Good evening Bermuda:
Today has been a very difficult day and I’m saddened by the events that have unfolded.
As Premier, today’s events have caused my colleagues and I great distress.
Images of our seniors and members of our public being peppered sprayed is not something that should be happening in Bermuda.
We recognise that it is our democratic right to protest, so it pains me greatly that the end result of today's protest impeded democracy.
I’m aware that members of the public engaged in the demonstration were injured. I wish each of them well and a speedy recovery.
I've often spoken about tolerance, respect and understanding in dealing with the difficulties that legislators must work through.
I appreciate that the Airport Bill is a contentious bill and we don’t all agree.
However the House of Assembly is a place reserved for all parties to share their views through healthy and constructive debate.
Today our democratic process was disrupted for a second time this year.
This cannot become the norm.
It is imperative that we find more productive methods of communicating and solving our disagreements.
I am urging all Bermudians to use this weekend to reflect on what took place today. Certainly I and my colleagues will do the same.
I can confirm that I have had discussions late today with the Acting Governor and Commissioner of Police with a view of gaining some clarity and understanding of today’s events.
I continue to have faith in Bermuda and our people.
And I am confident that we can collectively find a solution and bring peace and calm to our Island.