Cannonier: ‘Funding For Lifeguards Is Essential’
“Lifeguards are an essential service and removing them from our beaches will put people’s lives at risk,” OBA Leader Craig Cannonier said.
Mr. Cannonier said, “It has come to my attention that funding has not been made available by Government to employ lifeguards this summer.
“Lifeguards are an essential service and removing them from our beaches will put people’s lives at risk. I understand that Government is looking to save money due revenue shortfalls, but this needs to be urgently re-examined.
“With less overseas travel, more local people will be using the beaches this summer. Hopefully, also, we will at some stage start to welcome tourists again.
“If Government is being forced to make cuts like this, they must focus on non-essential services. They must also focus on cutting waste.
“The lifeguard service must be fully restored. Not doing so would be irresponsible.”
We asked the Government for comment and will update as able.
Protecting a bloated Civil Service on full pay and benefits is far more important than protecting the lives of the public. No votes in that.
If you’re Bermudian and go to the beach and can’t swim, a lifeguard is not what they need, its swimming lessons.
I agree and if you are Bermudian and can’t ride a bike you need driving lessons not paramedics….so let’s save money there also there also.
A sign that says swim at your own risk is cheaper and any left over change can educate the kids that didn’t have computers so that they don’t fall through the cracks.