Premier To Seek “Full Damages Through Courts”
[Updated with video] Premier Craig Cannonier held a press briefing today [Feb 19], where he denied both Opposition Leader Marc Bean and MP David Burt’s allegations, and said he will be seeking “full damages through the Courts for slander.”
The Premier said, “Concerning the recent accusations – I had hoped it would not come to this – but I will close by making the following statement.
“In view of the reckless allegations that have been made by the Opposition Leader and the Shadow Finance Minister which I view to be extremely dangerous and potentially damaging to the country, I see no other option, but to enforce my legal rights against both men and to seek full damages through the Courts for slander.”
The Premier did not take questions after the press briefing, however we will update with the full video and more information about the Premier’s statement as able.
Both Mr. Bean and Mr. Burt made allegations about the Premier in Friday’s [Feb 14] sitting of the House of Assembly, correlated with the referendum and a casino licence.
They both subsequently repeated the statements outside of Parliamentary Privilege, and a lawyer acting on the Premier’s behalf sent a legal letter to Mr. Burt alleging his statements were defamatory.
Saying that “political matters are for Bermuda’s elected politicians to resolve,” the Governor has said, “I don’t see a role for the Governor in respect of these allegations. Any criminal matters should, as ever, be reported to the Police.”
There was another incident arising at the press conference which we will have details on later today.
Update 12.53pm: The Premier’s full statement follows below:
Good afternoon everyone.
You’ve had much to keep you busy recently, with the number of allegations being hurled at my colleagues and me, allegations which I have already condemned unequivocally as completely untrue.
Over the past few days, the Island has witnessed a firestorm of headlines fueled by profoundly distorted claims and inflammatory comments .The impact of these attacks is undermining the national effort Bermuda needs to solve the big problems that confront all of us.
While it has been troubling for us as individuals, what has been more alarming to me as your Premier is the potential damage to the Island’s reputation, which is something that must be preserved and strengthened.
Bermuda, we are in a constant battle for survival with competing jurisdictions who are vying for the same investment that we need, but we are now being challenged to wage war amongst ourselves because of a series of orchestrated political attacks.
As your Premier, I will not allow the country to be dragged any further into the politics of division and destruction, because it threatens the Island’s integrity and our economic recovery. This is not a game. There is too much at stake.
My number one priority as Premier of Bermuda is to grow confidence in the Island – confidence that brings with it the investment necessary to create the jobs you deserve. I do this on behalf of all Bermudians…for those who voted for me and for those who did not.
Bermuda you know who I am. You know my faith in the Lord. You know my family. You know Craig Cannonier. I urge you to reason with yourself and do not let the headlines and allegations change what you know.
My colleagues have also been busy working on your behalf to get Bermuda working better in all areas.
As a result, I am pleased to say we are starting to move Bermuda in the right direction. We’ve seen the largest number of new company incorporations since 2008 and THAT’S something to put in the headlines.
The crime rate is down by 43%!
The unemployment rate has dropped
We’ve recently brokered a deal with the Government of India to provide fully funded training for Bermudians in a number of disciplines.
And in the next few days you’ll hear from our Minister of Finance who will present a budget to bring forward necessary change for our financial recovery.
We are working hard and will not be distracted from our goals to grow jobs and opportunity, reduce crime and make Bermuda more affordable.
I am anxious to get on with this important work, but we can’t do it without you. You’ve heard it said – A house divided cannot stand. So, we need everyone working together to move us in the right direction toward a Bermuda that works better for everyone.
Where we are right now is not good for any of us. It can’t be good for the families of the Opposition Leader or that of his Shadow Finance Minister. It certainly is not good for my family.
And now, concerning the recent accusations – I had hoped it would not come to this – but I will close by making the following statement:
In view of the reckless allegations that have been made by the Opposition Leader and the Shadow Finance Minister which I view to be extremely dangerous and potentially damaging to the country, I see no other option, but to enforce my legal rights against both men and to seek full damages through the Courts for Slander.
As this is now a legal matter, I have no further comment.
Good Day.
-
Update 2.17pm: The press conference did not start out smoothly, with officials attempting to bar entry to a reporter. After some discussion he was allowed to attend. That story is here.
Update 4.20pm: The Government has clarified the issue with the reporter’s entry, which is on the original story linked above.
Update 6.40pm: We filmed a video response from MP David Burt, however will be delayed in posting it as our cameraman had to attend the BIU press conference and is now filming the Gambling Town Hall. Our apologies for the delay!
Update 8.28pm: The legal action being taken by the Premier will be funded by the Government. When asked this evening who will be paying for this, a Government spokesperson said, “As the accusations were made to the Premier in his official capacity, it will be a government lawsuit.”
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Articles that link to this one:
- Attempt To Bar Reporter From Press Conference | Bernews.com | February 19, 2014
- PLP Call For Premier Cannonier To ‘Step Down’ | Bernews.com | February 19, 2014
- Bean/Burt Matter Will Be “Government Lawsuit” | Bernews.com | February 19, 2014
- Video: Opposition “Stand Strong” With Bean, Burt | Bernews.com | February 20, 2014
- MP Commissiong: Premier Needs To Be Honest | Bernews.com | February 24, 2014
I hope it is on his own dime and not the taxpayers… Just saying…
It had better be on his own dime, that’s for sure.
According to the slander, he may have many dimes left.
YOU KNOW MY FAITH IN THE LORD………bro let me tell you something the people don’t have any faith in you, so I can only assume the lord lost faith in you! Now go jump on a plane again and waste more tax payer money.
Grant, Milk Man and Bob must be having private meeting saying “how long do we have to keep this clown in here for the sake of the party”…………Then you turn your back and walk away from the media.
I thought the press conference today was disgusting !!! the premier was his arrogant self as usual….. and I thank Gary and other media folks for your stand regarding Ayo Johnson.
NEWS FLASH
A press conference you could ask questions, this was a televised statement, there’s a difference. Pathetic.
SMFH
If the legal action has been taken out in CC’s name why on earth would Government/taxpayer be liable for legal expenses?
Whoever wins sues for costs plus damages. It looks like a civil matter. Nothing to do with Government/taxpayers.
Because the last government got away with putting personal legal cases on the taxpayer dime.
So what was it done int he Cabinet building?
Stop reading from a script did you not learn anything from Dr. Brown during his years as leader.
The attacks are buy the “taxpayers”.
Shalom.
Freudian slip?
It’s ok. The winner will obviously apply for costs to be awarded.
DUMB DUMBER AND DUMBEST. GET IT TOGETHER CRAIG, BOB, MARK AND CROCK-WELL!
The Premier once again failed to address the people of Bermuda. No Questions were allowed to be asked. This is not a good look for the Premier. The Premier needs to address the Questions in a comprehensive and fair manner. This press conference does no good to address this issue. It only muddy the water more than ever.
Betty, will Bean and Burt be having a press conference this afternoon to talk about their allegations, and to talk about the forthcoming trial?
Could care less what they have to say. Im more concerned with what my leader has to say!!
What I want to know is what happened to the bullet or the check……
LOL
What check? The one on wikileaks?
All I hear CC saying is that the image of the organisation must be protected at all costs…. It sounds like he’s saying ‘By any means necessary’ which makes a lot of sense why they probably think bribery is ok. The ends justify the means I guess. This is what the catholic church did when it became clear that children were being raped. Defending the organisation took precedence and the ones making the accusations were painted as traitors who threatened to bring down the organisation. Its a typical tactic of corrupt organisations.
No, I say the TRUTH is better. CHARACTER trumps reputation any day. I would rather stand upon CHARACTER than organisational reputation because without the former the organisation will crumble anyway. These are serious allegations and the OBA have chosen to paint their accusers as anti-Bermudian etc.
You want him to bring the defamation suit on his own dime?
Unlike Brown and Burgess, you mean?
I could careless which side does it!!!
I think that’s all the more reason why it should be on his own dime.
The Premier said it best, “better for everyone”
Suzie at best the Premier and the UBPoba have lost the trust of the people of Bermuda now. Only their diehards stand behind them like you. Others open their eyes up and see the full picture. So your comments are expected. The Premier has put himself in a real weak position even more so today.
He’s in a much stronger position now than ever Betty. Bean and Burt are clearly on the ropes.
That’s your false sense of hope, but blindfaithfulness often impacts folks like you. His presentation alone today spoke to his vulnerability and lack of creditability. Folks are tried of this Premier, as he is not able to stand firm on his own two feet. Reality is the other UBPoba members are only buying time at present….they do not want it to seem as if the party is in trouble, so they will hold on and do what it takes to hold unto power.
MR. Burt and Mr. Bean do not FEAR this process.. they are intelligent young man. They are more political smarter than the Premier as well.
The outcome will reveal what Mr. Premier is afraid off. He cites his faith, but his actions does not hold true.
Now we the people must pay for this nonsense by your Premier. REALLY MORE WASTE OF TAX PAYERS MONIES.
Did anyone ask questions?????????????????????
Tell me it isn’t so. I voted for these people, Gibbons, Pamplin, Moniz and they just cow tail to PCC and they all follow him like the pipers song goes.
I just can’t believe they are that gullible.
Are they so converted, that they will sell Bermuda down, just for a pay check, status and title.
No, I just can’t believe these are the people we voted for.
Jeff Sousa, you were going to be our Thomas Jefferson, what happened? You got up on the hill and made PCC paint you with the same brush. The many conversation we had at about how better you all were going to be? You convinced me to join and vote OBA? Jeff come on man, stand up for what is right, it only takes one person. You the orange man not the yellow belly man.
You know me Jeff, I believed in you now show me I wasn’t wrong.
the tax payers time, is the tax payers dime.
you know “full damages” means bean n burt might have to foot the bill if not successful in their plight…
on the news just now they said it is an official lawsuit for which the government will pay.
“DAMAGE CONTROL BY THE UBPoba” POOR PRESS CONFERENCE>
This press conference puts the Premier in an even poorer light. This press conference presents a Premier whom is rattled, anxious, flustered and distressed. He seem more distraught than anything as the old guard MPs of the UBP sit around him. The old guard are fighting to save the UBPoba party. While they are not happy with Mr. Premier, they still want Power by any means necessary.
Once again we see a Premier whom is not willing to answer or take any Questions. He seems to somehow believe that the louder he raises his voice the more authority he has. A loud voice does not suggest he is correct, it more or less confirms that all is not RIGHT with in the house of the UBPoba government and with the Premier.
Mr. Premier was better off not saying anything, this press conference has just lower his over integrity and honesty to ZERO.
At the :38 mark he looks mighty amused-you can see it on his face for a brief moment. Me suspects he isn’t as upset as he’d like us to think he is.
Also, what’s up with his mate (can’t remember his name right now) sitting to his immediate left? He’s sitting there yawning and looking totally bored with the whole thing…
Hopefully the pair of them will go to prison!
The world must be laughing at us. Sad.
BS. Premier is hiding the truth behind suing Bean And Burt.
Now he can say, speak to my paid liyer.
We don’t trust them.
You can’t spell and you are nutty.
That will now be for the courts to decide. Not you.
PCC is going to be the one facing judge a jury ,He is digging his own hole. PCC is going to need help getting out of this mess.
Not sure how the Premier is “hiding the truth”. He has stated that the allegations are reckless and is prepared to take the matter before the Court. Doesn’t that mean that the Opposition Leader and Mr. Burt are going to have to prove that their allegations are true, and that the Premier is going to have to defend himself in Court.
This will hopefully stop the endless battles of words and leave the matter to be dealt with in Court, under oath, where statements made by all parties can be tested and either proved or otherwise.
I completely agree: everyone knows that the best way to prevent allegations from coming under the sunshine of public scrutiny is to voluntarily put them before a completely public forum and let third parties decide upon them in a fair and transparent manner. Shame on him!
I say let it go to Court. All of you acting like children. And you wonder why the Youth are the way they are today. Let it go Court. the Real Truth will reveal itself. What you do and say in the dark or behind closed doors will come to light eventually. God will reveal to us all the real villans.
God?
God has a lie detector?
lol it’s allllllll gonna come out now!! From the Nandi Davis to all the under handed bs that’s been alleged
Nandi Davis tape sorry
Am I the only one who wants a new Premier? I am so sick of this man and his foolishness. Spend less time pressing charges and more time trying to create a plan to get this country back on track!
Mate, honestly, wake up. If the allegation of Bean and Burt are allowed to go unchallenged Bermuda will not get back on track. You think people want to invest here with them saying those things?
WHAT! Where were you when these same allegations were made of Dr. Brown??? The same should apply to both parties period!!
So you’re saying that the Premier should simply ignore public statements by the PLP that are simply intended to damage his reputation and that of Bermuda?
If the claims are factual Bean and Burt will be able to prove them in court. Otherwise they’ll lose and have to pay whatever damages are awarded as well as costs.
Are you joking me dude? I am actually suprised that you were able to form a sentence with that kind of approach, would have thought only illiterate people could come up with something so off. What has cannonier done? All he did was take accusations that he was taking and giving bribes. There is no proof and you are ranking on him telling him to get the country back on track. Either you are incapable of thinking for yourself and let people like Bean and whatever the other guys name is do your thinking for you, or you are just one of those people that hate the OBA for the wrong reasons. Either way if this country goes down, you are probably one of those people who will be stuck here and will die of starvation, or live off of UN food shipments for the rest of your miserable life.
You can’t be serious, you are trying to disrespect someone’s ability to create a sentence, and you have trouble using grammar.. Read your paragraph again, it was painful. You sound like you wrote that sitting upstairs of St. Davids Cricket Club with two glasses of Chivas Regal in front of you.
How do you expect him (or them) to do that when your lot are constantly demanding apologies and making serious accusations? We would be miles ahead if the PLP werent so hell bent on finding any little scraps in an attempt to regain power.
You are beyond help. This is not about the PLP and who is or is not the government. This is about truth and honesty.
I cannot believe that people in this country are ok with how our Premier is conducting the business of the country.
I watched the press conference and the level of arrogance displayed at the conclusion was disgusting. . . Bob Richards saying “you must be joking” to a reporter seeking his attention to simply ask a question, while Dale Jackson says ” The leader has spoken” – - are you kidding me?
“The Leader has spoken”? Was Cannonier made into a freakin’ Emperor and we didn’t know about it??!!! WTH?
It saddens me to say this but it is time for the Premier to consider what is best for the country and step aside. . . wasting taxpayer money by going to court WHEN MOST liable cases are lost in Bermuda is not the way to go – - especially if you plan on using my money to do it.
You swallowing some humble pie and coming clean will allow you some dignity…nothing less would be tragic.
Q
Like Question I just want truth & honesty. Is that to much to ask for?
Oh yeah, and if he didn’t sue, the lot of you would be saying, “Hey, if the allegations were untrue, how come he hasn’t taken them to court? Obviously has something to hide……..”
By pressing charges he is able to focus on getting this country back on track and not be sidelined by these allegations because he cannot talk now and neither can anyone else involved until the Court case. Its like a game of chess, Young Bermudian, suggest you learn to play.
Well done Premier, the law will tell us the truth!!
And just how will THE LAW do this? No matter what comes out of a court case the thuth of this will never be known.
And why would that be? Got some inside information or do you simply like to speculate with no proof?
No. There will just be spin, smoke and mirrors. The true TRUTH, will never be fully revealed.
“We’ve recently brokered a deal with the Government of India to provide fully funded training for Bermudians in a number of disciplines”
This was DR Brown initiative!
If I have an idea, do some groundwork, then someone else picks up the reins and runs with it, making it a reality….I cannot claim credit for that… I didn’t do the hard work.
i better buy some more POPCORN! and this time some Heineken
I’m with you LMBO!!
So by suing them and making it a case before the courts, he therefore can say that he doesn’t have to speak about the issues being presented by Bean and Burt.
How convenient.
It’s funny right… the guy doesn’t sue… so he’s a liar… now he sues and he is being accused of deflecting… something else… smh… And I am neither a PLP nor OBA supporter, just a Joe blow that wants our island to succeed…
He denied them. What more you want him to do? If he says they aren’t true, what else can he say?
Would you like a tin foil hat to go with that?
No, by suing them he can either prove the issues being presented by Bean and Burt are false or require Bean and Burt to prove they are true. You can not make such baseless claims against the leader of a country with no evidence. He said she said doesn’t work in the real world. Let the courts decide whether there is any evidence for such claims against him.
THE UBPoba made many baseless claims against Dr.Brown,and despite they could not prove it, they still suggested it too be true.
Care to elaborate? I won’t hold my breath. So which politician are you? The more you speak the more you reveal.
Show me the evidence of The Opposition ministers making claims against Dr Brown in Public?
Evidence you say….no need for that. She said it, therefore it is.
Coward
Must have learned that one fro DREB inna………..
LOL
Clearly positioned beyond his abilities. I actually feel sorry for him. His statement today was pathetic. Nothing short of pathetic. His effort to show emotion was overkill. If you truly have nothing to hide, state your decision – better done via press release. Why give credence by giving it so much of your time. You are not likeable anymore. We like and need competence and this Mr Premier you lack materially.
And as usual he took no questions from the media.
He is a WUSS!
It is now a legal matter. What part of that do you not understand?
What more is there to say? It will be handled through the justice system, and better there than on a blog.
I guess this is hard for ‘watching’ to understand but once someone decides to take legal action for slander, it would be foolhardy to then start talking to the media about the very matter that will be decided in a court of law.
All we have to do now is to wait for real evidence to be produced in Court.
Were they plantation questions?
Becareful, if you do not really know what a Planation Question is, I suggest you do not make yourself look like your Premier in this regards. Your looking clueless now and people have now lost the confidence in the government.
…correction….lost any confidence in the opposition.
Tell us what a plantation question is. Perhaps use one that Dr. Brown refused to answer as an example.
“BS. Premier is hiding the truth behind suing Bean And Burt.”
LOL
He’s not hiding, he’s CHALLENGING. Up to Bean and Burt to try and defend themselves and prove their allegations, otherwise they are in a bit of a pickle.
“I hope it is on his own dime and not the taxpayers” If he wins he will no doubt request a cost order against Bean and Burt, so it will be on their dime.
Is Bean suing Nandi for slander as well? Bean and Burt have a lot of support going forward, please know that. All the Premier has done is galvanize support from the locals in support of both these young men. So now the Premier will say that he could have been working on jobs but Bean and Burt have distracted him from doing the peoples’ work, ha ha ha, he continues to ‘bob and weave’. Going to court will not bring this country any closer, or get the outcome that the Premier states he wants. It will further alienate and draw the line in the sand between the supporters of the two groups PLP and UBP/OBA.
Well since Burt has said ‘bring it on’. I am assuming he has all his ducks in a row, i’s dotted and t’s crossed, so then bring it on Mr.Premier. Everything done in the dark will come out in the light. Looking forward to seeing how this unravels.
If he is in a legal postion to sue her he should do so.
“locals”?
How could he sue her for slander? I don’t remember he making any allegations other than saying she has a recording and on that recording are some vile remarks. Personally I’d like to hear it, I already know her personal business.
Craig pls pay for your own lawyer. This country should not have to pay for these silly shannanigans. What shocks me is that you continue to present substantive – less information to this country. You refuse to have unrehearsed , non staged conversations, you continue to bull&@it with your rhetoric and we are sick of it.
Craig, Nalton, Nandi and Shawn…………resign immediately!
Chris let’s march until these lot are removed
The OBA just need to pack their s*** up and leave! I am so sick of this s***! Bermudians are out of work and the premier has time to focus on legal action! Like come on man! So much for change! smh
Thats crazy… The PLP is making allegations… I say… Don’t lay down and take it… Shut their ignorant foolish mouths…. The onus is on the Bean and Burt (Dumb and Dumber)to PROVE that they are saying the truth… I GUARANTEE they can not back what they are saying with any facts and proof….
Why would the OBA leave when up until now they have been cleaning up the mess that the IDIOTS (PLP) made ????… How ignorant ….
Bermudians need to get up and go FIND work, even if that means weekends and holidays and an honest 7-8 hours a day….
The days of a full days pay for half a days work are over… GROW UP and stop whining… Get your OWN job, thats not the governments job… TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF…
You are not entitled to anything other than that which YOU (not the Government) work for and earn yourself…
crying snotty nose kids… GROW UP….
Oh and to the point the LAWYERS focus on the Legality of a suit… not the Premier… Seriously, are you that mentally impaired???….
The only thing not allowing change is the narrow ignorant minds of the PLP with their foolishness…
The PLP are causing all this distraction, they are dishing out media release, that then have to be reviewed investigated and responded to. THE PLP ARE WASTING TIME. It is about time they grew up and support the island getting on.
Actually, as long as Bean and Burt have proof of their allegations that they can present in court, it will all be over pretty quick.
But if they don’t have proof, well, they are going to look pretty stupid aren’t they.
In the words of Mr Bean himself, “bring it, bring it”.
Holding the UBPoba government ACCOUNTABLE is now considered Stupid. REALLY this really reveals the high level of hypocritical behaviours coming from the UBPoba camp.
Well, when they get to court Bettty, Bean and Burt will be held accountable for their actions.
It will be interesting, won’t it.
Don’t you have two rocks to go bang together?
and do you think the PLP is any better?
Get a clue!! No decent person would let lies like these go unanswered….I hope Premier Craig finally shows Bean and all his cronies where to stick their hate!!!
Uh oh, Bean & Burt pulled the tiger’s tail once too often. Now he is mad. Watch out. Bean & Burt could be political & financial history. You don’t take out action like this unless you are standing on very firm ground.
Premier is from St Davids and you know you don’t say anything about we Bies
True dat!
The premier isn’t from st David’s. He’s a foreigner!
The premier is not a foreigner.
Can we stop this pissing contest and get on getting the island’s economy back on track.
We are in dire straights,the island is hurting.
Put aside your petty differences and get us all back to work and resuscitate the golden goose that lays the golden eggs.
This whole episode is detracting away from what is really important,the economy stupid!
I really wish he would stop trying to talk like a pastor.
Oh and where has the unemployment rate dropped too?
Why doesn’t he take questions from the media? We all of our opinions on Bean, but he had the courage to go on live TV and then take questions from the public.
Because it is a legal matter now.
Amazed at the number of people who cannot grasp that concept.
…then he should have did a press release not press conference. Conference eludes to Q&A after the statement delivered in the conference.
Do you think Burt and Bean will be taking media questions about this prior to the court case?
Most Premiers would have address the people of their country first and foremost. This idea of pressing charges is merely a way for him to avoid addressing the Questions and the people of Bermuda.
This legal step will not prevent folks from talking or thinking a certain way. Persons opinions have already been formed. This legal step does not shape the Premier in any possible light. Many do not agree and believe he needs to be removed. That’s the reality of the matter.
Nothing will prevent the folks you speak of from talking and thinking a certain way…that is the reality of the matter.
So Betty, where are Burt and Bean? Why aren’t they answering questions about this? They are the ones that made the allegations. Why are they in hiding?
Didn’t they try and bar a reporter from entry to this press release?
Read the piece on it.
Bean and Burt should take note that it doesn’t matter so much what is true in a libel action. What matters is what they can prove.
That’s why it’s going to court. Please all I want is the TRUTH.
.. Because of this last week, I have lost all respect for this man.
Taking this to court, the proper channel…he has gained my respect.
Should’ve taken the Chris Christie approach instead, answering every single possible question and so exhaust the issue with reporters.
Chris Christie has so much up his wazoo he looks like he is in pain from lying and I didn’t do or say or go – evidence is much bigger than he is right now
Only difference between this and the old PLP BS is he didn’t call the race card. Get back to work!
Under the circumstances The Governor should suspend Parliament until this sordid mess is sorted out.
That is the last thing we should want….more standing still while the world whizzes past our ears.
I’m not normally a blogger but I’m struggling here. Bean and Burt make allegations in the House. On Sunday, the Premier (in public) denies the allegations. Then Bean and Burt make the same allegations outside the House. Whatever the case, on the assumption that The Premier knows he’s correct and what Bean and Burt are saying never did happen and he didnt say those things…does he not have an obligation and a right to sue for libel ?
Forget politics now…suing for libel moves it to a different level …doesn’t any citizen have the right to ask a libeller to prove what he says is correct ? If I libel you in public …do you not have a legal right to defend yourself against what you say are libellous comments ?
Maybe one of you can tell me what the Premier is doing wrong ? IF he is saying that what Bean and Burt says he said izs not the truth…how does he prove a negative ? Do they not now have to man up and prove what they say is the truth ?
No, they don’t actually. In a defamation or slander case (this is not libel, which has to do with published statements), the burden of proof is on the plaintiff – the one bringing the case to court (Premier). The defendant has no burden of proof. Yes, the defendants can present evidence to show the truth of their statements, to prevent the plaintiff from convincing the Court that he has met his burden of showing the claims to be false, but the burden of proof remains with the plaintiff.
In addition, to succeed in his claim, the Premier must prove that the statements made by Bean and Burt caused him (not Bermuda) personal damage in some way – a loss of business, money or reputation.
He has his work cut out.
IT’S ALL GONNA BE MADE PUBLIC NOW!! henceforth there will be consequences…for who..? Let’s QUIETLY sit back and watch,cause personally i’m sick of this conversation…this is not something that happened at a family function or a backyard brawl…you ever heard the saying that “The Streets are Watching”..? well the “World is Watching” now. “Do the Right Thang!”
please move on. please do not drag us all though your mess. what do you want ? money?
Who’s mess?
Unless found guilty in court; they both receive full pensions et al for life.
Now where were we.
$800 million.
who cares about ‘jet gate’…it didn’t cost me anything
who cares about ‘the tape’….pure stupidness
who care about a canceled referendum that is NOT a right under the constitution.
who cares about ‘the bribe allegation’… it doesn’t make sense as Burt/Benie should have arranged a follow up meeting and ‘taped’ the conversation
who cares about all the other BS the opposition and their lot come up with that is meant to distract from the positive steps that the govt. have taken to attract and draw business. you lot sound so desperate focused on conspiracy theories and innuendoes.
and then the Ferries shutdown immediately afterwards,,,,, political destabilization is on the horizon. Common sense says “Those who..”, oh wait, this is Bermuda…
What a circus! Its official the premier is a big baby… amoung another expletive i could use… eunach… nothing worse than a weak leader. as much as i personally dn agree with much if anything obabp i can respect a strong leeder with thick skin. Sticks n stones….
Sooooo, what would you do or say?
Go about my business.. he should be too busy to be worring about some he say she say bs.. especially if alligations are not true..
How many things were thrown at Dr. Brown? What did he do in those situations? True or not true.. prove it or shut up. Until then i gotta run d country.
Gag orders?
were those allegations made by a member of the opposition government??? and were they made in public????
He wasn’t a eunach when he over rode the reffurendum….he had more balls than any plp sh**!!
You GO Premier Craig Cannonier… I only wish the OBA could GET RID of BIU…. THey are RUINING BDA!!!!
Listen to the last 30 seconds of the video and you will hear the four most important words. Those four words demonstrate how the Cabinet thinks, where it’s values lie, and where us voters and taxpayers really stand in relation to the Premier and Cabinet.
Listen to those last 30 seconds.
“We’ve recently brokered a deal with the Government of India to provide fully funded training for Bermudians in a number of disciplines”
Now where have i heard this before? What a joke.The OBA have no damn shame. Dr. Brown did this and students have been educated in some areas asa result of the India link. This is just incredible. Where are all you haters who called this all sorts of names when DR. Brown announced the EXACT same thing.
What the hell does his “faith in the Lord” have anything to do with what has been taking place over the past week? Religiosity does guarantee moral behavior or make one more susceptible to telling the truth.
I really wish that politicians would stop using religion to garner public support whenever they get into trouble or to support their positions on controversial issues.
the premier is afraid to answer questions because no one had time to prepare for that part of the press conference his answers have to be fed into the teleprompter da
Why are Bean and Burt in hiding?
I thought that the reason so many politicians spout lies was parliamentary privilege – that they can’t be sued for slander or libel as a result of anything they say as parliamentarians within the house. Or is that just in a real grown-up parliament like Westminster where they only act like idiot children half the time?
When politicians in Bermuda “spout lies” and “act like idiot children” (your words) in the House of Assembly, they are protected from being sued for defamation. No matter how big the lie, or how absurd it is. No matter what damage it potentially does to the country.
But in this case they repeated some of those utterances outside the House of Assembly, on the media. Once they do that, they have to be able to substantiate and prove their allegations just like anyone else.
…and most of them have been to real universities and can read, write and spell…
Its really annoying to have this constant bickering between the two parties instead of working together to run the country without all the childish back and forth and he said this and the other one said that in response and its really stupid and it really needs to stop. When a party is in and a premier is heading the country then the other party needs to shut the hell up and let the man do his job. Either work together or get the hell out of the way and stop running this country as u guys are little kids having their tits for tats on the playground. Grow up politicians and run this country properly cause no body is interested in your childish antics. Teach the kids of today that will grow up see how u grownups should act instead of what is happening today cause this action is not being anybodys role model. Ugh!!!
Can we have mature adults making policy decisions while the kids fight it out. Not a good image for Bermuda.
OBA has once again have proven the people do not matter
That was a real ‘mitch’ move by Craig.
I can’t wait as more unfolds.
Oh I see, he is supposed to take constant abuse & claims of wrong doing from the PLP & not respond to it. Gotcha. I understand now.
When the premier decided not to take questions the press should have decided not to print or air his statement!!!
People, if you all wany the real deal is listen to the best talk show host in bda…. tune into magic 102.
The does not always come out in court either. Especially in Bermuda.
Are you admitting that Bean has nothing that proves his allegations?
Sounds like he’s going to lose in court doesn’t it.
When is he resigning?
Weak move for Premier to not allow room for Q&A. Seems he can’t handle ‘live speak’ with the people – camera interviews (room for scripting)seem to be his preference. Not a show of strength at all. Especially to block the reported form entering – a reporter that is known to the Premier and government/opposition & other media counterparts. Passive aggressive bullying on Premier’s part to avoid live time spotlight to speak honestly & with knowledge off the cuff.
Once the matter is sent to court, he actually CAN’T have a Q&A. He wasn’t being flippant that this is now a legal matter.
Come on,, that his excuse in this particular situation I guess? However, what is his excuse for not answering live questions for the last 14 months?? Do you guys have any shame??
then why have a ‘conference’?
To make a statement. Don’t you think this will be on tv tonight?
How many press conferences do you think Bean is going to have to talk about this prior to the trial?
a press conference is specifically designed to confer with the press. not for making statements,a$$.
Not always, a$$. Sometimes there is questioning; sometimes there is a statement with no questioning.
that is not a conference check your dictionary
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/News_conference
See the second sentence in the section headed “Practice”.
The truth.
This is all posturing the premier has to be seen to be on the defensive…not a thing will come of this I bet we wont ever this this go to court.
The OBA have had more controversy in 14 months than in the whole PLPs term!! OBA the people are not going to as patient as they were with the PLP. You have started your short term as Government,on the wrong foot and very underhanded!!
Some of their own doing, but a large amount manufactured with a purpose.
Ummmm no bullet, election campaign bashing Bermudians, BHB, W&E check, using government knowledge to say start up a drug company, parking meeters, court building, what happend to the car and some golf clubs, a reporter’s black eye…. comments on the radio, contravining the broad cast rules durring election time….. Sorry no comparison………..
LOL If the OBA must step down the PLP must disband………. what you say Govna.
Well some grim faces at that press conference;one can not help but think; the thought is should we run to the life boats and abandon ship? or should
we remove the captain and tried to get the OBA ship off the rocks?
Almost as pathetic as PLP except he didn’t call the race card or say it was a Lynch Mob.
What lynch mob James? PCC had guards on the door, please.
Curious all this coordinated, anti democratic BIUplp spin; is this an attempt at a coup?
AntiDemocratic??? Please explain! Don’t just use words or phrases that sound good, but make no sense in this particular instance. I would really like to know how you could call the opposition Anti-Democratic, is it the Opposition who is trying to forego a referendum? Is it the Opposition who don’t answer questions from the press, or attempt to deny certain journalists from a press conference. Please explain the term Anti-Democratic or keep that thing below your nose quiet.
The opposition is anti Bermudian. They make serious allegations and then can’t back them up. They are destroying Bermuda’s chance of economic recovery. They don’t care about unemployed Bermudians.
You didn’t seem to have a problem with wild allegations when they were made against Dr Brown though, in the absence of evidence for that matter. So why all of a sudden are you calling the kettle black [no pun intended]…
After listening to the Sherri Simmons’ Show today, MP Crockwell revealed that the Premier told an untruth against a statement the Premier made last Friday. Sooooo…. His integrity is shot with me!
Good for you Mr. Premier and long may the rule of law prevail.
I’m confused about the “House Rules”. Privilege of comments made in the HOA. Isn’t the Sitting live on the radio for public hearing? So comments made are already in the public domain. What is the difference in having those same comments spoken outside of the House?
Who cares Mr Premier!! You have lost what little credibility you have with me and thank SHAWN CROCWELL for that! After hearing him today on Sherry J Show today, we have some underhanded people in Politics! Crockwells last words were that OBA representatives” wont come on the show because they have to be prepared”.Well Mr Crockwell, if you lead by truth and honesty,there is no reason for you to be prepared!!!
this guy cannot speak to the public, it would appear.
he skipped ‘let’s talk’…he has a press conference and does not take any questions .
ridiculous.
Always great to hear from you Alvin.
Did you record your first meeting way back then?
Can the Governor or Queen just not smack em all and say STOP THE FOOLISHNESS?!?!?!?! LoL
I mean really, this has been a simple time, spiral-effect!
Great move Craig! Let’s get back to business and show the PLP that they can’t make up lies because they are sore loosers! Keep your head up and focus on what Bermuda needs!
WoW
Did The Premier bring up the topic of this recording to Mr Bean in the House?
I guess Mr Premier did not expect more issues to come out of this. I guess he expected them to just say OK as some may have already.
Why is it that Mrs. (Davis) Outerbridge came to you to tell you about the recording if it was for HER OWN use.
Why did she come to you as SHE said to let you hear the recording?
What does she do?
You Mr Premier are not thinking about BERMUDA you are thinking about YOURSELF.
Anyone can answer these questions. As we all know Mr Premier will not right now as it is now a legal matter.
I hope this gets resolved soon.
Thank-you
You hit it right on the nail bermudagirl. A lot of people feel the same way as you. It can’t get any clearer than that. I think the politicians feelings really got hurt and they are bent on fighting to the end no matter what. They really don’t like each other. Childish indeed.
Children.
A guilty verdict on Mr.Bean does not mean innocence on the premier . So Seeking damages is supposed to restore his credibility … I think not !
DREB thought it would too… ahh o well……
LOL
So you admit they were talking crap? Anyone can do that. They’re complete amateurs.
@Coffee. This is a civil matter not criminal. There is no guilty verdict, just a monetary award against a party.
When you win Mr.Premier,sue for all they have.
It looks like the thirst for power and toppling the government by beany and rum swizzle Burt has now gotten them in a real mess!!! Let this be a lesson to those that think you can just say anything you want anytime you want about others with out facts and proof!! I guess this proves beany and rum swizzle are not the sharpest knives in the drawer!!!
I fully back our premier on this and hopefully he will se it through to the end and justice is served on those two!!!!!
rather it may be the mice who have trapped the cat
for a man who prefers scripted responses I hope he realizes that the only evidence the court will consider in this he said he said nonsense is sworn oral statements in front of a judge in open court
no matter what the outcome is Bean will be handed a gift of an opportunity to further promote himself whereas Cannonier will be dragged out of his ivory tower where he will be publically scrutinized
whoever gave Cannonier this advice should be fired immediately
its a shame those 2 bies ain’t as sharp as Doc Brown…love him or hate him…Doc played the game flawlessly…doesn’t mean I like his tactics, too bad he didn’t school his contemporaries
what are you trying to say? Evil politics that are shrewd and unethical should be respected or emulated?
Burty and Beany better have their own tape!
Looks like OBA will be a one hit wonder Government!!
I think that the Premier has added more power to the opposition by establishing an unnecessary battle line. The community will rally around those who appear to be most vulnerable. Clearly it will look like the Muscle or Government beating up on the back of town boys who are standing up for Justice! Craig may even win in court but that is not politics. He needs to enlist the sensitivities f the masses and not appear defensive and petty! I am sure it hurts him to be accused but he really should release that tape if it is so bad…ignore the rest. It will come down to a he say she say…because non of these matters can be proven!
It’s the other way round. These elected officials made serious allegations. Why did they do it? Were they telling the truth, which they knew they would have to prove?
Or were they just trying to disrupt the workings of government?
This way, everyone gets their day in court. If Bean and Burt can prove what they alleged, they win big.
But if they were just running their mouths, they will get what they deserve, and serve them right.
Absolute nonsense!!! Funny how those supporters now are a little sheepish in their opinion??? These two people who are the leaders of the plp need to pay for this!!! When will this nonsense end with the plp?? The last 8 yrs of their reign of terror has driven us into a hole that we probably will never totally get out of, since their reign of terror was thankfully ended, they have done nothing but try to hold us back in the hope of regaining power, and they even stooped too the level of what many would consider treason last week on the Carribean news stuff!!! They are desperate and pathetic and need to be stopped for the good of all of us!!!!
I don’t know how slander can be proven in this case. If it can’t be proven to be true, how can it be proven to be NOT true? By calling them liars, couldn’t they say C.C.’s slandering THEM? Maybe the burden of proof lies with the one making the claims and if he can’t prove the allegations then the victim automatically wins or something but I don’t get how it can be proven either way who is telling the truth.
In any case, C.C. is coming across as mighty wishy-washy right now. All sorts of claims were thrown against Dr. Brown and he ignored it all. The very first thing against C.C. and he’s taking this route? Bermudians would have forgotten about this nonsense in a few days. Heck-some people like me didn’t even hear about the initial claims (I was laid up sick before anyone says anything) and would have missed it all, but now it’s gotten my full attention. This just seems so stupid and a waste of time.
As for the Nandi Davis part of this, she needs to go-she is just not MP material, sorry.
@MeHere, ever give any thought to the dreb not wanting to go to court and hoping nobody would take him there??? The Premier is doing the correct thing and now I have no doubt these allegations are false and those responsible for making them need to be held accountable!! Prem Cannonier is no different than any of us, I can’t think I one person I know that wants to go to court?? Obviously he feels he has to protect his reputation and I don’t blame him!!!
@ MeHere. The allegations against Dr Brown came from ordinary people who had business dealings with him, not MPs. In the current matter the allegations against the Premier come from elected officials. Big difference. As for Nandi Davis she did nothing illegal or wrong – quite the opposite IMO she was very smart to record the meeting in the circumstances. Having said that she is also under no obligation to release the tape as it apparently includes references to her and her husband which should not be public. What should be proved by Marc Bean is his allegation that he knows his and his colleagues phones are bugged. If true prove it and let the chips fall.
@Kangoocar: People sling mud at politicians ALL THE TIME. If politicians in the U.S. or U.K. took their accusers to court every single time they’d never get anything done! If you’re innocent why try so hard to prove you’re innocent? If you know your accusers have no proof, you have nothing to lose now do you? Then it looks like you really are innocent because of the way you fought so hard. If you’re innocent and know you are, then you can just ignore such foolishness.
I’m not saying the allegations are true or untrue and neither can anyone else. None of us were there so how can we give a true opinion on this. However, taking your accusers to court doesn’t automatically prove anything one way or another.
I believe that the whole Government has been tarnished by these juvenile tactics and behavior. It is a very debasing. Craig is not helping by responding.
People of Bermuda all you have to do now is STAND STILL….AND WATCH YA HENEMYS FALL…. There is nothing they can do now that can convince the voting people in this country that the OBA can successfully govern Bermuda. The Premier knows that he does not have the confidence of the Majority of the voting populace and this number increases moment by moment. It has not slipped his memory that the OBA obtained the government through default. His supporters have now deemed him a liability and are trying to figure out how the devil to get rid of his carcass. He is dead in the water and he is attracting a whole heap of sharks around their sinking ship..!
As for the PLP, lest they forget; to lose the Government through folk abstaining should remain an eye opener to them as well! The people lost confidence in the PLP for several reasons when Premier Cox was in the chair let nobody fool you. If the truth be told she was a lot like the current Premier. Impossible to reach, ducking and weaving, dictator etc. Proper notes should have been taken from her hymn book to ensure that supporters turn out to the polls in droves next time round. Don’t treat your people like doot if you want to get back in or you will go down and stay down and there will be no next time.! PLP you still have a shyytt load of work to do and people to convince that you are fit for the task. Your free rides are over…
Having said that, you people better watch for FAHY, his COMMERCIAL IMMIGRATION INITIATIVES CAN TURN THE TIDE ON YOUR MAJORITY VOTE….QUICK FAST…Then we would be in the horrors….foreigners be votin and we will never hear our own voice or that of our children’s again.
ALL in all it is good to see Bermuda becoming serious about the running of the affairs; we are GROWING UP and SPEAKING UP and STANDING UP TOGETHER. What was good for the PLP goose is just as good for the OBA gander.
I am impressed Bermuda, you have come a long way in a short time (2 years). You still have a little ways to go, not to worry though. Your ultimate goal is not too far off. You may just see INDEPENDENCE. OH HAPPY DAY!
Look at your country!
Go back to the yard or stay there!
bill and crew must be loving this, these elected clowns are taking all the heat…for now
Bean and Burt have made serious allegations about corruption one has to wonder why is it only them that have been opening up their mouths for the past week? Robain burgess and co have been very quiet and usually they will be jumping all over somethin like this. maybe its cuz Bean and Burt have open up a can of worms and they are going to bring a lot of people with them!? The OBA is quiet for a reason cuz they are goin to dig deep now! My mother always told me u play with fire u will get BURNT! Grap the popcorn people and watch mouths drop I know I am!
why is he talking like that?………..lol
I’ve heard some unsavory things about him and I’m begining to beleive them. Mr Grant Gibbons asked Mr Johnson what did he do wrong. That tells me they the OBA senators know exactly why he was not allowed into the presser . And the Priemiers leaving without answering questions shows that they the OBA are devient and are not to be trusted. They are wolves in sheep’s clothing
Alleged Deceit lies and under the table dealings….You got who you voted for!!
2:16 –> Did someone say steak?
Damn, Dunkley and Crockwell aren’t even there to have his back???? Wow!!
Bernews: What’s up with all the sirens in the east end??? There’s a lot of activity going on right now-what’s up???
We think, not confirmed, it was a fire in the east end
Wow, someone wants to ask Bob Richards a question and his response is a snide “You must be joking” @ 6:06. That was just wow……
Um, the conference/press release/whatever was about the slander case. The Premier was the point man. He made his statement. That was it. It is now a legal matter & very little can be said outside of a courtroom.
What would Bob Richards be able to say about the matter? It was not the time or place for questions about finance hence the response the reporter got.
Sad!!
Being a person of sound mind what is happening right now in politics is disgusting. OBA built their whole platform on transparency but so far I’ve seen none of it. Tonight on the news Ms. Swan said all this nonsense is irrelevant and we should be more focused on our people competing in sports. So to me she’s saying that an elected MP who secretly recorded a conversation between the leader of the opposition in the house of Assembly is not relevant??? MP Davis and the OBA will not release the tape because they don’t want the public to hear the aurtocious accusations that were spewed by Bean, But on the other hand the Premier wants to Sue Mr. Bean for Slander. If Bean was talking so reckless on the tape wouldn’t the tape make the premiers law suit stronger?? At the end of the day the job of the opposition is to challenge the party in power if it was the other way around the OBA would be doing the same thing. Has anyone else noticed how both puppets Craig and Nandi are committing political suicide?? I’m just waiting for the great hope Dunkley to ride in on his white horse and save the day and claim his rightful place.
OBA supporters that are rallying around the Premier and not giving any weight to the possibility he is human, susceptible to the pressures and temptations alleged, are delusional. You look like a bunch of idiots right now, especially considering most have you have already made up your minds the accusations made agains Dr Brown are FACT despite not a shred of evidence surfacing. Funny how the tables turn…
Enough of the cr*p. Go get the slime balls Mr Premier.
By the way I am totally embarrassed to call myself a BERMUDIAN with the goings on and child like actions of the opposition.
Who are these “rich, white boys” they refer to. Is it suggesting that the likes of Fahy and Gibbons represent the “good ole UBP fellas” which have manipulated their way back into power via black surrogates who are motivated by prospects of financial/social elevation?
Got any proof of that. Emotion & gossip do not count.
I am simply asking if that is the suggestion. You seem too caught up in the “Got proof” campaign to notice that.
I hope this will be dealt with in a very expedicious manner. Doubt this will happen though. The lawyers will drag it out on & on before it sees a day in court.
Can I sue the PlLP/BIU for mental anguish pain and suffering? As a taxpayer can I sue the PLP for not being an effective opposition ? Can. I sue them for wasting my time and not tackling the real issues of the day. Can I sue them for not listening and seeing that we need a voice. A true voice.
Time for a new party??? My expectation is that with time we will see a convergence of perspectives between the next generations of so called OBA/UBP and PLP “folk”. That convergence will be driven by an absolute good and truth that cannot be ignored/dismissed by them as they will be increasingly well educated, socially aware and raised in an information age. As it stands we are still a heck of a lot more primitive than we like to believe as it relates to our susceptibility to influences of what for the most part is little more than political theatre and social manipulation. My faith is in the next generations NOT this one.
The Quote Of The Day is – “The leader has spoken”
Bermuda should sue the PLP for what “LITTLE”they have to put them out of their misery !! PLP IT IS YOUR END TIME !!!
Release the tape to show the public what went down at the meeting between Nandi and Marc.
Get the court case in court TOMORROW!
honeslty de good lord doesnt sleep
Please can someone tell me if when the HOA is in session and being aired via the radio for the public to hear why does the Parliamentary Privlege exists when it is already in a public domain? Answers please! Seriously!
Maybe the Premier and OBA are doing something wrong, maybe not.
What no one wants to here is anything out of the mouths of the previous government and their supporters.
What do you want PLP? For your tired ideas to be put in place? Or maybe to reassert yourselves as the government? Would that make everything better?
PLP, after you defeated the UBP way back when, you had the chance to make the country a better place for all. Instead you just chose to line your pockets and appoint your cronies to positions of power. All this while making loads of promises dumb people just trying to get by and dividing a once prosperous country by race.
Why should anyone care what the PLP has to say? Even if the OBA is corrupt, what can you say about it that wouldn’t be completely hypocritical? After 20 years of…, Bermuda is doing so poorly that the people had to acknowledge that it was the fault of the PLP.
That is why you lost the election. Your own supporters chose to abandon you rather than live in the rubble of the future you would create.
So after 20 years or … under the PLP, why should anyone listen to anything you have to say?
@Jay maloy….seems like you’ve been brain washed…..who got rich before 1998 off of all the high duties and taxes and …. of property??….don’t think it was PLP or NLP
I respectfully use the words of a very popular talk sow caller. “It is a sad day in this country”. When you see such disgraceful behavior from our politicians. We the people voted for change and we are now faced with the same old “we had to deceive you” situation. How long are we the people going to accept this kind of behavior? I hope that all parties are ready to live with the fall out that this legal action could reveal or have all the skeletons been locked away tightly in the dark closet and this is just a show at the expense of the taxpayer? You know my faith in The Lord! Really! You want to bring The Lord into this. Mess? I don’t think so. God is not pleased with the direction that you all are trying to take the island. You can’t hold hands with God and waltz with the Devil. The rights of the people have been snatched from the people regarding referendum. We now have to live with the decision to destroy our country by these same people that have no respect for each other as well as the people that put them in place to lead us. This is very serious and all the onlookers around the world are waiting to see what will happen. This sheds negative light on this island at a time when we cannot afford it. Jobs are vanishing daily along with our ability to survive in our own country. Who cares about that? The budget speech is coming this week so stay tuned to what it will cost you going forward. Bermuda we need to wake up and “look under the hood” of this so called change and you will see that nothing has changed and we had to deceive you.
All this stuff needs to be sorted out soon. When is the court date? To many other things that need to be dealt with. High School is over. Grow up Premier. You are stooping to the level of a teenager gosh. You bought up the topic of the recording to Mr Bean. All this it taking up to much of my news feed and ink to print in the papers. Mrs. Outerbridge needs to go she is not what I want to see in a MP.
GET OVER IT and MOVE ON.