TNN has been reliably informed there have been two more resignations at the Bermuda Tourism Authority.
This brings to 26 the number of resignations from the organisation in the last two years.
You would remember TNN reported first on what was described to us as a highly toxic environment at the entity charged with promoting the island as a tourism destination of choice.
At that time, the BTA issued a statement claiming that workers who felt aggrieved had the opportunity to approach management and avail themselves of the opportunity to have their concerns addressed.
A claim that former workers we spoke with scoffed at. Since then, an outside firm has been brought in to look at the goings on at the Authority.
However, that has reportedly led to greater disappointment for staff since what they hoped would be an investigation that leading to positive change, has now been watered down to a purported “culture review”.
A situation which is understood to have also caused some angst for Tourism Minister Owen Darrell. It is understood the Minister’s hands are tied when it comes to making changes to the BTA Board, which some staff contend would be a positive first step, in arriving at the change they say is necessary.
This, because the legislation governing the board states board members are appointed for a three year term and cannot be removed before that term expires.
The seemingly all powerful BTA board is chaired by government back benched Wayne Caines.
We’re told that staff are threatened with legal action should they go public with information about the BTA, with some having received golden handshakes and made to sign nondisclosure agreements to ensure they remain quiet after their departure.
Minister Darrell has reportedly expressed concern over the allegations being made about the manner in which BTA staff are being treated, but with a lack of hard evidence he is unable to take action.
TNN has reached out to Mr. Caines for comment we await a response, stay tuned to TNN for further updates on this story
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