Ministers Outline 2026/2027 Ministry Priorities

Minister of National Security Michael Weeks and Attorney-General Kim Wilkerson outlined their ministries’ 2026/2027 priorities at a joint post-Budget press conference.

Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Kim Wilkerson said, “Good morning, everyone.

“Bermudians rely on a justice system that is fair and works for everyone whether you are going to court, serving on a jury, turning your life around after making a mistake, or standing up for your rights.

“The Ministry of Justice is responsible for making sure our courts run smoothly, our laws are upheld, our correctional facilities are safe and focused on rehabilitation, and that constitutional rights are protected. We also oversee legal services for the Government.

“The Budget, presented in Parliament and debated by my Junior Minister, Dennis Lister III, yesterday, invests in strengthening these services, improving the efficiency of the courts, supporting rehabilitation, and ensuring that the rule of law remains strong in Bermuda.

“Our Ministry oversees some of Bermuda’s most essential institutions: the courts, corrections, Legal Aid and the systems that safeguard public safety and uphold our democratic values. These are the pillars of a just society, and maintaining and improving them is both our duty and our promise.

“This year, the Ministry of Justice has been allocated $63.24 million, an increase of $5.5 million from last year. This represents a strategic investment in public trust, improved service delivery, and stronger community safety. Let me walk you through some key initiatives and what they mean for Bermudians.

Modernising Corrections and Supporting Rehabilitation

“Our correctional facilities play an important role in keeping Bermuda safe. But they are not just about security, they are also about second chances. They help people take responsibility, learn new skills, and return to the community ready to live productive lives. When we invest in Corrections, we are investing in safer neighbourhoods, stronger families, and a better Bermuda overall.

“This year, the Department of Corrections has been allocated $26.9 million to support major improvements across the system. These upgrades will make our facilities more secure, more efficient, and better equipped for both staff and those in custody.

“A major focus is strengthening our frontline team. $20 million has been set aside to recruit additional correctional officers and cover their salaries. This will stabilise staffing levels to ensure our facilities remain safe, secure, and properly managed. Supporting our officers means a more supportive environment for everyone inside the system.

“We are also addressing long-standing issues within the facilities. $638,000 in capital funding will replace outdated furniture and essential fixtures. These upgrades may seem small, but they directly improve safety, daily operations, and the overall environment for staff and inmates alike.

“Another key step forward is the introduction of a new Corrections Management System. This modern electronic system will replace outdated manual processes, bringing Bermuda in line with international best practices. It will improve record-keeping, streamline sentence management, and strengthen oversight, making the system more secure, organised, and transparent.

“The additional funding will also go into prison refurbishments, focusing on upgrades to ageing buildings and infrastructure. These improvements again enhance safety and security, improve day-to-day operations, and ensure our facilities meet modern standards. They also follow the recommendations of the recent prison review, keeping us on the right path.

“Taken together, these investments strengthen Bermuda’s correctional system, support rehabilitation, and help build a justice system that we can be proud of.”

Enhancing Support for Treatment Courts and Probation

“The Department of Court Services plays a vital role in helping people get back on track through Bermuda’s treatment courts and probation services. These programmes provide structure, guidance, and supervision for individuals working to change their lives and are a lynch pin of our rehabilitative system. They are an essential part of a justice system focused not just on punishment, but on progress.

“This year, $5.5 million has been allocated to support this work. This funding will sustain staffing levels, strengthen partnerships across the justice system and improve processes to make services more efficient and effective, with an acute focus on domestic abuse reform.

“These investments show our commitment to rehabilitation, accountability and safer communities for the long term.

Supporting the Department of Public Prosecutions

“The Department of Public Prosecutions has been allocated $4.4 million this year to carry out its mandate. Part of this funding will support preparations for the 2027 International Prosecutors Conference, a major event that will bring legal professionals from around the world to Bermuda.

“Hosting this conference puts Bermuda on the global stage and highlights the professionalism and high standards of our prosecutors. It also provides the chance to learn from international colleagues, share best practices, and strengthen prosecutorial work here at home.

“By welcoming the global prosecutorial community, we build stronger international relationships, support professional development, and continue to develop a justice system that is modern, respected, and effective.

Strengthening the Ministry’s Core Services

“The Ministry’s headquarters supports the systems that protect Bermuda’s reputation and uphold the integrity of our justice system.

“This year’s Budget includes $376,000 to meet the Ministry’s obligations under the National Anti-Money Laundering Committee [NAMLC] framework. This funding ensures we stay aligned with international standards for combatting money laundering and the financing of terrorism, protecting Bermuda’s global reputation and financial stability. Furthermore, the Financial Intelligence unit has been allocated $2.25 million.

“The Budget also facilitates the relocation of the Legal Aid Office. This move will create a more efficient workspace for staff and improve accessibility for clients.

“Together, these investments strengthen the Ministry’s ability to meet national and international obligations while improving the quality and accessibility of services for the people of Bermuda. Additionally, there will be a review of the Legal Aid system to ensure it continues to have the desired impact.

“On the matter of jury reform, the nationwide consultations have now concluded, and the feedback received from the public has been invaluable. We will be moving forward with the recommendations that emerged from that process, with the goal of modernizing how juries are selected, supported and managed in Bermuda.

Acknowledgements

“Finally, I want to thank the dedicated teams within the Ministry of Justice who work hard every day to turn our plans into real results. I am continually impressed by the professionalism, skill and commitment of our officers, staff and everyone supporting our justice system.

“To the people of Bermuda; your support, your feedback, and your patience mean more than I can say. We are not simply maintaining a system. We are, together, shaping a justice system that is stronger, fairer and fit for the future.

“Thank you.”

Minister of National Security Michael Weeks said, “Good morning, everyone, and thank you for being here.

“Last week, the Honourable Premier delivered the 2026/2027 Budget under the theme “Responsible Choices, Lasting Benefits for Bermudians.”

“Today, I will outline how that theme is reflected in the Ministry of National Security’s priorities for the 2026 to 2027 fiscal year.

“Our total Ministry budget is one hundred thirty-six million, nine hundred and eighty-nine dollars [$136,989,000].

“This represents a nine-million-dollar [$9 million] increase, or 7 percent, over the adjusted 2025 to 2026 budget.

“That nine-million-dollar [$9 million] increase supports specific and deliberate priorities.

“It covers recently awarded salary uplifts for all employees in our Ministry. These salary uplifts are the result of very productive negotiations with our Union partners.

“Our budget allocation provides funding for recruitment to fill vacant posts in the departments in our Ministry, which are the Royal Bermuda Regiment, the Bermuda Police Service, the Customs Department, the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service, and the Bermuda National Drug Control. I am particularly pleased that we shall be able to fund new posts within the Royal Bermuda Regiment Coast Guard, in order to enhance our maritime operations and increase our border control capability.

“These are responsible investments in the people who protect this country and provide a safe environment in which we can live and our children can grow.

“Within that same operational increase, we are expanding violence prevention and intervention work as part of our National Violence Reduction Strategy.

“Funding from the 2026/2027 budget supports expanded education and counselling programmes delivered through what is now known as the Violence Reduction Team.

“This team was formerly referred to as the Gang Violence Reduction Team. We are now using the title Violence Reduction Team to reflect the broader scope of its work.

“The VRT engages directly in our communities, providing prevention, intervention and support services designed to keep young people away from violence and anti-social behaviour.

“This includes school visits, mediation, mentorship and connecting individuals with positive opportunities that steer them toward productive paths rather than cycles of harm.

“Operational funding also supports counselling services for individuals and families affected by violence. The 2026/2027 budget also supports continued anti-violence campaigns.

“These campaigns are designed to reach young people directly, using messages and platforms they engage with, so we can challenge harmful narratives early and reinforce positive choices before violence takes root.

“Public awareness initiatives are designed to reinforce early intervention, reduce stigma around seeking support, and encourage community responsibility.

“Funding has again been allocated for grants to community organisations, such as the Bermuda Football Association and several other entities, to improve their security and facilities. These grants will enhance the safety at venues throughout the island while assisting organisations in providing programmes in a safe and secure environment. This will aid in the achievement of the goals of our violence reduction strategy, particularly in the realm of prevention.

“In addition, funding has been allocated to implement an Adolescent Substance Abuse Treatment programme.

“Substance abuse and violence are often connected, particularly among young people who lack support and guidance. Early, structured treatment interrupts that cycle before it escalates into criminal behaviour. Addressing addiction directly, while providing preventative programmes, is a responsible way to reduce long-term social and economic costs.

“The 2026/2027 allocation also includes funding for a grant to Dignity House.

“Dignity House provides structured transitional housing and support services to men seeking stability and reintegration. Supporting rehabilitation is a responsible choice, and when individuals are given structure and accountability, the wider community benefits.

“I would like to now highlight our capital funding allocation for 2026/2027.

“A total of nine-point three million dollars [$9.3 million] has been allocated for capital projects in the next fiscal year.

“These funds are separate from operational spending and are dedicated to equipment, infrastructure, and long-term asset improvement.

“For the Royal Bermuda Regiment Coast Guard, capital funding will cover the cost of new vessels and engines that are needed to replace the existing ageing fleet and to expand its long-term maritime capability.

“A Coast Guard maintenance shed will also be constructed to support upkeep of those assets, which operate in demanding and sometimes harsh conditions.

“A purpose-built maintenance shed allows for routine servicing and repairs to be carried out safely and consistently, ensuring reliability during emergency response operations.

“For the Bermuda Police Service, capital funding will provide vehicles, a new records management system, and extensive renovations to Police Headquarters.

“These are practical investments for the BPS that improve response capability, improve accountability, and ensure officers have a safe and functional working environment.

“When the Police have reliable equipment and modern systems, the public receives a better, faster, and more effective service.

“The Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service will receive funding for a new fire truck at a cost of approximately $850,000. This replaces ageing equipment and ensures that frontline crews have reliable apparatus when responding to emergencies. Public safety communications systems will also be upgraded.

“Within the Customs Department, capital funding has been allocated for the construction of a purpose-built facility to house a new dock scanner.

“Effective border control requires modern and reliable infrastructure. A properly housed scanning system improves inspection capability, protects sensitive equipment from environmental wear, and ensures consistent and efficient screening of cargo entering the island.

“This investment bolsters operational oversight at our ports and reinforces our commitment to maintaining secure and orderly trade.

“Border protection must evolve alongside changing threats, and this funding ensures that Customs officers are supported with the tools and infrastructure required to perform their duties diligently and effectively.

“All of these capital projects are practical investments. They increase operational capability, improve readiness, and support long-term effectiveness.

“When we speak about responsible choices, this investment is what that means in real terms.

“We are investing in personnel. We are investing in prevention. We are investing in infrastructure. We are investing in equipment that will serve Bermuda for years to come.

“The safety and security of this country require steady, disciplined, and strategic planning. This budget reflects that approach and will have a direct impact on the welfare and safety for all those who call Bermuda home.

“Thank you.”

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