Minister Hayward Honors Tribunal Service
Minister Jason Hayward commended the Employment and Labour Relations Tribunal for its continued dedication to fairness and professionalism during yesterday’s Recognition Breakfast.
A Government spokesperson said, “Yesterday [10 December], the Minister of Economy and Labour, the Hon. Jason Hayward, JP, MP, delivered remarks at the Employment and Labour Relations Tribunal Recognition Breakfast, expressing gratitude for the Tribunal’s continued dedication to fairness, professionalism, and the rule of law.
“Addressing the Chief Justice, Chair, Tribunal members, and guests, Minister Hayward highlighted the Tribunal’s essential role in upholding Bermuda’s Employment and Labour Code.”
“Your work this year has helped clarify rights and obligations under the law, providing certainty for workers, employers, unions, and the public at large,” he stated. “By resolving disputes efficiently and fairly, the Tribunal helps to reduce the social and economic costs associated with unresolved labour conflicts.”
A Government spokesperson added, “The Minister acknowledged the wide range of matters addressed by the Tribunal in 2025, including unfair dismissal, redundancy, minimum wage, benefits, and union-related disputes, and underscored the value of a balanced panel comprising employer and employee representatives as well as experienced legal practitioners.”
“Your work this year has helped clarify rights and obligations under the law,” Minister Hayward said, “providing certainty for workers, employers, unions, and the public at large.”
A Government spokesperson added, “During the event, the Minister also extended heartfelt thanks and congratulations to three long-serving Tribunal members who are retiring this year:
- Ms. Betty Christopher – over 23 years of service
- Mr. Gary Phillips – over 23 years of service
- Mr. Clevelyn Crichlow – over 20 years of service
“Their commitment, wisdom, and leadership have strengthened the Tribunal and contributed to a more just and equitable labour landscape in Bermuda,” Minister Hayward noted. “We are deeply grateful for their years of distinguished service.”
A Government spokesperson added, “Looking ahead, the Minister reaffirmed the Government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the Tribunal’s legislative and administrative framework to ensure it continues to function independently, effectively, and transparently.”
“As we move forward, we remain committed to fostering fair, productive workplaces across Bermuda,” he concluded. “I thank every member of the Tribunal for your contributions and look forward to our continued partnership.”
Hayward just loves to Honor anyone. I thank all those that devote their time to working on tribunals however the Employment Tribunal process I must say is in the dark ages. The tribunal works at a snails pace and the statement ‘expressing gratitude for the Tribunal’s continued dedication to fairness, professionalism, and the rule of law’ couldn’t be further from the truth. The tribunal needs a complete overhaul. They take their sweet time, consistently delaying and then make up their own rules. Nothing is fair with the tribunal. It would be nice if they had a review of the Tribunal and updated it, made the process smoother and actually followed the law.
When I went to school “Honor” was spelt “Honour”.
I guess our former Premier is getting his way, we are becoming American.