Hamilton, Bermuda — TNN News
Corporation of Hamilton CEO Dwayne Caines is responding to growing public concern over the ongoing misuse of Queen Elizabeth Park, formerly known as Par-la-Ville Park, as the city ramps up enforcement efforts to preserve and protect public spaces.
In a candid conversation with TNN’s Trevor Lindsay, Mr. Caines addressed the visible shift in how the Corporation is handling issues of loitering, vagrancy, and park misuse, particularly as warmer months see an increase in individuals using the park after hours—some even sleeping there overnight.
Homelessness in Bermuda is not new. It is a complex, deeply rooted issue that our community has been grappling with for many years. It is not simply about people living rough—it is a reflection of unmet needs, broken systems, and personal traumas that have gone unaddressed for too long. In the aftermath of COVID-19, the visibility of homelessness has only increased, and so too has the urgency to respond with both compassion and practical action.
The causes of homelessness are layered. In some cases, it stems from untreated trauma or mental health challenges. In others, it is tied to substance use, lack of access to quality education and trades, insufficient job opportunities, or the absence of affordable housing. These are not isolated challenges. They are part of a broader social and economic landscape that requires a coordinated and long-term response.
Charities such as HOME and other dedicated organizations continue to play a crucial role. They understand, as we do, that this is not a problem that can be solved overnight or by one entity alone. Collaboration between social agencies, the government, businesses, and the wider community is essential if we are to make meaningful progress.
At the same time, we are seeing a growing concern among the public about the condition of our open spaces—particularly our city parks. Queen Elizabeth Park, in particular, has become a focal point. While the park should be a place of rest, reflection, and community, we are hearing increasing reports of anti-social behavior that compromise its safety and enjoyment for others.
Members of the public have shared concerns about the stench of urine and feces, the open consumption of alcohol, and the frequent use of loud and offensive language. Women and seniors, in particular, have told us they feel unsafe entering the park, especially in the evening. Many now avoid the space altogether.
It is important to clarify that our parks are open from sunrise to sundown. Anyone who is respectful, law-abiding, and mindful of others is welcome. However, when behavior becomes aggressive, threatening, or creates an unsafe environment, we must act. The Corporation of Hamilton has a responsibility to ensure our public spaces remain clean, welcoming, and safe for everyone—and that includes stepping in when the environment deteriorates to the point where it affects the broader public.
This is not about criminalizing homelessness. It is about managing the space in a way that balances compassion with accountability. The public has asked us to be more vigilant in addressing these concerns, and we have responded accordingly.
We acknowledge that there are no easy answers. But that cannot stop us from trying to find the right ones. We must continue to work toward a Bermuda where no one is forced to live on the streets and where our public spaces reflect dignity, care, and community for all.
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