Govt Lost Procedural Vote, Education Bill Delayed
“The Government lost a procedural vote, put forward by the OBA, which brought consideration of the Education Authority Bill to a halt,” Premier, and PLP Leader David Burt said.
Premier Burt said, “That should not have happened. As Premier and Leader of the Progressive Labour Party, I fully accept responsibility.
“I was not in my seat, as I was attending a private engagement. Other ministers and backbenchers were also absent. Whatever our individual arrangements, it was our responsibility to ensure that the people’s business could continue, and we fell short.
“I give full credit to the Minister of Education, the Hon. Diallo Rabain, his team and everyone who has contributed to bringing this legislation before Parliament. Their work deserves recognition, and Bermuda’s children deserve our full commitment to seeing it through.
“The Minister first briefed the One Bermuda Alliance on 18 September, seven weeks ago, and provided a second briefing on 30 October. The OBA has had the Bill since it was tabled on 2 October. Yet, on the eve of debate, the Opposition Leader requested a delay and sent a list of proposals without drafted amendments to the legislation. The OBA has spoken at length about amendments. It now needs to put those amendments before Parliament.
“Based on feedback from stakeholders over the last five weeks, the Government has already prepared specific amendments to strengthen the appointment process and give the Authority greater control over publishing its own reports. We are committed to getting this right.
“The Bill also provides for reporting on student outcomes and financial performance. Detailed arrangements for future school governance will be developed through consultation and brought back to Parliament. That work is part of the reform process, and the Minister has explained it clearly.
“The Opposition now has the additional time it requested. I am asking Mr Smith to submit its proposed legislative amendments in time for the Cabinet Committee on Education Reform to consider them when it meets on Tuesday, 10 November. We will consider constructive proposals that improve the Bill and serve our children.
“Earlier, we announced further tax relief for workers and businesses. Delivering that relief, advancing education reform and carrying out the people’s business require us to be present and ready to complete the work.
“The Education Authority Bill remains before the House. When Parliament returns on Friday, 20 November, we will resume its consideration and advance this important reform. This setback does not diminish that commitment. Bermuda’s children have waited long enough, and we have a duty to get this work done.”
