Video, Full Text, Highlights: 2013 Throne Speech

[Updated with video] This morning [Nov 8] Governor George Fergusson delivered the Throne Speech, which outlines the Government’s legislative agenda for the upcoming year.

This was the second Throne Speech from the One Bermuda Alliance, who took control of the Government following their victory at the polls in December 2012.

60 minute video of the Governor reading the Throne Speech:

Some of the highlights include:

• MarketPlace, Supermart and Lindo’s will introduce 10% discounted shopping on Wednesdays for one year with effect from 1 December 2013

• Government will amend the Liquor Licence Act 1974 to allow for the purchase of wine and spirits on Sundays

• The Department of Airport Operations will carry out a feasibility study for Bermuda to become a certified Air Navigation Service Provider

• Government “committed” to having a referendum on gaming in the first quarter of 2014

• Government will provide funds to Focus Counselling and the Family Centre to help families in need

• Amendments to the Liquor Licence Act 1974 will require mandatory ID checks for bars and nightclubs

• Parole responsibilities of the Department of Court Services will be transferred to the Department of Corrections

• Government will produce a public consultation paper on the decriminalization of marijuana and an examination of its wider uses

• Government will introduce amendments to the Defence Act 1965 to eliminate conscription

• Government will amend the Criminal Code 1907 to ensure that in cases of murder and other serious offences, a judge will be able to set the minimum amount of time that must be served before the offender becomes eligible for parole.

• Ministry of Public Works will move forward with an LED street lighting pilot project between and around the two Trimingham Hill roundabouts

• Government will move forward with amendments to the Bermuda Immigration and Protection Act 1956 to provide pathways to Bermuda status for persons born in Bermuda or persons who have been adopted by Bermudian parents

The full 2013 Throne Speech is below [PDF here]

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