Good Morning Minister, members of the legislature, members of Clergy, Commissioners of Police and Education, and everyone here today to participate in this vital two-day workshop focused on understanding the violence in our community.

The Government is committed to tackling the root causes of violence and crime in Bermuda. While much work has already been done, including the appointment of a Gang Violence Reduction Coordinator, Bishop Leroy Bean (here with us today), and expanded Gang Resistance Education and training programme in our public schools, we know that there is still much work to be done.

We also recognise that the Government cannot do this alone and that this must be a collective effort where we address these issues together. That is why I am extremely grateful that in this room, such essential parts of our community are represented; government and opposition, local churches, sports clubs, community organisations and activists, charities and more.

Over the next two days, the conversations, questions and ideas that come from this diverse group will help us build a national strategy to address the violence in our community. I thank the Minister of National Security and his team for putting this workshop together and for the dedication they show every day to our community.

And I thank every one of you for giving your time and valuable contributions to the betterment of Bermuda. Thank you.