Blog

PLP Provides Incentives for Job Makers, Engines of Economic Growth

PLP — Tue, 22 May 2012 15:04:30 +0000

Today, Minister Patrice Minors noted that under the PLP, the number of guest worker permit holders has increased substantially, representing our commitment to ensuring that the needs of our businesses are met.

However, she also noted that our policy is one that strikes the right balance between the needs of businesses and the needs of Bermudians who are looking for work. Minister Minors:

I want to assure both the local and international business sectors that we are seeking to strike the right balance in these tough times between ensuring that companies are afforded the resources that they need, and ensuring that Bermudians that are available for employment obtain a job for which they are suitably qualified.

She further went on to highlight incentives that the PLP is giving to help create jobs for Bermudians. It's called the Incentives for Job Creators Act. It gives immigration benefits to those ex-patriots who create jobs for Bermudians. Minister Minors:

I think it’s also important to point out that we are taking steps to ensure that our business partners are supported. The public will be aware that the Incentives for Job Creators Act came into effect January 2012.

Companies that have invested in Bermuda and Bermudians have been encouraged to apply for the benefits, which extends to concessions including having up to five senior executives exempt from work permit control. These executives can apply for a Permanent Resident’s Certificate once they meet the eligibility requirements. With regard to our 10-year Work Permit Policy, we can confirm that to date five ten-year work permit applications have been submitted.

Overall while our first priority is to ensure that Bermudians are afforded employment, we are keen to create a climate that will help keep companies in Bermuda as partners in our Country’s long-term future.

When it comes to immigration, the OBA's approach is one that gives business everything they want. They would throw the doors open. Our policy is a balanced one that ensures that the needs of businesses are met while the needs of Bermudians looking for work is also met.

Victoria & Albert Row Project Means New Homes for Hundreds

PLP — Tue, 22 May 2012 16:42:17 +0000

Not only will the Victoria & Albert Row project create 100 jobs, it will also mean that hundreds will get new homes.

Moreover, residents will not be displaced during construction.

The OBA plan is a failed one. They propose renovating the existing units. This is problematic for several reasons. First, it would require relocating residents during the renovation. The cost of relocating the residents could be quite high, or, they could be left high and dry by the OBA. And, second, it was noted that the units contain asbestos. The units are currently safe as the asbestos has not been disturbed. However, substantial renovations could endanger workers' lives and/or cost big money to ensure that it is done safely.

Our approach is to ensure that residents are not relocated and that they have access to new and affordable homes! WEDCo Chairman Walter Lister:

The new housing development affords an opportunity for every current sitting WEDCo tenant to move into a brand new unit. This opportunity will be the start of a new community, a community that every tenant will participate in shaping the quality of life for years to come...

The project will be delivered in 2 phases. Phase 1 will see the installation of new infrastructure between the Dockyard Waste Water Treatment Facility and Boaz Island as well as the erecting of 48 pre-engineered units. It is important to again outline that as of today the only contracts that have been signed are the required Finance documents and the development agreement with South Basin Development. Some decisions with required to final materials have already been made and did go through a proper analysis to ensure cost saving (e.g. Windows, doors etc.) WEDCo is contracting to purchase units from our supplier, erected in Bermuda -wind and water tight. It will be the contractual responsibility of the supplier to contract the local labour necessary to complete their installation. Throughout this process many small local companies will receive contracts to provide construction services for this project. In addition to the erection of houses there will also be demolition, landscaping and various other required site works all of which will be awarded via tender process. I must however stress that it is impossible to ensure that everyone looking for work can or will be accommodated. One of the primary objectives for this development is to deliver the project within the prepared financing of $36,000,000.00. I can however add that it is our intent to include as many small businesses as practically possible.

Talk to the residents. They are excited about our plan. They know that it's the right approach and they can't wait to move into their new homes. The OBA would fail the residents. Our plan provides an upgrade in housing. It minimizes health problems. And, it doesn't require relocation. Our plan is a win for the residents.

Are You Proud to be a Bermudian?

PLP — Tue, 22 May 2012 17:41:26 +0000

All we hear from the Opposition is negativity and attacks. While there is certainly work to get Bermudians back to work and make our streets safer, we have a lot to be proud of as Bermudians.

We have one of the highest standards of living in the world. We have some of the best health care in the world. We have among the lowest debt to GDP ratios in the world. We have among the highest incomes in the world.

There's certainly more work today - especially in this global economic downturn - but, the way to turn Bermuda around is not to simply wallow in self pity. It is to stand up and be proud of who we are. The solution to our problems is within ourselves. We built one of the most successful societies on the face of the planet. And, while we may be down, we're not out! By believing in Bermuda and Bermudians, we can get our swagger back. We can rise again not through negativity and self doubt, but through self confidence and strength!

This week, we celebrate Bermuda and why we are all proud to be Bermudians. Minister Patrice Minors:

Today, I am pleased to announce that Government, through the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has recently entered into an agreement to acquire the Usage Rights of Proud to Be Bermudian. No doubt, you are familiar with the Proud to Be Bermudian song, which was written and produced by the gentlemen you see here with me today – Mr. John Woolridge and Steven Easton.

In the upcoming weeks we will embark on a wide ranging visual campaign...

The incorporation of the Proud to Be Bermudian song and imagery at events which we sponsor such as:

o Seniors’ Week
o Emancipation celebrations
o Community Education Programme
o Folklife Events
o The Gombey Festival
o The Bermuda Rendezvous Programme
o The Premier’s Concert

We are proud to be Bermudians, and we will be especially proud later this week on Bermuda Day. Minister Minors:

Historically, the Bermuda Day festivities are a time when we come together to celebrate our heritage, our culture and one another.

Bermuda is truly a Country rich in customs – from our homemade kites and Cod Fish Cakes on Good Friday, to our energetic Gombey Dancers – ours is an Island built upon a strong foundation of lasting traditions that we can be proud of.

It’s said that cultural heritage is defined as traditions, beliefs, or a way of life practiced by a group of people and passed on from generation to generation. It’s the traditions and beliefs chosen by our ancestors and passed on down the family tree through birth.

Even if you were never taught these traditions and beliefs or choose not to participate them they are still part of us and so it is fitting that we pause during this year to celebrate our economic roots, our theme - “Celebrating Hospitality Through the Ages”.

Our tourism history is a key part of what makes our Country unique.

The hospitality industry, for at least five decades, has played a critical role as the primary industry for Bermudians and residents alike.

Tourism is still a key employer and it is one of the important contributors to our economy.

Over the past 50 years, Bermuda has carved out its own niche in the global tourism industry.

We have often been called the Jewel of the Atlantic, because of our breathtaking beauty.

But our biggest asset is the charm, talent, passion, kindness and hospitality our people.

For decades the workers in this service industry have defined our tourism product over the years.

For these reasons Heritage Month has focused on the hospitality industry, not only to remind us of its relevance and importance but to also celebrate that which we must surely be proud of.

So, this week, let's stop the self doubt and let's get our swagger back. We are Bermudians. Together, we can overcome!

Rehabilitating Inmates through Work

PLP — Tue, 22 May 2012 17:59:45 +0000

Keeping Bermudians safe is not just about policing or prevention - rehabilitation is an essential part of our public safety agenda. That's why the PLP and Minister Kim Wilson are acting.

Last week, Minister Wilson outlined highlighted what our government is doing to rehabilitate criminals and ensure that they are reintegrated into society upon their release. Minister Wilson:

Madame President, in these times of economic challenges warranting corresponding fiscal responsive measures; it is incumbent upon myself in my capacity as Minister of Justice, to provide some reassurances in this regard from time to time. This is particularly so as it relates to those incarcerated within our correctional facilities and the Department of Corrections’ (DOC) cost savings measures through work programs designed to rehabilitate inmates for their eventual reintroduction into society.

Madame President, soon after initial arrival at correctional facilities inmates are assessed as to the risk they will pose while incarcerated and are classified accordingly as either maximum, medium or minimum risk. Factors that are taken into consideration to determine an inmate’s risk classification are the offence for which they are incarcerated; sentence being served; and criminal history.

Madame President, the Westgate Correctional Facility (Westgate) is a multi-level security facility. It has three security levels for Maximum risk offenders; Medium risk offenders (called the Echo Units); and minimum risk offenders (the TLC programme). The Prison Farm Correctional Facility (PFCF) is a minimum security facility. When inmates reach the stage where they are assessed as being minimum risk, they are transferred to the PFCF or sometimes directly to TLC.

Madame President, the DOC has a work programme and community programme in place to facilitate the rehabilitation of inmates and to reintegrate them into society. Only inmates who fall into the category of ‘minimum security risk’ are eligible to leave the facility to participate in work or community programmes. Currently, inmates are involved in a variety of work-related programmes, broken down into 3 sequential phases; charity work, community service and work release. Furthermore, the vast majority of inmates involved in these programmes come from the PFCF, owing to its population posing the lowest level of security risk.

Madame President, the said programmes involve a myriad of public works projects and private engagements intended to match inmates’ skills with available employment; as well as to develop those skills and to build sustainable employment relationships beyond incarceration. Accordingly, the DOC operates in partnership with a number of Governmental agencies as well as private endeavours that are appreciative of the opportunities the Programmes afford and their societal benefit.

Madame President, the ‘work release’ phase of the programme at PFCF is the final phase of corrective rehabilitation during which inmates attend a place of employment. Earnings are kept in an account and are given to the inmate upon his discharge. All phases of the work programme involve stringent guidelines and rules to which each inmate and supervisor must adhere. Failure to do so results in disciplinary action and immediate withdrawal of inmates from the programme.

Madame President, little over a year ago, the DOC and the Department of Works and Engineering (W&E) entered into an arrangement whereby inmates soon to be released, or soon after being released, were hired by W & E in full-time employment. The aim of this programme was to provide released inmates with meaningful and long-term employment. Owing to budget cuts, this programme has recently been temporarily suspended however a similar programme is in the advanced stages of development and will continue to provide meaningful and long-term employment to our inmates soon to be released.

Madame President, almost four years ago, an agreement was reached with the West End Development Corporation (WEDCo) to employ three carefully selected inmates from Westgate to provide low-level maintenance work on WEDCo properties in Dockyard. Inmates selected for this programme earn $5.00 per hour, as opposed to the $1.50 per day if they were in Westgate. Monies earned go into an account for the inmate, who may access the funds only by permission of the Commissioner.

Madame President, these funds are typically used to help support the family of the inmate for such things as school fees and other family-related expenses. Despite a hue and outcry from various quarters at the outset, this programme has been a huge success and one that has benefited the DOC, WEDCo and the families of inmates. The programme has been so successful that as a result two former inmates are now full-time employees of WEDCo. Residents at Westgate in its TLC programme are also eligible for work release and most of them are out every day at work as they prepare to re-integrate into the community.

Madame President, the DOC has recently changed the Insurance coverage for inmates. This was preceded by an analysis of the cost of insurance versus the actual amounts claimed. The result is that instead of insuring every inmate with HIP, DOC insures approximately 40 inmates who have qualified for insurance (i.e. those with long-term illness such as diabetes). The costs of medical attention for the remaining inmates will be paid on a case-by-case basis as incurred. On the basis of past claims, it is anticipated that with this change Government will save between $200,000 and $300,000 during this budget year.

Madame President, another area in which the DOC is intending to cut costs is by charging inmates for secondary issue of clothing and footwear. Upon reception, inmates are issued with underwear, prison clothes and running shoes. It is being proposed that any subsequent issue of such articles will be charged against the inmate's canteen account. "Canteen" is the term used for the inmates' personal account into which family members or friends deposit funds and from which, the inmates draws to cover costs of incidentals such as toiletries, etc.

Madame President, the cumulative effect of these measures is that they afford the opportunity to directly cut costs by allowing inmates to earn money toward their upkeep. While we uphold international human rights standards through these Programmes the public also benefits from the spin-off effects of employability of former inmates as well as initial resources afforded to them to begin life after incarceration. In this way society is also afforded benefits that are incalculable.

This programme rehabilitates criminals and helps save taxpayer dollars. It's a win-win and just one part of the swift action taken by the PLP to combat crime.

Weeks: OBA Misleading Bermudians

PLP — Tue, 22 May 2012 20:03:15 +0000

The UBP turned OBA opposition party wants you to believe that 45 houses would be built for $36 million. It's a blatant lie. We are building 100 houses for $36 million.

Minister Michael Weeks set the record straight:

While the OBA claimed that 45 houses would be built for $36 million, the actual number of units will be 100. In addition, the $36 million includes all costs associated with the project including architectural and planning costs, financing costs, infrastructure redevelopment (water and sewage) as well as the building of new units, and demolition and rebuilding of units at Victoria and Albert Rows. Phase one will consist of 48 units and phase 2 will consist of 52 units.

The OBA is also misleading in claiming that Government is paying for the development, when in fact WEDCO is securing all financing for this project directly on their balance sheet.

The OBA also claims that existing tenants will not be able to afford to buy the new units. This is inconsequential as the units will not be for sale. Existing WEDCO tenants and those on the BHC waiting list will be moving into the units that will only be for rent. In addition, if tenants are having difficulty paying rent there are existing means within Government to provide assistance.

Rents are set below market rates. The new project will also afford additional savings through energy efficiency and centralized infrastructure distribution for sewage and water.

There's more misinformation from an opposition who will oppose anything just so they can gain power. Minister Weeks:

While the OBA claims it would be more cost effective to renovate the existing units which it claims are ‘structurally sound and perfect for renovation’, there is no evidence to back up this statement. In actual fact, the units are plagued by termites, contain asbestos, have leaks in some roofs, and are overall in a very poor state of repair. To renovate the existing units would also entail evicting the tenants during the renovation period and alternative housing would have to be found for a minimum of six month.

In addition, the new homes and associated infrastructure work, including water and sewage treatment, embraces Government’s efforts to promote sustainable development across the island.

Perhaps if the OBA had come to me with their concerns I could have answered many of their questions rather than holding a press conference and disseminating mistruths and fabrications about this project that aims to help those in our society most in need of housing assistance. WEDCO is going to provide sustainable, affordable housing for the people of Bermuda and to turn this into a political football is shameful.

Termites. Leaks. Asbestos?! These are the units the OBA/UBP wants to renovate? This would be a disaster in the making! Not only would it be incredibly costly to address these core structural problems, but, it could potentially put workers dealing with the asbestos clean up at considerable health risk.

The UBP turned OBA is so desperate to obtain political power, that they will tell outright lies to the Bermudian public and suggest dangerous policies that would cause Bermudians to be displaced during the construction. This dangerous policy would put Bermudian workers at risk and cost the Bermudian taxpayer big money.

The PLP is committed to providing new, affordable housing for the residents of Victoria Row and Albert Row. We believe that this investment is worthwhile because it will improve the quality of life for our people.

Minors: IB Pledges to Increase Hiring of Bermudians

PLP — Thu, 24 May 2012 22:20:32 +0000

Yesterday, Premier Paula Cox and Minister Patrice Minors noted that international business remains bullish on Bermuda in spite of the global economic crisis.

Minister Minors began by noting that we work closely with our private sector partners to ensure that they are made to feel welcome in Bermuda. She noted that we are fast tracking several immigration requests because we understand the value of job creating guest workers. Minister Minors noted that these guest workers are being fast tracked because they're both keeping Bermudians employed and some are even looking to increase their employment in Bermuda in the future. Minister Minors:

I am ecstatic at the number of companies that have met with me to state their commitment to keep Bermudians employed. In particular, there have been companies that are looking to increase their presence in Bermuda by hiring more staff both Bermudian and key non-Bermudian staff.

As a result of their commitment to Bermuda and Bermudians, I have fast-tracked their requests. One company even informed me that they were considering leaving Bermuda and are now changing their mind and increasing their presence.

I am continuing to meet with the stakeholder groups and will continue to be open to their suggestions provided that those suggestions are linked to getting and keeping Bermudians employed.

CEOs and other key persons have an automatic exemption from term limits. This was approved by Cabinet last year and both the Premier and I had a press conference last year to announce this. The categories of jobs include:

Senior Executives, including Chief Executive Officer, Partner, Chairman through to the
Executive level of Staff including: Treasurer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Underwriter, Chief Broker and Chief Actuary amongst others; Persons with Executive responsibility and Heads of Departments, in cases where the continued employment and development of Bermudians is dependent on such persons being based in Bermuda; Senior catastrophe and finite insurance/reinsurance modelling analysts; Senior catastrophe and finite insurance/reinsurance modelling analyst; Experienced/specialised brokers actuaries and underwriters.

She went on to correct some misnomers that some have about our balanced immigration policies. Minister Minors:

There also appears to be some misinformation that is prevalent in the business community. Such issues as:

(1) non-Bermudians who are resident cannot volunteer for charities;

(2) spouses of work permit holders do not have permission to seek employment;

(3) that the Government will not waive advertising for passporting; that is staff from other subsidiaries of international companies to come to Bermuda to work for a period of time.

Premier Paula Cox also spoke at the event. She noted that five job creators have already applied through the PLP's incentives for job makers programme! This means that a programme that trades immigration benefits for the hiring of Bermudians is working. Premier Cox:

There have been five applications for concessions and exemptions under the Incentives for Job Makers Act and tremendous interest expressed by other companies.

As a result of reviewing applications, I have been able to exercise tremendous flexibility in granting concessions and exemptions to those key staff that are responsible for keeping business in Bermuda and Bermudians employed.

I have also been encouraged by the evidence that these companies have provided demonstrating their commitment to employing and developing Bermudians and the investment made in developing Bermudians.

Bermuda is open for business under the PLP. International business has doubled since 1998 and there are more guest workers enjoying and investing in Bermuda than ever before under the PLP. While we welcome our guest workers and guest workers have thrived under the PLP, we understand that our first priority is to Bermudians. That's why we seek a balanced immigration programme that encourages international business while ensuring that Bermudians have job opportunities in this important sector of our economy.

New Delta Flight Signals Optimism About Bermuda's Economy

PLP — Thu, 24 May 2012 22:36:11 +0000

Airlines don't increase airlifts to destinations they don't see potential for growth. Delta's announcement of a new flight between New York's LaGuardia Airport and Bermuda signal that the airline is bullish on Bermuda's future.

Delta is announcing the new flight to begin next April because they are begging on Bermuda's business and tourism turnaround. They would not be introducing a new flight if they didn't think it would be profitable. That shows confidence in our tourism and business markets.

Minister Derrick Burgess has the news:

I am happy to confirm that Delta Airlines shall introduce daily, non-stop service to Bermuda from New York’s La Guardia Airport, beginning April 7th, 2013.

This comes on the heels of ongoing discussions between Delta and our Airport General Manager, Mr. Aaron Adderley to secure additional airlift from the New York metropolitan area, our largest gateway market.

The hotel industry and others in the Tourism sector had suggested that in order to accommodate growth in air arrivals, they would prefer that the Department of Airport Operations acquire an additional flight out of New York specifically, where awareness of Bermuda is at its highest.

The introduction of the La Guardia service means that Bermuda will have four daily, non-stop flights from the New York area during the 2013 peak season, up from the three that we have at present, thereby increasing the number of daily available seats from 450 to approximately 600.

This new flight adds to what has been an aggressive introduction of new airline services over the past two years, with both Westjet and AirTran entering the Bermuda market in 2010 and 2011 respectively, underscoring the fact that Bermuda continues to be well served with diverse and competitive air services.

For Delta, the new Bermuda service represents their commitment to expanding their presence in the very competitive New York market by offering its customer base a broader selection of leisure destinations from which to chose.

Concerning the details of the new flight, the service commences April 7, 2013 using a 160-seat Boeing 737 aircraft. It departs LaGuardia at 9:55am arrives in Bermuda at 1:05pm; then departs Bermuda at 2:05pm and arrives back in LaGuardia at 3:40pm.

This is big news. Under the PLP, over the last few years, we've seen a boom in air carriers serving the island. WestJet opened competition on the Toronto route and boosted travel from that key gateway market. Then we saw AirTran ad competition on the Atlanta route and also open up a new Baltimore gateway with competitive airfares.

These airlines are bullish on Bermuda. They know that Bermuda's tourism and business sectors are coming back and that's why they're increasing the airlift.

Reforms! Making Government More Ethical and Honest

PLP — Fri, 25 May 2012 23:44:39 +0000

Today, Premier Paula Cox moved forward legislation that strengthened whistle blower protections, and protected against corruption and conflict of interest.

The reforms strengthen penalties for corruption, empower whistle blowers and create additional checks against unethical practices. Premier Cox detailed the legislation:

I am pleased to announce that I have today tabled the second phase of the Good Governance legislation.

You will remember that in January 2012, I announced that I would table the second phase of the Good Governance legislation in the next session of Parliament. This bill includes the following amendments:

• The Bill makes provision for a mechanism whereby a Minister can be appointed to hear an application or appeal on behalf of another Minister who has a conflict of interest.
• To extend “whistle blower protection” to persons, e.g. vendors and contractors that are not covered currently in the Employment Act;
• To create an offence of collusion whereby parties seek to improperly exert influence in order to obtain a contract;
• To increase the period within which offences can be prosecuted.
In addition, we have strengthened the Financial Instructions Regulations and the Procurement Code of Practice, which will soon be gazetted, by including additional provisions, such as:
• Extending and expanding on the description of conflict of interest when awarding contracts;
• Enhancing the processes to ensure that money paid to vendors, contractors and organisations receiving grants is being used for the purpose for which the money was authorised.

Our good government reforms are working. Premier Cox:

Our work in this area continues and has yielded positive rewards. As I disclosed in my Ministerial Statement on progress on public sector reform, the Governance and Service Delivery Unit which will drive forward my good governance agenda and, with the help of Management Services, the Office of Project Management and Procurement and Internal Audit, hold line Ministries to account more closely for the delivery of their policy and service objectives. Working together, these groups will ensure that the principles of good governance are being adhered to and strengthen procedures to ensure that any abuses will be a thing of the past.

I must also remind you that the principles of good governance apply to all public authorities. This means that both the Office of Project Management and Procurement and Internal Audit have oversight of procurement in all quangos to ensure that best practice is consistently adhered to.
It should also be noted that the Financial Instruction internal procedures and the Civil Service Code of Conduct is also being updated to reflect both the legislation and the penalties for non-adherence to good governance.

This Bill will further enhance good governance and transparency and will further underscore the message that this Government adheres to the high standards of ethical behaviour - transparency and accountability; fairness and equity; efficiency and effectiveness; respect for the rule of law.

These are real, thoughtful and measured reforms. They show the PLP's commitment to good government and fighting corruption. Premier Cox is an honest leader and that's why she's committed to improving good government in Bermuda.

National Parks Expand Dramatically Under the PLP

PLP — Sat, 26 May 2012 00:11:33 +0000

Signaling a clear commitment to preserving our natural environment, since 1998, the PLP added more than one hundred acres and 200 sites to our national parks system.

Minister Weeks:

Mr Speaker, in 1998 the National Parks System totaled eight hundred and eleven (811) acres. In 2001 the Government began to actively expand the Park System adding Virginia Park, the Railway Trail, Barnes Corner Park, Gibbs Hill Lighthouse Park and Abbots Cliff Nature Reserve to the National Parks System, for a total of twenty seven (27) acres.

Mr Speaker, in 2008 Coopers Island Nature Reserve was created from the former NASA baselands. This work culminated in the passing of the National Parks Amendment Act 2009 designating new parks and reserves. It also created new categories of Recreational parks, including Ports and Darrell’s Islands, as well as ten (10) new marine parks. In total 102 new acres of parks and 54 new acres of Nature Reserves were added to the System.

Mr Speaker, I am pleased to inform the House that a comprehensive mapping review of the park system has just been completed. As part of this review it is proposed that several Parks be reclassified as Nature Reserves to better reflect their importance as wildlife refuges, the creation of new park and nature reserves from Government owned areas and the amendment of boundaries of existing areas for accuracy.

Mr Speaker, the proposals would create six (6) new protected areas including Stokes Harbour Nature Reserve, One Rock Nature Reserve, Dunscombe Wood Nature Reserve, Ducking Stool Park, Government House Water Front Park and Aquarium Park. The addition of three (3) existing protected areas omitted through clerical error including Fort St Catherine Park, Duck’s Puddle Annexe Park and Walsingham Reserve. The reclassification of seven (7) existing parks or portions of parks as Nature Reserves to recognize their importance for wildlife - including Barnes Corner, Gilbert, Nelly Island, Smith’s Island, Spanish Point Islands, Warwick Ridge and Wilkinson Memorial Nature Reserves.

Mr Speaker, if approved this would result in a total of one hundred and fourteen (114) areas protected under the National Park System increasing the total to one thousand and seventy (1070) acres. This is an increase of thirty two (32) acres more than originally passed under the Bermuda National Parks Amendment Act 2009 and two hundred, fifty nine (259) acres more than in 1998.

Bermuda is indeed Bermudaful. And, the PLP is honouring our pristine environment not just with words, but, with real action that is preserving our natural beauty.

Weeks: OBA Can't Add

PLP — Sat, 26 May 2012 00:36:50 +0000

The OBA is so desperate to gain power, they will resort to gross misinformation. It's sad that the old Front Street crowd that controls their party would stoop so low.

Minister Weeks:

Mr. Speaker, despite outlining a very clear and factual brief of the project for this Honourable House and for the people of Bermuda just 2 weeks ago, on May 11th, the opposition have intentionally introduced via the media false information in the hope of Political gain. Or, simply they could not divide $36 million by 100 homes; in addition they did not take into account any of the infrastructure expansion or any other costs incurred in completing the project.

Mr. Speaker. The project being delivered by the West End Development Corporation is both an Infrastructure expansion and Housing development project. This project will see the expansion of infrastructure from Ireland Ireland North to Boaz Island and also the creation of a new residential community, Primarily for WEDCo tenants on the existing Victoria Row site.

Mr. Speaker the infrastructure expansion will afford both sewage collection and supply of reclaimed water from locations between Ireland Ireland North and Boaz Island for current and future developments.

Additionally, the project provides a solution to the long outstanding housing challenges within the West End without displacing existing tenants - a situation that the former government created and failed to address or simply choose not to address.

Mr. Speaker, I would now like to again provide the facts about the project so my Honourable Colleagues and those listening by way of radio will be properly informed and know the truth.

Disgusting. Desperate. The UBP/OBA is so desperate to gain power that they will lie about a PLP effort to provide new homes to poor Bermudians! The alternative they've suggested is just unworkable. They are opposing it just to oppose it. It shows where their values are. They don't put Bermuda first. The old Front Street gang puts their desire to regain power first.

Minister Weeks:

Mr. Speaker, to renovate the existing 42 units at Albert and Victoria Row would require all of the sitting tenants to vacate due to the state of the structures. These structures were constructed in the 1870’s, they have no fire wall separation, they have termites, asbestos and any effective renovation of these two sites would cost approximately $20 million dollars to ensure they conform to current building codes.

Mr. Speaker, I will do the math to assist my colleagues. 42 units divided by $20 million would equate to $476 thousand dollars per unit. In summary the opposition would believe it prudent to kick the sitting tenant out for the renovation period and spend an additional $116 thousand dollars per unit over a new modern unit which is energy efficient, saves on potable water consumption and treats waste in an environmentally sensitive manner.

Mr. Speaker, Last week I attended the Tenants meeting hosted by WEDCo. I personally spoke with tenants who are excited about the project and ready to move into their new homes. The meeting addressed all of the questions raised and WEDCo is prepared to assist the tenants through this transition process.

In addition to providing a long term solution for the residential housing challenges in the area, it also creates a welcomed boost for our construction industry. Throughout the 18 month delivery period it is anticipated that in excess of 100 jobs will be required within various capacities to complete the project.

Mr. Speaker, The construction method for this project is a pre-engineered concrete and foam filled panel system for both walls and roof. These panels will be delivered to Dockyard and they will be erected and completed with local labour.

This method of construction provides significant strength and energy efficiency while also being cost effective. The aesthetics of the units will be consistent with many existing 2 story dwellings throughout Bermuda and the interior will be completed with kitchen appliances.

Mr. Speaker, the project is being delivered in 2 phases. Phase 1 will see construction of 48 units on the property adjacent to the existing Victoria Row. Upon the completion of phase 1 the current sitting tenants from both Albert and Victoria Row will have the opportunity to move into the completed units.

Phase 2 will see the demolishing of both Victoria and Albert Row and then completion of the remaining units. The development consists of a mix of 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms. Rents for these units will range between $1,600 and $2,100.

These homes are being developed to provide the 60+ existing WEDCo tenants and those still on the BHC rental waiting list the opportunity to live in a new, safe, modern unit.

Mr. Speaker, the infrastructure expansion portion of the project affords the housing development and others to be linked into existing potable water supply, sewage collection and treatment as well as the supply of treated water which can be used for flushing and irrigation which will significantly reducing the overall long term potable water consumption for this area.

The truth is that this is a project that helps people. It provides new homes for the poorest among us. It is a laudable and cost effective project. It shows where our values are. We are a caring government that puts the people of Bermuda first. They are simply controlled by the same old Front Street elite that have always controlled the opposition in this country. They're a power elite that is so desperate to regain political power to go along with their economic power that they will mislead Bermudians about a cost effective affordable housing programme that will help the least among us. That's desperation.