Premier’s Speech: OBA Spring Party Conference
The goal is to balance the budget in three years, and to do that “we’ve raised taxes where possible and imposed stringent disciplines across all ministries, including spending reductions in some areas,” Premier Michael Dunkley said at the One Bermuda Alliance Spring Conference held this past weekend.
Premier Dunkley said, “We are now nearing the halfway mark in our first-term journey as government. And I am here this evening to say I am proud of what we have achieved so far; that we are on track and moving forward.
“Our time in office has been one of big accomplishments and big strides toward making the Island work better for people. In two years, we’ve essentially rebuilt the economic foundation; putting in place conditions to stop the bleeding, reboot the engine and restore confidence in the Island.
“We’ve begun the massive job of right-sizing government to make it financially sustainable. This year’s Budget, before debt service, for example, will see the first current account balance in seven years.
Some of the attendees pictured at the OBA Party Conference
“The goal is to balance the budget in three years. To do that we’ve raised taxes where possible and imposed stringent disciplines across all ministries, including spending reductions in some areas,” the Premier added.
“The Opposition calls these “cuts for cuts’ sake”. Nothing could be more misleading. A Government that runs a budget deficit year after year is an unsustainable government.
“By the end of this Budget year, we will have reduced the annual deficit by roughly $110 million or 30%. This is progress we must make.
“Through scores of initiatives and outreach, we’ve lined up more than $900 million in projects and activities for the next three years, from a new Airport to the America’s Cup – all of which will help restore balance to government finances and, more critically, rebuild our tourism industry and the economy.
The Premier added, “Amidst all their noise, it is interesting to note that the PLP has supported the vast majority of legislation the OBA Government has put forward.
“Two weeks ago in Senate, they chose not to vote against an Immigration Reform Bill despite organizing a protest that shut down the proceedings. That incident, and the PLP’s record of support for our legislative agenda, exposes their empty politics, which puts party first, party second and party third.
“It is a great disservice to Bermuda, especially when collaboration could help the Island’s recovery. Let me be very clear, we are willing to collaborate, but how can that happen with a party led by a man who has said there will be “no collaboration”?
“As members of the OBA, but more importantly as Bermudians who wish to move forward, I urge you to call them out. Make them account for their politics.”
The Premier’s full speech follows below:
Thank you Chairman.
Cabinet Colleagues, Members of the Legislature, Party officers, and special guests Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Diana Taylor, Youth Parliamentarians Theo Wolffe and Destinee Taylor and friends…
I am delighted to be here with you tonight – friends, colleagues and supporters, who together in 2012 forged an election victory that will go down as one of the most important in our history.
I say that because the election gave Bermuda the opportunity to reject calamity, change course and start moving toward recovery and renewal.
It was a great achievement; one in which everyone here played a role, whether as a candidate or as a voter marking your ballot for a better Bermuda.
That commitment to a better Bermuda remains as strong as ever because the work is far from finished.As Premier and Minister of National Security, I can say that not one hour of my life goes by that I am not thinking about what we can do to keep the Island moving forward.
And I am not alone.
There are scores of people within our ranks who share the sense of mission, and I want to take the opportunity tonight to acknowledge some of them:
• There is the Party Executive headed by our ever-busy chairman Senator Lynne Woolridge.
• There are the members of our caucus, from branch officers to regional chairs to candidates in 2012, whose readiness to serve represents the commitment the party needs to grow and flourish.
• There are our Parliamentarians – MPs and Senators, who stand with me on the frontlines of government pushing change for a better Bermuda.
• I’m particularly pleased this evening to welcome two of our newest members – Senators Vic Ball and Georgia Marshall, who have already made a solid impact in the Senate.
• Georgia and Vic are great additions to a Parliamentary team that I have watched develop and grow over the past two years.
• And of course there are my Cabinet colleagues, who bring their best to the table every day and have become a seasoned, tight team.It is a privilege and honour to stand with them all. The chemistry is good, the mission understood and the pressure we feel – the pressure to succeed for the people – is good motivating pressure.
Our work together has been one of steady achievement. And it could not have come at a more important time.
We took over a Bermuda in dire straits:
• Sagging under debt, addicted to deficits, shocked by crime, with unemployment and under-employment the casualties of a shrinking economy.
• The pain in households across the community was real, and it remains real.
Our priority was to get us out of the mess, to undo the damage and rebuild connections and confidence for jobs, opportunity and hope.
Our goal is to get the Island on a path where Bermudians can see we are all in this together, that we stand or fall as one people, and that we have a duty to help and support one another – to make sure everyone gets the chance to participate and succeed.
Maximum participation in the Bermuda Dream is the key, and it is up to us to show the way.
We are now nearing the halfway mark in our first-term journey as government.
And I am here this evening to say I am proud of what we have achieved so far; that we are on track and moving forward.
Our time in office has been one of Big Accomplishments and Big Strides toward making the Island work better for people.
In two years, we’ve essentially rebuilt the economic foundation; putting in place conditions to stop the bleeding, reboot the engine and restore confidence in the Island.
We’ve begun the massive job of right-sizing government to make it financially sustainable.
This year’s Budget, before debt service, for example, will see the first current account balance in seven years.
The goal is to balance the budget in three years.
To do that we’ve raised taxes where possible and imposed stringent disciplines across all ministries, including spending reductions in some areas.
The Opposition calls these “cuts for cuts’ sake”. Nothing could be more misleading. A Government that runs a budget deficit year after year is an unsustainable government.
By the end of this Budget year, we will have reduced the annual deficit by roughly $110 million or 30%. This is progress we must make.
Our rebuild of government finances also depends on a growing economy, and so we’ve worked hard to re-set the landscape for investment:
• Setting up the Economic Development Committee to help eliminate red tape and fast-track job-creating developments.
• Meeting with investors on both sides of the Atlantic to show that Bermuda is open for business.
• Putting the tourism industry under new management, with the Bermuda Tourism Authority fully engaged in restoring the Bermuda brand.
• Working through helping agencies to support small businesses and entrepreneurs.
• Expanding the Workforce Development Agency to help Bermudians retrain and find work.
• Bringing forward gaming to facilitate hotel development.Through scores of initiatives and outreach, we’ve lined up more than $900 million in projects and activities for the next three years, from a new Airport to the America’s Cup – all of which will help restore balance to government finances and, more critically, rebuild our tourism industry and the economy.
Jobs are key to all of this, and we are starting to see the “green shoots” that will grow them:
• Planning applications and building permits are up about 20%, company formations are on the rise as are construction starts and retail sales.
• Business confidence is up.We have worked in other ways to restore confidence and to lead by example:
• Minister’s took a 10% pay cut in Year One
• We reduced the GP fleet
• We have the smallest Cabinet on record.
• And the fewest political appointees and consultants in many yearsElsewhere, the Government has made historic strides toward a more inclusive, accountable and fair Bermuda.
• We outlawed discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.
• We passed municipal reforms granting ratepayers the right to vote.
• We made freedom of information a reality after years of talk and inaction, and published online the travel costs of ministers.
• We tightened controls and increased penalties for businesses that violate hiring regulations.We’ve pushed hard to make life more promising for people who need support and encouragement.
• We are working behind the scenes through Team Street Safe and the Interagency Gang Task Force to reduce tensions in our communities. Gun crime is down significantly, and crime overall is down to levels not seen since 2000.
• We provided Police with more protection and support, and the CCTV camera system is now fully operational, providing a new level of community cover Island-wide for security and law enforcement.
• I am particularly pleased with the work being done with prison inmates through programmes to help them live free of crime after release – with the rate of recidivism at low levels.
• More broadly, the number of people held in prison has dropped to new lows. These encouraging results are a testament to the good work being done in prisons and the community.
• We launched the “Cash Back to Communities” programme last year, investing more than $200,000 in seized criminal assets in community clubs and counseling services.
• We reformed the 911 system with ambulances stationed in the East and West ends of the Island to ensure faster response times for people in need of emergency help.
• Our Community Driven Development programme has helped significant numbers of unemployed or underemployed women develop skills and abilities to help them become financially self-sufficient. The programme is now transitioning to the private sector – a move we support.
• We are moving forward with a strong plan to tackle drink driving through roadside sobriety checks, and Police have increased their presence on the roads to uphold driving standards.
Taken together, the accomplishments I’ve listed are solid reasons to see the future with optimism, to shed negativity that too often is part of the conversation.
Alas, it’s not so clear-cut.
This brings me to politics today, and the two competing narratives that seem to be in a 24/7 struggle.
• There is our positive view that believes in Bermudians, believes in the future and our collective ability to get there.
• And then there is the grinding negativity of the PLP leadership, who offer nothing but aggression and spite, who attack to distract, who feed the cinders of historic mistrust whenever they can; who work to keep Bermudians apart.
Amidst all their noise, it is interesting to note that the PLP has supported the vast majority of legislation the OBA Government has put forward.
Two weeks ago in Senate, they chose not to vote against an Immigration Reform Bill despite organizing a protest that shut down the proceedings.
That incident, and the PLP’s record of support for our legislative agenda, exposes their empty politics, which puts party first, party second and party third.
It is a great disservice to Bermuda, especially when collaboration could help the Island’s recovery.
Let me be very clear, we are willing to collaborate, but how can that happen with a party led by a man who has said there will be “no collaboration”?
As members of the OBA, but more importantly as Bermudians who wish to move forward, I urge you to call them out. Make them account for their politics.
Don’t just leave it to your government. Get vocal when you see the need. Play your part.
As I close I want to reiterate what I think many of you may feel:
• Bermuda is turning the corner, moving in the right direction, but we have miles to go before we get to a place that works for everyone.
• Maximum participation will help us get there. The more people feel part of something, the more we have a chance to build something special.
• The renewal of Bermuda’s economy is the opportunity for us all. Let’s use it to set standards that show the system is open, fair and working for everyone.
• In succeeding – and yes I have every confidence we will succeed based on the momentum we are building – then we have an historic opportunity to change the Island’s political dynamic, to break down mistrust that keeps people apart, to show everyone a government that’s in their corner.
So my friends, we have been called.
This is our time, this is our opportunity. Let’s complete the promise of this great Island.
Thank you.
-
“As I close I want to reiterate what I think many of you may feel:
• Bermuda is turning the corner, moving in the right direction, but we have miles to go before we get to a place that works for everyone.
• Maximum participation will help us get there. The more people feel part of something, the more we have a chance to build something special.
• The renewal of Bermuda’s economy is the opportunity for us all. Let’s use it to set standards that show the system is open, fair and working for everyone.”
With respect Premier, who do you believe “actually” feels this way?
Point 1 – “turning a corner”? Really? Those who feel it are “really” feeling it, sir. There is no corner – we are struggling daily.
Point 2 – “max participation”? Really? Over the past 2 years, the OBA government’s version of “consultation” has been hold 1 town hall meeting to INFORM of a decision and the next week the legislation is passed – i.e. changes to Education Act (re. PTAs) is a great example
Point 3 – “open, fair and working for everyone”? I can’t even begin to speak to this one – - that’s just funny.
Premier, I can applaud you for one thing – - you certainly do two things very well – - 1. Blame the PLP, and 2. You are always “camera” ready.
You hit the nail on the head.. I couldn’t agree with you more.
“ZOMBIES Emerge and Spinning OBA DENIAL SYDROME”
I think it might already be a little too late Burchall. I secretly hope not, for the good of Bermuda and her people. Mr. RICHARDS/Dunkely is already the Chief Zombie due to his stubborn attitude and refusal to exam alternative approaches to address our financial situation. More so their denial to present the facts to Bermuda. “OBA DENIAL SYDROME” is something I frequently highlight to the outright rejection by many.
The OBA only listening to their Cheerleaders and not all of Bermuda, suggest a party that can only see within their own little bubble, and not beyond the real scope of what is going on in Bermuda…..Zombies walking….really
The OBA seem to lack a clear “PLAN” that I have been shouting for since the OBA gained power, we seem to be spinning our wheels only. Whenever, I asked to see the OBA’S “Economic Recovery Plan”……there has been NO solid reply….we just drift on …and on…. Zombies spinning. ..
The AC is not the answer according to Sir John Swan. Two teams already pulled out of this event. No show of how the average man will profit from the AC. It will not be enough, yet the government continuing their eggs all in one basket…. Zombie spinning
Hotels having JETGATE slow up such project developments…..Zambies bumming a ride……
Tourism has failed to show us any success thus far….yet unnecessary monies spent on wages there…Zombie spinning
This outright refusal by OBA to work in joint Collaboration with the Opposition and Others to address this problem. …this is not able Political Parties but rather Bermuda’s people…this seems to be something the OBA does not get……..puts us in further Zombie land……Zombies spinning
The Opposition put forward ideas that at least should be considered, perhaps with the formulation of a “Joint Select Committee” to exam our “Economic Recovery” in detail….this must be done……Looks like Mr.Richards is not the brilliant Guru that many made him out be after all. He surely does not have all the answers; No one man does.. ………Zombies spinning
This is a serious matter….I believe if the OBA remains in a “Zombie state of mind”…..everyone will fall…..
I hope the best for Bermuda. We must come together as one and push to turn the Zombies from falling on their swords…..this division as put forward by the government of the day, will not work. The government of the day must lead the way towards all Working together for the betterment of Bermuda. Yet it appears as if the divide is greater under this OBA government than ever in our political history….but as the Zombies continue to plot their political strategy to divide, they can not see it….
Mr. Burchall is right….. “And this is where the ‘zombies’ emerge.”
Now the Zombies who do not like to read or hear the truth…will take the Zombie action and click Dislike…….this will be evidence of Zombies sleeping……they prefer to hear “nice nothings” instead..
Get your facts right. One team has pulled out of the America,s Cup. I can tell who you rely on for your news.
Thanks for reading and following along….but there is likely a 2nd team thinking of pulling out as well…..but the reality is this is not a long term fix to our economy…we must look jointly to examine ways to address our economy….Collaboration and joint efforts from all is key during this time….Political swinging of the swords will not do it…
Tell your employers, the PLP that !
Yes, one team has pulled from the AC, and yes, a second may well do so, but really this doesn’t have much impact on the event itself. Plus, there is a good chance those teams will be replaced by others.
I agree that the America’s Cup is not a long term fix, nor is the answer, as Sir John put it, it can, however, be something that Bermuda can use to it’s best advantage as we work towards a full and proper solution.
I fully agree that collaboration and join efforts from all involved is necessary. What I would like to know is when the PLP and the Unions are going to stop marching around yelling and sit down and talk calmly and rationally about things.
If you want to talk and collaborate, then BOTH sides need to do the work. Right now, one side is bellowing and the other side is sitting back and watching the show. Will the OBA collaborate? Heck if I know, but we’re only going to find out when the PLP and Unions start behaving like rational adults and seriously step up with a willingness to work together, until then… frankly I don’t blame the OBA for just sitting back and waiting. It’s the best solution for dealing with a tantrumming child.
As for the desired ‘plan’… well, governing a country in dire straits as Bermuda is and has been for a while now is more like a sporting event. You start with a plan, and then you make changes as you learn the other side’s strategy and the reality of the playing field that you are on.
Frankly, I would be deeply worried if the OBA came out and said ‘THIS is what we’re doing, and then did only that.’ Then I might buy into the zombieness of the situation.
Oh look, retail sales are up yet again. That means more confidence in the economy, people spending money, thus creating a job-producing environment. Still not good enough for you?
That’s not an indication of more confidence in the economy – - we live in a consumer based society. People have NO CHOICE but to buy. We, as a people, have over the course of the last 2 years have begun to learn to survive on “less”.
I will concede that there is some economic stimulus occurring in the country but the concept of “trickle down” economics has never worked for the average working person. It didn’t work in the US under Reagan and it isn’t going to work now.
Of course we live in a consumer based society, as does the whole capitalist world (bar some backward countries of course).
Therefore, when there is a recession people buy less which indicates the financial stresses people are experiencing and the loss of disposable income.
When retail sales/economic activity begin to increase it indicates that there is more disposable income being able to be spent by the population.
When there is more disposable income that means the economy is improving.
The recent consecutive increases are positive, but you are right they doesn’t translate into a booming economy. Just a very slow improving one. But still improving nonetheless.
Since you are against trickle down economics, what other options do you think should be undertaken? Simply giving people money to spend? Do you understand the money multiplier effect?
So what does work ?
What do you suggest as the alternative, that everyone works for themselves? Trickle down is the way every economy works, whether you like it or not. Again, what is your alternative?
You need to do some more research because you obviously don’t know that much about economics.
@ hmm2,
“… you obviously don’t know that much about economics”.
Well neither do the PLP and they and others want them to run the island again. That is far scarier than a blogger who in your opinion needs to do some research.
I hope you will be as forthright to Mr. Burt and the rest of the PLP.
Trickle down economics is not the way every economy works. What textbook did you read that from? Please point us to the article who misinformed you or the person who misinformed you. I hope you didn’t get that from an OBA handout or from an OBA meeting.
I understand that you are pro OBA on every topic of every article no matter what the circumstance, but please do yourself a favor and get on Google and research before spewing out uneducated and uninformed garbage.
OK, come on explain these other economies you speak of and how they would work in Bermuda?
If you work for someone else then it’s trickledown.
@ hmmm,
Crickets I see…
Sorry if I got you all worked up. Local Music Lover was the one who mentioned trickle down and said it doesn’t work. I am merely referring to the way money flows in our economy and others, not the much criticised Reagan era trickle down economics theory, you are no doubt talking about. New Money will come into Bermuda, much as with the America’s Cup, or say the Airport Project and will flow though out our economy. This expansion of the economy will have a positive effect on everyone living here. That’s what I am talking about in simple terms. Sorry, I know that phrase is like a red flag to some. Bermuda’s economy and tax system really can’t be compared to the US, so as I said above, I was not referring to that theory and I don’t advocate it for here either. Sorry for any confusion.
This has to be betty, with the Really? always in her blogs. All I can say to you is “Yea of little Faith”, Premier Dunkley is a great person, even if you can’t see the forest for the trees, you, the PLP, will not regain the Government with you lots attitude. Marc Bean is as arrogant as EB is. He must be his student. What ever you think right now, just remember all that you;ve said when this economy is flourishing and we other folks leave you standing in the dust with your beloved PLP.
First, No I am not Betty.
Secondly, you have made my point for me without me having to do anything – thank you.
You assumed that because I pointed out flaws (or issues I have)in the Premier’s speech that I am Pro-PLP – sad, indeed.
Your statement above – “just remember all that you’ve said when this economy is flourishing and WE OTHER FOLKS LEAVE YOU STANDING IN THE DUST”
The Premier, and you for that matter, CANNOT PREACH consultation, collaboration, unity and togetherness on one hand and in the same breath say stuff like that – - you are being duplicitous.
My post has to do with showing the multi-pronged tongue of the Premier and his Cabinet. Nothing about any Pro-PLP rhetoric here.
Oh puleeeeeease , you are as PLP as they come .
Thanks @Local Music Lover for being so honest. This is something that the OBA cheerleaders do not want to hear. They would rather hear “Sweet Nothing” regardless, rather than critically examine the situation for what is really is.
Mr. Dunkley has presented a false picture of what is really going on in Bermuda, and how People are feeling. Folks without JOBS do not share his view of Bermuda from his rose glasses. The reality bites more. Lots of folks are hurting, and nothing is trickling down to them and does not seem to be in the near future. These folks feel it….
We must be able to examine the real picture of Bermuda, regardless of political leanings. This is difficult for most to do.
The Protectionism of their political party at the expense of the all the people of Bermuda is sad indeed.
Pure lies and deceit as usual, a minority regurgitating , what some one told them . You can’t think for yourselves , single minded and scornful.
The Reality stings like a bee…. but it stings…many would prefer to reject it, …despite how raw it may be presented….
Explain?
All the CAPITALIZING of important WORD screams BETTY or CHRISTOPHER FAMOUSSSSSSSSSSSSS. Nice try. Busted
Great, means your following along and reading….but I understand that the Reality stings like a bee…..but it stings….
I love you too….
How much do you get paid for this job ?
And how much of it do they spend on drugs?
Same as kangoocar, lois, changer and Ray.
Friends and Family Plans is Betty. You can tell from the square green face icon.
Well it is one of the Betty’s anyway.
The Betty’s are actually OBA paid bloggers purposefully writing over the top farcical posts to try and turn people off the opposition.
“There is no corner – we are struggling daily.”
With all due respect you, yourself, can’t be struggling daily if you are able to use a computer (a luxury item) to post on this website.
Again, an OBA Supporter who doesn’t speak to the points raised in my post, but focuses on the superficial to deflect from the actual issues we are all facing.
It is sad, really, don’t you think?
You have no idea of what struggles myself or anyone for that matter faces on a daily basis. That’s part of the issue we face as a community. The Premier is the one who stated that he understand, when in my opinion, I think he doesn’t have a clue.
Wait, are you going to now tell me that my opinion isn’t true? I will wait with baited breath.
I can’t rebut your feelings on the Party. They are your feelings. Doesn’t mean they are right or wrong. Just feelings.
All you wrote in rebuttal was that’s just funny, ‘we are still struggling,’ and ‘they only had one town hall meeting in 2 years (which is untrue).’
You did not provide an insightful commentary as to why you so vehemently disagree for anyone to rebut.
And as I said you can’t be struggling that much if you are able to post on a website. That is the truth as if you were in such desperate times the first items to be cut back are such luxury items such as computers and smart phones. Just saying.
As the Premier said progress is made, but a full recovery is still to come.
“Progress for Some and NOT ALL”….that’s the problem. While those of Privilege do not feel the pain of those that do not have, your attempt to dismiss their “Feelings” as nothing more…is the problem.
This suggest that just because Mr. Dunkley says it happening one should not question the politics and policies of the government of the day. Folks must hold the government accountable, and that means asking key Questions and challenging what the government brings forward. Folks should not walk like Mr. Burchall says “Zombies walking dead”…..in denial and not addressing the key facts.
Those who know it, FEEL IT…..it bites them hard everyday….
The Trickling Down effect is not reaching EVERYONE….
While some are wearing the same Rose Glasses as Dunkley, they are blinded by the fact, that not all see from the same set of lens the same ‘level of progress’…… some feel NO progress and do not see how it helps them to progress….
everyone feels pain Betty Trump.
To put blame for that pain on the OBA is laughable.
Ok Kangocar. Whatever you say.
Smart phone.
You seem to expect miracles from the OBA but simply accept whatever the PLP say and do, even to the detriment of this island.
Those that are still hurting and feeling it should be blaming the right people for their predicament. It will take time for them to feel that things are improving.
Where are your comments in the laughable PLP Vision 2025? Nothing of any note to comment on? Gotcha.
Please do not assume anything – that’s part of the problem in this island. And on top of that, you assume to dictate to me on which stories I should comment or not? Really?
That’s the mantra of the OBA and their support base – - in your reply to my post, you did not speak to any of my points. You simply labelled me some “blind sheep supporter of the PLP” and do what OBA supporter do – focus your energy to discredit my points by attacking the party YOU BELIEVE I support – -laughable, indeed sir.
And notice, I will speak to you points. I have not read the article regarding the PLP Vision 2025 plan. When I do, I am most certain that I will provide commentary.
That’s 2 people now you’ve told not to assume things yet you called someone else an oba supporter. Between you and Betty the hypocrisy is mind blowing. Do you have a job? I don’t and I’ve quit 2 out of principle during this recession. Clearly I haven’t starved to death yet, I must be one of those privileged people Betty talks about.
Come Correct:
You are laughable – - where in my post above did I STATE that “aceboy” is a OBA supporter? It isn’t there – that’s why?!
I inferred that his comments indicated that he believed me to be anti-OBA and then I provided commentary about how I feel OBA supporters deflect from posted issues with negativity.
Read my post again and see if you can find where I said that he was OBA.
Its not about MIRACLES…its about HONESTY….. this is what the people want from the Government of the day…a Fair and honest playing field….instead of giving to only a certain sector of our populations.
Some feel others are progressing while they struggle on….but carry on….Its not about playing the “BLAME GAME”…as we can do that all day…there is enough of that to go around……the reality is ensuring that the OBA government of the day meets the needs of the people, and not just a certain sector of our population…… that’s the reality…
The PLP’s ideas for 2025 are ideas that we should all examine critically. To dismiss it out right, serves not purpose.. If you recall the OBA has used many of PLP’s ideas coming in as the government. Or would you prefer to forget that….. No one person or party has all the answers, if so we would not be still climbing out of the recession today…… This Blame Game is silly and does nothing to move us forward…..the failure to Collaborate and instead play political games gets Bermuda NO where…fast…
We have had a whole lot more HONESTY and TRANSPARENCY under the PLP than we ever got with the PLP.
Did you read Jamahal’s speech at the PLP Founders Day bash? Do you HONESTLY feel that was a guy who was promoting the spirit of collaboration in his party?
Please.
You aren’t being at all honest yourself about this whole collaboration thing.
But this OBA government PROMISED US to GOVERN DIFFERENTLY . THEIR PLATFORM HIGHLIGHTED “TRANSPARENCY AND HONESTY.” So far they have failed to demonstrate they will indeed follow the path of such. THEY HELD IT UP DURING PRE-ELECTION AS A KEY FACTOR…NOW to excuse them because of what the PLP did or did not do, is NOT GOOD ENOUGH. People are expecting from the OBA what they Promised.
Whenever the OBA are not doing right…why point to the PLP. The OBA will be held Accountable during the next election 2017, like the PLP was in 2012. PLP are not the government. Whatever speech they make does not matter in great summary in comparison to what the Government of the Day does or does not do….but keep looking at the PLP, while you do that OBA will be moved back to the “BACK BENCH”…….
The Government of the Day has the Power to promote and set up COLLABORATION…..IF it does not take place it is due to the government of the day…..the power rest with them, no matter how Mr. Dunkley and others attempt to Spin it…that is how the people see it as well…..
It is merely a political strategy that Dunkley is using at present…but often when your so closely aligned with a political party ….one is not able to see beyond it….
Collaboration requires both parties to work jointly on a committee. Whats the problem…. if you have parties from both sides…. a chairperson…. we are facing a critical time in Bermuda and NO one person has all the answers…..
Hi again yettB. Here’s are some notes for you so that you don’t get caught again trying to comment under other fake names:
-Don’t CAPITALIZE words
-Don’t use your usual…..
-Throw in a couple of comments under YettB to throw people off the scent
-Don’t talk about political strategy (unless of course, you are actually Dr. Brown)
-Don’t use the word “spin” so much because that’s one of your favourites along with surrogate, honesty, people, “real” Bermudians and plantation
Hey Kangocar how’s the OBA paid blogger program doing these days?
Clearly the same person. How sad that he/she has to post as multiple people.
And you talk about honesty?
You are not honest about anything.
Cant believe what he and de U.B.P/oba say, what a waste of F!@#ing film.
Can’t or don’t want to … I think it’s the latter.
Unable to.
I disagree. I cannot find a decent crew to work on my house! every one busy for the nest 3-5 months FLAT OUT!.
Mbrother cannot find a part time worker for his business because the ones who used to come in nw and again are fully employed.
The econpmy has picked up steam.
This is true, early 2014 I had some renovations done to my house, I had 4 compaines submit quotes, emailed me several times eager to do the work. Just this past month we started a new project, and had to wait a few weeks to even get a start date, as the company we choose said things are busy now and will have to hire more guys…
We concur.
Same kind of story.
If you are good at what you do and have a skill set, sky is the limit.
Plenty of ops out there and good tradesmen have full order books.
@ Curtis,
Exactly right. We have been on about 3 months work for the past two years. Prior to that I could start a new project within days. We have also just been given the go ahead on another nice sized project. If we only tackled that job alone it would take us two months to complete yet we have our regular work that is growing weekly.
If only half of the bids we’ve recently put in come back it will be another 2 months plus and we will need to add at least 2 or 3 more to my crew of 8. Last year this time we had a crew of 6.
Thank goodness the OBA is moving us forward.
Took me almost a month and a half to find an electrician to work on my property. Was told by no less than 4 companies that they were busy until May/June.
I appreciated this speech. It left me feeling encouraged vs. the negative Opposition Founder’s Day speech.
Its not about MIRACLES…its about HONESTY….. this is what the people want from the Government of the day…a Fair and honest playing field….instead of giving to only a certain sector of our populations.
Some feel others are progressing while they struggle on….but carry on….Its not about playing the “BLAME GAME”…as we can do that all day…there is enough of that to go around……the reality is ensuring that the OBA government of the day meets the needs of the people, and not just a certain sector of our population…… that’s the reality…
The PLP’s ideas for 2025 are ideas that we should all examine critically. To dismiss it out right, serves not purpose.. If you recall the OBA has used many of PLP’s ideas coming in as the government. Or would you prefer to forget that….. No one person or party has all the answers, if so we would not be still climbing out of the recession today…… This Blame Game is silly and does nothing to move us forward…..the failure to Collaborate and instead play political games gets Bermuda NO where…fast…
“The PLP’s ideas for 2025 are ideas that we should all examine critically”
The suggested critical examination confirms the PLP are just throwing uninformed ideas against the wall … but nothing of substance sticks. Why is that?
There is no denying ““Our time in office has been one of big accomplishments and big strides toward making the Island work better for people. In two years, we’ve essentially rebuilt the economic foundation; putting in place conditions to stop the bleeding, reboot the engine and restore confidence in the Island”
The Premier went on to speak more truths: “It is a great disservice to Bermuda, especially when collaboration could help the Island’s recovery. Let me be very clear, we are willing to collaborate, but how can that happen with a Party that’s led by a man who has said there will be “no collaboration”? (And that’s it in a nutshell.)Keep moving forward in-spite of the negative nonsense some wish to spread. Pay them little or better still, no-more time…
One thing I love about your posts, I can click ‘Dislike’ without even reading it…..
Mixitup, I thought I was the only one!! lol
Obviously it’s the same way you vote. Doesn’t matter what the party’s done, you’ll vote for them anyway
Just like how 95% of a certain demographic will only vote UBP/OBA because of historic tradition?
@Hmm2,
Well after the PLP’s reign I can’t say I blame them and grudgingly have to admit that they had it right. LMAO
The Premier’s speech was strong. Do things move fast enough for me ? NO…
But after the disastrous record of the prior regime, it takes a lot of time and work to get the ship off the rocks, plug the holes and regain investor confidence.
U.B.P./oba are a joke,embarrassment and a disgrace and their bloggers who give them praise while benefiting, while you dont hear a peep from them when they F!@#ed up are F!@$ing up.
Jet Gate Party
Didn’t hear a peep from you when a certain former Premier rode on a private jet to DC by an individual who owns a company that received $28mn of taxpayers monies for tourism adverts.
Nor did we hear from them when the PLP were running around pretending they knew what was best and then went ahead and mismanaged every thing.
Hey Mockingay: Where were you when DREB secretly flew 4 suspected terrorists to Bermuda to offer them a new life in Bermuda for apparently no reward whatsoever?
You moan about PRCs all the time, so what about this?
Cat got your tongue?
You are the embarrassment.
PLP – Out of time, out of ideas, out of power.
You know , you really ought to go see your doctor about that endless , phony hangup you have over the non event Jetgate
LMFAO
Glad to see things moving forward with results.
Some just have to say something and stir the pot every “Weekes”.
Shalom and pray things keep up. It’s a big challenge for OBA to as someone said ‘get this ship off the rocks”.
@ Terry:I believe it’ll be far better for the whole Islands population if we were to get the other ship, (literally) off rocks
…and this is where the Zombies Emerge….Larry Burchall…
Misuse of the term “literally”, but otherwise, yeah, would be nice to have this country moving forward again
We should get Betty off rocks first. Screws with your mind and rots your teeth. Intervention anyone? Maybe we can get them some meds for their multiple (commenting) personality disorder too.
If the pot was not stirred then we wouldn’t know about Jet Gate and all the other SHADY deals that have taken place.
And your party needs more than prayer, they need an exorcist.
As-salama Alaykum
No shady deals under the PLP?
Too funny. I don’t even have the time to list the number of incidents of mishandling of public money by the PLP.
Yet you hang on to Jetgate as evidence of corruption…..
Port Royal makes Jetgate look like a small blip, add in Grand Atlantic, the cruise terminal, Berkley etc etc etc and you can then see why the PLP were voted out at the last election.
The economy is starting to rebound. Fact.
The PLP have nothing other than a murky “vision” over 10 years.
The choice is obvious to anyone with a brain.
PLP supporters don’t need a brain.
@C James, come on man, you can say things like that, you’ll get the whole alaska hall blog squad upset.
Clearly!
See what I did there? :p
This is how it’s Betty, take notes.
How it’s done*
Please don’t take this the wrong way but if JetGate is all there is to reference as a source of alledged corruption since they have been in office then I think we should all be grateful. The matter was quickly investigated and Cannonier resigned over it.
The times corruption has been alledged for various PLP members is just too numerous to count. None or very few of the allegations have been investigated.
Who in the PLP is responsible for the scandal surrounding the BHC, Emerald Finance, no bid contracts, cement company and the abuse of the public funds?
Looking for the YOUNG BLACK FACES in picture above…The same faces that were supposed to be representative of a new UBP. All I see is the same ole UBP members. At least you know what you’re getting with the PLP. OBA WOLVES IN SHEEP CLOTHING. Can someone tell me how many of the 2000 jobs the OBA promised, have been created??
It was a free event and everyone was invited. The people who bothered to show up got in the picture.
I suppose the photo would have been much better if it was full of the same old has been, tired PLP race baiters who now make up the opposition.
PLP – Out of power, out of ideas, out of excuses.
Mr. Burchall is right….. “And this is where the ‘zombies’ emerge.”
Sadly, I think you are one of the Zombies he was actually referring to.
@ SMH,
Yup!!
It’s impossible for a narcissist or a sociopath to see that.
The guardians of the status quo standing with the king of stop and frisk.
Quo Fata Ferunt
Did you know that the PLP enacted Bermuda’s own stop and frisk laws when they legislated Section 315F into the criminal code which CURB has sought to repeal since its implementation?
Did you know that Mayor DeBlasio has retained the stop and frisk law albeit at a reduced rate which has correlated with an increase in murders and shootings since doing so?
You mean “I can’t breath murder”?
I liked the speech up until the Premier started talking about the opposition. I feel he should have kept on task and listed what the OBA have done not what the PLP have or have not done. We give far to much air time to the PLP talking heads, we don’t need our government doing the same imo.
Keep on task, update when necessary, admit mistakes when they occur and move on please.
@ Starting point…I agree with you on that point……But, When a party is doing little or have NO real sense of Direction, often the political strategy becomes one of Deflecting or focusing on the Opposition….Mr. Dunkley did just that thus leaving himself open and exposed…..This is where he is in Denial on what his party is doing and providing hard evident of successes of his government.
A mis-opportunity to highlight his own party’s success, and staying on point. But he fell on his sword and played the wrong move on the chess board by giving attention to the Opposition, which now makes folks see Dunkley in the true light. He is just as politically targeted as most politicians can be. He does not play nice at all…..
….no real sense of direction OBA HAHAHAHAH that’s rich coming from a vision for 2025 from the PLP/UBP or whatever that BS is….lmfao
OMG…you are so yettB it’s so obvious…now get all defensive and CAPITALIZE things
In order to deviate people from your own F!@#ups its easier to point out other people’s F!@#ups.
Break every chain Mockingay.
Did you read JS’s piece? Maybe hypocrites are like racists to you. Mercy your stupidity blows my mind. I’m unemployed and still don’t have time to keep up with your crap. Two Bermudas alright.
Ouch – how many jobs have you created? No Government can do this allown, we all have to help. I before you ask, I have given jobs to 4 persons in the last 3 months.
And the OBA promised us 2000 jobs plus…so far we see 2000 plus less jobs……yeah…
@ Family and Friends Plan,
Then you go and create some jobs. There are plenty of unemployed Bermudians out there who need one… I’d like to suggest to those Bermudians don’t hold your breath. LOL
By the way I have just hired another employee this month and one two months ago, that makes it 8 now. By July I will have added at least another two. Over to you.
Can any one tell me if there are any Governments on the planet who are obligated to provide jobs.
Business and people create jobs and in return expect performance, ability, and loyalty.
A Bank Manager told me, ” This Bank and this Island survives on service to the public and I am no different than you.”
The Government provides free education which my tax dollar provides for.
WHAT MORE COULD YOU WANT?
@ Junk Yard Dog,
Exactly!
The Entitled Ones think that someone especially the Govt should just provide a job for their sorry behinds.
OBA ALL THE WAY! i have seen the light! im happy with the OBA progress.
Wow, the OBA is inspirational. Get us back in the black, this govt is for the people.
Very few people trust the UBP/OBA after how they discarded their leader and the premier of Bermuda Craig Cannonier . Many were disgusted by the resignation of Tad Hollis without explanation . What’s worse than that,is the empirical fact as to the lengths the UBP /OBA have gone to obscure the reason behind the disgraceful and abrupt departure of a sitting leader of the most sophisticated dependent territory in the world.
And let me remind you that the UBP/OBA hounded the man out of office on his birthday to boot ! LoL !!
Micheal Dunkley is perhaps the most confused man in Bermuda . Dr.Brown happily collaborated with the leader of the free world on a very serious issue and Micheal Dunkley and his wise counsel chastised Dr.Brown for working together with the United States ; however Micheal Dunkley had a face to face with President Obama and didn’t mention the disgust that he and his party had for the humanitarian gesture brokered by Dr.Brown ! Why? Because Micheal Dunkley is a weak man with a penchant for a strong photograph.
I say so much for collaboration with the opposition !
Too much Coffee.
Zzzzzzzzzzzyaaaawn.
Coffee: Are you talking the general population or just the other patients in MAWI?
@ Coffee,
What part of ‘… no collaboration’ do you not understand? That was courtesy of Mark Bean of course. It’s time to sing another tune as that one is played out.
Very few people trust the UBP/OBA after how they discarded their leader and the premier of Bermuda Craig Cannonier
Yet trust is expected from the PLP after Jennifer was ousted (discarded)and the PLP faithful told “We had to deceive you?”?????????????? You were LIED to….by Dr. Brown, the very man you quote regarding collaboration. The collaboration to which you refer even saw him sneak 4 people from a prison in Cuba to Bermuda contrary to the immigration laws of this country and our Constitution. He then LIED again and said the Police Commissioner had declared them to be no threat.
Is your memory ok because you seem to forget everything. I don’t.
@ aceboy,
Yup. You must be a Carpenter because every blow hit the nail right on the head!
Coffee, after aceboys points I will ring the bell for you as school is out now. LMAO
Living in the past is a giant step towards antiquity.
The past holds no future only animosity.
Be careful what you wish for.
Education starts on the last day of school.
If it smells like a Skunk and looks like a Skunk, it’s a Skunk.
Pick your self up, dust your self off ,it’s a new day tomorrow.
The definition of progress is one step in the right direction.
Bermuda is not another world ,it is part of the world.
You can touch the water on a moving river only once.