Michael DeSilva Appointed As Ombudsman
Government House announced the appointment of Michael DeSilva as the next Ombudsman of Bermuda.
A spokesperson said, “Mr DeSilva will succeed Ms Victoria Pearman, whose term of office expires on 16 March 2022.
“This appointment follows an open and competitive recruitment process and a recommendation received from the advisory panel established to interview the candidates.”
Governor Rena Lalgie, said: “I am pleased to announce the appointment of Mr DeSilva as the next Ombudsman.
“The Ombudsman is a role fundamental to good governance and fairness, giving the members of the public a means of resolving problems which may crop up in dealing with the public service – and where necessary holding systems to account. Mr DeSilva’s commitment to public service, experience and extensive qualifications will stand him in good stead for the job’s challenges and responsibilities.”
Mr DeSilva said: “I am very grateful to Her Excellency the Governor and her advisory panel for their confidence to appoint me as the Ombudsman for Bermuda.
“I am honoured by this unique and exciting opportunity to return to public service. I plan to continue the work of my accomplished predecessors who built the office’s solid reputation of providing complaint resolutions that are independent, impartial, and fair.”
The Governor said: “Ms Pearman has been a remarkable and impressive Ombudsman. I am extremely grateful for her service. She has maintained widespread respect for the office here and earned high regard among the wider Ombudsman community in the Commonwealth and beyond, gaining respect for Bermuda as well.”
Mr DeSilva has over 30 years’ experience as a law enforcement officer having joined the Bermuda Police Service as a cadet in 1985, moving up the ranks to become Deputy Commissioner in 2008 and Commissioner in 2009. He served as the Commissioner of Police until his retirement in 2018. He holds a Master of Business Administration degree and a post-graduate diploma in Strategic Management, and is also a chartered manager and fellow of the Chartered Management Institute of the UK.
Congratulations.
Who could have seen that coming?
Another ploy by PLP to get votes.
Guy was not even a good COP.
Not appointed by PLP government. But by the Governor. Derek Burgess spoke out against the appointment in the house.
WTF?
He’s a better person than you, or any of your spawn.
You’re just a racist…dismissed.
You’re not puzzled, you’re a pathetic bigot.
First non lawyer to be appointed to the post in Bermuda. Hope there are lawyers on the staff.
Shouldn’t this position be occupied by an experienced lawyer?
The first Ombudsman in Bermuda who is not a lawyer. This should be interesting.
Mr. DeSilva spent his career interpreting and applying the legislation. Further, one might like to do some research on his extra-policing experience. One might be pleasantly surprised.
Jobs for the boys yet again
this current arrogant govt won’t listen anyway, as per usual they do whatbthey want when and how. And according to Derrick Burgess the most eloquent he is white HOW ALARMING, t3ells me exactly what that party is about.
Congratulations, Triplet. The Appointment will be in good hands.
Congrats on your appointment!
Typical racists, you’re so concerned about his skin colour…you’re blinded by your hypocrisy.
Disgusting bigots.