King: Violent Crime A Crisis, Not Political Football
“This is not a game and to suggest that this is a political football is abhorrent. Far too many peoples’ sons and daughters have lost their lives to gun violence. The Government has a responsibility to shape policy and ensure that the law operates to safeguard the community. We must provide those incarcerated and in the community with real opportunities for rehabilitation and permanent reintegration into the community”, Shadow National Security Minister Robert King said.
Robert King said, “Restorative Justice was supposed to be resourced and implemented under the Alternative to Incarceration legislation that was enacted in 2001. However, this key component was never implemented and resourced.
“Minister Weeks’ sentiments cannot and should not overshadow the actual pain and suffering of the victims who are retraumatized every time another shooting is reported. The Government, as stewards of this community, must do all that is necessary to reduce serious crime in our community. They must do the right things that work to reduce violence and death on our 21 square mile island.
“If the Minister of National Security is serious about protecting our shores and the community, he will inform the public why the HM Customs and Immigration Dock on Ordinance island is still inoperable.
“This dock facility plays a critical role in protecting the island, it is the point of entry for vessels arriving in Bermuda and customs officers must have the facilities to prevent dangerous weapons, drugs, substances, people and other prohibited articles entering our community.
“Why was the dock not made a priority for repair when, as confirmed by his answer to a Parliamentary question in the House, that he was informed by his Permanent Secretary in October 2024 about the unsafe dock? I understand that the dock has not been fit for use since April 2024.
“Minister Weeks says that he is serious about protecting this community, yet money was allocated to fix Sandys Dock and another at Mangrove Bay and not the HM Customs and Immigration vessel reporting facility in St George’s.
“I am angered by the hubris of Minister Weeks who suggests that the government is doing all it can to prevent violence and death, when the truth is the words don’t match the actions.
“When will the HM Customs and Immigration dock be repaired, Minister Weeks?”
