Chamber Concerns: Bill, Timing, Consultation
[Updated] The Bermuda Chamber of Commerce expressed their “concerns regarding the recent tabling of the Employment Amendment Act 2023″ saying “it is alarming that neither the Chamber nor the industries it represents were consulted” and the “timing of the bill’s debate amidst Government closures, with the challenges posed in reaching Government officials, raises further concerns.”
A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Chamber of Commerce expresses its concerns regarding the recent tabling of the Employment Amendment Act 2023 by Minister Jason Hayward in the House of Assembly last Friday.
“It is alarming that neither the Chamber nor the industries it represents were consulted or even provided with a copy of the bill. After several appeals to multiple departments to obtain the document, a copy was ultimately provided by the Office of the Opposition.
“The timing of the bill’s debate amidst Government closures, with the challenges posed in reaching Government officials, raises further concerns. It remains unclear why Minister Hayward is advancing this legislation so rapidly, especially when the government has expressed its commitment to collaborating with industry.
“This collaboration aims to ensure legislative actions align with the Government’s goals of business growth, increased employment, and a more prosperous Bermuda for all stakeholders.
“The Chamber believes in the importance of Government-industry collaboration, to ensure that legislative measures do not inadvertently harm the very sectors they aim to protect.
“Proper consultation is paramount to prevent:
- Adverse effects on those the government seeks to safeguard.
- Negative repercussions on businesses, potentially leading to job losses or closures.
- Increased costs passed on to consumers.
- Creation of legislative loopholes that fail to hold accountable those operating against the intended spirit of the law.
“The lack of prior consultation often results in ambiguous language, undefined terms, and overall reduced efficacy of the legislation.
“The Chamber urges Minister Hayward to reconsider the pace at which this legislation is being pushed forward. Engaging in meaningful dialogue with industry representatives can help prevent unintended consequences that might arise from the act.
“The Chamber reiterates its position as a bridge between the Government and industries, fostering open communication and driving progress for a better Bermuda.”
Update Oct 1, 2.40pm: The Bermuda Chamber of Commerce said they want to clarify a statement in this recent press release, noting that a consultation was offered, and said they “deeply regret any confusion that our initial statement may have caused” and “apologise for any inaccuracies in our previous press release.” Read their full statement here.
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