"Today, as I participate in the Third Forum with Ministers responsible for sport in the Caribbean, hosted in Kingston, Jamaica, I had the privilege to present an outline of Bermuda’s 2023 process of passing the Anti-Doping in Sport Act 2023. My presentation focused on assisting other regional Governments in their interactions with World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) compliance. I am pleased to announce that the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) recognised Bermuda's continuous efforts in anti-doping to best align with international standards. They applauded our swift approval of the recommended amendments to the Anti-Doping in Sport Act, well ahead of the February 2024 deadline," shared Senator the Hon. Owen K. Darrell, JP, Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sport.
This acknowledgment coincides with Minister Darrell and a Bermuda delegation actively engaging in the WADA Caribbean Forum. The forum, gathering Ministers responsible for Sport in the region, focuses on fostering collaboration among public authorities. The key areas of discussion include the development of educational anti-doping activities, updating the World Anti-Doping Code, ensuring the operational independence of National Anti-Doping Organizations, and enhancing government involvement in the fight against doping.
Minister Darrell added, "I also want to acknowledge that all attending Ministers signed the Kingston Declaration. This declaration speaks to the important role that Governments play in driving policy related to the global fight to protect fair play and promote clean sport. It also affirms our collective commitment to continue to build on the progress made in the Caribbean Region.”
CEO of the Bermuda Sports Anti-Doping Agency (BSADA), Deborah Hunter, added, "This acknowledgment validates our progress in meeting global anti-doping standards. We take pride in contributing to the global effort against doping, ensuring our athletes compete on a level playing field."
Minister Darrell concluded, "While we celebrate this recognition, our dedication to anti-doping remains steadfast. We will continue collaborating with WADA, our athletes, and sports organisations to uphold the integrity of sports and foster a level playing field for all athletes."