Premier Cannonier To Attend U.S. Inauguration

January 20, 2013

The Cabinet Office announced this evening [Jan 20] that Premier Craig Cannonier and his wife Mrs. Antoinette Cannonier, will attend the Inauguration of President Barack Obama in Washington DC, tomorrow.

Premier and Mrs. Cannonier will be among the guests present at The President’s Ball being held at the Washington Convention Centre tomorrow evening.

Premier Cannonier said, “I am so pleased to have been given the opportunity to participate in one of the biggest events on the US calendar.

“Undoubtedly everyone is aware of the significance of President Obama as the first African American to be President of the United States, and of the historic relevance of his re-election to a second term.

“I am also keenly aware of America as our long-time friend and primary trading partner, and the importance of the United States of America to an economically sound Bermuda.

“The atmosphere in Washington is electric and anticipation is building towards the ceremony in front of the Capitol Building tomorrow. My wife and I are humbled by this experience and look forward to an enjoyable time.”

President Obama participated in a small private Swearing-In ceremony before noon today as is required by the Constitution of the United States. However, the public Swearing-In ceremony, Inaugural parade and official Inaugural balls will all take place on Monday, 21 January 2013.

Bermuda, as with all overseas territories, will be officially represented at Inaugural events by the British Ambassador to the US, Sir Peter Westmacott.

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  1. Itsaboutallofus says:

    Is the Government paying for Mrs. Cannonier’s expenses?

    • Formidable Deviant says:

      Of course, he’s there as our Premier. What do you think he should be booking on his air miles and staying in a Days Inn? Some trips are fine and this is one of them.

      • haha says:

        The question was about Mrs. Cannonier, not the Premier.

        • Bermuda grow up,Mrs Cannonier is the first lady of our country if you want to put it in real terms,but unfortunately when ever we have had a Premier that has been black many dont regard their spouse as anyone of importance.

          There have been several White Premiers whose wives were not always called or reconized in public as Lady so and so but they were often referred to as it in public function and one in particular was always called by Lady regardless of public or private and I speak of none other then Lady Gibbons.

          So if you have aproblem with the Premiers wife travelling first class on the public purse,I say get over it and she well deserves to stand by her husband in all official events wit the title,please for the critics i dont want to hear about Lady Gibbons or what the British Monarchy has awarded anyone.protocol is protocol,I am proud to know that we have our Premier being in attendance to an event that has the flavor of tripple Honor.

          (1)The Inauguration of the 44th President of The United States of America

          (2)The Inauguration of the first Black President for his second term in office,when many said President Obama would not last the entire first term.

          (3)The Inauguration which officialy took place today January 20th but will be done publicly for the whole World to see,Will be done on January 21st 2013 on the very same day that we as a people celebrate The Rev Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.,then for the very first time it will be an Inauguration that also has in the back drop not to far away,the Statue of Dr.Martin Luther King that will also be of great importance tomorrow,as this will be the Inauguration with the statue actually in place.two of the greatest black man in history on the same World stage on the same day.

          Why do I stress this,oh how easy we can forget how far we have come,so to the Cannoniers we are proud that you are representing this country at this time,because if the old forty thieves and their grand and great children had their way,you wont be there.

          • 1minute says:

            Point 2 – He is mixed race as his mother was white…

            • Mad Dawg says:

              Who are you talking about? Mr Cannonier, or Mr Obama?

            • windwater says:

              Wrong! There is only one race the human race. Although we have our minor appearance differences we are one race. So please stop using the term race inappropriately.

          • navin johnson says:

            Mr.Santucci I have no problem with Mr. Cannonier attending the event and certainly no problem with his wonderful wife attending as well……Bermuda has no first lady that was a creation of Dr. Brown….Lady Gibbons had the title Lady as the spouse of Sir David Gibbons…..and before you go on about the Colonial protocol remember that Dame Lois Brown gladly accepted the title and you are so blinded by your hatred for white people that you ruin your entire response with your reference to the forty thieves….get a life you bigoted fool

    • citi zen says:

      If we really had a full service Premier’s residence would you want our first lady to live in her own home.

      This is just how silly you sound. For goodness sake, do you think the Premier got to where he is without his wife.

      Remember “behind every good man is a good woman”

      • ONION GAL says:

        Damn right!

      • ABM says:

        First lady??? We don’t have a first lady, thats the US your speaking of.

        • citi zen says:

          Wake up people! If we have a leader who is a man them we have a 1st lady as when Ms Cox was our leader her husband was our 1st gentleman. These are the people who stand beside our leaders. They pray for them, care for them, if the leader should fall ill, their spouses are the first to the call.

          • citi zen says:

            Just in case you don’t know, we are a self governing country. And that would exclude the Govenor & the Queen.

      • dthtoo/ says:

        citi zen you said: Remember “behind every good man is a good woman”

        Correction, I say: That quote is a derivative of the sick european mentality – reflecting white male superiority – even towards/over their women. The African thinking and speaking: “BESIDE every good king man is a good queen woman” – both rendering honor, respect and regard for each other – making the two a whole.

  2. bermuda boy says:

    Have a great time. You deserve it.

  3. Frequent Flier says:

    Not his first trip on the government dime either!

    • Lc says:

      He is the representative for us Bermudians that are not attending. Please look outside the box and see how the rest
      Of the world does things. Take a break on the ugly!

      • J says:

        Reading is fundamental Lc: “Bermuda, as with all overseas territories, will be officially represented at Inaugural events by the British Ambassador to the US, Sir Peter Westmacott.”

        With regard to the many statements made about this article, a few words come to mind: double-standard; hypocrisy.

        BERMUDIAN PEOPLE, WE ARE BROKE!!! This trip is not necessary. Here we are talking about shortened work weeks, pay-cuts, hiring freezes… yet this trip, according to all the OBA supporters is okay in their eyes?? I bet you believe Cannonier will have a one-on-one with the president for 3 hours discussing how we can take more of their company’s so that these companies can avoid paying taxes.

        But what disgusts me is that I honestly believe you all are commenting as you are intentionally. It’s apparent the strategy is criticize everything the PLP government does and rationalize everything the OBA does… and while you play this game, we the people are suffering.

      • ABM says:

        I thought he was cutting expenses…………….

        • Bermy Gooner says:

          He is.

          This inauguration trup will be free of unnecessary bodyguards, friends and family along with no need to spend $16 thousand on ground travel alone (as Dr. Brown did in 2008)on SUVs and limousines.

        • toowit twoo says:

          He is …Dr. Brown is going!

  4. swing voter says:

    anyone wanna bet that cannonier flies coach class, books a regular hotel room, eats McDonalds and catches cabs?

    • Free says:

      Not if he isn’t paying for it himself.

    • Ryan says:

      I don’t have a problem if Mr. Cannonier flies First / Business… so long as he has paid for the upgrade with *his* money. Personally, I think my taxpayer dollars should only go towards the cost of a Coach ticket. If he wants to pay the difference, by my guest!

    • Real Talk (original) says:

      A lil birdie tells me he was in First Class. Which is fine. As long as he paid for the upgrade himself.

      • Frequent Flier says:

        He didn’t. c’mon now. You don’t know craig, he loves the perks. Thats why he has 6 assistants and gets driven around in GP1.

  5. happy says:

    I agree he does deserve this!

  6. Triangle Drifter says:

    It would be interesting to see the difference in cost tab for official Bermuda travel to this inauguration compared to the last one.

    Enjoy the trip Premier Cannonier. Enjoy whatever food is your pleasure whether it be Waffle House or someplace that has to use candles & you can’t see what you are eating.

  7. C.B.A. says:

    Oh please. How many college trips with limos etc did Dr Brown take? People complain about the most stupid things

  8. haha says:

    I don’t have a problem with him going but I do have a problem with the double standard. People criticized EB and PC yet are willing to give him a pass.

    • Michelle says:

      This is it….. When the others did it, you heard nothing but fussing and complaining, now he’s going and it’s ok… What gives????

      • Frequent Flier says:

        You know the reason why. All the fussing was from the UBP lot.

      • toowit twoo says:

        I don’t recall anyone ever complaining about a Premiere going to a presidential or any other leaders inuageration? Its the many other trips (with DB’s crew in tow) to sports games, to the islands etc.. that amounted to nothing that we complained about. It was the spending on travel in the PLPs first 4 years versus the previous governments spending on travel – that shocked us all. Or did you conveniently forget that.

        • ABM says:

          Yes they did. GO back and read the past article on the last USA election where the bloggers have said some pretty awful things.

  9. george courtney says:

    as bda already has an office in dc & to keep the cost of running bda low he could have sent a large best wishes card along with a large bouquet of flowers with the person running to that function as his attendance was not necessary.

    He is falling in the same trap of the plp premiers

  10. Just Us says:

    Oh please, he and the Mrs. could just as well watch it on the big screen at OBA headquarters, Vasco Da Gama… And pull up some chairs for the rest of the bunch and enjoy it with some popcorn and cool-aid…
    After all, its not like he’s going to Washington on some official business concerning the well being of Bermuda’s economy. How long will it take Obama to put his hand on two bibles and repeat after the chief justice?

    • george courtney says:

      @Just Us, HELLO!!! As the old saying goes – “Oh What A Web We Weave When We Practice To Deceive”. But James Brown counteracted this by singing — “Start No Mess & It Will Be No Mess”

  11. M.P.Mountbatten JP says:

    I knew this was what he was after all along ! Did Dunkerley shadow him ?

    • toowit twoo says:

      You also were sure the PLP would win again. How did that work out for you.

      Stop listening to your friend Hamish…LOL

      • M.P.Mountbatten JP says:

        Hamish has already come to this stark reality… OBA/UBP they are all the same . He said the UBP is now the party of “One Billion Answers (OBA) and no meaningful results after .

        • toowit twoo says:

          Was it Hamish the one that also said that PLP is now the “Party Leaving Politics” formerly known as “Politicians Lying to People”

  12. Small Minds says:

    Some people have nothing better to do with their life clearly. This is the leader that has been elected by the majority of Bermudians and you expect him to fly coach and travel on his own dime while acting in his role as leader of the island. Anyone who comments such foolishness should go and get their head examined…cause you clearly have a small mind.

    The US is our greatest trading partner, our economic life…what don’t you understand about that? It’s the sensible thing for him to be their on our behalf.

    • DarkSideOfTheMoon says:

      We are already being represented by “the British Ambassador to the US, Sir Peter Westmacott.” This trip is unnecessary.

  13. Full moon in Paradise says:

    How mean -spirited to suggest that the Premier should decline an invitation to attend the inauguration. It’s damned if u do and damned if u don’t. If he sat off at Vasco de Gama eating popcorn and watching the inauguration on the big screen, you’d decry him for that too.

    I say go forward Mr. Premier and represent our country. Enjoy the first class travel and whatever u decide to eat. The haters need to get a life.

    It’s the reckless spending of taxpayers $ that we want to remain as a past occurrence.

    • Frequent Flier says:

      How do you know he was invited? You don’t know he was invited at all!

      • Just Us says:

        Your right, I didn’t hear anything about President Obama congratulating our Premier on his Inauguration… How important was that to the U.S. of A. I don’t think they give a rats azz about Bermuda…

  14. Observer says:

    I certainly agree the Premier should be there. I also thought Dr. Brown should have been there. John Swan made great friends in Washington on behalf of Bermuda. I am certain Craig will do so as well and for the right reasons. Our leaders must represent Bermuda but only when necessary.

    We should find real things to complain about. Actually we should not have too much to complain about since December. We should all be experiencing a feeling of hope. At least we have that for now.

  15. Choices says:

    Craig has started off wrong already! Spending the money! He just got into his premier position and he is up and gone on a trip already! Nonsense; I understand he doesn’t know WHAT he is doing in the Premier position. Maybe he is gone to Obama so he can show Craig how its done!!!

    • Frequent Flier says:

      Its not his first trip, its just the first trip they told you about.

  16. Aware says:

    He spending our money already

  17. Seriously?!? says:

    I’m not a plp supporter but if this was Ewart or Paula there would’ve been an uproar of comments…

    • Triangle Drifter says:

      The uproar was not because they traveled. The uproar was over HOW they traveled, how OFTEN the they traveled & the huge ENTOURAGE they took along with them.

      The OBA will be watched closely.

      • welldone says:

        Stop saying ‘they’. Paula never took an entourage.
        Stop lumping everyone together.

        • Mad Dawg says:

          Palua took plenty of trips, with entourages. Most her trips were to collect vanity awards from women’s organizations. Collecting awards was her main preoocupation for her last year in office. She knew her days were numbered.

          • ABM says:

            Fact is – Premeir Cannoneir is traveling on the peoples purse to the US to an event that would have received much criticism of it were Paula or Ewart going to the same event. Fact is – when Ewart went on this trip to this same event 4 years ago everyone said this was a waste of time and that he shouldn’t go, now its ok cause its someone else? Where is the transperency?

            • Bermy Gooner says:

              See my below post on Dr. Brown’s 2009 DC trip.

              Did you really think that paying for bodyguards for a Bermuian Premier was not a waste of money, or the fact that his entourage cost the Bermudian taxpayer $16 thousand in ground transportation fees alone?

        • DarkSideOfTheMoon says:

          To be fair, she did sign the checks…

    • toowit twoo says:

      For him going to Washington after being invited by Obama. Oh please…give it a break! Who would turn down an invitation from the President of the USA???
      Be real!

  18. Hypocrite says:

    Exactly the type of behavior the OBA criticized as opposition… a completely unnecessary trip.

  19. Just sayin' says:

    Thanks Craig, I didn’t realise Mr Obama was African American now. I thought he maintained his mixed race heritage, more specifically of African and Caucasian descent.

    • Triangle Drifter says:

      I recall him describing himself as a “mutt” at a press conference. Had to smile. Arn’t we all “mutts”?

  20. welldone says:

    If the PLP had won in December, and Paula was going on the taxpayer’s dime the blogs would have been full of negative commentary. Now that its Craig going, its supposed to be ok??
    No sir!

    Also – is the govt paying for his wife’s ticket too?

    Craig is off to a shaky start!!!

    • toowit twoo says:

      Really???? This is the most you can complain about !!! Life in Bermuda is improving already then.

    • Reality Check says:

      Our Premier would be off to a very shaky start if he refused an invitation to attend the inauguration of the President of our closest and most vital neighbours. And what kind of message would it send to our International Business Community? We are so broke we had to decline this invitation! Mmmm. Is that the message we want to send out to the world?

      • PLEASE JUST STOP says:

        Madame Cox attended President Obama’s first inauguration, with her husband no one else.
        Please stop the nonsense, regardless of who we voted for Premier Cannonier is now the leader of the country. Please let’s be respectful and help him and his party take Bermuda forward.
        Regardless of how you voted if they fail we all fail.

        • PLEASE JUST STOP says:

          Ooo and BTW I am a staunch PLP supporter, but I believe in respecting leadership.

          How can we tell our children to respect their leadership in school if we come in chat rooms and degrade leadership as we do.

          Do you not think that they are reading these blogs. They are learning the hatred from us.

          Please. Please. Just stop.

          We can hold them accountable but in a respectful way.

    • DarkSideOfTheMoon says:

      Exactly, his wife should not be travelling on the taxpayer’s dime.

  21. Do we have to bitch at every frigging thing that pops up. I can now realise that Bermuda is so small n many folk are so damn small minded, envious,instigative, uninformed n need to check the psychiatrist to see how they can stop their idiotic n childish behavior because they cannot receive the same package deal. We are so nasty n trifling n quick as hell to point fingers and pin point everybody elses issue/problem n CANNOT deal with their own frigging problems. You see anyone who cannot take care of their own house, certainly cannot take care of anyone elses home; let alone run the island of Bermuda. We all moan n groan but remember that ur plp government left Bermuda in the horrors. Premier Cannonier, is the man representing not only his wife n children; BUT the whole of Bermuda and you punk@$$es want to disrespect him n his family because he has a call of duty. Just keep in mind that if we don’t keep ties n respects to our next door (770miles) neighbor whom we (BDA) may need in times of SERIOUS crisis; what would we do if they deny us, like you out there attacking our Premier. This is sorely why we find ourselves in the state we find Bermuda. We keep a negative effect upon this island n we wonder why the positive aspect is null n void. We have our youth running n riding amock n if we used that energy to discipline them n teach them n reach them then u would not have the time to attack the Premier’s job description. He has NOT taken us for a “Bermuda buggy ride” as he hasn’t had time to hitch the horse to the buggy. So use that crappy energy in a more positive manner n stop attacking those in place to run the island’s affairs. We have lots, on our own plate, in which, some of you cannot begin to handle. The Premier did not spring that on you; you done it to yourself. So to those of you who gets on this blog because you have nothing else to do!! Go get that child in whom you can help n guide n love instead of letting them read your demeaning words; because u never stepped outside the box n have always been a nit picker. Pick up nose instead. Fed up with some people n the way they think they are better then every one else. Accept people for whom the are and NOT for what YOU want them to be. Some of you n most of you should revamp your trend of thought. Re-institute respect towards one another n stop the backstabbing. God forbid.

    • Yng Black Mind says:

      This after you called most of Bermudians “damn small minded, envious,instigative, and uninformed”? You ask us to “re-institute respect towards one another n stop the backstabbing”?

      That’s like slapping someone in the face and then giving them a lecture about violence – - just a thought.

      I understand your passion and your frustration – - let’s focus it on important items.

      Yng Black Mind

    • DarkSideOfTheMoon says:

      Really? You call people childish, yet you write a post that is riddled with name-calling, taunts and poor grammar? Kill yourself…

      • Bermy Gooner says:

        Isn’t “kill youself” a little bit of a “over-response?” Just because he doesn’t believe what you believe, you wish death upon him?

        Wow, no wonder this island is a mess.

  22. its about making necessary trips that are beneficial to the financial well being of bda & not about take trips because “the Premier has been invited by a foreign government to go to their country as a visiting Head of State on behalf of the people of Bermuda”

    the oba campaigned on change and not doing the same things the plp had been doing when they were in office.

    and i for one will not be falling for a political okie doke anymore & will continue to speak my mind as long as this madness continues to go on regardless who the govn’t of the day is

  23. Unjrust Realities says:

    All the ranting and raving of the country debt and how the OBA will do things differently . . .everyone needs to sacrifice according to Mr. Richards and the government of the day!!!! Everytime the now opposition moved, there was all sorts of backlash about expenses . . .hmmmm!!!!

    Here’s a suggestion for the new government that says they are committed to doing things differently and cutting costs . . .stop the grand standing . . .send your congratulations to President Obama and let him know that our country is in such debt right now that it would be impossible for the government of today to even consider using the taxpayer dollars to attend the inauguration!!!!!

    Now that would most certainly show some committment!!!!

    Oh and while you’re at it . . . give the driver of the premier a redundancy package and drive your own self around in your own private vehicle!!!! Sell ALL the GP cars . . .that way when the Finance Ministers approach the civil servants for a paycut, he can show an honest example of the government leading by example!!!

    Now, how you like them apples (in my niece’s voice)!!!!!

  24. Reality Check says:

    Having read all of the negative comments from PLP fans I have a suggestion to make. Let’s find out just how much it cost us to have our then Premier and his entourage attend the first inauguration of President Obama, and compare it with the total cost for Premier Cannonier to attend this inauguration. And let us know how many other people travelled in their respective groups at Government expense. I would hope that someone in addition to Mrs Cannnier would travel with our Premier but he shouldn’t need a batallion of bodyguards.

    This would be the perfect way of comparing the way the PLP handled such trips with the way the OBA intends to go on.

    Can a spokesman for the PLP agree that this is a reasonable request because it will mean comparing apples with apples!

    • J says:

      It’s the same but it isn’t… this is not necessarily apples with apples. Bermuda hadn’t felt the effects of the global recession in 2008–the public purse was much fatter during the first inauguration as well. But now, WE ARE BROKE!! There is no money. Additionally, the OBA ran on change, yet we have more of the same.

      • Triangle Drifter says:

        Hmmmmm….& how did we get BROKE? Who was always off living high? Who was always off collecting some silly piece of paper from some high sounding organization that nobody has heard of?

        Official travel is part of the job. How they travel & how many trips is what is to be watched.

        • DarkSideOfTheMoon says:

          Reminder: Bermuda, along with all the other OTs are represented by the British Ambassador to the US, Sir Peter Westmacott.

  25. wartime says:

    anything the ubp has done in the past and will do in the future is ok with their members.

    Its only when the PLP do somthing similar that there is a problem.

    The white rulers only use blacks that wanna be white or live like they are white. And that has happened for hundreds of years.

    Nothing new here and I expect much more deception from the ubp

    • toowit twoo says:

      Okay ??? So a black president invites a black Bermudian leader to Washington and its whiteys fault????

  26. The Kid says:

    As much as I like the Premier, as much as I respect his win, Bermuda is in intensive care, it is foolhardy and fiscally irresponsible to spend one single cent on anything frivolous. Not a red penny nothing until the needle starts going the right way.

    Tough love, we should get used to it

  27. upfrmslavery says:

    it doesn’t appear he was invited.

    • BDA Girl says:

      You think he is just walking into the inaguration ball? I don’t think so.

      • Yng Black Mind says:

        @BDA Girl:

        Please see my post below to Mad Dawg – - it answers your question.

        Yng Black Mind

  28. Yng Black Mind says:

    People:
    The information is clearly already in the article, so why do you insist on making things up?

    Here are the facts:

    1. The Premier was not official invited or received an invitation to the event by the White House.
    2. Bermuda is never represented official by the Premier at US State events – we are still a BDT, thus the British US Consul is there “officially”.

    What is funny to me is that the article states both of these facts, but hardcore OBA supporters are on this site posting comments about his invitattion, and that we should be proud for the Premier representing us – neither of which are taking place today.

    Get the facts straight before you defend – you actually may need to in the future.

    Yng Black Mind
    (those who know understand)

    • Mad Dawg says:

      They are attending the President’s Ball that evening, with the Obama’s. Do you think they would be able to attend that event if they hadn’t been invited?

      • Yng Black Mind says:

        @Mad Dawg:

        Attending the President’s Ball is not an invitation to the inauguration.

        For the record, the British Ambassador to the US, Sir Peter Westmacott, is representing you, myself and Bermuda at ALL INAUGURATION EVENTS – - not the Premier.

        If you want to know how they will get into the Ball, it’s simple. A phone call from the Premier’s office to the White House to indicate that the Premier would like to attend since he will be in DC – and the White House allowing him entry.

        Allowing someone to attend is VERY DIFFERENT from an invitation – agreed?

        Yng Black Mind

        • Mad Dawg says:

          Oh, so anyone can call up and get an invite to the President’s Ball. Ok, thanks for the tip.

          • Yng Black Mind says:

            @Mad Dawg:

            You are purposely being obtuse now – that’s sad coming from you (not completely unexpected though, I might add).

            An invitation means I actually sought you out and had deliberate intention of having you be present. . . you calling and requesting the honour of attending – - you know that is completely different.

            For the record, He was not invited – period – end of story. No more spin, no more “opinion” – plain and simple.

            Yes – he is a head of state, and that’s why he will be ALLOWED to attend – nothing more.

            Yng Black Mind

            • Mad Dawg says:

              I asked a question and you answered it. I think you are the one being obtuse.

              • Yng Black Mind says:

                @Mad Dawg:

                You are being dishonest now – your last post was not a question. I answered the question from your first post in my first response.

                The Premier will be at the dinner – yup? He will enjoy himself – yup?

                Enough then – yup?

                Yng Black Mind

                • Mad Dawg says:

                  Not obtuse, not dishonest, as anyone readng the posts can see.

                  At the inauguration? Yup. Despite spending a lot less than the previous Premier spent to watch it on tv in the DC Hyatt.

                  • Yng Black Mind says:

                    So what was your point in that previous post? We have established that he was not officially invited to the inauguration and requested inclusion for the Ball – so what now?

                    Your point is that “at least he was present versus when Dr. Brown went?” – seriously?

                    I could care less what Dr. Brown did – he wasted our money on trips that didn’t matter – I agreed with that point.

                    So there is no more to discuss.

                    Yng Black Mind

        • toowit twoo says:

          So he is going to get a ticket from Ticketmaster.com or from a scalper. If he attends it is ONLY because he was invited!!!!

          • Yng Black Mind says:

            Please review my previous post – this comment is a bit late.

            Yng Black Mind

        • WTF says:

          The Inaugural balls ‘SELLS’ tickets. Tickets were bought, no invitation extended.

  29. VJ says:

    I am a PLP supporter and not afraid to admit it. If the Premier was invited, as a taxpayer I have no problem with him going. If he was not invited, I’m kinda baffled as to why he would be going. Although, as stated, I am a PLP supporter, I feel that Mr. Cannonier should be given the respect the office of Premier calls for. As Bermuda’s ‘First Lady’ Mrs. Cannonier should be given respect as well. Some of the comments I am hearing on the streets and/or reading are waaay out of line.

  30. Truth says:

    Vote for change….nothing has changed.
    Only thing that has charged is the players…

    • DarkSideOfTheMoon says:

      Like I always say, you can change the pieces, but the game remains the same…

  31. George Courtney says:

    and furthermore, after reading both articles on this issue, nowhere is it indicated that he was invited to go, so if bda is paying for this trip he must clarified as to how this has happened

  32. jt says:

    Let’s just see how the travel costs, ocnsultant tabs and other expenses add up at the end of the fiscal year and compare the figures to the PLP. Then we will know if there has been improvement.

  33. haha says:

    Was Mr Cannonier invited or is he just hanging out in the crowd? I don’t mean to be disrespectful but I just want to know what the benefits are to his attending this function?

    Also, is his wife traveling on our dime?

    • Triangle Drifter says:

      Ummm, yes I would imagine she is. Given the nature of the trip, your problem is precisely what???

  34. Hmmmmm says:

    Boy is this interesting. The rabid, nasty OBA bloggers of the past have been transformed into rational defenders. Having called EVERY trip ever taken by the PLP bad, no matter what the achievements or necessity,we are now being treated to such reasonable thoughts as “it goes with the office” and “America is our biggest trading partner and so he should be there”. Well damn. You people are either schizophrenic or so partisan as to be blind. But you know what, the OBA deserve every ounce of criticism and pretend disappointment from their gullible, turncoat supporters. Just like consultants, this petty BS of travel was MADE into an issue by you and having convinced yourselves that all travel was bad and then campaiging on it….here you go. You reap what you sow.

    Of course the Premier should be in Washington and of course he should be at this event. He probably needs to be in Washington, London, New York and elsewhere more than ever to tell the Bermuda story and lure companies back. But how dare you people try and rewrite history by talking trash like “well it’ll cost less, I bet you”. WTF?! Do you honestly think we’re that stupid and forget what you said as recent as last month !? You never cared how much it cost, you just hated the fact that the PLP dared act like a Government. Ewart & Wanda in DC for historic 2009 inaugural = celebrity hound, champagne lifestyle and wasting money. Craig & Antoinette in DC for identical event 4 years later = necessary, important, required of the office of Premier. Just how sick are you people?!

    And by the way, can this open and transparent government tell us who is in the Bahamas with the tourism minister, why and at what cost? Just askin……

    • Bermy Gooner says:

      Did he take bodyguards, friends and rent several SUV’s and limousines to travel around DC as well?

    • Triangle Drifter says:

      I would hope that the tourism Minister is in the Bahamas to find out why ‘It IS better in the Bahamas’. I would hope that whoever is with him has a legitimate reason to go.

      If it is for information there really is little reason to go anywhere. Everything is available online.

      I’m thinking how easy it is to get permanent, non voting, residency in the Bahamas.

    • Yng Black Mind says:

      Excellent post! Simply wonderful.

      Yng Black Mind

      • Bermy Gooner says:

        Wonderful if you have a short-term memory…

        • Triangle Drifter says:

          Is it short term or selective memory the PLP trolls have?

    • Bermy Gooner says:

      Apparently you are the one attempting to rewrite history, which is completely understandable given the excessive spending undertaken by your beloved Dr. Brown in regards to travel.

      His 2009 inauguration trip incurred a $16 thousand bill SOLELY for travel expenses while in DC. This did not include airfare, but simple ground travel for him and his ENTOURAGE around the city.

      Shall we talk about his 2009 trip to the “Bowlgame” in New Orleans in which he spent taxpayer’s funds that allowed him; his bodyguard and who else know to attend a god damn American football game? Do you think that this constitutes taxpayer money well spent?

      Or we can discuss his trips to India which were supposed to bring about hundreds of new tourists and a Bollywood movie to be filmed on island. How did that waste of taxpayers’ money go for us? It went well for Dr. Brown, Mr. Desilva and Mr. Commissiong as months later they procured a generic drug distribution contract from the gentleman that just happened to be the liaison in India. Let’s not forget they rushed through legislation to allow the importation of these generic drugs to the island. I imagine it is all just a coincidence.

      Remember when he had to stay in one of the most expensive hotels in the world (i.e. the 7 star Dubai resort) on our dime? What was the point of that trip and what benefits have been derived from this excursion?

      I could go on and on. Just search through the RG archives to seek the truth as well as highlighting your convenient omissions.
      Apparently you are the sick one that is simply hoping that all forget about the real controversies surrounding Dr. Brown’s 2009 trip(s).

      Unfortunately, for folks like you, the internet never forgets.

      • Yng Black Mind says:

        @Bermy Gooner:

        Apparently, Hmmmmm struck a chord with you. Personally, I never indicated in any of my post that we should forget how the PLP used the public purse. (Go back and check)

        Furthermore, my posts are directly related to the subject at hand – “Premier Cannonier to Attend US Inauguration”.

        Hmmmmm’s post is a valid one as you are here DEFENDING this trip by the Premier – - he/she (hmmmmm) NEVER SAID THAT THEY CONDONED the former Premier’s spending/travel – - they simply pointed out that the OBA (opposition at that time) spoke vile and evil things about the PLP travel while NOW THEY aren’t when it comes to the current administration – - THAT’S ALL.

        You have clearly proven Hmmmm’s point with your harangue – - while proving yourself to be nothing more than an OBA lapdog awaiting with baited breath for those crumbs they may throw towards you.

        I am being direct in this post because as a non-partisan, I am extremely tired of both PLP and OBA supporters trying to use facts and opinions to justify their vile, evil intentions.

        Fact: The Premier was not invited to this event. He chose to attend.

        Fact: Former Premiers did use public funds for travel.

        FACT: SO WHAT?

        The reason it became an issue is because the OBA made it an issue when running against the PLP – - so PLP supporters will make it an issue now – - that’s politics.

        But to continue to use the “they did it so we can to” defense is getting old – seriously.

        Yng Black Mind

        • Bermy Gooner says:

          Vile and evil things? You mean criticizing the former Premier for wasting taxpayers funds on unnecessary bodyguards and tallying up almost $20 thousand of ground travel are examples of being “evil and vile?”

          I am not arguing with you or Hmmmmm. No point as you get nowhere with zealots and sycophants.

          The point was that in 2009 no one criticized the Premier for simply going to the inauguration, as it would be stupid to as the US is our largest trading partner. It was the over the top expenses that he believed he had the right to incur simply as Premier that received all the criticism. Two bodyguards alone will drive the travel expense up by thousands, and it did in the end. But you can continue to try and spin the criticism as something that it wasn’t as that is all you got. Spin and deflection.

          Oh and when I start defending OBA trips to India for self-interests (as Dr. Brown did) or when and if this Premier starts going to American football games and staying in 7 star resorts (just becaus ehe can) on our dime etc. then you can claim I am using the “they did it too” defense. Until then it is a simple deflection from the reality that some which just never happened.

          I wait for no crumbs as I am my own person and don’t need validation and/or support from you or any political party. As I said in an earlier posting last week, you are most definitely partisan and a simple “lapdog” of the PLP who pants and salivates when they speak (or stay ominously silent). I am being direct because you could not afford the same respect to me that I have in my posts.

          You can continue to sign-off with your cheesy lines and false claims about being independent. But in the end you are who you are and you should stop pretending to be something you are not.

          • Yng Black Mind says:

            @Bermy Gooner:

            Finally, we have something to agree upon.

            You are simply marvelous with your words – - it is a treat to simply read your posts – honestly.

            My comment in regards to “vile and evil” of course is directed to those who spoke to the PLP’s use of public funds re: Travel – - notice, I said travel – not your fanciful “over the top expenses that he believed he had the right to incur simply as Premier.” The critics were loud and clear from the start – Yes – we agree that Dr. Brown was a showboat, glory hog who enjoyed the spotlight more than Beyonce’ (AGREED?) – but you cannot simply stated that because you were upset about the excess that EVERYBODY ELSE was ONLY upset about it as well – that’s my point. Certain critics wanted his head just because it was him – that’s the truth.

            Now, you stated that you are not arguing with either myself of Hmmmmm – however, you make mention of our statements to explain your position on this topic. Furthermore, you question our sanity by indicating that we are either “zealots or sycophants”.

            Sir – for the record, I enjoy all comments posted on this site. I believe they give insight into the minds of the real people of this country – not just a select few. Be that as it may, I am neither a zealot nor a sycophant. I am a Nationalist – - my heart belongs to this country, its people and its best interest. My role, as I see it, is to bring a level of understanding, thought and discord to the regular, mundane existence of my fellow Bermudians to enlighten, inspire, and sometimes to evoke change, movement and action.

            I will call a spade a spade – - as I have taken both political parties to task on this site, as well as others (I don’t have to justify my opinions or actions to you or anyone else).

            I will continue to point out those issues that speak to the hearts of Bermudians – right or wrong – and do you know why?

            It’s a really easy answer – - – wait for it – — pause for dramatic effect – - – -

            Because I can!

            I can respect that you have indicated that when the time comes you will be critical of the OBA – - others are not willing to stand with you, I’m afraid. But we shall see, yes?

            The Premier is attending the Inauguration with his lovely wife – that’s fine. I pray that they enjoy themselves – I do.

            The people of this country have every right to discuss their opinions about that topic – That’s the only point I am making regarding that topic – plain and simple.

            Now, me – I will continue to be who I am – - – - an individual who you cannot identify with labels, restrictions and limitations. . . I am that fly on the wall, I am that splinter in your finger – - I am that constant reminder that something is wrong – - and I will always be here.

            Yng Black Mind
            (those who know understand)

            • navin johnson says:

              I believe the comments you most enjoy on this site are your own….your role, as you see it, differs from the role I see for you….although it is very early days of this Governments term they have made mistakes however those mistakes will never come close to the amount of funds squandered by Ewart Brown on useless travel with an entourage pretending to be something he was not…..but I doubt that you will ever understand…. you can easily be labeled and to think otherwise is to flatter yourself….

              • Yng Black Mind says:

                @Navin johnson:

                Sir:

                I don’t know what role you see for me, thus I cannot speak intelligently on that subject – moving on.

                If you were to read my post with intent instead of condemnation, you will see that I have clearly admonished the previous Premier, Dr. Brown, for his useless travel – “we agree that Dr. Brown was a showboat, glory hog that enjoyed the spotlight more than Beyonce’ (AGREED?)” – as this was taken right from my post above. Thus, your comment regarding my “understanding” is a mute point.

                Lastly, I don’t flatter myself – - I simply am confident enough to know better. I do not expect you to understand me – - as you can choose to do so or not. But it is the choice that moves me – - not you or your opinion – the choice to accept or deny my words – - the choice to listen or to ignore – - so sir, how do you choose?

                (by the way, that’s a rhetorical question)

                Yng Black Mind

                • navin johnson says:

                  all of this is your opinion Yng Black Mind…in your opinion you are not a sycophant..and we are all entitled to our opinions….

      • DarkSideOfTheMoon says:

        Funny how you are justifying OBA spending by saying PLP did it too. Shouldn’t someone stop the madness? The difference here is OBA PROMISED to stop.

        • Bermy Gooner says:

          Sigh. Nothing was justified or attempting to be justified. I am just reminding everyone the reason Dr. Brown was roundly criticised for his over indulgence in his trips, especially the 2009 inauguration. The Premiers are right to ensure that our most important external relationship is maintained at the highest level considering the fact that they are the hands that feed us.

          The difference being this time around is Prem. Cannonier did not take bodyguards and/or rent several SUVs and limousines to carry him and his unnecessary entourage around the city as did the egomaniac Dr. Brown. His ground transportation won’t amount to $16k and so on and so forth.

          And I do not see any OBA arrogance (on the level of Dr. Brown’s at least) that would justify them taking taxpayers money to pay for their American football trips, Indian excursions, Chinese getaways and staying in 7 star hotels in Dubai. And if they do, they will and should be subject to the same level of criticism that was leveled at Dr. Brown.

          Simple and plain.

          • Yng Black Mind says:

            Agreed, Bermy Gooner – absolutely.

            Yng Black Mind

    • Mad Dawg says:

      People neverr cared what it cost under the PLP? Oh, people cared.

      When Ewart went to the first unauguration, which he watched from a room in the DC Park Hyatt for ‘security reasons’, he (as another poster also recalled) spent $16,000 on ground transportation alone, on that one trip. He was swanning around in luxury suv’s like a movie star. Bermuda also spent $75,000 on an inaugural ball in DC. So it was an expensive trip, one way and another. Way over $100,000. That was during a year when Dr Brown alone managed to rack up $320,000 in travel expenses. That included several visits to PGA golf courses, and $53,000 on overseas ground transportation. Dr Brown certainly loved his limos.

      And I venture to suggest that if Mr Cannonier was ‘not officially invited’ this time, neither was DrBrown last time. One difference appears to be that it appears Mr Cannonier will actually be at the inauguration, rather than in a nearby hotel.

    • DarkSideOfTheMoon says:

      Tell them like it is! This is the truth!

  35. Dee (Original) says:

    Dr. Brown tore the a$$ right out of it. Let’s not even talk about how he made Gombey House his official residence. This was a smart move on his part, because he had all the upkeep on his house on the government’s dime. I know for a fact a landscape company put in thousands of dollars worth of flowers, trees and shrubs paid for by you and I. I’m pretty certain they weren’t removed when he left office. NOTHING should have been put in that house that would be a permanent fixture. Too bad most people were too intimidated to give him a big, fat “NO!”

  36. dinosaurmedia says:

    PLP/OBA – same coin just differnt sides..you will see.

  37. Between de lines says:

    It was not necessary for him to attend as many have stated. It is clearly a perk though. The first time a black president elected I the US being a major historial event…. I can understand wanting to be there and Being able to say so makes one feel as though they were part of history I the making… What many don’t get though is the we ARE part of this history as long as we lived during that time…doesn’t matter if we were at the inauguration or not. I know I am sitting in front of my flat screen and smiling like a Cheshire cat and felt the magnitude of that first family stepping out. Malia and Sacha are BEAUTIFUL!! The pride that radiates from each member of their family seems so tangible. At least I did not have to pay for airfare, hotel, rental car etc. to experience that!! It’s awesome as a young black person to see how far our people have come, but also to see how accepting the caucasians present are of a black president. No shame in being black or saying so anymore. And I love how inclusive the president is of ALL in his speech.
    Btw, are the leaders of any other countries in attendance?

  38. Old Black Mind says:

    @Yng Black Mind

    I don’t know who you are, but thank you for your comments. You really raise the level of discourse on this blog. I admire the way you “respectfully” disagree and wish others would follow your example and actually stop, think and do their research before they post.

    • Yng Black Mind says:

      @Old Black Mind:

      Thank you. I respect my elders and wish you a blessed evening.

      Yng Black Mind

  39. Hmmmmm says:

    It continues to be interesting to watch and read this amusing discussion. I really feel sorry for Premier Cannonier. You people want the worst for him and are hell bent on making his time in office as painful and unenjoyable as possible to justify the vicious narrative you’ve created around travel by Ministers. You see, I EXPECT my Premier and his wife to travel at the “front of the bus” (that’s right, first class). I EXPECT my Premier and his wife to stay in an excellent hotel and I EXPECT my Premier and his wife to travel comfortably in whatever city they’re visiting.The fact that you people are trying to measure Premier Cannonier’s success in the job by how low on the totem pole he can manage to represent you is just sick and warped. My hope is that he doesn’t fall for it and governs himself according to what is suitable for the office of Premier and not some bargain basement version just to make you people happy.If he pays attention to this nasty fringe of his Party represented by these blogs, he will so diminish the office as to make it and him worthless.

    And don’t give me that BS about Jack Sharpe and his mobylette. I respect the late Sir John Sharpe, but let’s be clear, that mobylette rider was a multi-millionaire who sewed up supply contracts for Purvis Ltd., car contracts for HWP and more. He rode that mobylette to Government House with a smile and with good reason.

    It seems you all want to sit back in your comfortable homes and grunt your approval while your Premier, your elected leader, the representative of your Island catches the damn bus from the Mall in DC back to his Days Inn room near the airport. How sick is that.