PLP’s Bean: ‘Time Line Of Gambling Discussion’
In light of “ongoing distortions of the truth,” Opposition Leader Marc Bean said he believes that “in the interest of openness and transparency that the full time-line of events concerning negotiations between the OBA and PLP be revealed.”
Last month the Government tabled the bill, which said the referendum question would be: “Do you favour the introduction of regulated casino gaming for the purposes of creating new jobs for Bermudians and encouraging hotel development.”
The question was criticised by the Opposition as well as BEST for what they said called a lack of neutrality.
On Friday [Dec 13] Premier Craig Cannonier announced that there will be no referendum and the matter will be decided by a vote in Parliament.
The Premier said after conversations with members of the Opposition, it was made clear that “the referendum process will be undermined if we don’t meet their demands to change the wording of the question.”
“It is clear to us that the Opposition’s political ambitions have moved ahead of the people’s business, and that the threat to disrupt the referendum, such as a boycott, is real,” the Premier said at Friday’s press conference.
The PLP rejected this assertion, and during Friday’s sitting of the House of Assembly there was some debate between the two parties about what exactly occurred prior to the referendum announcement.
This evening [Dec 16] Opposition Leader Marc Bean provided a timeline, saying “these are the events as they occurred, and unlike the fables being spread by the Premier this is the truth.”
The Opposition Leader’s full statement is below:
In light of the recent lies by the Premier and the ongoing distortions of the truth, I believe that in the interest of openness and transparency that the full time-line of events concerning negotiations between the OBA and PLP be revealed.
First, let me declare my interests to counteract the lies and innuendos being spread by OBA surrogates and sympathizers.
I have interest in a company that was granted a fixed-odd betting license under the Betting Act 1976 with the knowledge and sign-off of Finance Minister Bob Richards in May 2013. I have no personal interest, past,present or future, in on-island casino gambling.
In March during the House of Assembly, I am on record stating that if the OBA decided to forgo a referendum, than make the decision as the Government, and the Opposition will not make an issue of the decision. This was based on the natural expectation that such a decision would be done in an open and transparent manner.
In September I, as Leader of the Opposition, privately met with Premier Cannonier on two occasions, to discuss in a spirit of collaboration, a variety of issues, including the introduction of on-island casino gambling.
The Premier proposed that we consider avoiding a gambling referendum, and that we jointly, OBA and PLP, hold a press conference to issue a joint statement to that effect, and providing a rationale for the decision.
We agreed that we would discuss the proposal with our respective colleagues, to which I did by having my entire caucus consider the proposal at our next meeting.
I conveyed to the Premier that my caucus rejected the proposal and reiterated our previously stated position that while the majority of us support the introduction of casino gambling, that we should uphold our respective election promises to provide a referendum.
It is not clear if the Premier notified his OBA colleagues of these discussions, or if the OBA caucus had considered their Leaders proposal.
No additional discussions where held between the OBA and PLP on this matter until last week. As Opposition Leader, on Saturday, December 7th, 2013, I asked Shadow Tourism Minister, MP Wayne Furbert, to reach out to Minister of Tourism Shawn Crockwell, for the singular purpose of encouraging the OBA to amend their recently tabled referendum bill to reflect a neutral question.During that discussion, MP Furbert reported to me that to his surprise, Minister Crockwell was never informed by his Premier of the September meetings, proposal, and PLP Party position.
On Tuesday, December 10th, 2013, MP David Burt informed me that OBA insiders were claiming that Premier Cannonier and Opposition Leader Bean had struck a deal to avoid the referendum.
I told MP Burt that the claim is false and no discussions have been held. Our position remains that the referendum question should be amended to be neutral. MP Burt then reports that the Premier asked to meet him at the Cabinet office at 5 pm, at which time the Premier asked MP Burt to have the PLP join the OBA and avoid the referendum.
MP Burt also reported that the Premier was adamant that despite my being off-island, that he was in constant/current contact with me. This too, was false.
MP Burt repeated the PLP position of amending the question to the Premier and reported to me that the OBA had approached 3 other PLP MPs, including our Acting Leader MP Derrick Burgess. All three MPs reported to me that they reiterated the PLP position and deferred to myself as Leader.
On Wednesday afternoon, the next day, Premier Cannonier texted me requesting that I call him. During the call, the Premier instantly suggested that we jointly avoid the gaming referendum.
I told him that it is not possible at this stage, and the best approach would be to amend the question and then jointly undertake to educate the voter as to our collective vision for gambling if the voter says yes.
The Premier rejected my view and stated that the question as posed was excellent and was prepared with the help of experts.
I responded that an excellent question is a neutral one and that the OBA should not treat the voting public with such disregard. I also stated that by bringing a “loaded” question, the OBA will create a protest vote by those who ordinarily would vote in favour of gaming.
At the conclusion of the phone call, I clearly repeated the PLP position that the question should be amended and once done, the PLP will join the OBA in a joint committee that will lay out the vision for casino gambling in Bermuda, if the voting public vote yes.
On Friday, December 13th, the Premier carried over the referendum bill and at a subsequent press conference, lied to the public by accusing the PLP of threatening to boycott the referendum and plotting the demise of Bermuda.
This was the rationale provided to justify the OBA decision to steal democracy from the Bermudian voter through deceit, force and coercion.
These are the events as they occurred, and unlike the fables being spread by the Premier this is the truth.
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Yeah right bean!!! My memory is not short, your plp pulled a major stunt against the independence referendum back in 1995 when you had just finished wearing diapers!!! A leopard never changes its spots!!! You and your plp are just mad at the fact that, the OBA finally outsmarted your nonsense!! I say congrats to the OBA for moving this Island forward and rising above the usual politricks of the plp!!!
You’re pathetic…
I accept the fact that PLP had their share of blunders but for OBA/ubp’ers to down play the last 12 months of flip flops and anti-Bermudian antics is PATHETIC, and I understand you have to support your Party but to endorse this S–t shows your ignorance and impudence to the TRUTH!!!!!!!!!!
Kindly particularise .
N for you and ya plp to blindly support the last 14 years of PLP blunders/flip flops/ is PATHETIC, considering what they did to de island. And to quote u….
“and I understand you have to support your Party but to endorse this S–t shows your ignorance and impudence to the TRUTH!!!!!!!!!!”
Really… 14 years of blunders and flip flops sums up the PLP time in power?
Why would Bermuda have tolerated “14 YEARS” of that if it were all blunders and flip flops?
Do you even have a clue about what caused the downturn, who is really to blame and why, historically, this elite group has never been on the receiving end of the “common mans” rage?
Are you threatening to organize violence ? Sounds like you got issues Ian. Look at who you are fighting for. The PLP ain’t the common man anymore. Maybe once they were.
I’m sorry whaaa?? Violence?? What??
And thats right the PLP isnt the common man any more, are they?
That would be the well-to-do execs getting PRC at a cost of next to nothing and the millionaires waiting for the opportunity to buy Bermuda status right?
Yes I do…deeper in it den u think. But guys could go back n forth all day so aint even worth “debatin” with you cuz you’ll just disagree.
If your THAT deep into it then it should be hard to sum things in in 3 sentences…
And news flash, “debatin” doesnt necessarily equate to agreeing with you.
Well said Mazumbo and Ian It is appearent that the UBPoba fans are acting like their MPs, and failing to be TRANSPARENT AND HONEST> WIlling to accept lies and mis-truths. To mention what happen in 1995 shows their lack of insight and willingness to lie to make their party look good. REALLY !!
Did you really go back to 1995? Almost 20 years ago??? Wow…
You know what, I apologize for that statement, you are right… we can’t trust the PLP because everyone knows the shenanigans they did back in ’83…. on lets make sure we done forget the debacle in 1969…. yeah
“On Tuesday, December 10th, 2013, MP David Burt informed me that OBA insiders were claiming that Premier Cannonier and Opposition Leader Bean had struck a deal to avoid the referendum.”
This already sounds murky.
VERY MURKY INDEED. OBA INSIDER – SANTA CLAUS MAY BE?
This shows you just how informed you are. In politics MPs do talk to one another on the other side of the fence. Sometimes it used as an effective political strategy…..what makes you think this was not a strategy that was played by the UBPoba….they are so busy trying to out fox themselves….so it sound true to me..
The UBPoba JETGATE 4 moved the chess piece, but I hoping that they continue to move a few more pieces, it will sure result in this government ending up as a ONE TIME GOVT…. keep moving, I watching carefully….. for real…
You are wasting your Life Betty
as usual,the plp is full of it.
You’re alias should be more like [for the OBA] Nuffin but da Truth HURTS
in your own words,which are perfect;y suited for you…
“you’re pathetic”
4 sides to every story, only my side matters, and quite frankly it doesnt matter to me who is lying and who is telling the truth. what does matter is that we should hear good news very very soon after the bill passes in law.
I see you comment often. I was doubtful to think you had intelligence, now its comfirm you really dont. 4Sides to a story?
Let me have a go….
What is written
What is said
What is assumed
What actually happened
IT does matter that a party whom pride themselves on being TRANSPARENT< HONEST AND OPEN PRE_ELECTION…now have LIED to the people of Bermuda. THe real deal here is their honesty to the public of Bermuda. Of course the diehard UBPoba folks will support them regardless if they are right or wrong, but the general public will not. We know that the diehards usually write on the blogs or love to click the dislike button…. but the reality is it is those folks whom do not vote or write that hold the real power.
Mr. Edness said it best: “You have just destroyed the last of your credibility and deprived the people of Bermuda from having a fair say on a major issue that will greatly impact their lives.
‘You have proven yourself to be a weak Government without principle. By taking the matter to the legislature you know that gaming will be supported because the opposition have said they will support it. Thereby depriving those who do not support gaming their right to have a vote…very dishonest.”
When will the PLP finally admit that they lost the election a year ago, that they no longer have any power, and that they are just about finished?
Goodbye PLP. Wish I could say it was nice knowin ya.
You really believe the events of recent are actually going to improve the OBA’s chances of reelection in just A FEW YEARS TIME???
Er..actually yes.
I’m less than impressed with some of the OBA’s tactics, but they are still far better than the alternative. PLP are nothing more than a pathetic joke.
This week we saw nothing by a desperate Pathetic UBPoba government twisting and lying…yet pre-election they promised they would do POLITiCS differently…Yet you see nothing wrong with that picture….that suggest you and your party lack a high degree of integrity. .WELL for sure the REAL UBPoba is now proving to be a government that is full of lies…. I think you need to be HONEST, or is this something UBPoba fans and MPs are not capable of doing…. IT looks like TRANSPARENCY AND HONESTY IS KILLING THE UBPoba…. REALLY….
BEST Chairman Stuart Hayward said his initial reaction was “disappointment with the decision and with the process, and also dismay at the impact it could have on the OBA’s credibility.”
Seldom do I agree with Mr. Hayward, but he was correct on the news last night in regards to this one matter…. the credibility of the UBPoba has taken a hit.
The folks whom do not write or vote, are the ones whom can make REAL change happen. The deck of cards have been moved by the JECTGATE 4….. I hope they move a few more…as it can be just what I been waiting for…..A one term government….
Sounds like the OBA tried tio work with you on moving the inevitable forward so as to waste at little time as possible, you were in favour, but then the PLP caucus (cronies) said no. So the OBA went ahead without you. You are a WEAK WEAK leader Bean. This country needs action and when the time came to stand up and help this country came, you walked away. Deserter.
seriously??? are you really that subjective? really? Regardless of the fact that casino gaming would be beneficial to Bermuda economically, and in the interest of timeliness its best to carry our new policies as oba has been very inconsistent throughout this process and lack credibility through their recent actions.
Casinos being beneficial to Bermuda economically is not a fact it’s an assumption.
It can’t be proven to be a “fact” with regards to “Bermuda” until done. So your statement is irrelevant !!!!!!
It is not a fact that I won’t be mowed down when I walk across the road this lunchtime to get my lunch, until I’ve walked across the road to get my lunch this lunchtime. Should I not walk across the road???????
I took the risk and returned unhurt and unshaken. I have to face the fact that tomorrow that it is not a fact that I won’t be mowed down all over again.
“Casinos being beneficial to Bermuda economically is not a fact it’s an assumption.”….thanks Tommy, this is a key point….. but let the diehard UBPoba folks open up their eyes, maybe later when the level of success they were anticipating fails at best..
Wells said Tommy, this is a key FACT…something the diehards UBPoba supporter seem blind tooo..they do not like FACTS..like their party MPs…
Casinos being beneficial to Bermuda economically is not a fact it’s an assumption
edit * in the interest of timliness its best to carry out new policies as quickly as possible, that doesnt change the fact that the oba has been…………
I think he rushed right off the plane as fast as he could to get his two cents in before events leave him in the dust.
Your OBA’s fearless leader is a bold faced liar who clearly has no regard for he competence of the people and you want to call Bean a weak leader?
Thats rich…
Weak leader or not, he’s still a homophobe and thus not fit to lead the Country.
Oh yeah.. forgot.. the world revolves around gays these days and its a necessary conidtion to be on the pro-gay bandwagon to qualify as a good leader… Although… it tooks like the polygamists are trying to steal the spot light based on last nights news!
We start deconstructing traditional marraige and now everyone wants a piece of pie.
I personally think the gays are fun and I also wouldnt mind 5 supermodel wives.
A. No it doesn’t. You’re arguing against something I didn’t say. You keep doing that when you don’t actually have a point. You just make something up and try to make it look like that’s my position. I wish you’d stop doing that. It’s really dishonest.
B. Polygamy has nothing to do with the subject. But, since you bring it up, and if you want to talk “traditional marriage”, you SHOULD be supporting polygamy, as there is nothing more “traditional” and biblical than that! But polygamy has nothing to do with the subject. You’re doing that thing again.
C. There’ son such thing as “traditional marriage”. Marriage has been “deconstructed” and changed many, many times over the years. Even within living memory, the definition of marriage has been changed.
D. Noting in what you said has anything to do with the fact that the man said hateful, disgusting and false things about a large segment of our society, actually promoting discrimination against them and, thus, isn’t fit to run the country in many people’s opinion.
I’m sorry Mike, but before you continue with your little high-on-the-sound-of-my-own-opionion dope session, please explain what the heck does Beans views on homosexuality – the apparent new cause for the known universe to rally around – have to do with the subject of his comments above and the events pertaining to them??? Heck your own can do no wrong Premier advised same sex marraiges arent going to happen under his watch!
As for polygamy, like I said, I’d love to have 5 supermodel wives! lol
Talk about high on the sound of my own opinion .
You have a comment for everyone , and are under the impression that everything you say is gospel.
I’ve explained it. Why aren’t you reading?
You’ve ignored everything I posted. Why is that? Could it be that your position is so weak that you have resort to your usual tactics of evasion, fabricating arguments and positions I haven’t made, and ad hominems?
I’m thinking it is.
You’re proving to be a joke with nothing real to say.
and we’re back to yawn..
As per usual. Can’t respond, nothing to add, but HAVE to say something.
Why are you so scared of real conversation? Are your positions REALLY that shaky?
He’s not scared of homosexuals
***** *** no parts in bda
Your PLP leader is an incompetent whining bigot who is too weak to fire Burt.
Fire Burt for what?!? If Nandi Davis can still hold her position, you can’t touch Burt.
Swizzlegate, for one thing.
Fire Burt for what? If Nandi Davis can still have her title and position, you shouldn’t speak on Burt, or anyone for that matter.
Burt situation was far from great concern as Nandi and JETGATE 3. JETGATE was directly related to the business of the government of Bermuda. It reflected upon the entire government and Bermuda worldwide.
Nandia was also related to her role as a MP and the government of the day… Swizzle…I think NOT…was small fish in the sea…not of great significance…stop trying to drum up something negative to make the UBPoba look a little better..>REALLY sad party…lying big time as always..
Stop UBPoba fans seeking to find something….diehards are really falling down now… how hopeless and blind they are…
Bean is a homophobe. His views are irrelevant.
Wow.. who shoved that logic down your throat??
so because someone doesnt condone the actions of the homosexual lifestyle they are not fit to run a country?? really? learn something new everyday on here.
No. Because he spread hate speech, misinformation and lies, and tried to force HIS religious views onto other people. THAT is why he isn’t fit to run the country.
Hate speech… misinformation and lies… bit passionate even for you. Not exactly a friend of reason that passion…
The only one FORCING views on people is your precious camp, hence all the blogging us folks are currently engaged in…
Justifying denying rights based on religious views is, in fact, forcing them on us.
As for passion and reason? I notice you don’t deny that I’m right. You just make yet another ad hominem. Par for the course with you.
Am I wrong? Is what he said true? Is what he said NOT hateful?
Are you drunk?
Not for more than twenty years. But you keep evading the conversation. See how that works for you.
Funny that you refuse to answer simple questions. Why are you so afraid of that?
What religious views was that?
Is this going to be another thing like before, where you pretend to be interested in a conversation, then make some ridiculous, false personal attack, then run away?
I’m going to bet that it is.
But to answer your question, his words show a support of a continuation of the discrimination against our fellow citizens, based on his religious views IS, in fact, forcing them onto other people.
Now let’s see how the rest of this conversation goes. Will you surprise us all, or is it going to be par for the course?
your brain actually allowed you dumb mouth to say that!
Wouldnt the starting point in your childish assault be what a dumb “dumb brain” allows a mouth to do??
Attacking your own supporters numpty.
Where’d you get that from …..Mike Hind.
Is this a question? Or are you just lashing out and throwing a tantrum again?
How quickly we forget, I recall the PLP telling the OBA to bring gaming on and it was the OBA that was insisting on a referendum… the OBA tried a fast one and was caught out against…
I support gaming but, not being hoodwinked…or taken for a fool…
against = again..
Not to worry, it may backfire.
So… Because he OBA did what the PLP wanted… You’re mad?
Oh, wait. I forgot who I’m talking to. Nothing they do will ever be good enough for you.
Ahhh its Mike… the guy who proclaims to not be an OBA supporter…
Ah, it’s “Ian”, the guy who never actually says anything, just attacks with nonsense.
DIEHARD BLINDFAITHFULNESS MIKE UBPoba NUMBER ONE FAN
Mike stop crying to protect and defend your beloved UBPoba party. We all know your a BIG DIEHARD…they can not stop as they are power driven and this will be their down fall…… doing it to themselves… now click the dislike button diehards… give yourselves that short-term feel good feeling…it will not last long…I am loving it…. ahahah
Lying again. You should really try honesty, “Betty”.
You’ve lost all credibility. Not that you had any to begin with.
NOT sure what your reading, but not what I have read above for sure..as your reply would reflect a more honest review…instead as a diehard blindfaithful UBPoba follower, I expect you would write as you do……. LIES like your UBPoba party….
Sounds like the PLP tried to work with UBP in a collaborative fashion. As the UBPoba did promote the words transparency and COLLOBORATION. But this reflects they were merely buzz words, and a sound-bite for the UBPoba…
The UBPoba had an agenda, as they have promised a Hotel deal, but needed to ensure that this bill did not fail. SO they quickly put a plan in to place to ensure it did not fail in the house, and failed instead the people of Bermuda…
So the OBA went ahead with a plan of LIES and MIS-TRUTHS. Looks like Mr. Cannioner is a very WEAK WEAK leader and merely a figure-head taking direction from the JETGATE 4 $. We are heading backwards Bermuda under this UBPoba government. I hope JETGATE 4 continue to move the chess pieces that ensures that this is a one time government…so far we are almost there….
All seems a bit desperate. Sherri was in overdrive today trying to claw back. Does she really believe she is balanced? ; J That recording is the thing to worry about though…
I’m with swing voter on this one. In the New Year, probably around early Spring I’m looking to hear some big news that will be very positive for Bermuda as a whole. That’s what we all really want. Isn’t it?
Prehistoric gay basher on again, turn the channel over and move on.
And, as usual, team “gay rights” makes another desperate attempt to make everything about them.
Nope. It’s an important point to bring up and speaks to the mans integrity, honesty, dedication to fairness and the people of Bermuda… ALL the people of Bermuda. I know you want to dismiss this as it doesn’t work into your propaganda, but it is very important to note that this man is a bigot and a homophobe.
But integrity isn’t important to you, is it, evidenced by… Well… All your posts.
So what gives your Premier the right to proclaim same sex marraige will not happen under his watch huh??
You really think youre in a position to give 101s on integrity?
http://bernews.com/2013/06/premier-cannonier-no-same-sex-marriage/
Just a little reminder in case you forgot…
I will no longer play into your “what about the gays” chatter…
Good! You weren’t adding anything but lies and nonsense anyway.
There’s a difference between “it won’t happen while I’m premier” and the vile things that Mr. bean said.
And… It’s irrelevant. What Mr. Cannonier said has absolutely no bearing on what Mr. bean said. At all. You’re evading again.
And “your Premier”?
He’s not yours? Are you even Bermudian?
you forgot de phonecall part….
All over the wording of a simple question. Unbelievable!!! No, I would not have worded it like that either but that does not matter, the question as it stood was still simple enough for a first grader to understand.
Hundreds of thousands will be saved by not having the referendum. The players can move forward now & order equipment & start the employment & training.
For once PLP, get out of the way. You had 14 years to do something with gaming. All you did was kick the gaming can down the road effectively doing nothing. Stomping your feet & being childish won’t change anything.
“Childish” is lying your a** off to avoid getting in trouble by those you answer to…
So… You admit that you’re childish. Got it.
Good one Mike! You’re so awesome and dreamy!
More trolling. Tedious little man.
You should do improv!!! I haven’t laughed this hard in weeks.
More positive has been achieved in the last two weeks than the 14 years of failure of PLP hamfistedness.
If by your logic, lies are positive, then ding ding ding!!
You are so right!
The question is manipulative & based on conjecture. There are over 120 casinos in Dominican Republic most of which carry the same odds as Vegas & all allow bets in pesos or U.S. dollars. Hard Rock Casino, Playa Dorada Casino & Amhsa Paradise Casino in Dominican Republic have been rated as some of the top caribbean casinos but that has never fixed their economy. Bahamas & Antigua also have top notch casinos & still have rampant poverty.
Over 90% of the job types that are offered in casinos presently exist in similar forms in Bermuda but the majority are not held by Bermudians. If the unemployment fix was as simple as training locals for those job types then we don’t need casinos we need trained Bermudians.
I think at least in the short term it will mean construction jobs. After the Hospital site is done Bermuda desperately needs some bog construction projects. After that it may provide other jobs from Gaming and jobs related.
Tommy’s and Lois’s remarks are the best place to start in leaving my 2c worth .
There has been no major (not counting renovations) hotel development since the construction of the Southampton Princess in the early 70′s
Why ? Big money investors know there’s no significant return on investment in the hotel industry in Bermuda any more .
The number of closures of hotels and guest houses over that 30 year time line is testament to that in itself.
Are we to believe that when gaming is legalized there will all of a sudden be investors lined up to build stand alone casinos capable of providing the Vegas or Monte Carlo experience (shows ,restaurants , etc) WITHOUT the hotel element incorporated into the same building ?
And remember , such structures would ideally go where there would be spectacular views and ambiance as well. How many places are there like that still available to build on ? Old Club Med site ? Morgan’s Point ?
The rest of the place is already covered in development/concrete .
I don’t believe for one second that such a scenario will occur. There will instead be some minimal alterations/renovations to existing hotels for them to accommodate small casino infrastructures .
Call me cynical , but I can’t imagine outside investors who have been watching our down slide in the tourism industry for the last 30 years suddenly pop up out of nowhere and be willing to drop $30+million (conservatively) into the construction of a stand alone casino because they surely know the hotel side isn’t going to make any money .
I wish I could be as optimistic as you but being a realist I can only rely on what is at present as a glimpse of what may come. At present only the biggest construction firms have benefitted from the Hospital development while the rest tread deep waters with no salvation in site. Sadly these are the same big firms that have been given contracts already for new hotel developments. This will give these firms the opportunity to monopolise to the point that they will oust all competition & bring on more unemployment. Only a few unemployed construction workers will be lucky enough to be absorbed into the big firms because the reality of us becoming vegas is unlikely & the project will never be as big as the hospital.
As for the jobs from gaming there aren’t that many that solely relate to it. The one that will require the most position holders are the table dealers & this will depend on the size of the gaming rooms. The others Gaming Machinery Technician, Poker Brush, Compliance Clerk , Surveillance Officer & Pit Clerk all are one worker positions. These jobs are not guaranteed to locals. As I stated above over 90% of the job types that are offered in casinos presently exist in similar forms in Bermuda but the majority are not held by Bermudians. We have no guarantee this will fix unemployment.
I understand your lack of confidence in Gaming being a big boost to our economy. I certainly don’t think it will be the saviour for our woes. I think it will help though and at this point we need anything that might help. I will remain optimistic that a major hotel development will occur as a result of Gaming and together with the right incentives included to get investment to take the risk. The problem with the former Government is that they refused to budge when it came to offering potential investors the incentives to come here, as a result they walked away and probably went to another island more welcoming to their money. The OBA understands business better and know what they need to do. In turn Bermudians will have better prospects over the next few years than otherwise.
I too don’t believe that it will be our saviour but I think it will offer an extra something for those visitors that want it . The question is , how many will want it or come just for it when we already know from exit polls that our current visitors would’nt be swayed by gaming ?
And none of us yet have any idea if locals would be allowed. Remember the poorly worded referendum question ?
Also I think that Tommy’s surmising about the actual jobs is probably not that far off of reality . If we look at the staff makeup of any of the local restaurant chains or hotel dining rooms and liken that to what would be on offer at a purpose built casino in terms of qualifications needed and hours worked , would many locals consider it a sustainable wage ?
Interesting the sudden PLP embrace of “openness and transparency.” In the meantime Mr . Bean, why is there no PLP apology forthcoming for having destroyed the public finances and run the economy into the ground.
You’re going to use your biased perspective on the PLP’s past to accept all wrong doing by the OBA going forward??
What “wrong doing”? I see a lot of whining by Bean but nothing about any wrong doing. He’s just p. o.’d he got outsmarted.
Like you all was pissssed off when Dr. Brown out smarted everyone and snuck in the Uigurs.
Sven can’t teach Johnny.
Yes.
I should add biased for a number of very good reasons: a 2007 election campaign in which the PLP leader called all whites Plantation owners, alleged corruption such as the Bermuda Housing Corp debacle where the prosecutor himself said the only thing saving their gooses was antiquated laws, driving away important business with stupid, petty immigration policies, putting every Bermudian in debt way over their head while they carried on handing out the patronage to their cronies (remember Faith Based Tourism, Whites Island,etc) and living the high life at everybody else’s expense, destroying businesses for personal vendettas over perceived wrongs (Trimmingham Bros, Cement Silos, etc), and above all for all of the above coming together and utterly destroying not just the economy but the goodwill of the entire community.
What is just as appalling is nobody in the PLP had the basic human decency to get up and say enough and stop the instigator of all this – we all know who I am talking about – and for that alone the PLP deserves to be a pariah party for generations to come. And those still supporting will one day look back with shame.
So let me see if I understand this: The PLP destroyed Trimmingham’s? I guess the outdated crap they were selling and the fact that the management was clueless about things like ordering online and the like had nothing to do with it? For its next trick, can you have the OBA stop the rain please, my tank is full.
Lol!!!
Don’t forget the part that Triminghams had an overdraft facilities at with the Bank of Bda for years when a certain someone was the Chairman.
Yeah ….they were true businessman….NOT
Cheesh… I thought the PLP supporters were whiney…
A compliment. Thanks!
The PLP were warned several times to curb their spending and its impact on the future, and they chose to ignore the ones trying to fix it now because they knew better. They put us in a massive hole thats why we are now forced to accept gaming which probably wont do squat anyhow..
Uh genius, how was he “outsmarted” if they support gaming??
So ironic how the only ones been outsmarted by this party are its own supporters…
Two things.
First, I think both political parties come out of this losing creditability. The OBA more because they are the government that have campaigned and talked about having a referendum for the past two years. Also because their excuse is blame the PLP!!
Second, sometimes you really can’t put a price on democracy, especially when people who have fought for democracy have paid for it with their blood and some their lives.
When government has given billionaires and businesses multimillion dollar concessions, hundreds of thousands of dollars for democracy is worth it, or even priceless.
Agreed!
What would our government do if the same type of scenario happened at the next elections? Would they do away with elections & stay in house regardless? Two wrongs don’t make a democracy.
The trouble with the rat race is that even if you win, you’re still a rat!
wat are you really tryna say? all I know is that a christian leader has rightly put his beliefs aside and made a sound judgment call to bring another service to our island. he also ensured that no entity can disrupt the process. we the people pay the MP salaries, we elected them, and they should be the ones to make the decision in Parliament. the banter and arguments over the wording of a question, the bleating voices crying foul, the stupid comments on the talk shows really don’t matter….NO you don’t matter
The PLP do not have the interests of Bermuda and Bermudians in hand. They shoukd have jumped at the chance of getting this moved faster. They wanted to delay delay delay just to score points. Put Bermuda and Bermudians first PLP. Stop your game playing…..our futures are NOT A GAME
You should write conspiracy theories for a living.
Their actions proved this, there is no conspiracy theory. there is reality.
Did Bean come back and give support for this to move forward or did he say no (according to him he said no). So either he originally said yes then after checking said no or he said no, then checked and said no again.
Either way he is not supporting getting this moving faster for the benefit of Bermuda and Bermudians. That is not a conspiracy, that is a reality.
Its funny (but old at this point) how the OBA and some supporters insult peoples intelligences to the point of thinking all it takes is tacking “for the benefit of Bermuda and Bermudians.” on the end of everything sufficiently justifies it. Heck, look at their list of “accomplishments” for the year and notice how all the most controversial items have that line trailing off the end.
Do new jobs benefit Bermuda and Bermidians ? Y/N
Does the Tourism industry think that Gaming is a good thing for Bermuda and Bermudians? Y/N
Is anyone in these comments more qualified to judge than the toursim industry? Y/N
So, why aren’t you supporting getting this going. Why all the hate and bickering ?
Mike, what you dont seem to recognize is that THAT (as you have itemized) is NOT the sensible and direct way the OBA words things…
Perhaps you should give them a lesson in being frank and honest before you continue on with your unwaivering loyalty.
Wasn’t me. You really DON”T read these posts, do you?
Apologies for my typo “Bermidians” !!!!! The U and the I are so close together. My giant fingers do not always get it right.
Says the guy who tries to push false projections and misinformation, then runs away from any sort of discussion that shows him to be a liar.
Says the guy who refers to anything that doesnt fit the framework of his opinions as “misinformation and lies” and calls me a liar (having not pointed out one) in defense of his BLATENTLY lying party.
Nope. I just call things that are false, like the stuff that you post, “misinformation and lies”.
And “having not pointed out one” is another lie. I pointed out four or five just yesterday.
You just ignored them.
Good thing the OBA Govt. Will only be in power for 1 term!!!
You may like that thought but the reality of your wish is a Bermuda that will sink down further. Investment will just go somewhere else where it will be welcome. If your wish comes true I will implement my “Plan B” and so will many many others. You may like the sound of that too, but again the reality will be less money in the Bermuda economy , which will mean less job opportunities for Bermudians. Be careful what you wish for.
This arrogance that you have Lois, where you think that you and your friends are the salvation of Bermuda, NEEDS to leave this island. Until you and your friends realize that IB and Bermuda have a symbiotic relationship, this scare mongering will never stop. SHAME on you for practicing this tactic. Shame, shame on you Lois Frederick.
Nowhere in these comments is there anything about the people of Bermuda who are give their god give right to help move this country forth. All u people can talk about the plp. I guess u have nothing to add to the progress of this place Bermuda we call home
Mark Bean can you just once deliver an opinion without name calling. I’m no surrogate or sympathizer! Just a Bermudian sick of this level of immaturity and insult by you towards people who may not agree with you.
It’s the PLP way, forget the issues, assassinate the character. Bean learnt it from the Godfather.
The other guys approach is to manipulate their way to their ends by any means possible. It was their style pre-1998 too. Unfortunately the “old ways” dont hold up as well with a more sophisticated information age bred population.
Show and explain with details please.
Retards can’t…
Awwww… name calling. Thats so CUUUTE!
Or as you would say, “Dat durs real CUUUUTE dur inna!”
Now you have a problem with how Bermudians talk? Wow.
Are you even Bermudian?
His not from here…I could expose him but aint even worth it.
Born and bred poppa, going all the way back, unlike the the ’1st generationals’, ‘to-be PRC gifted’ and ‘likely-to-be status purchasing’ demographic your party fights for.
Nope, making fun ‘u ank sers’ trademark mockery of Bermudian accents. You wouldnt have noticed that however as you too rarely disagree, if at all…
Uh. Huh. Right. American.
I guess that assumption best fits your “understanding” of things… Always a sad phenomena, every time I see it.
Says the guy who asked if I had been here long enough to understand something…
Sad.
who says um mockin it. lmfao dats how I speak on a regular I could put on a proper “typing” accent for you if it pleases.
BIU / PLP You’re pathetic…
The PLP had 14 years to decide if we were going to have Gaming or not – now that the OBA is
about to make a move on it the opposition wants have there say’
I could never understand why Ex Premier Brown never forced this on the People of Bermuda – he forced us to acept every thing else
he wanted including bringing Chinese dissidents here without us or his own Political Party knowing.
Like I said the PLP had 14 years and still couldn’t make a decision’.
I wouldn’t worry about what Mr Bean says – all this talk from him is Political showboating! it’s called Politicking!
Interesting you find it THAT acceptable for a government to “FORCE” things on people. Some call that a dictatorship…
Other than that your attempt to sum up 14 years of Bermuda’s greatest highs and lows (largely caused by outside dynamics), through your listing of whining gripes is… well… typical.
Glad to see de PLP brainwashed you too with their “outside dynamics” lmfao. may have played a small part but there were things that could have been prevented no?
Actually it was working in the fiance (4 years of which were at Merrill Lynch in NY) and having a Masters in Economics that “brainwashed” me on the events leading up to and post 2k8, and the implications for Bermuda – which ISNT THAT HARD FOR A 13YR OLD TO GET THEIR HEAD AROUND…
And to suggest that Bermudas economy is SOOOO insulated from the worlds to the extent an unprecedented GLOBAL CREDIT CRISIS would only play a “small part” on the state of things here is effing dumb…
Here we go again with this nonsense.
Oh yeah.. Lord forbid we actually find ourselves thinking within the contexts of reality.
In all fairness though thats never really been a strong suit of the masses.
Just another day in the bliss that is ignorance I suppose.
Ha! Like you’d know anything about reality!
You’ve been posting falsehoods and nonsense for days now!
Come on. Stop playing.
Like your party, you thing repeating the same things over and over make them true…
Its raining Falsehoods!! Lies!! Misinformation!!!
Ah, now we get to the “you keep using the same words! That means they don’t apply anymore” attempt.
It doesn’t work.
Here’ s an idea. You want me to stop saying “lies, misinformation and falsehoods”, then stop using them. If you stop making stuff up and passing them off as real, then I won’t have to keep pointing them out.
How about addressing what I ACTUALLY say? Or is that too difficult?
What years were you at Merrill Lynch ?
Whats this, investigation o’clock??
It was you that brought it up, so I’m asking. Seems reasonable. If you state your credentials , then be prepared to back them up.
People are so caught up in their partisan bs but honestly whether you are for gaming or not, you must admit the secrecy and apparent untruths from the Government about this situation should be cause for concern.
Says one of the most partisan posters on here… And one who, just days ago, was calling for the premier to do exactly what he did.
No pleasing dome people.
Some, that is. Stupid autocorrect.
I like DOME better !
Wow, you Oba supporters are condoning the worst possible example of governance. I noticed that NONE of you have attempted to refute the Opposition Leaders timelines, but instead, like your cowardly, deceptive, greedy MPs and premier did on Friday, you STILL choose to arrogantly dismiss the facts and avoid the truth. The OBA truly are a demonic bunch. What the Opp Leader described you as is turning out to be 100percent true. You can’t run from who you are, I guess many Bermudians where deceived. But im not concerned, as I foresee 2 scenarios……either the Oba self destruct over the next few months, our the people rise up in no confidence, and force the Government back to an election. PS, all you Oba demon servers can promptly pack up and leave Bermuda forever. The OBA….the Archetype of Devils Isle leadership will not last long.
Bitter?
The worst possible examples of governance?
Exaggerate much?
I like Stuart Hayward’s version better: “a creep away from the ideals of good governance…”. Slowly, slowly, the OBA is finding out that this game is not for the idealists they pretended to be a year ago. Happy Anniversary by the way…..you playing at the party at Vasco tonight again ? lmao
Me? No. I’m not a member nor a supporter of the party.
I know it goes against the false narrative that you keep trying to push, but them is the facts,
Let’s try a straight question then: Do you agree or disagree with BEST/STuart Hayward on this issue ?
Haven’t read it.
You’re a funnny guy. Ok, I’ll play along and wait for BerNews to post it and for you to read it.
What’ sunny about that? I haven’t read their position, so I can’t speak to it.
Would you rather I make something up?
BEST id now putting there nose in politics??? BEST and Mr. Hayward should just stick to the environment!!!
The PLP for the last 14 years kept playing with the issue of gaming, now that the OBA took the bull by the horns, they are pissed off!!! Go get a life PLP, you put this country in this debit problem, we all of them now are out of the PLP and getting paid there big pension and we the people are suffering!!!
The PLP leader is a joker!!!!
Your leader LIED to the people, using the PLP as a scapegoat. What exactly is it your so confused about in how you choose to direct your aggression?
What did he lie about? The PLP’s never lied before….ya a funny one “Ian”
So ya tellin me ya dopey enuf to fall for dat dur “PLP made me do it” explanation for scrappin de reforendum???
You got any evidence, beyond the word of an avowed bigot, that he’s lying?
Even bigots tell the truth and open, nice guys lie. The two are not connected dude.
So… No evidence at all?
Where’s the evidence that the Premier is telling the truth ?
Irrelevant. I’m not making that claim.
Exactly. There is none. You demand evidence only of those assertions with which you disagree. You give “your Premier” (I like it that you bristle at that phrase) the benefit of the doubt but do not extend the same courtesy to the other side. Bias and you can’t even admit it.
No, I ask people to provide evidence when they make claims. I’m not making a claim.
And I “bristle” at the phrase because I don’t like foreigners acting like they have a say in how my country is run.
I can only assume that they’re foreigners, because the Premier is the Premier. As I’ve mentioned repeatedly, I’m not a member of his party, therefore the person saying “your Premier” (i.e. not their Premier) must be foreign.
Or is it just another false “Oh, you’re an OBA supporter” thing?
And I’ve never denied I have a bias. But it’s one based on things that happened and not party loyalty.
Not sure how to make that clearer.
Oh, wait. You get it. It’s just easier to be dishonest and try to denounce me with lies.
So… no evidence, then?
That’s what I figured.
I would think Mr Bean is dead wrong when he says he has no personal interest in casino gambling. A casino would be in direct competition with his sports book license and thus be a threat.
Bingo. He has potential interests here.
How very moral of him to own such a license. Hope he let’s Gays and Lesbians place bets. I’ll wager he’s only too happy to take there money.
Check out his partner, Craig Flowers from Bahamas. Interesting reading.
Its so adorable how you guys expect “evidence” for everyone else’s claims when theyre not consistent with your warped views…
Isn’t it sickening that the concept of providing evidence is so laughable to you.
Says a lot about the strength of your positions.
No I find the selectiveness in who you place the burden of evidence on laughable
And yet, you never provide any… Interesting.
Your whole argument is ridiculous. “You don’t ask everyone to back up their claims, so nobody has to back up their claims.”
Ridiculous,
Most of us are tired of the useless comments which gets us absolutely no where, except ultimately succeeds in dragging our country and it people down.
I would be more worth while and beneficial if some people would contribute a more positive attitude towards the improvement of Bermuda.
If some of you can’t get your house in order, how do you expect to compete on the world stage.
May I respectfully suggest that you all get on with this countries business.
Most of the comments seem to avoid the obvious. The Premier was trying to work with the PLP to avoid a referendum, without informing Min. Crockwell who is the lead Minister. Is ther e acommunication challenge in the OBA?
Some may remember previous public comments that the gaming issue was removed from the Premier and assigned to MP Crockwell because some thought the Premier could not ‘shepherd’ the legislation through the house.
The greatest matter is that Premier Cannonier has been accused of lying outside the protected environs of the House of Assembly. Therefore it is imperative for him to provide a rebuttal to the comments posted above or made in other media.
The matter can be reduced to petty party politics at a domestic level but it may have serious implications on an international level. We simply can not have the Premier accused of lying without clarification of the facts.
If MP Bean is correct as noted above in his recollection of the timeline, a simple apology from the Premier should suffice.
So, the hoped for benefits have been discussed, yet no one has mentioned the potential social ills that may occur. Sure the construction will provide temporary employment. What happens when Bermudians are deemed unfit to work the Casinos – if we are to follow the US model – you cannot have a criminal record. Or the employment ads will read – 5 years of experience needed. Is the plan trickle down economics again? So who will truly benefit? It will not be the average Bermudian. I, as a registered voter deserve to have my voice heard! Sir John put his Premiership on the line when he held the referendum on independence. Mr. Cannonier, do you dare to do the same?
I find it interesting that the Unions & Churches are quiet.
We don’t know that the ads will read like that. That is just conjecture.
I’d just like to know if I as a Bermudian check into a casino hotel in Bermuda, can I gamble at that casino!
Use your Limey passport .
I hope so.
Personally, I think that is the way to do it: if you want to gamble, check in to the hotel like everyone else.
Oh thats a brilliant control/deterrent for the 1000′s of locals on this island walking around with high 6-figure to 7-figure mortgages that may find themselves feeling lucky and able to act on it for the low cost of a 1 nights stay at Go For Broke Hotel & Casino Ltd…
And you have the audacity to call the PLP mismanagement prone idiots…
I don’t even know how to respond to an argument this ridiculous.
People who are in debt should… You… I can’t even figure out how you’re making this crap up. You… Wow… This is the most bizarre thing you’ve said yet!
Thats weird… Because Im pretty sure I just summarized a very possible scenario given the very real dynamic of (over-leveraged/indebted locals) here…
So… People who probably shouldn’t be gambling, then?
You’re actually saying that we should make it easier for people who are millions of dollars in debt to gamble. That’s what you’re saying here. You’re saying that people who can’t afford to stay for a night in a hotel should be encouraged, through removal of a deterrent designed to do exactly that, to gamble.
Wow.
I know you don’t read anyone else’s posts, but do you read your own?
I mean… Seriously? You’re saying that what I said is a bad idea because folks that are millions of dollars in debt and can’t afford a hotel room won’t be able to gamble.
Mindblowing.
Mike, looks like youre having a hard time keeping up again.
In all your great wisdom you think its a good idea to make local access to casinos as easy as a stay and the hotel it is based.
In simple terms, do you think that is enough of a deterrant/control (or strong enough regulation), for keeping local access in check, in a country where 1000′s around are walking around with massive debt?
If your answer to that very simple question is “yes”, then you have lot of nerve assuming you are qualified to comment on the financial mismanagement of the PLP or any government for that matter…
* “a stay IN the hotel it is based at”
You… I don’t…
MAKE SENSE!
Of course I’m having a hard time keeping up! You aren’t making any sense!
I think the problem is that you’re so reticent to actually SAY anything that those rare times you actually have a point, it’s not clear.
Are you saying it’s not ENOUGH of a deterrent? So… what would be enough? No gambling for locals at all? There should be NO local access?
How would that work?
As for my qualifications? You’re ridiculous.
I know I’ve embarrassed you a couple of times by pointing out lies, misinformation and exposing your modus operandi, but this agenda to defame by using dishonest means isn’t going to work.
Oh, and… “again”? When did I have a hard time keeping up before?
Or is this another lie from you?
I’m guessing the latter.
Not really for or against this but this was interesting.
“I have interest in a company that was granted a fixed-odd betting license under the Betting Act 1976 with the knowledge and sign-off of Finance Minister Bob Richards in May 2013. I have no personal interest, past,present or future, in on-island casino gambling.”
Politicians using their position to get richer happened in the past happens in the present and will continue into the future. Yet we the people get poor as their decisions don’t seem to really help use dirrectly.
LOL
Are you suggesting cronyism in our governmental system? Surely government officials have more scruples than this. Their interest is getting our country back to economic stability & its been shown in their agreement to take a ten percent decrease of their over fifty thousand a year salaries. Even our premier who makes a hundred thousand plus yearly took the ten percent cut. This is all about the amount that would be spent on the referendum because what you suggest would be inconceivable.
All of you are misinformed, if you think that casinos are the answer to a better economy then you are in for a surprise!! Who in their right mind want to travel to Bermuda to gamble when you have the best casinos right in their back yard! They don’t have to pay for overpriced tickets and on top of that anyone considering coming to Bermuda for vacation are definitely not thinking about gambling!Heck you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your home to enjoy casino gambling!Internet gambling is banned in most parts of the US but there are ways to get around it. Vegas, Atlantis,Atlantic city etc are all known for Casino gambling and Party atmosphere, that will never change! But to think that people are going to plan a vacation in Bermuda to GAMBLE is beyond hilarious!!! Let me know when you hear someone say” I cant wait to go to Bermuda to gamble”
This is only going to hurt BERMUDIANS because in order for it to survive Bermudians are going to have to frequent these casinos. That is where the problem lies, people using their grocery,rent monies with hopes of winning more! We are going to have major problems! Just my opinion
Nope, nobody is coming to Bermuda just to gamble. Nobody goes anywhere just to sleep in a hotel bed. The casino is only one of a number of options of things to do, use it or not.
We have beaches,snorkeling,scuba diving,fishing,boating, historic sites etc.How is that working out for tourism??? Most of our guests come from the US. What makes you think that they want the same OPTIONS(as you stated)they have in the states.I know us as Bermudians,when we travel we want to see or do something(different). The reason Im saying this is because I put this out to my friends who made Bermuda their second home and their response was casinos don’t attract tourist, they are frequented more by locals then visitors!When was the last time a tourist asked you if you have casinos in Bermuda.
To answer your first question: thousands of people every year, on the cruise ships.
And in order to survive, people are going to have to waste their money gambling in a casino? How does that make sense? In order to survive, we need to have jobs. Gaming will provide some.
No, Thousands of people cruise to Bermuda BUT NOT TO GAMBLE! It just so happens that these ships have casinos. You don’t hear of anyone cruising to Bermuda BECAUSE ITS CASINOS ONBOARD! IDIOT!!!
So belligerent.
I think the problem is that you think that people are pro-gambling because it will be the ONLY reason to come to Bermuda. It won’t. It won’t be our main focus, it is simply another thing we can offer our visitors, and something that they obviously don’t have a problem with, as, for years, people have been coming here on cruise ships with casinos. There IS a correlation to be made.
Just because you don’t want gaming in Bermuda, or are mad that the OBA are doing it, or whatever other bug is up your butt that you feel the need to be so rude, doesn’t mean that these things don’t exist.
Go away,your party has caused too much damage.
So Mr Bean and Party. Simple question are you for or against gaming as a POSSIBLE solution to HELP the Island out of this hole we are in?
Question for you: were you for or against gaming in 2009/10 or were you against it because of who was for it at that time? If you are consistent in your support then well done; if you’re a new convert because things are in the toilet then you’re equally to blame because we could’ve had it all this time had some petty politics not gotten in the way……
So you’re against today’s petty politics getting in the way again?
Wait a minute. Who was it that tried to slip it in through the back door? Who was that shot it down? Who had 14 years to deal with it?
To be fair, who also kicked it around before 1998.
Who is about to make it happen?
You should ask the PLP MP’s sitting back then, some still there that same question. It was something that the PLP Government introduced and had the numbers to pass it. So, why did it not pass? Answer – By that point EB had lost all trust with MOST of the PLP MP’s. It wasn’t petty either. The feelings are still there.
if i was powerful enough we would have had gaming many years ago
How does MP Burt get information from OBA insiders?
In my view either that was also made up by the PLP (it really seems out of the blue and doesn’t concretely connect anything) or there is someone in OBA HQ leaking false information to MP Burt.
Come on, MP Burt, spill!