Good evening Bermuda,
This evening, I will address occurrences during the Christmas holiday and emphasize our need to continue to act responsibly during the looming New Year’s celebrations.
First, I wish to thank all of Bermuda for making responsible decisions and taking the necessary precautions to protect them and their families. Generally, we had a relatively peaceful holiday period.
This is a testament to our residents who adhered to the health guidelines and advisories which encouraged people to celebrate in small bubbles this holiday season.
It is with much dismay and sadness on my part, to have received reports of a shooting incident on Monday night. I am sure that most of Bermuda shares in this sentiment.
As in the past, I again condemn the actions of the lawless few who seek to wreak havoc in our neighbourhoods and communities.
Monday night’s incident was particularly awful, as from many accounts it put innocent bystanders in harm’s way, with bullets indiscriminately hitting people’s homes.
Thankfully the young man who was hurt is not facing life threatening injuries, however we cannot let incidences like this become the norm.
So, I’m urging anyone with any information to please cooperate with the Police and help us stamp out all forms of violence and anti-social behavior – particularly as we embark upon a new year.
Also in keeping with public safety, Bermuda as a reminder, the curfew is still in effect until January 4.
So between 11.00 p.m. and 5.00 a.m., no one should be on our roads, or out and about unless you have an exemption.
As you would have seen, the Bermuda Police Service issued a public reminder that if you intend to be on the roads in the evening hours, please plan ahead by ensuring you have enough time to get home before the 11.00 p.m. curfew.
Over last weekend’s holiday period, the BPS’s COVID Compliance Team in partnership with the Bermuda Reserve Police monitored our curfew checkpoints.
These checks resulted in 15 persons being found in breach of the curfew. These individuals have subsequently been reported for summons.
Tomorrow and into the weekend, the BPS will be out on the roads enforcing the curfew as well as speed limits to ensure the safety of the motoring public.
They will also be conducting road sobriety checks, so again, we are encouraging you to make responsible decisions over the holiday period.
At the Department of Corrections, in an effort to continue to protect our Corrections Officers, staff and inmates, all visits by members of the public to our facilities remain suspended. We will assess the reinstatement of visitation next month.
As you will have heard the Acting Premier say, an agreement has been reached with our five active Gombey Troupes so that they can have modified performances on New Year’s Day.
The Ministry of National Security assisted in ensuring that specific guidelines were put in place so that these performances can occur.
I think it’s important to reiterate the guidelines:
➢ Do not follow the troupes.
➢ Wear a mask at all times.
➢ Keep 12 feet away from performers.
➢ Keep six (6) feet away from other spectators - unless you’re members of the same household; AND
➢ Do not gather in crowds.
Ideally we would hope you enjoy the gombey performances from your own home.
Other than the Gombey performances, no large events have been approved for the holiday weekend. Remember group gatherings are still limited to a maximum of 10 people per group.
Lastly, as we embark upon a new year, I wish to close this one out by extending my humble thanks and appreciation to all our Officers in the various Departments that comprise the Ministry of National Security.
I’m referring to Officers in the Bermuda Police Service, the Bermuda Fire & Rescue Service, the Department of Corrections, the Royal Bermuda Regiment, the Disaster Risk Reduction Mitigation Unit, the Customs Department and the Gang Violence Reduction Team, the Cybersecurity Section, and the support staff at the Ministry Headquarters; including one team member who demonstrated strong leadership and oversight to the team at the Airport who have the responsibility for placing the quarantine bracelets on residents and visitors to Bermuda.
Throughout this year, these individuals, who, under strained conditions, adverse situations and testing moments, ensured that our emergency services and agencies operated seamlessly.
Through a pandemic, through hurricanes, through back to back vehicle fires, and most recently an island-wide blackout, themen and women in these departments have stood firm for the people of Bermuda.
There were some extraordinary examples of courage.
I’m referring to Sgt. Damir Armstrong and Corporal Nathan Frick, the two Royal Bermuda Regiment soldiers who were recently awarded Commander-in-Chief Commendations for their acts of bravery in the line of duty.
We also acknowledge our team of Emergency Medical Dispatchers.
Their empathy and clarity when responding to emergency fire and medical calls to assist people who are undergoing traumatic experiences must be applauded.
They do it often under stressful circumstances, and I publicly recognize their extraordinary efforts during this most difficult year.
And a special thanks to our Gang Violence Reduction Team who have visited those families, neighbourhoods and communities that have been devastated by gun and knife violence this year. They have provided support and guidance and have helped calm some of the most tenuous situations.
These are just a few examples of the countless acts of sacrifice and commitment that we have witnessed this year. I truly wish I could highlight them all.
But to all of you on the frontlines, know that we are heartened by your service.
I wish to thank all of your families for also sacrificing your absence away from your homes to ensure that our island remained safe.
I am thankful to each Head of Department in the Ministry for ensuring that they have robust strategies in place to reduce the impact of the pandemic on the workforce.
They have all implemented measures to mitigate the spread of the virus and as necessary, have worked diligently with the Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit to manage Covid-19 exposure risk and to ensure that all of their procedures and policies are in line with the guidance provided by the Ministry of Health.
I know the people of Bermuda join me this evening in collectively thanking you for continuing to safeguard and protect us under the unprecedented circumstances of 2020.
On behalf of the Ministry of National Security, thank you for your stellar service and I wish you and your families a safe, healthy and prosperous New Year.