’s Hamilton Health Clinic, located at 67 Victoria Street. The cost is $20 for individuals under 65 and free for those aged 65 and older. Appointments can be booked by calling 444-0720.
The Hon. Kim Wilson, JP, MP, Minister of Health, stated: “As Bermuda enters the festive and travel season, the Ministry of Health urges everyone to take extra precautions to protect themselves, their families, and the wider community. This is a time when gatherings, celebrations, and travel increase, and we want all residents to enjoy the holidays safely. By practising good hygiene, staying home when unwell, and keeping vaccinations up to date, we can reduce the spread of illness and protect those most vulnerable.”
The Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit has observed an increase in reports of fever and respiratory symptoms, including common cold, COVID-19, influenza, parainfluenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and strep throat. There has also been a rise in gastroenteritis cases, including Campylobacter, Clostridioides difficile, E. coli, and Salmonella.
To help keep our community safe during this season, the Ministry advises residents to:
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the restroom.
- Stay home when ill and avoid attending work, school, or public gatherings if experiencing fever, cough, sore throat, vomiting, or diarrhoea.
- Seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, persistent, or worsening.
- Take extra care with young children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic health conditions.
- Stay up to date with recommended vaccines, including influenza and COVID-19.
Travel safely by carrying hand sanitiser, wearing masks in crowded settings, and being mindful of food and water safety.
The Ministry continues to monitor cases closely and encourages all residents to remain vigilant. By practising preventive measures, we can reduce the spread of illness and ensure a healthier holiday period for all.
UK launches review of foreign financial interference in politics
Announcing the move, the government cited the case of a former senior member of Reform UK who was jailed for taking bribes to promote Russian interests in the European Parliament
International News via Reuters:
The British government on Tuesday ordered a probe into foreign financial interference in politics.
Announcing the move, the government cited the case of a former senior member of Reform UK who was jailed for taking bribes to promote Russian interests in the European Parliament.
Nathan Gill, a former Reform UK leader in Wales and ex-MEP, was jailed last month for more than 10 years after admitting he took about 40,000 pounds ($53,732) in bribes to make pro-Russian speeches between 2018 and 2019.
“The facts are clear. A British politician took bribes to further the interests of the Russian regime,” Housing Secretary Steve Reed said in a statement.
“This conduct is a stain on our democracy. The independent review will work to remove that stain.”
Reform UK did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
($1 = 0.7444 pounds)
Reporting by Sarah Young and Muvija M, writing by Sam Tabahriti; editing by William James
Bosnian police detain two officials over deadly retirement home fire
The fire broke out on the evening of November 4 on the seventh floor of the building, where 180 elderly residents lived
International News via Reuters:
Bosnian police on Tuesday detained two officials over a deadly fire at a retirement home in the northeastern town of Tuzla that killed 17 people, prosecutors said.
The fire broke out on the evening of November 4 on the seventh floor of the building, where 180 elderly residents lived.
Ten people died during the night from breathing in fumes and seven more died in the following days. Dozens were hurt.
An initial investigation showed the fire was caused by a short circuit in the room of one of the residents.
Prosecutors allege the officials failed to provide fire protection measures, adequate staffing and security systems that could have sped up evacuation. Both were questioned as accomplices in committing grave criminal acts against public safety, the prosecutor’s office said.
Further steps will be decided after questioning, it said.
Reporting by Daria Sito-Sucic; Editing by Ros Russell
Family of Bondi hero in Syria says his home country is proud of him
Ahmed al-Ahmed, 43, left his hometown in Syria’s northwest province of Idlib nearly 20 years ago to seek work in Australia
International News via Reuters:
As Australia’s worst mass shooting in nearly 30 years unfolded, a Sydney shopowner was captured on camera charging at one of the gunmen and disarming him. Halfway around the world in Syria, a group of men watching the footage recognised a familiar face.
Ahmed al-Ahmed, 43, left his hometown in Syria’s northwest province of Idlib nearly 20 years ago to seek work in Australia. On Sunday, he was wounded after wrestling a rifle away from a man attacking a Jewish holiday event at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, in which 15 people were killed.
SYRIA IS ‘PROUD OF HIM’
His uncle, Mohammed al-Ahmed, recognised him from footage circulating online.
“We learned through social media. I called his father and he told me that it was Ahmed. Ahmed is a hero, we’re proud of him. Syria in general is proud of him,” the uncle told Reuters.
The family hails from the town of Nayrab, which was bombed heavily during Syria’s nearly 14-year war, which ended when longtime leader Bashar al-Assad was ousted in a rebel offensive launched from Idlib last year.
Ahmed said his nephew left Syria in 2006 after completing a degree at Aleppo University. He hasn’t been back since.
“Since he was young, he was gallant and a hero,” his uncle said, describing him as a happy and passionate person.
“He acted impulsively without thinking who the people were that were being killed – without knowing their religion, if they were Muslim or Christian or Jewish. That’s what made him jump up and carry out this heroic act.”
‘PEACEMAKERS, NOT WARMONGERERS’
Ahmed, who now holds Australian citizenship and has two daughters, remains in a Sydney hospital with gunshot wounds. He has been hailed as a hero around the world, including by U.S. President Donald Trump.
A GoFundMe campaign set up for him has raised more than A$2.2 million ($1.5 million).
Back at home, the Ahmed family home remains in ruins. Piles of smashed cinderblocks ring the concrete carcass of the two-storey house, whose walls are punctured by shelling.
“This is Ahmed’s father’s home. It got destroyed during the war. Bombing, bombing from planes, missiles – every type of weapon,” Ahmed’s cousin, who is also named Mohammad al-Ahmed, told Reuters.
He said his cousin “was the reason that many innocent people who did nothing wrong were saved.”
“He will prove to the world that Muslims are peacemakers, not warmongerers,” said Ahmed.
Reporting by Mahmoud Hasano; Writing by Maya Gebeily; Editing by Sharon Singleton
Europe’s leaders and laggards in electric vehicle sales
The EU is now easing emissions targets for 2035 amid strong pushback from the industry, which says EV demand has picked up more slowly than expected
International News via Reuters:
As the European Union has looked to push carmakers towards electric vehicles, sales of EVs across the continent have been uneven, skewed more to northern and western countries, while nations further south and east have tended to lag.
The EU is now easing emissions targets for 2035 amid strong pushback from the industry, which says EV demand has picked up more slowly than expected and it needs more time to make the shift from combustion engines.
In Norway, where the government has used its oil-funded sovereign wealth fund to subsidise EVs and invest in charging infrastructure, EV sales hit 94% of total car sales in the first seven months of 2025, data from consultancy Inovev shows.
Other Nordic governments and nations in northern and western Europe have also provided subsidies and invested in infrastructure, boosting sales.
However, EV adoption in southern and eastern Europe has been much slower, as electric cars have proved expensive for many buyers and charging infrastructure is virtually non-existent in some regions. Croatia is at just 1%, Inovev data shows.
The divergence means that across much of the continent the overall EV take-up rate in the first seven months of this year has been in the low- to mid-single digits.
The EU has earmarked funds for charging infrastructure and some EV subsidies across the bloc. But in markets like Spain that have launched programmes to support electric car purchases, Chinese automakers offering more affordable models have benefited more than their European rivals
The easing of EU emissions targets could dampen investment in charging infrastructure, a critical element for mass EV adoption. Some automakers are already scaling back ambitions, with Renault recently paring back its EV charging plans as it prioritises profitability in a tough market.
Reporting by Nick Carey and Marie Mannes; Editing by Mark Potter
Title race wide open as BFA reaches halfway mark
The race for the Bermuda Premier Division title is on a knife-edge as the season reaches its traditional midpoint with four teams separated by just four points. Dandy Town Hornets currently hold the slenderest of leads at the summit with 19 points, but they are being hounded by a PHC Zebras side that sits just one point behind in second.
The chasing pack is led by North Village Rams on 16 points, while Devonshire Colts remain firmly in the conversation with 15. A significant mid-table logjam has formed further down the standings, with both Devonshire Cougars and X-Road’s tied on 13 points apiece. At the foot of the table, the situation is becoming increasingly desperate for Young Men Social Club and Boulevard Blazers, who both languish on four points and face a steep climb to safety.
Individual honors are also sparking fierce competition, with Senoj Mitchell of Devonshire Colts leading the Premier Division scoring charts with nine goals. However, he is far from comfortable, as Chae Brangman and Enrique Russell are both breathing down his neck with seven goals each. Donovan Thompson and David Jones are also within striking distance, having found the net six times so far this term.
In the First Division, the battle for promotion has developed into a dead heat between Somerset Trojans and Robin Hood, who are locked together at the top on 15 points. They have established a massive eight-point cushion over the rest of the field, where Somerset Eagles, Southampton Rangers, St. David’s, and Wolves are all tied on seven points. Meanwhile, veteran forward Keishen Bean is turning the Golden Boot race into a one-man show, having already netted a staggering 12 goals for Robin Hood to move eight clear of his nearest rival.
Alleged inertia triggers concern over World Heritage Site
As St. George’s marks 25 years of recognition by UNESCO, the National Trust urges government to step up and safeguard the Old Town’s future
As Bermuda celebrates the 25th anniversary of the inscription of the Historic Town of St. George and Related Fortifications on the UNESCO World Heritage List, the Bermuda National Trust (BNT) is urging renewed momentum, transparency, and coordinated leadership to safeguard the future of this internationally recognised site.
Like other stakeholders, BNT continues to await an update from the Bermuda Government on its response to the 2024 joint UNESCO/ICOMOS mission report, which identified key gaps in the site’s management and governance.
BNT has requested a meeting with responsible Ministries and stakeholders to support a coordinated path forward and has called for progress on core recommendations such as updating the management plan, establishing a dedicated management structure, and improving transparency and collaboration. To date, no reply has been received.
Dr Charlotte Andrews, Head of Cultural Heritage at BNT, emphasised both the opportunity and urgency of this anniversary year:
“The 25th anniversary of Bermuda’s World Heritage designation is a moment of pride but should also be a catalyst for meaningful action. UNESCO has provided clear guidance, and effective stewardship requires timely communication and Government leadership alongside active partnership.
Protecting our World Heritage Site’s Outstanding Universal Value is a responsibility we all share. Many partners contribute expertise, resources, and community engagement, but progress depends on Government establishing the framework and direction needed for genuine collective stewardship — to protect our heritage for generations to come and support our unique cultural tourism product. This anniversary should mark not only 25 years of recognition, but the beginning of a more sustainable future for Bermuda’s World Heritage Site.”
Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2000, the Site encompasses the Town of St George — founded in 1612 and recognised as an outstanding example of the earliest English urban settlement in the New World — along with its associated fortifications, which vividly illustrate the evolution of English military engineering from the 17th to the 20th century through successive adaptations to advancing artillery.
Warwick surge to medal glory at Queen City meet
The Warwick swim team has delivered a statement performance at the Queen City Dolphin meet, combining a significant medal haul with a string of personal milestones. In what served as a vital mid-season benchmark, the programme showcased both its elite individual talent and a formidable collective depth that saw swimmers consistently challenging in the finals.
Logan Jones spearheaded the individual success, enjoying a stellar weekend to secure a complete set of medals. Jones claimed a clinical Gold in the 100 Freestyle, a Silver in the 200 Freestyle, and Bronze finishes in both the 500 Freestyle and 100 Backstroke. The distance events proved equally fruitful for Warwick as Jorgia White powered to Gold in the 1000 Freestyle and Silver in the 1650, while Ethan Smith secured Gold in the 200 Freestyle to go along with a 500m Bronze.
Further podium finishes came from Jacob Leclerc and Elanna, who both earned Silvers, while Noah Fulton claimed a hard-fought Bronze in the 1000 Freestyle. The team’s prowess extended to the relays, where the Men’s A Medley and Freestyle quartets—featuring the likes of Axel Wernbo, Zach Johnson, and Jaime MacFarlane—secured Bronze and Silver respectively.
Head Coach Ben Smith praised the squad’s “real team culture,” noting that the results reflected the relentless daily work of both senior leaders and developing swimmers. With the momentum now firmly behind them, the team will begin an intensive Christmas training block at the NSC Aquatics Centre. The focus now shifts toward the Easterns Interscholastic Championships in February, where Warwick will look to translate this confidence into regional success.
