Michael Fahy On Caricom, Referendum & More
“Surely the ultimate public consultation on a matter of such national importance is asking the people of Bermuda whether they desire to become full members of Caricom,” Shadow Home Affairs Minister Michael Fahy said.
A spokesperson said, “Why is the Government refusing to agree to put the question of full Caricom membership to the people of Bermuda via referendum?
“This coming from Shadow Home Affairs Minister Fahy today after he asked Minister of Home Affairs Alexa Lighbourne the question, only to be given an answer which was confusing and evasive at best.”
Mr Fahy said, “That question could not have been more simple or straightforward. Really it could have been a yes or no answer. The Minster refused to commit to a referendum. Given the multiple surveys published by Government from questions on road signage to cost of living surely the ultimate public consultation on a matter of such national importance is asking the people of Bermuda whether they desire to become full members of Caricom.”
“Given that just last week agreement was reached at the Caricom Heads of State conference for Barbados, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Belize and Dominica to allow for free movement of their nationals between them including for work, education and healthcare it is all the more important to understand whether the Bermuda Government would consider doing the same.”
A spokesperson added, “Mr Fahy making it clear that he is supportive of free movement under some circumstances especially where it would benefit the Bermuda economy and economic growth.”
“Adding, that given the Barbados Caricom Ambassador’s excitement at the news since Barbados requires approximately 100,000 people to grow their economy it would make sense for Bermuda to consider limited free movement to boost jobs and Bermuda’s economy since Bermuda needs 8000 people to boost its economic fortunes.
“Mr Fahy expressed surprise that consultation was not already underway when he asked about the publication of a Green Paper that the Minister said would be published in the first quarter of 2026.”
“Given the massive reliance on our international business partners for the Government’s budget, surely consultation at least informally should have started.”
In response to the Home Affairs Minister saying she is waiting for a draft agreement from Caricom, Mr Fahy says: “Surely given we have been an associate member of Caricom for over 20 years the Government can make a case for the benefits. The Government has been waiting for a draft agreement for over a year. Perhaps the reason for the delay is due to the outspoken opposition by the Government to Article 45 that Member States commit themselves to the goal of free movement of their nationals within the community.”
Once again Fahy is right, but so many of you think he’s the big bad wolf. In truth he’s the only capable one in the building and should be leading an effective opposition.