Earlier today Premier the Hon. David Burt spoke with the members of the Bermuda Fisherman Association on the ground of the cabinet office, here’s what the Premier said.
Mr. Bean, Members of the Fisherman’s Association of Bermuda Executive, Fisherman, Family, Constituents, everyone gathered here today. This petition confirms the commitment of Bermuda’s fishermen to a thriving fishing industry and a sustainable marine environment. This is a commitment also shared by the Government.
It is critical that the effort to preserve Bermuda’s marine environment is informed by the experience and expertise of the people who know the sea and the fishing industry. It is unfortunate that the communication has broken down and led to this point, but I hope today to encourage a dialogue that allows our policies to be developed with that knowledge and to have it fully understood and appreciated. This is an opportunity to hear directly from the representatives of Bermuda’s fishermen, and I look forward to encouraging all parties to fully engage in the open, public consultative process.
All those who participate can be assured that their views will be taken into account. What is most critical is that we agree to share and exchange views in support of what I believe is a common goal.
Since 2013 when the Progressive Labour Party was in opposition, we have spoken about the development of the blue economy and the importance of this process. We recognise that it is the responsibility of the Government to not only hear concerns but to listen intently to what is expressed. What is clear is that we all want the same thing, a stable and prosperous future for all of Bermuda’s People.
Earlier this week, I spoke with President Bean for over an hour to understand his concerns on this matter. And today, along with the Deputy Premier and Minister of Home Affairs, the Junior Minister of Home Affairs Senator Lindsay Simmons, and MP Chris Famous, and we will be going to the Cabinet Chamber to meet with the executive of the Fisherman’s Association of Bermuda Association to continue this important dialogue in a respectful form and hopefully reach a place where your concerns are heard and we can advance Bermuda’s economy.
Thank you for your time and I look forward to our meeting which will take place now.
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