Premier Cannonier’s Travel Expenses: $180,514
[Updated] Premier Craig Cannonier “racked up a travel bill of $180,514.92 in just over a year in office,” and he “needs to set the example and cut back on his expenses,” Opposition Leader Marc Bean said this evening [Feb 27].
The Premier has taken 17 overseas trips in an official capacity at the taxpayers’ expense from December 2012 – February 2014, according to recent Parliamentary Questions. The costs and who accompanied the Premier were detailed in the answers.
At the low end of the scale, the trip to attend the Inauguration of U.S. President Barack Obama cost around $2,100; while the Premier’s trip to the Dept. of Tourism NY Office cost around $3,100 with $259 listed for airfare.
At the high end of the scale, the trip to the World Islamic Economic Forum and Bermuda Reception cost around $48,000. Approximately $8,000 was spent airfare; $10,000 on accommodations while $13,000 was spent on transportation.
Opposition Leader Marc Bean said, “A week after the OBA cut scholarships, education and training, it has been revealed that Premier Craig Cannonier racked up a travel bill of $180,514.92 in just over a year in office.
“The Premier holds no Ministerial portfolio, yet he has taken 17 overseas trips at the taxpayer’s expense including an astonishing $13,000 bill for ground transportation on just one trip!
“At a time when government workers are seeing their work week and pay checks shrink, the Premier does not appear interested in sharing in the sacrifice needed to get Bermudians back to work.
“The Premier should not be above or exempt from shared sacrifice, so we call on the Minister of Finance to restrain the Premier’s impulses and have him do his part to reduce the cost of government.
“The Premier who is leading the drive to reduce costs in Government needs to set the example and cut back on his expenses while he is asking government departments and workers to do more with less,” said Mr. Bean.
The full table of the Premier’s travel expenses, as provided by the Opposition, is below [PDF here]
Update 9.11pm: The PLP said, “Please find attached the original responses from the Premier [PDF]. As you can see there was an error on trip 14. We reached out to the Cabinet Office and were informed that amount should read 14,322.19. That brings the total for that trip to $28,710.67.”
Update Feb 28, 9.20am: In response the Premier said, “As I’ve stated many times before, it is imperative for Bermuda’s economic survival that this government brings in foreign direct investment. Travel is a necessary component of our strategy.
“If you study the facts in the budget book, you’ll note that this government has actually spent less on travel than the former PLP government – not more. The former administration spent $193,254.58 on travel over an approximate six month period, compared to $171,460.92 spent by the OBA government over a 14 month period.”
The Premier’s office provided the following background information:
- 1. According to the Budget Book the total expenditure on Travel for the period 1 Apr 2012 – 31 Mar 2013 for the Cabinet Office was $205,000.
- 2. Of that, Premier Cannonier was responsible for $11,745.42 (Trip 1 – 3 on the Response).
- 3. That would leave a balance of $193.254.58 for the PLP Administration for the 8 month period 1 Apr 12 – 16 Dec 12.
- 4. One could postulate that the PLP leadership had little to no travel during the 3 month period leading up to the Dec 2012 election, suggesting that the PLP Government likely spent $193,254.58 on travel over a 6 month period.
- 5. This compares to $171,460.92 spent by Premier Cannonier’s office for the 14 month period 17 Dec 12 – 12 Feb 14.
- 6. Premier Cannonier’s Office spent less in 14 months than the PLP Leadership spent in 6 months.
Update 11.48am: The most expensive trip [around $48,000] was for two events combined, the Bermuda Student Reception and the World Islamic Economic Forum, which were both held in London.
The costs were for approximately 9 people who attended, including the Premier, his Chief of Staff, his Press Secretary, the Minister of Finance, the Director of London Office and more.
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It’s true, that is a lot of travel and Craig would be wise to cut back a little. Still, he has a long way to go to match the travel habits of Dr Airmiles and co…
…and what sickened me. Didn’t Ewart Brown have an entourage everywhere he went.
so true
are you asking a question of Dr.Brown, and an entourage , if so, how are you sicken before you get the answer of no he did not….
I was on a flight to London and was horrified to see Dr.Airmiles flying 1st class ($8000.00 RT) with 2 bodyguards also 1st class. That’s $24000 for one trip. And the PLP have the nerve to complain about Cannonier…
Where’s the money for scholarships when a ton of PLP coat tailers went to Europe WITH A GOMBEY TROUPE!!!
You lot really need to catch yourselves
Agreed. Granted I also agree the premier should cut back on some of the travel, but Mr. Bean as a member and leader of the PLP, he is the last to talk on travel spending.
If he was this vocal and detailed on spending 2 or 3 years ago, maybe we would be in a better position today.
Shared Sacrifice….WHERE?
“Holding the government accountable is key in any democracy.” The OBAubp promised Bermuda that they will indeed do things differently. They promised us that they would do politics differently.
However, what we see is a high level of money spent on travel by the Premier, which does not seem to support the promise that the UBPoba will make the same level of “Shared Sacrifice” as they request the people of Bermuda to make during this difficult recession time. There was a promise to cut back as much as possible, where and whenever it was feasible, over spending by the UBPoba seems to reflect just the opposite.
It is without a doubt that the flow of comments from the UBPoba will only indicate ways to excuse and justified the government’s spending on travel. The ability to hold the government accountable will be pushed under the carpet, and perceived by their supporters as NO big Deal. Why? Well it is easier for them to find excuses or rationalization about their spending, rather than suggest it was over spending during such a difficult economic time.
Further, the comments from the UBPOba will of course excuse the actions of the Premier and UBPoba by using their most famous line. “WELL the PLP spent more on Travel”. This is merely a way that allows the UBPoba supporters and MPs to excuse the actions of their party, and not to take any responsibility and accountability for their actions. This rationalization to allow this spending be overlooked as “NO big DEAL” by the government, it more comforting to them, rather than except this is not a good look for a government whom promised us different.
If change is what the UBPoba really promised us, this excuse does not hold any real value, and clearly indicates that the UBPoba promises of TRANSPARENCY and ACCOUTABLITY was nothing more than empty bags of goods. It further speaks to the high level of hypocritical and duplicitous behaviours from the UBPoba in terms of what they promised us the people of Bermuda.
“SHARED SACRFICE”…… I fail to see it !
Please STOP with your blindfaithfulness already. You bring nothing new to the table except your extremely poor short-term memory.
“The former (PLP) administration spent $193,254.58 on travel over an approximate six month period, compared to $171,460.92 spent by the One Bermuda Alliance government over a 14 month period.”
Dont’ worry Betty, I’ll do the math for you. Based on those numbers:
OBA spent ~ $12.2k/month on travel
PLP spent ~ $28.6k/month on travel
In other words, the PLP spent 134% MORE on travel.
Math lesson over, Betty. You can go back to being a hypocrite now.
Oh Batty, where are you Batty???? Mr. Henry just explained math to you and proved that you sound like an idiot in your “rant du jour.” Where are you Batty? No comment to his explanation???? Yea, crickets, thought so.
On a serious note Batty, I beg of you to get a job…or maybe you have one in the civil service, which explains your 24/7 Troll Patroll on the blogs. Please, leave the comments section to people who actually know what they are talking about and who can do simple math.
Nice. Typical OBA troll response. Rude, disrespectful and immature.
Be interesting to see all your responses to rude, disrespectful and immature responses from PLP trolls…
Oh, wait.
It’s ok when you do it, right?
What a waste of a response Mr.David Henry did just what I indicated he would do. EXCUSE THE ACTIONS OF THE UBPoba by suggesting that the PLP did it.
So no he did not provide me with any real good numbers. But rather seeking to excuse the actions of the UBPoba and finding a way out.
The level and quality of the type of comments from the UBPoba diehardblindfaithfulness folks is expected. I am not surprised, if you re-read my comment I did indicate this kind of response would be given.
Who cares what the PLP did while they were government? It’s the OBA we’re looking at now.
“Shared Sacrifice”…..WHERE
Holding the government accountable is key in any democracy. The OBAubp promised Bermuda that they will indeed do things differently. They promised us that they would do politics differently.
However, what we see is a high level of money spent on travel by the Premier, which does not seem to support the promise that the UBPoba will make the same level of “Shared Sacrifice” as they request the people of Bermuda to make during this difficult recession time. There was a promise to cut back as much as possible, where and whenever it was feasible, over spending by the UBPoba seems to reflect just the opposite.
It is without a doubt that the flow of comments from the UBPoba will only indicate ways to excuse and justified the government’s spending on travel. The ability to hold the government accountable will be pushed under the carpet, and perceived by their supporters as NO big Deal. Why? Well it is easier for them to find excuses or rationalization about their spending, rather than suggest it was over spending during such a difficult economic time.
Further, the comments from the UBPOba will of course excuse the actions of the Premier and UBPoba by using their most famous line. “WELL the PLP spent more on Travel”. This is merely a way that allows the UBPoba supporters and MPs to excuse the actions of their party, and not to take any responsibility and accountability for their actions. This rationalization to allow this spending be overlooked as “NO big DEAL” by the government, it more comforting to them, rather than except this is not a good look for a government whom promised us different.
If change is what the UBPoba really promised us, this excuse does not hold any real value, and clearly indicates that the UBPoba promises of TRANSPARENCY and ACCOUTABLITY was nothing more than empty bags of goods. It further speaks to the high level of hypocritical and duplicitous behaviours from the UBPoba in terms of what they promised us the people of Bermuda.
Opposition Leader Marc Bean said, “A week after the OBA cut scholarships, education and training, it has been revealed that Premier Craig Cannonier racked up a travel bill of $180,514.92 in just over a year in office.
“The Premier holds no Ministerial portfolio, yet he has taken 17 overseas trips at the taxpayer’s expense including an astonishing $13,000 bill for ground transportation on just one trip!
One of the major things to ensure Education of our Children, has been cut. AN educated Citizen is key to any country’s overall development. A government should try its best to ensure that those children whom are more likely not able to further their skills are at least able to get some form of assistance. This should have been a key factor for Bermuda’s future.
But I expect the “DENIAL SYDROME” which many suffer from within the UBPoba to follow, as they are not willing to except, more so hold the government accountable, despite their huge call for accountability pre-election. I guess it depends whom they want to hold accountable, some but not all !!
OK ‘ BETTY TRUMP – sounds like you have a lot to say about the Premiers Trips – and yes they have a cost to it’
but since you know so much can you post the travel list and bill that PLP Premiers had – just courious’
this way all is transparent and it’s only fair.
Infect I don’t ever think I saw one from the PLP we they were the Govt. of the day – prehaps you can post THE 14 YEARS of PLP Travel and it cost! – Joe public would like to see it.
Since the OBA Premier has spent $ 180,514.92 thus far – lets see if ex PLP Premiers Jennifer Smith,Scott,Brown ans Cox
did spend less or more in the same time period ——– you say Transperency ‘ then show me — fair is fair’
Holding the government accountable is key in any democracy. The OBAubp promised Bermuda that they will indeed do things differently. They promised us that they would do politics differently.
However, what we see is a high level of money spent on travel by the Premier, which does not seem to support the promise that the UBPoba will make the same level of “Shared Sacrifice” as they request the people of Bermuda to make during this difficult recession time. There was a promise to cut back as much as possible, where and whenever it was feasible, over spending by the UBPoba seems to reflect just the opposite.
It is without a doubt that the flow of comments from the UBPoba will only indicate ways to excuse and justified the government’s spending on travel. The ability to hold the government accountable will be pushed under the carpet, and perceived by their supporters as NO big Deal. Why? Well it is easier for them to find excuses or rationalization about their spending, rather than suggest it was over spending during such a difficult economic time.
Further, the comments from the UBPOba will of course excuse the actions of the Premier and UBPoba by using their most famous line. “WELL the PLP spent more on Travel”. This is merely a way that allows the UBPoba supporters and MPs to excuse the actions of their party, and not to take any responsibility and accountability for their actions. This rationalization to allow this spending be overlooked as “NO big DEAL” by the government, it more comforting to them, rather than except this is not a good look for a government whom promised us different.
If change is what the UBPoba really promised us, this excuse does not hold any real value, and clearly indicates that the UBPoba promises of TRANSPARENCY and ACCOUTABLITY was nothing more than empty bags of goods. It further speaks to the high level of hypocritical and duplicitous behaviours from the UBPoba in terms of what they promised us the people of Bermuda. Poorest, Weakest Excuse
You are a real dreamer, of course your Dr did no wrong when traveling. DEFEND THAT if you can.
A busy evening cutting & pasting there Betty?
She’s not smart enough to have her own thoughts…she can only write what she’s being fed.
@ O’Brien, why would you compare the two, the idea is the Island was suppose to have voted for change. Shame on this no portfolio premier.
There has been change. Cannonier spends radically less than Ewart Brown. That is factual.
any reason why you jumped over Mrs Paula Cox and when straight to Dr. Brown… who I might add both had Ministries…
Not saying the leader of our country doesn’t need to travel to shake hands with their right people and build relationships, but he doesn’t have a ministry. Many already question his ability to lead his own party, let alone the country. I’m sure some of these trips would have better been attended by Dr. Gibbons or Mr. Richards could have attended many of these meetings I’m sure.
Typical O.B.A/ubp response, denying the fact that this is PATHATIC to spin the issue on Dr. Brown, come on you blind faithful you have to get to the point to admit that your party is doing just as bad or worse than P.L.P.
There are conflicting reports on the World Islamic Economic Forum where there was a different amount of people that travelled, eg like Jet Gate.
for ships sake. this must be EB’s twin. take his passport away.
That’s nonsense, the current Premier is miles off Ewart.
What you expect him in coach? Please.
This seems a fair number to me.
180K is a lot of money for travel expenses. Dr. Ewart Brown or any member of the PLP would have come under severe criticism by public and the media if they would have spent 180k on travel expenses. However, since it’s the OBA all a sudden it is now okay and legit? That is blatant hypocrisy.
Yet the FACT remains he has spent less so far.
LOL
Not true. He came under criticism for spending FAR more.
What’s hypocritical is that it’s only NOW that it’s a problem.
You really can’t compare the two. Reason being is that it should be “Change”! As thats what the now government preached for so long.
Are we starting to see the transparency we were promised?
That is a large bill though. Is the equivalent data available for the PLP years. It would be very interesting to compare.
Furburger, as you are well aware I am one of the strongest supporters of the OBA! But I as well would like to see the comparison, and if it doesn’t show a concerted effort by the Premier to cut stuff back a bit, unlike the blind plp sheep I will be all over it!!! I can already see The 2 trips for the Obama BS that was un necessary, last time I checked, Obama didn’t come here for our prem Swearing In ceremony!!! Travel is necessary for important stuff to get our economy going but those trips were a waste and I will be the first to say it!!! If he had gone to some major IB conference somewhere I would have been all for it, but not that nonsense!!!
All other Premier’s held a ministry. Who would you compare PCC travel with.
I agree with you, however, must you everytime say stuff like “unlike the blind plp sheep”? You sound just like Betty and others who try to insult people in order to get them to see your way.
Tactics like that will not garnish support in your favor.
And before you fly off the handle at me, I’m not saying any of this to provoke or insult you.
Yeah, & the US President does not show up in a 60,000 pop town everytime a new Mayor is elected either.
Besides there are no Democratic voters is Bermuda & Obama has no love for Bermuda anyway. Contrary to popular local belief he would like to squash our IB business taking down our economy with it.
Absolutely correct Triangle, it amazes me that majority of Bermudians love Obama and they have no clue what Obama would do to their income if he was given a chance!! It is only the Republican controlled house and soon to be Senate that is protecting us, the Obama lovers need to wise up!!!!
Here’s some numbers for you…in 2012/13 the OBA spent $3.4mil on travel and in 2013/14 the OBA spent $5mil on travel…as the learned shadow minister of finance likes to point out…a 48% increase in travel expense. What he does NOT say is that the $5mil figure is a mere 8.2% increase over the budgeted amount!! It is more sensational to quote the actual difference from one year to the next but at the same time very misleading!
Now…here are the numbers from the last 4 years that the PLP was the incumbent…there is no real need to go back any further as even a DUMMY will see the difference!! In 2011/12 the PLP spent $5.5mil on travel, in 2010/11 the PLP spent $5.9mil on travel, in 2009/10 the PLP spent $6.3mil on travel, and in 2008/09 the PLP spent $6.4mil on travel expenses!!
Do the math….while the opposition cry from the rooftops about the OBA squandering the people’s money the actual TRUTH and FACT is that the OBA has indeed SAVED the taxpayers money for two straight years in comparison to the REAL BIG SPENDERS!!
I dare the “trolls” to spin this one…
@its about time, thank you, thank you, thank you!!! And you are correct, let’s see them spin their way out of that !! Well done OBA, for doing what we elected you too do!!! Save money!!
point(s) taken! but in saying that – two wrongs never make a right!!! You don’t say, well we do this not so beneficial or good thing(s) because those before us did it. Instead you say – let’s do better – ‘Make a change’ and BE that change!!
OK… So, the PLP Spent 6.4 million in travel in 2008 – and cut that all the way back to 3.4 in 2012.
Now the OBA increases it to $5 million and your excuse for that increase is to say, the PLP used to spend more?
Your Logic escapes me. If it was wrong then it is wrong now. I mean in the PLP could cut it back to 3.4 surely the OBA can cut it back even more!
Money has to be spent on travel. No arguments there. To undo the damage to the economy we have to encourage foreign investment and that takes face to face meetings. A lot of them. We have to spend money to make money. The travel budget is peanuts and the PLP know it. They are appealing to people who don’t know that 180k is no money at all.
they didn’t get that…lol….
Why dont we just stop all travel of the Premier, and just HOPE that new revenue streams of money will come to the island??
It cut back in an election year because they needed to campaign on island so did not travel as much. Take the average of the years leading up to the election year (2012 in this case) and you would have a better operating travel budget for them.
…………. financial years are not the same as calendar years. I believe financial year is April 1 to March 31. Figures for 2012/2013 are therefore part PLP Government and part OBA Government.
At least Paula Cox’s travel did not include unnecessary people and resulted in the Tax Treaties with other countries that have benefited us TODAY!!! That’s the difference. You are not compairing apples with apples…but apples with oranges… financial figures along with trip details are needed….how many of all everyones trips benefited us…is the real question. Get the info..provide the data…then we can have a more balanced disscussion on each parties yearly travel expenses.
I seem to recall quite a few awards that she traveled to accept. Where is the benefit to Bermuda there except a little notoriety?
LOL
@ It’s about time!…How did you get two years of travel expenses for the OBA…let me show how to quote facts.. the PLP spent $3.4 mill the OBA increased travel to 5mill….. I don’t have an issue with it… but let’s state facts…
Also what happen to that very vocal, very loud choir of OBAers that stated.. MP’s should lodge at Motel 6 and eat McDs…do they share the same sentiments now….
“loud choir of OBAers that stated MP’s should lodge at Motel 6 and eat McDs”
If you can’t be honest in your responses Rhonda, why do you bother? Why do you make this stuff up?
When? Prove that happened.
Or is it something you made up? AGAIN.
HELP me Rhonda!! You wouldn’t know a fact if it walked up to and smacked you in the face!! The PLP spent $3.4mil (actual) during the election year in which they LOST!!! One, they did not run out the fiscal period, and two, the OBA didn’t travel much during the remaining period as they were busy trying to sort out the financial DISASTER that was left behind!!
Also, for your information, the “revised” figure for the 2012/2013 budget was in fact $5.2 million dollars!! That figure is HIGHER than the “revised” figure for 2013/2014 budget that YOUR learned shadow minister chose to quote from when he stated that the OBA increased spending by 48%!!! You can’t have it both ways, Rhonda!
The OBA only spent 8.2% more on travel than they budgeted for in 2013…where was the OUTRAGE when they increased the travel budget by 40%??? Let me help you out….THEY DIDN’T!!!
You want to threaten me with facts? Let’s dig a little deeper, go further back, and then explain why the travel budget eclipsed $7 million dollars on several occasions!!!
Your argument is WEAK…and your PLP is even weaker….
WOW! Could somebody remind us again who was Premier in that 2008-2011 period?
That’s an interesting summary of expenses. As a NON BIASED blogger; would it also be safe to say that due to the decline in our economy and the need to increase interest in the Island, it’s possible that an increase in travel to attract such business may be necessary? At least for a couple of years? Was not the OBA put on power to reverse the position Bermuda is in? Not everything can be done over a phone.
I do agree however that such travel expenses like “US Prayer Breakfast” was BS. Next time send a card with Bermuda’s recognition.
As travel IS necessary; please be selective and priorities importance.
Nah.
Just more bulls**** and propaganda from the PLP.
Nothing else to do.
How much does Mr. Bean make a year with his business and MP salary.
PLP never said s**** when Ewart et travelled and entertained Beyoncé.
Come on Betty.
WHO PROMISED US that they will CUT SPENDING, CUT BACK AND MAKE SACRICFICES…..UBPoba, so far they have failed to hold to their promises.
The Premier holds no Ministerial portfolio, yet he has taken 17 overseas trips at the taxpayer’s expense including an astonishing $13,000 bill for ground transportation on just one trip!
ACCOUNTABILITY…REALLY and you use the “Poorest, Feeble, Pathetic, Ineffectual, Weakest Excuse once again…. WELL THE PLP DID IT,… so its okay to hand the UBPOba a FREE PASS…REALLY…this is not two children in the playground..and it sure is not preschool… gotta come better than that… FOlks are aware this is not a good look for the UBPOba after making such bold pre-election promises to the people of BERMUDA…
The rationalization that the PLP did it, so now its okay for the UBPOba is really full of holes and does not work any more. Folks want to see the level of accountability that UBPoba promised the people of Bermuda. SO far looks like that is not possible, I do not see it….
Now spin it anyway, but at least attempt to be honest..
WHERE IS THE CHANGE?
Again I say BETTY TRUMP ” since you know so much can you please post a list of the cost of the
four PLP Premier’s Trips – in there first year — it”s only fair and it’s still part of the Transparency that your talking about.
It’s only Fair’
Really, you use the WEAKEST, FEEBLE, INEFFECTUAL excuse that PLP did it, now its okay for the UBPoba to do it. REALLY
The UBPoba promised Bermuda they will do things differently. The Government asked the people to help share the burden, and the Premier spends all this money on trips, more so failing to share with us his findings. REALLY, and you and others continue to EXCUSE this by suggesting its okay because the PLP did it…REALLY… COME on, now this lame excuse no longer is effective, folks are not falling for that anymore. Folks realized the government of the day promised them different, and what we get… REALLY..
No. It’s not the same. Cannonier is spending significantly LESS than Ewart Brown.
That’s the fact, Betty.
The budget proposed by Bob Richards is all about cutting spending, so how can you have a problem with it iof this is your point?
The PLP have been in the paper more to bash the OBA then they were to promote positive acts when they were in power..I wish they all would relax
It’s “do or die” for the PLP right now. Especially when they watch things starting to improve.
The Oba has only been govt for a little over a year,how you get two years of travel expenses.
As even Mr Dunkley has once said – a good opposition is there to point out the errors of a sitting government. PLP were great in opposition prior to their win – and OBA were also doing their job when PLP were in government – pointing out inadequacies – the opposition no matter who – are meant to be the ‘big brother’ to all (mis)acts and moves of a government. when an Opposition keeps pointing out such things, EVERY.SINGLE.TIME they are merely doing what they are meant to do. No matter how exhausting and annoying it can be to hear of those who are in support of a sitting government. It should also serve as putting a sitting government on notice and on the ps & Qs. Because really, no one like a weak opposition or a weak government.
Kind of like the OBA/UBP did when the PLP was government, eh?
Nope. Nothing like it. There’s no equivalence,
@bored–are you saying the plp control the media?tell them what to write and what questions to ask? How much power do you fear the plp have?
I dont think this is a big deal, he is networking and WORKING on getting Bda to shape, he is not at the bar all night drinking, he is not spending this money on front row seats to the knicks game he is WORKING.
How do you know, where you there with him?
How do you know otherwise, were you there with him?
Its ok because the previous government did it…. That is all the OBA supporters have to justify the ridiculous spending!.What happened to cutting back spending.I still see those government cars still on the road.What a bunch of dishonest Bermudian hating OBA politicians!!! Call a snap election! I dare you!!! Lets see how much confidents the people have in the OBA!!!
Did you miss the part where they spent less, thus DID cut spending?
Now produce the travel expenses for the last 14 years…lmao what a joke. You don’t wanna see dat number!
Who has forgotten ‘Flowergate’?
Is that the same as Bunny Gate!!!
LOL
Thanks for your time Craig, but it would be best now to step aside and let Bob take over.
$13,000 for ground transportation? Did you total the rental car or something?
No he didn’t wreck the car, He drove it home idiot. For GODS S AKE….. You all blow a damn gasket like you really care…So what if it is high, Lets look at UWOOD CLOWN’S RECORDS NEXT, THEN WE CAN COMPARE, JUST A THOUGHT..OR ELSE ZIP IT
You are another one! Bringing up what a past PLP leader allegedly done! May I remind you that we have had 2 leaders since then.Lets not talk about past leaders and UBP politicians.Lets talk about the privilege and entitlement that one received and still receives because of the color of ones skin.
We talking bout DREB or Cannonier?
LOL
How can they show that they cut spending without bringing up previous administrations?
Paltry amount compared to the REAL SPENDERS!!
Where is the outrage ? Or is Craig allowed to take any and everything just because ? Anyway he needs to feel ashamed of himself .
For what spending less………
LOL too much suger today?
This was the same S*** i was complaining about when the PLP was in power! 2 wrongs dont make a right! Come Mr. Premier set the example just to keep the opposition quiet for once! Cuz they have a lot of mouth since they have been opposition and when in government not a peep!
Do you not see what the OBA shot callers are doing? They are allowing the Premiere to dig his own grave. Then they will replace him with Dunkley!! And the old UBP will be back in power!!!
My point exactly! wo wrongs NEVER Make a right!!! Can’t keep harping on ‘well plp used to do it!..” like really? that is entirely a weak voice of reason to justify repeated bad habits/poor choices.
I don’t understand why whenever the PLP say something about how the OBA are doing the SAME things they did, OBA supporters say, well the PLP did it. Is this deflection or just pure hypocrisy? So because the PLP squandered our public funds, then its ok for the OBA to do it. I thought the OBA supporters said that they would show outcry if the OBA started to go astray, but all they ever do it enable the OBA to do the same things as the PLP did, by siting the 14 years of PLP. Can you say red kool-aid??
extreme bias leads to a lack of credibility. its really amazing man, not even a whisper. unbelievable.
Wait… just to get what you’re saying straight…
When the PLP say something about how the OBA are doing the same thing… and OBA supporters agree…
You’re asking if it’s deflection on the OBA supporters’ part?
Huh?
And, just because the Premier is spending a lot of money on travel doesn’t mean that it’s “the SAME thing… the PLP did”…
There was no comparison to how much former administrations spent in this story. Without that, how can you say they’re doing the same thing?
I know you’re desperate for the OBA to fail, but come on…
Oh, and, according to the PLP’s supporters, referring to “kool-aid” is a racist statement. Or is that only ok when you guys do it.
Exactly, maybe you think the travel expenses are high but they are NOTHING REMOTELY close to the egotistical overspending of the PLP. And that is not a comparison to say that it’s okay to overspend because the PLP did it – it is a comparison to say “UM HELLLOOOO THEY HAVE CUT SPENDING BY A LOT LOT LOT LOT” so really, what is the PLP all up in arms about. The PLP need to cool their jets and start speaking out about things that will move this country forward.
Case and point!
And all of this deflection just shows the OBA has blind support, Ill say it again i wish I had fans like them lol
What deflection?
You guys are all screaming and ranting about spending less, then when it’ sprinted out that they ARE spending less, you’re all “WHY ARE YOU BRINGING UP THE PLP?”
How does that make sense? How is that fair?
I’m not saying “well the PLP did it”. Cannonier’s rate of travel spending is significantly lower than Ewart Brown’s was. Lower, not the same.
DAM KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK CRAIG HAHA
Most of these trips looks legit, only issue is that im sure they can fly coach instead of first class on the public expense or they pay the difference out of their own pocket. I never had a issue with ether Party travelling as long as it benefited the country. As a small island it is necessary to travel to get business done. but care and discretion need to be taken.
Personally, I think the Leader of our country should fly first-class.
I said so when the PLP were in power and I’ll say it now.
I have no problem with there being SOME perks to serving the country.
Accept this too, but he has no Ministry, he isn’t the Minister of Tourism! Less of a reason to travel and spend in the same light. Appears here we have simple hobnobbing!
Really? It appears that way? Why?
Are you saying that the Premier doesn’t have reasons to leave the island and only ministers do?
Seriously?
Bean, you might want to compare this cost, which represents over a year of travel, with the expenses for your old collegue Ewart Brown, who racked up $265,000 in expenses in a nine-month period in 2009. Of course, it might be difficult to recall that far back, even though you accompanied Dr Brown on at least one of the trips. Do you remember your trip to Anguilla, Mr Bean? Where you accompanied DrBrown on a Consultative Council meeting?
Did you find Dr Brown’s ground transportation bills of $33,000 in nine months “astonishing” Mr Bean? Only you didn’t mention being “astonished” at the time. Too busy enjoying it, I imagine.
“The Premier who is leading the drive to reduce costs in Government needs to set the example and cut back on his expenses while he is asking government departments and workers to do more with less,” said Mr. Bean.
Please stop with that week, feeble, ineffectual, excuse of DR, Brown did this or that, so its now okay for Premier Craig to do it..REALLY…after the UBPoba promised us they would lead the road towards reduce costs in government. After asking government workers to make cuts and sacrifices..he does the opposite…REALLY
No one can buy your reasons to Excuse, Defend, Protect, Endorse, or Dismiss the actions of the Premier, nor do they except your rationalization that its okay after all the PLP did it.
The Excuses you attempt to provide have all run out of gas a long time ago. I suggest you come a little better now with helping folks to understand. After all the UBPOba did tell us they would cut cost, and all should share in the burden. Just how in the world did the Premier share in this burden?
Guess you forgot, the UBPOba promised us they would do things differently…>> so far they seem to be failing at it big time…. REALLY, for REAL.
Note: BETTY TRUMP ‘ you say the Premier should set the example of spending and cost!
well what do you think of the wild spending of ex Premiers Jennifer Smith, Dr Brown and Cox.
lets be fair now ! I know that your a PLP fanatic but your not blind.
So – you would like Cannonier to act more like Ewart…. Interesting logic of Blind OBA supporters.
Ewart spent more so you are OK Craig, completely ignoring the fact that while Paula Cox cut spending when she was Premier, the OBA has managed to increase it.
No wonder why this country is in the state it is in!
No, I just pointing out that Cannonier is spending at a rate which is significantly lower than Ewart Brown.
That’s a fact.
Cannonier isn’t a Minister. Ewart Brown was a Minister of Tourism and Transport as well as Premier. That’s a fact.
Cannonier is spending a lot less than half Ewart Brown was spending per month. That’s a fact.
Ladies and gentleman, introducing the New and not improved Ewalt Brown.
Marc Bean!!! You carry on like a “GYAL”… LOL! You always find negative things to talk about.. Talk about more positive things that I will grow to like you..
Really nice to see trip expenses published. We never got that before. Like it was none of our business.
Sure would be nice to see a comparison, especially to the DrEB days though Paula did alot of airline seat warming too. Can’t imagine either of them carrying their own bags.
If nothing else in the first year Premier Cannonier needed to get out & touch base with important contacts to show that there really is a new dog in the house & the insanity like calling Americans some sort of evil empire is over. No more gombeys showing up for important IB trade shows. Serious people are representing Bermuda again.
Dr Brown travelled as Minister of Tourism, Transport and Premier.
He also took bodyguards with him.
to make o long story short craig don’t need to go on no trips the guy don’t know nothing
Ewart Brown. 9 months, $256,000 = $29,444 per month.
Craig Cannonier. 13 months, $180,000 = $13,846 per month.
About half, isn’t it?
Think about it, almost $1000 per DAY, whether he was off island or not.
A staggering figure!
@Suzie Quattro
Would you care to speak to Real’s point? Dr. Brown was the Premier with portfolio, and one of them was Tourism.
Our Premier has no portfolio, so I ask, isn’t there some difference there?
So what? I made the point that Ewart Brown was spending way more than twice as much per month than Cannonier.
DR. BROWN HELD: “2 MINISTERIAL PORFOLIOS”
VS
Mr. Craig Cannoinier “NO PORFORLIOS.”
NO JUSTIFICATION, NO COMPARISON….
WAKE UP WAKE UP…. the Premier holds “NO” Ministerial portfolio, yet he has taken 17 overseas trips at the taxpayer’s expense including an astonishing $13,000 bill for ground transportation on just one trip! DR. Brown held travelled as Minister of Tourism, Transport and Premier, he did at least hold 2 to 3 Ministerial Porfolios.
As a result there can be NO comparison between the Craig and Dr. Brown, as a way to justified the spending of the Premier. Please do not over look that key fact.
only difference is Dr Brown was the minister of Tourism Transport and Premier.Now work out the numbers
So that justifies running up TWICE the bill?
Are you even remotely serious with this?
hey beanie,show us ewb’s travel expenses…if you dare.
At some point not now certainly,we should look into our own air travel ,our own aircraft,or leased .English military perhaps,alian aircraft perhaps…i’ve heard we’ve made contact…a stargate…we could ask…never know…was that affirmated through wiki leaks?…I’m not sure,aaannnyyywho…don’t hosting countries offer package deals on air travel?If it was me…I would arrive on a square rigger…oh yeah…maybe our training ship.You could see the headlines “Bermudas’premiere arives on a privateer sailing vessel buit in yadda yadda yadda.Now that would be bold…that would be manly….that would ensure a place in history.Or …catch a lift onnah hurricane chaser…or lets buy one!…
“The Premier who is leading the drive to reduce costs in Government needs to set the example and cut back on his expenses while he is asking government departments and workers to do more with less,” said Mr. Bean….WELL SAID
And everything you’ve been shown points to him reducing costs.
Why do you keep ignoring that?
Amazing that people get all worked up over the leader of their country traveling. Is it a lot of money…yes but would you rather the leader of our country sit off on a wall here in Bermuda or act like every other leader? Lets me realistic people! Do you think these are vacations for him? it is part of his job! Part of the job whether OBA, PLP or whoever. Get over it people!
For all the PLP zealots…I’m sure your party spent much much more per year on travel. Where is the comparison? Exactly…afraid to publish those facts!
PLP, OBA or whoever, the leader of Bermuda should travel to represent our country and learn from being abroad. Those who choose to stay here and learn nothing of the world abroad are the ones making the biggest stink. Get over it!
The questions are: did we get value for money? Are we getting value for money?
Answer to the first question is no! To the second, we don’t know yet but there are those amongst us who are hell-bent making sure we don’t.
History has a way of repeating itself if we continue to avoid the real issues and move forward. I don’t believe parties are voted into power by the people they are selected by the few elites. When in the history of Bermuda’s Politics has there ever been a Premier without an Ministerial portfolio. In order to get a job you have to have either experience and or a degree in that field yet we have allowed someone to run our country without either. That my fellow Bermudians need to be addressed ASAP.
Um… how many of our Premiers have had a degree or experience in running our country?
I know you want to paint the Premier as incompetent, but you gotta do better than this.
MB is demonstrating an inability to be an effective opposition leader by making senational “sky is falling” statements that dont compute. If you are going to criticize the OBA then do the real homework and present the contrast to the PLP so we the people can be informed and get behind a valid argument – good or bad.
Let’s stop the sensational media headlines – we have to move Bermuda forward and quite frankly worrying about 180K for travel is not the most important item on our to do list – please focus on the core issues and stop with the childish and petty every day critique.
It’s like watching a never ending soap opera and its embarassing to all of us Bermudians at large when potential investors see how our political officials act like children with the tit for tat back and forth and with no real substance or solutions at the core of the debate. Yes please spend money to promote us, but do a very good job for us and give us the feedback from the investment – and if you are going to criticize then please be honest, transparent and informative on the issue – or just shut up!
nicely said.
@ Bil Stephens,
If you can say MB is not effective, then what would you call CC?
Does the Premier’s effectiveness, or lack thereof, have ANYTHING with Mr. Bean’s?
If so, how?
Yet pre-election this was the one of the biggest issues presented by the current government UBPoba, so now it not of any significant. REALLY
u dare not bring this up during the reign and regime of plp…their obscene travel bills for 14 ryes
or you would be blacklisted from Bermuda or ostracized by your own..What a disgrace what they done to Bda..and now they want accountability…plp stfu…and move on
Put the PLP travel expense for the Premier Brown and Cox up in Black and white and then we can do a true comparison. It is unfair to just show us one side. As Premier of the country he has to travel to do business. If we travel on vacation these days it will eat a hole in your budget. We complain about Bermuda being an expensive tourist destination but as a traveller myself I see that the cost of a vacation has increased tremendously. If our Premier is traveling on business to meet with top executives we can’t expect him to stay at Motel 6 and catch the bus or subway to get to his locations do we? I agree that we need to control spending but we need to understand that we are part of the global village and unless we keep ourselves relevant, we will disappear from the radar.
Lmao, this govt can do no wrong in the “minoritys”eyes, damn shame !!!
What do you mean by the “minority”?
What does that mean, exactly?
Ya as if people from across the spectrum don’t support the OBA……….
LOL PLP are pure jokers
Yet another false, thinly veiled racist comment from “Robert”… Hiding like a coward behind a fake name.
Bermuda deserves better than this. Do better, “Robert”.
Let Craig enjoy his last days as party leader
$300 a day per diem on top of meals and accomodations and salary? per diem is usually in lieu of meal charges or am I missing something……every time my support of the OBA begins to wane though I think of the alternative but they are chipping away at support
Not a very good show by Cannonier – for his first year… But he has a long way to go, to catch-up to E. Brown and P. Cox for their exorbitant travel + their entourage’s of *Friends and Family*!!!
Hey Marc Bean… How about producing Brown and Cox’s *DETAILED* travel expenses!! I bet I could have brought a BIG house in *Fairylands* for “CASH” for what they wasted!!!
WHAT MINISTRY DOES THE PREMIER HOLD? NONE
HOW MANY DID DR> BROWN HOLD ? 2
NO JUSTIFICATION, NO COMPARISON>.. REALLY
Maybe the premier should have to pay half of the travel expenses, in an attempt to aid the “cut backs” – I do believe that if he premier exceeds the amount allocated for travel, that he should be responsible for the excess and pay for it out of his own pocket.
I don’t see why the tax payers should be responsible for all costs on all trips. That’s completely unfair.
Craig’s huge appetite for the good life goes unchecked on the taxpayers dime .lol .while the furlough takes a financial grip , he takes a grip on a nine iron AND invites his best friends and family to the smorgasbord .
So is that like DREB trying to golf with Tiger?????
LOL
I have to agree with Bettty Trump this time. And I most certainly am NOT a troll for the PLP or the OBA. Anyone who has read any of my comments will know this. I think some readers here just automatically take all of Betty’s comments as being blindly die hard pro PLP and in a lot of instances, that may be the case.
However, this time, Bettty is correct. Just because the PLP did it, is NOT a good excuse. There is no good reason for some of those trips. Do you think President Obama even noticed the Premier of Bermuda was there? I doubt it. He knows where Bermuda is and is well aware of the USA/BDA relationship. The Premier didn’t need to attend that.
Yes, SOME perks are okay but wasting money for absolutely NO good reason is just dumb. This Premier needs to step down. Unless taking the heat through the OBA’s first year or so is his primary purpose? If that is the case then he’s doing an excellent job.
If you are keeping a scorecard, and in the British newspapers keep a weekly political scorecard, I would say: OBA 1 (transparency) : PLP 2 (political pounce on transparency).
Marc Bean can feel pretty pleased with himself as he scored quite an effective political blow here, but there is always tomorrow, and always the opportunity for counter-spin.
And the political ratings between Cannonier vs Bean as reported yesterday, yes, you have had an effective week, but the tide ebbs and flows in politics.
However, I do concur with Mike Hind, the premier of Bermuda should travel first class, but that’s the premier ONLY, if s/he has guests, they must pay their own first class tickets, NOT the taxpayer. Government ministers must pay to upgrade to first class. This perk should be exclusive to the office-holder of premier.
Why not, as promised, just place the travel expense breakdown on the Cabinet website on a monthly basis?
London, England
The ubp/oba will do the same exact stuff the PLP did except they will find a way to justify it.
ubp/oba is a joke and a scam anyway, but scams work for a period of time before they are found out so we have to deal with them for a bit.
A scam just like the PLPs 14 years in power eh?
Remember! Bob Richards as Finance Minister can’t stop the premier from racking up expenses! He is just a “Cog in a Wheel!” Oh snap, that was the PLP!!!
With regard to the update:
‘We reached out to the Cabinet Office and were informed that amount should read 14,322.19. That brings the total for that trip to $28,710.67.’
The number that is different is the meals (1,0059.09 vs 10,0059.09 on the PLP one). The amount of 14,322.19 is the same in each, so why are they looking at the wrong number?
So shall we combined PCC’s & Min. Shawn’s travel expenses, and compare it with Dr. Brown.
Just checking to see if OBAers believe what they preach….
What?
Why don’t you do just that, Ms. Neil? Show us the numbers.
Thank goodness the OBA operates in a transparent manner and responds to questions. A big difference to the silence and refusal to respond that occurred prior to December 2012.
THEY did it so WE’RE going to do it even though WE promised that WE wouldn’t………BUT it’s okay……TWO WRONGS DON’T MAKE IT RIGHT…….smh……rme…smt…
So what you want the Govt to spend NO money on travel? And, as someone above already commented, sit on a wall and wait for things to happen? I dont think thats the way things work in this global economy.
Dont see that anywhere in MY post but if YOU took it that way thats on YOU…..the long and short of my comment is…just because PLP spent all that money on travel is it necessary for the OBA to do so as well..were ALL the trips taken beneficial or were some “just because”…….I have a RIGHT to ask and voice my oipinion as I am SACRIFICING a days pay per month to assist with the islands debt…..I would like to know how the money is being spent….
your all so negative lets be foreal the plp spent way more money so lets not go there
What I have noticed is with every f-up of the OBA…OBAers are prepared to go back 5, 6 or even 14 years to justify it…
I suppose PLP f-ups cancel out OBA f-ups….accountability appears to be a race to the bottom…
What i would like to know, is why do you conisder them OBA f-ups? Travelling to promote our island home to the rest of the world is now considered a f-up??
Cute the PLP go back 300 years to justify sh37 and what?
LOL
This from the person who constantly brings up the UBP? Seriously?
Reading these posts makes for a sad Bermuda!
Take old school politics any day.
Just bring home the bacon Craig! you have another 4 years
Right? Get that hotel investor lined up and get the casino legislation signed into law and we are off.
To be honest, 4 years is not a lot of time between elections. If the legislation is passed this year, the hotel investor won’t be selected until end of year or early next year, then they have to draw up plans for the hotel, then they have to build it. That could be a good three years.
30% reduction on EB’s $320,000 5 years ago. “We don’t normally stay at the Motel 6 if you don’t mind.”
This is ridiculous. Premier Cannonier holds no official Ministry so comparison to Dr Brown or Paula Cox or any other Government Minister is apples and oranges. In addition if you look at the specifics, some of these trips were purely photo opportunities and schmooze fests, not anything tangible to bring back to Bermuda. the OBA promised to do things differently, yet we find Premier Cannonier doing things even worse than the PLP were accused of doing things. It is very unfortunate. And the fact that the only defense for most of the commenters is to compare with Dr Brown shows that his actions and the costs associated are largely indefensible.
Premier Cannonier needs to change or step down. I am convinced he has outlasted his useful political life at this time.
At least Craig hasn’t started giving rides to refugees and sneaking them into Bermuda under the cover of darkness as a ‘humanitarian gesture’.
Here here…Citizen Banned
Unfortunatly a comparison needs to be made with DrEB. There are those with very short & very selective memorys who need constant reminding.
Yes, DrEB held 2 positions. That says more about the lack of talent within the PLP to spread the important jobs around. They never ever had a Tourism Minister who produced results. The job was a nice excuse to travel the world & rack up air miles for later use at taxpayer expense. Nice gig.
No, CC does not hold any ministerial positions. He does not need to. The OBA has a depth of talent to draw on that the PLP can’t even dream of having. CC is the leader & promoter of the band. His job is to make sure the band makes music together & to get out there & get work. Investors, whether they be IB or hotel related, want to see a stable Government wherever they go. Money is the biggest coward in the world. It is CC’s job to put a face in front of that stability.
Like it or not, he even looks the diplomatic part. He does not look like some used car salesman with all the bling. He speaks the part. He is direct & to the point. He does not have a case of running at the mouth leaving the listener wondering what, if anything, was said.
Yes, travel is part of the job. Maybe now that he has been around & assured important contacts overseas that stability is returning to the Bermuda Government he won’t need to travel quite as much.
Well said Watching, and the UBPoba diehards still trying to excuse or defend the actions of the Premier and the government.
And your not, for a poor excuse of a Government over the last 9 years !! Please !
The Premier is schmoozing for Bermuda,which we will get a return on investment by attracting investors to the island.The other Premier was schmoozing for himself and to add photos of himself with celebrities to his photo op shelf.
What a crock of S, How about E rats and Paula Cox’s and the rest of the PTP and all their entourage traveling expensive trips? must have been in the Millions and Millions! So put your brain in gear before you open your stupid trap
P.S. Has any figured out what PTP means!!!
With regard to the first update. The commas in 14 of the OBA one are in the wrong place (did not notice that sry).
To get the number the OBA got, the first number should have been 14,322.19 (as the PLP noted), but the meal might be 1005.09. This gives the OBA total of 19,656.67.
So maybe the meal total needs to be checked as well…
I care more about what is budgeted and what is spent. If the travel budget for the Premier was 200K and he spent 185K then that to me is acceptable.
The issue is when a dept or ministry is budgeted a certain amount and they wilfully go over, this happens constantly. I am concerned with the overall expenditure budgeted vs actuals.
Cherry picking one line from a budget book is easy, but i suppose for the opposition taking the easy road has always been the MO.
If Premier Ewart Brown spent too much on travel..then he was wrong. If Premier Craig Cannonier spent too much….then he is ALSO WRONG. OBA supporters need to stop giving our current Premier a free pass on EVERYTHING!!!!
But the thing is, PCC did not spend too much on travel. Read:
The Premier’s office provided the following background information:
1. According to the Budget Book the total expenditure on Travel for the period 1 Apr 2012 – 31 Mar 2013 for the Cabinet Office was $205,000.
2. Of that, Premier Cannonier was responsible for $11,745.42 (Trip 1 – 3 on the Response).
3. That would leave a balance of $193.254.58 for the PLP Administration for the 8 month period 1 Apr 12 – 16 Dec 12.
4. One could postulate that the PLP leadership had little to no travel during the 3 month period leading up to the Dec 2012 election, suggesting that the PLP Government likely spent $193,254.58 on travel over a 6 month period.
5. This compares to $171,460.92 spent by Premier Cannonier’s office for the 14 month period 17 Dec 12 – 12 Feb 14.
6. Premier Cannonier’s Office spent less in 14 months than the PLP Leadership spent in 6 months.
that’s their only defense.
Speaking of transporation and expenditure – How much did Bermudians pay for that BMW?
@Ringmaster
Noone can refuse to answer questions in the house that is why they are asked there. Also I find it interesting that most of the comparisons are to Dr. Brown and not to Mrs Cox. She was the last PLP Premier but the dislike of Dr. Brown is so strong people just ignore this fact. How are we as a country ever going to be able to work together when the division is so ingrained?
Where was Dr. Brown when he said “no plantation questions”. I thought he was in the house no?
I made the “plantation question” comment in more than one press conference. I didn’t say it in the House where there is “protection”. I said it outside the House. I also defined it as a question seldom asked of a white politician and one which conjured up for me images of the plantation where the relationship was a master-slave relationship.
Here is the first example:
“Premier, did GlobalHue win the Tourism advertising contract because the owner is a Black man?”
My response was “I consider that a plantation question and shall not answer it”. If that same question were to be asked of me today, my answer would be the same.
Pretty simple Brown was by far the worst offender when it came to waste & running up the debt. Cox sat by & let it happen. Not a word of protest out of her.
@clearasmud. “None can refuse to answer questions in the house”? You are no doubt correct in that statement if enforced, but there were many instances when questions were not answered, either at all or in part or delayed and timed out. Unfortunately there is a general lack of respect from politicians to rules whether implied or written, ethics and compliance with the law. Then people wonder why the rest of Bermuda follows.
what happened to shared sacrifice?
and everybody rowing in the same direction?
they remain aloof, in ‘first class’ with wine and bread and cheese
while the rest of us are rowing.
imagine if you had a travel budget of $180,000 for just airfare, ground transportation and accomodation. even with a family of six you could cover a lot of miles with that. what is this, keeping up with the kardashians?
again this is not a fortune 500 company celebrating another year of profits. rather, a broke a$$ in debt government who are on the verge of
liquidation, carrying on like nothing is wrong parading around like the
wolf of wall street
Stop the crap Betty. All we are hearing now is bla bla bla. Your party are no saints.
Let’s get on with moving Bermuda forward instead of taking 10 giant steps backwards every time Bean opens his mouth. Enough is enough.
Does this appear to be a witch hunt or what? Travel is required to build a better Bermuda. Now, PLP if this is your way of trying to win back the voters that you’ve lost…..well, it’s not the right way. I was one of those voters and I am about sick and tired of this petty exchange. Find real ideas/issues that will help Bermuda move forward please. I am so sick of this ghetto mentality that you have exposed us too for so long. You say your are about the people but your personal attacks take preference. I personally think Craig is a really good person so nothing you will say or do will change that. It just makes confirms that I made the right choice this time around. Mark, I actually like you and understand you have a job to do but please try another strategy and look for ways that promote Bermuda.
Again, Bermuda needs to move forward and there has to be change. I see that you identify many areas that you feel the OBA are not doing right but offer solutions because compared to the dark times of the PLP I am not buying it!
Premier Craig Cannonier is doing what he has to do to keep us afloat.
Traveling is a big part of doing it.
I am not the least bit disturbed at the Premier’s Annual travel expenses.
I was Director of Marketing for a large International company and my”all in” annual travel expense budget exceeded $150,000 for more than seven years
The real issue should not be how much was spent but what quantifiable value return (short and long term) can be assigned to the travel investment.Obviously there is a need for an “adult” discussion on the subject
That logic flies way over the heads of the anti travel posters who have no clue what a business trip is.
Well I am not going to get into the augment as to who has spend the most on travel; But I will say this; in the wake of jet gate and private jets; I think we would be better off in getting our own government plane; than we would only have to pay for fuel and maintenance and of course room and board all done in the spirit of shared sacrifice?
Good one Alvin. I take it you are trying to be humorous. Please reassure us that you are not really serious about buying our own plane.
Actually, if the Government paid bills with Visa or Mastercards and collected air miles, most travel including not just airfares but sometimes whole packages too can be paid with the points. Many businesses do this so why not Government?
Remember how Dr Brown and his entourage went to India to seek tourists, scholarships for film making and generic drugs because they were cheap? Any public release of how much that cost? Not much activity seen after that except for a few friends starting a generic drug importing business here. Was that a great idea? Today the US FDA is warning of the dangers of the quality of generic drugs from India. A gift that keeps on giving.
It amazes me that people want to constantly compare the travel expenses of the present Premier to that of Dr Brown especially considering the PLP and Bermuda have had another leader AFTER Dr Brown!! While we are on the subject lets pull up the records of travel expenses of the Government that ruled for over 30 years!!!
What does having a leader after Dr. Brown have to do with anything?
Does it suddenly make those years he was in power go away?
I agree with your last point, though… let’s pull up the records for 40 years and see where we’re at.
You might be a little shaken with the results.
PLP Traveling must have cost $180 million
Any government that can give a developer, who has never developed a hotel, a $125m guarantee, can afford its leader to fly in First Class.
I would LOVE to see a chart showing travel expenditures of the last 4 or 5 Premiers. It would shock you to see the facts.
I won’t get into defending specific trips but I will tell you that my wife and I paid out of our own pockets for many expenses. The second trip to India was one such example. I know it really bothers you to know that WE PAID OUR OWN WAY (while representing Bermuda). If you guys would remove your hoods, we could sit in a room, face-to-face and you could learn the truth instead of repeating the nasty drivel that you have been fed.
P.S. Maybe you can ask the OBA Government to put the comparable travel data in the public domain so you can see for yourself.
Good point Dr Brown, it would perhaps quiet the rhetoric, propaganda and spin.
Honestly, it is now time to get this issue under control and have a consistent Government policy that is adhered to by both political parties, irrespective of which party is in power.
After the so called Bermuda jetgate, the premier promised, in an interview, to post a monthly travel itinerary with associated costs, etc, exacting like the one we commenting on now. So, post it on the Cabinet website to show travel expenses on a month to month, year to year or any comparison that show which direction travel expenses are going and why.
It is very obvious that the sky was the limit, there were no fiscal controls in place, albeit, UBP, PLP or OBA. And this became a contentious issue for all Bermudians; it was campaigned upon during the election, so now let’s get it under control.
Collectively the people of Bermuda want a policy on Government travel that is transparent, accountable and responsible in terms of costs, who is travelling with the premier (the expense to the public purse), where and for what reasons. Then roll it out to every ministry for business travel in each ministry.
There has been one very good suggestion, all frequent flyer miles MUST come back to the Government to be pooled to save the Government money, not the minister and/or his/her accompanying travellers.
Let’s get this right. For this is nothing more than an unnecessary distraction which can be very easily fixed. So let’s fix it and move on. There are much more substantive Government issues to be focused upon.
London, England
None of this “nasty drivel” would be needed if only the PLP had passed PATI when they had the ability to do so. That should have taken care of most of the alleged indiscretions by elected or appointed officials that remain unanswered.
Dr. the Hon. Ewart F. Brown,
You are asking too much from a people, who’ve no love for you and anything to do with Africaness, who are perfected when it comes to LISTENING and REPEATING illusions instead of RESEARCHING and TEACHING TRUTH.
The Premier constantly changing his story, first report he said 3 people went to Switzerland. On the evening news last night he reported 9 people went. PCC get your facts straight before you talk, because you are constantly contradicting yourself. shm.
To all of you UBP/OBA children who never grow up,
Let me remind you, hard-headed, hard-hearted, PLP-haters, that your government had Bermuda believe that they WERE NOT GOING TO MODEL AFTER THE PREVIOUS ADMINISTRATION. No further comment!
Are you interested in comparitive analysis, or are you genuinely interested in fixing the problem so that there is a consistent Government policy on business travel?
Will comparing it get the funds back into the Government coffers or just continue a useless debate whilst more funds disappear into travel expenses?
Let’s find a solution to the problem, as we did for the premier’s residence.
London, England