What Brown Can Do For You

Royal Gazette Opinion, 27 January 2005 (unedited version, with the pun on the UPS slogan still intact in the title)

Last Monday, Minister of Tourism Dr. Ewart Brown delivered a speech in which he outlined the Government’s plan for reviving Bermuda’s tourist industry.

On the whole, it was a good speech that suggested the Minister has thought seriously about the issue. It articulated several goals and detailed a number of initiatives that will be undertaken to achieve them. It would be nice to hear something similar from Randy Horton on crime or Ashfield DeVent on housing.

But when the next election rolls around and Bermudians are evaluating the Government’s performance on tourism while deciding how to vote, how will they know if it achieved those goals? And will they even remember that the Government made them?

After I started my first job, one of the first things I learned was how to formulate a set of objectives. I was told that the goals I set should be SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-limited (‘Achievable’ means the goal is theoretically possible for somebody under ideal circumstances, ‘Realistic’ means it’s possible for you under current circumstances).

A SMART objective fosters accountability by ensuring the conditions for success are clearly specified. At the same time, it guards against the de-motivation and disappointment that can result from failing to meet an over-ambitious target. However, the fact that SMART objectives are hard to wiggle out of makes them unpopular with politicians. They usually prefer to keep their goals as vague as possible lest it count against them at the next election.

So how do Dr. Brown’s recent pledges stand up to the SMART criteria?

His first objective is to “increase air arrivals to 400,000 over the next 3 years”. Well, that’s certainly specific, measurable, achievable and time-limited. Is it realistic? The last time Bermuda had that many air arrivals was 1994; in 2004 they’d declined to around 270,000. Hitting Dr. Brown’s target will require an increase in air arrivals of 16% per year for the next three years. I fear the Minister may be setting himself up to fail.

The second objective is to “achieve our daily carrying capacity through effective management of cruise arrivals”. This isn’t quite as SMART. The World Tourism Organisation defines carrying capacity as “the maximum number of people that may visit a tourist destination at the same time, without causing destruction of the physical, economic, socio-cultural environment and an unacceptable decrease in the quality of visitors' satisfaction”. Hmm, I’d say Bermuda’s carrying capacity was about 1,563, wouldn’t you? This goal may be relatively specific, but it’s completely unmeasurable and not time-limited.

Dr. Brown’s third and fourth objectives – “increase key visitor experience ‘complete satisfaction’ indicators by 10%” and “increase per person visitor spending by 7%” – are better. Both are reasonably specific and measurable. They may be achievable and realistic too, although without the addition of a timescale it’s hard to judge.

The last goal – “increase Tourism Department efficiency, effectiveness and productivity” – is so woolly that at first I mistook it for a sheep. Small productivity improvements may be achievable and realistic, but what form would they take, how would they be measured and when should we expect to see them? The intent is laudable but if Dr. Brown is serious about improving the department he needs to set some concrete targets by which any improvement can be measured.

Fortunately, solving Bermuda’s tourism woes boils down to bringing more people here and persuading them to spend more. Dr. Brown’s objectives in these areas are pretty good. But politicians are notorious for making promises that are never heard of again.

This can be a good thing if the promise was a poor one anyway. It wasn’t very long ago that Dr. Brown was suggesting we should measure Bermuda’s success as a tourist destination by looking at the percentage of available beds occupied, rather than raw arrival numbers. That metric was flawed as it could show an increase even if arrivals and visitor spending were falling. Fortunately, Dr. Brown made no further mention of it last Monday and his new objectives suggest an acceptance that arrival numbers are important after all.

Sometimes, however, governments the world over have a habit of quietly dropping a promise if they realise they can no longer keep it. Memories are short and unless the media or Opposition pick up on it, the government’s failure will go largely unnoticed. Eternal vigilance, as they say, is the price of liberty; it’s probably the only solution here too.

Bermuda’s next election is less than three years away. Although some of them could be more specific, Dr. Brown’s objectives will provide a decent measure of the Government’s success in turning tourism around when polling day comes.

Comments

[Diane on 27.01.05 at 10:51]

Who wants to spend a vacation on an island where you might get mugged, or chopped up with a machete? Until the bunch of "clowns" who call themselves the police, turn into a real "kick-butt" deterrent to crime, we will not be back. It is a shame that Bermuda has gone down the toilet under the PLP government, because we really came to love this island over a period of some 30 years of visiting this one-time paradise.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 11:34]

Diane,

I take very strong offense to your comments about the Government in my country. Say what you will but crime exist in every country on the face of the earth. Bermuda is no different, just because it is seen by some as a paradise does not mean that it does not have social problems.

So you are saying that because Bermuda has crime you will not be back. Are you then prepared to barracade yourself in your house because I'm sure there is crime in your country, right in your home town, probably on the street where you live.

The reality is that you are still more likely to be the target of a crime in your home country than you are in Bermuda. I would rather defend myself against someone with a cutlass than with a gun.

Unlike you, I live in the real world and acknowledge the existence of crime and remain aware of my surroundings but I do not live in fear of crime.

[loki on 27.01.05 at 11:43]

Guilden,

I appreciate that you don't actually live in Bermuda but, if you did, you would realise that there has been a marked increase in violent crime, against tourists in particular over the past seven or eight years. There has also been a marked increase in anti-social behaviour over the same period. Not just a little increase, but a lot. No, we are not up there with many major cities in terms of crime and ant-social behaviour but, believe me, I don't know anyone on the island who wouldn't admit that we are seeing a very worrying trend. The problem is exagerrated to some degree by the press, but that is because this is a relatively new phenomenon.

[Onion on 27.01.05 at 12:01]

Diane, don't be so daft!

PLP has not run this country into the toilet. That is a really narrow-minded and biased comment.
What do you think the island was like in 1998??? No crime, no drugs, no violence??

Bermuda's crime just reflects the increase that has taken place over the whole world. This is not a utopia. But where else in the world can you still have a crime rate as low as Bermuda?

Go home to your safe country wherever that is. I'm tired of listenng to such foolishness.

Be realistic please.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 12:03]

Loki,

If you have ever studied economics you will have noted that as a economy expands there are those that are left behind and do not feel they are benefitting from this expansion. This leads to an increased rate of crime.

Bermuda's economy has grown tremendously over the past 7 or 8 years. Just look at the new insurance and reinsurance capital tha has been injected into new companies operating out of Bermuda.

Many unskilled, uneducated hae been, in many ways, excluded for the economy and this, rightly or wrongly has increased the rate of crime.

I am just sick and tired of people trying to place the blame on the Government. The police force is adequately manned and has the autonomy to do what is necessary to curtain crime. As I mentioned in a post under another topic Bermuda has more police officers on a per capita basis than does New York City. What more can the Government do about crime in Bermuda?

Crime rates are increasing world wide, including here in the Bahamas but I just read a report today that the number of tourist visting the Bahamas has now surpassed 5 million. Most people realise that crime exists and there are certain precautions you must take. That is all I am saying.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 12:04]

Onion,

Thank you very much. But like they say ignorance is bliss.

[Andrew on 27.01.05 at 13:43]

Guilden,

I agree with your economical perspective on one possible cause of an increase in crime. However, when you suggest that the police force is adequately manned, I think you actually mean that they are not adequately manned. Here are just a few examples.

http://www.theroyalgazette.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20040329/NEWS/103290031&SearchID=73197347699216

From a police source: “Officers have to deal with…real emergencies. It would be hard to find time for this (enforcing a law), particularly as we are undermanned.” March 29, 2004

http://www.theroyalgazette.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20031114/MIDOCEAN/111140115&SearchID=73197347699216

“Growing incidents of violent crime [are] threatening the quality of life on the island and Government need[s] to urgently adopt a…plan to bolster Bermuda’s overworked, undermanned Police Service.” November 11, 2003

http://www.theroyalgazette.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20030303/NEWS/103030005&SearchID=73197347699216

Club and Bar owners met “with Police and fire officials after claiming they could take no more trouble from drink and drug-soaked youths. They said they were fearing for Bermuda's tourist trade once the cruise ship season begins in April, and said they were tired of hearing that the Police Service was undermanned.” March 3, 2003

I find this last one particularly contradictory to your point:

http://www.theroyalgazette.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20021211/OPINION/112110064&SearchID=73197347699216

“It should be a major concern when there are apparently only two officers on mobile patrol for all three eastern parishes…It is also fair to assume that the same situation exists in the central parishes and the West End” December 11, 2002

A simple search of the Royal Gazette’s website with keywords “police” and “undermanned” turned up these articles and many more. I simply want to bring you in on some minor details about Bermuda because, as far as I can gather, you are currently not a resident.

[Philip Barnett on 27.01.05 at 13:49]

With all due respect Guilden,

What other city/region in other first world countries with a population of 60,000 has the murders, theft, drug trade, and general open lawlessness that we seemingly have in Bermuda today? Yes Diane's attack on the PLP as the sole reason for the increase in crime may be incorrect, but we need to look past her misguided blame and instead focus on what I see is the underlying message. She is clearly saying that she USED to come to Bermuda because it was a "paradise" unlike anything she could experience in her country. Antisocial behaviour and criminal activity is on the rise, and we as a Bermudian society must stamp it out. As a voter in this country, as a business owner dependent on Tourism in this country, but most importantly as a father of two children in this country, I demand that the elected officials of this country do something about the current state of affairs.

We have not nor ever should be like "every country on the face of the earth". If "every country" wishes to let crime and violence spiral out of control, that is their choice. I choose to demand that our leaders take a zero tolerance approach to the problem, demand more "Policing" out of our police, and allocate more of the public purse as necessary to eradicate the problem. You and I both have an inalienable right to walk down Front Street, Court Street, or in King's Square at night without fear of violent attacks; my children have the inalienable right to attend a football game without the horror of all out gang warfare erupting with unspeakable violence and what must be absolute hatred (which is the only seeming explanation for someone to mercilessly chop at another human being's prone figure with a machete).

It must start with a swift and unrelenting counterattack against the currently exhibited behaviour and lawlessness, THEN we can methodically attack the reasons that led to our current situation. To use an analogy, if someone is having a heart attack in front of you, do you sit down and muse what lead to his heart attack (smoking, poor diet, drug abuse, alcohol abuse, lack of physical exercise) and watch him die, or do you roll your sleeves up, administer CPR, and save his life first?

Me? I choose to roll my sleeves up, and try and save Tourism. You have to understand, visitors will only come and spend money in the local economy if it IS the "Paradise Bermuda"; not because it WAS the "former Paradise Bermuda".

I give the Honourable Minister, Dr. Brown my full attention as he Talks The Talk, and openly applaud him for his message. Now, can he Walk The Walk? More, can he get his fellow Cabinet Minister's to? If not, the Diane's of this world will certainly walk... to anywhere else but here.

[jake on 27.01.05 at 14:11]

Diane,

Welcome back to the Limey site.

I agree with you that there is much work to be done to take the battle against crime and perpetual criminals to their doorstep. I too am tired of feeling like lawlessness rules the day.

Bermuda is trying to improve our tourism product in earnest. We would love for you to come back. Honestly. Just be sure that there are many Bermudians who are as fed up as you are. If you allow us a little time to spread the message that we do have a problem that deserves national aattention, and then work those problems out, we hope you will once again return to your home away from home. 30 years is a long time. We don't want to spoil that relationship.

I am a PLP supporter, and believe me, we are very concerned too.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 14:26]

Andrew,

Thank you for bringing those articles to my attention. However, I refer you to the follwoing web page:

http://www.bermuda.org.uk/bermuda_police.htm

You will note the following comment on the page:

"The islands boast probably the highest number of police officers per head of population of any where in the world."

It also state "the island plays at policing - it is more a hobby than a profession."

Who's fault is that? Is it the fault of the Government or is it the fault of the Police Force hierarchy?

If Bermuda has more police officers per head of population then anywhere else in the world the force cannot be under-manned, it has to come down to improper administration and utilisation of the force. How many officers are charged with policing traffic versus those assigned other areas of the force? You have to admit that police officer in Bermuda place a great deal of emphasis on traffic violations.

[Onion on 27.01.05 at 14:31]

Philip,

To say we have a high crime rate for a tiny country is misleading. Bermuda has one of the highest everything in the world. Per square mile we have the most golf courses, churches, schools, houses, AIDS, money$$$, dogs, cats, fleas, etc etc etc. We are a dense country and so of course we have a high percentage of good and bad things.

However, let us not be so simplistic as to say our crime is the result of poor policing. Neither a bigger police force nor bigger prisons will solve the problem. What is the root of the problem?

There is no excuse for anyone to be weilding a machete at someone in any public place or rioting on the streets. However, when we have international business driving up the price of rent and property, less Bermudians can afford to buy or rent. So they turn to crime. We brag about how great our int'l biz is but if you are not educated you cannot participate or benefit. So you turn to crime. When marijuana is worth more per ounce than gold in Bermuda (literally!!) you turn to crime. When you come up through a UBP public education system (which unfortunately is carried on by the PLP), a system that has failed the majority of Bermudians (outside of Berkely, WA), they turn to crime. Crime is inexcusable, and there is NO justification for it!! But the answer is NOT just in the police. You must look at the root cause of the problem.

As the Colonel said on tv, a lot of these guys who come into the Regiment have no concept of responsibility, they've never had a father in their life, their peers are all into buying and selling drugs, and they see no great future for themselves. Many of these guys, when given discipline for the first time manage to turn their lives around and become outstanding members of society. They are all very intelligent individuals. These same guys are the ones working around the clock cleaning up your street after Hurrican Fabian. These are the same ones who VOLUNTEERED to go to Caymans for a month to help fix up their country.

Maybe this should give us a clue about how to resolve our crime rate.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 14:36]

Onion,

Good post.

[shipstones on 27.01.05 at 15:17]

Drugs and and gangs are reason for increased crime! Nobody steals money from a car unless he is desperate. It is not the food its the hit he needs! Solve the drug problem, solve the crime problem. You can't employ or educate someone on drugs, they just can't concentrate on anything but drugs.
How about teaching the seven principles of clean living. Make it "in" to be "clean"!
Guilden,
When you are here next go to the magistrates court and sit and watch and listen to the people detained and what they are detained for etc. See how they react between each other. There is a seperate society which shuns everything about law and order!
By the way if there are so many policemen, where are they???

[Diane on 27.01.05 at 15:27]

Thank you both Philip and Jake for your very insightful comments. The only reason I blamed the PLP for the current state of lawlessness is that since they have been in power the atmosphere in Bermuda has become unspeakably violent. Having known the way Bermuda was before, our family is in a state of shock at the type of just plain mean-spirited crime that prevails on the island. Perhaps someone could also answer the question as to why crime is hard to control when the island is so small...I believe it is 22 miles long and only a few miles wide. Why can't more police be added to the force ? I would also assume that everyone knows everyone else on a small island...why are the youth let run like this in gangs? Again, this is a tiny island....what gives? Is there corruption in the police dept. ? We would dearly love to return to Bermuda....and it just breaks my heart to see what has happened to this unique island. Bermuda is not a Carribean island !! It sits out in the Atlantic by itself. It has its own special history. Bermudians are Bermudians. They are wonderful, caring, kind, soft spoken, polite people. We want the island to keep its own traditions and history and to be proud of it. And, as Philip Barnett so beautifully said, Bermuda should not be like "every other county on the face of the earth". I'll never forget my first glimpse of Bermuda looking out of the window of the plane as we flew closer and closer ....all of a sudden a reflection of that wonderful, magical blue-green water came up through the plane as we landed. I remember thinking this is like Peter Pan's Never-Never land......I was only 18 at the time. I have had a love affair with Bermuda ever since. If I am critical, it is because I love this island so very, very much and I always want it to be the best that it can be.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 15:30]

Shipstone,

I cannot tell you where the policemen are. Did you read my post about many of them could be. Maybe in the bushes with a radar detector. Maybe instead of pressuring the police with regard to traffic violations people should apply pressure to have the police focus on combatting crime and then officers can be re-assigned. There is a balance that needs to be reached and nobod has yet been able to figure out what that balance is.

Bermuda has always had a high number of police officers per capita. This information is nothing new. Having a large per capita force is obviously not working.

I do not dispute that there is a high usage rate of drugs in Bermuda. As far as eradicating the drug problem, how many persons incarcerated for drug use are placed in mandatory rehabit programmes?

You say gangs and drug are the reason for increased crime. I refer you again to my earlier post about what happens to some people when an economy grows. Those that feel excluded turn to violence and drugs. Economic facts and it happens the world over. How can Bermuda be expected to be any different.

[Philip Barnett on 27.01.05 at 15:35]

Onion,

"However, when we have international business driving up the price of rent and property, less Bermudians can afford to buy or rent. So they turn to crime..."

RUBBISH!

People turn to crime because it is all about risk and return!! Criminals go out and steal it/sell it because they can get a bucket load of money with relatively little time spent and seemingly little chance of getting caught/convicted/sentenced.
We as a society need to increase the risk, and diminish the return. If you do it, you will get caught and prosecuted and jailed. If you buy it, you will get the same. Take away the demand and there is no need for supply.
In addition, I agree that to cure the disease you must also get to the root cause. But let's be honest, that is not going to happen overnight, it is going to take a generation to stop the cycle. We CAN immediately put the disease in check though, stop it from killing us, allowing us time to attack the root cause, whether it be children having babies, or villages not raising the child.
You make a point that the regiment instills discipline. Yes it may, but so too can the father figures of the Worshipfuls' Francis and Greaves, as they sentence the village children to prison (and yes there MUST be better programs to prevent recidivism).
Your comments smack those hard working Bermudian's making an HONEST living through hard work right in the mouth; those Bermudian's that live by their own moral scruples and make daily conscious choices to do what is right and refuse what is wrong.

Byes sit on a wall and don't work and sell drugs because it is easy. Not because they can't afford a house in Tuckers Town. You want to START to resolve our crime rate? Start with the people committing the crimes.

[replicator on 27.01.05 at 15:36]

With regards to the numbers of officers in the Bermuda Police force compared to other jurisdictions, no-one has yet mentioned the fact that larger communities can achieve some economies of scale that Bermuda cannot. We're like a small town, but one that can't call in the resources of the nearest major city/counties expertise, so we have to maintain a larger infrastructure.

I would argue that that is an important factor we all need to bear in mind.

There are of course some operational inefficiencies, but I'd expect a small community providing a modern police force would have a higher number of officers per capita. That's ok, actually I wish it was higher.

One part of the problem I see is the lowering of standards in recruiting as well as a few major traffic accidents or major crimes pulling 20-30 cops off the streets and into investigation mode.

I wouldn't get too hung up on the per capita number.

And then of course there is the culture of contempt for authority that has become very pervasive here in recent history.

[Diane on 27.01.05 at 15:40]

Bravo, Philip and well said !!!...You should run for political office.....

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 15:42]

Replicator,

Wait a second here, as Bermuda is a dependent territory and Great Britain has responsibility for internal security should we not be able to turn to HRH Police force for resources? Oh, I forgot the last time we turned to the U.K. for help we were slapped with a significant bill. Hint - the reinforcement that came in to end the the roits of, I believe, 1976.

[shipstones on 27.01.05 at 15:56]

Guilden,
You want something for nothing?
My understanding is, UK cops aren't welcome particularly if they are white!
You would prefer those people that black Bermudians used to call jump ups!

[replicator on 27.01.05 at 15:58]

Who cares that we got a bill, we got the resources didn't we?

I seem to also recall that after Fabian we told them no thanks when they offered support for the cleanup.

I'm not interested in turning this into a BS Alex Scott type contortion to justify independence. This thread is about policing.

[Diane on 27.01.05 at 15:58]

Guilden,

Good point. I had thought about that aspect too. What is Great Britain doing to protect her territory concerning this crime problem? What if the Governor of Bermuda was chased down Front Street by a machete-carrying thug? What then? Would he send for the Royal Marines? What bill was Bermuda slapped with by Great Britain?

[Onion on 27.01.05 at 16:21]

Diane,

I am glad you mentioned Never Never Land because that sums up your unrealistic view of Bermuda. You live in a bubble and Guilden and I have burst it by giving you a reality check. You continue to talk about how wonderful the island was before 1998. I dare say your bias is a bit laughable. Some of the biggest riots this island has ever seen was under the UBP government. Your message doesn't really make any sense. You talk about Bermudians being gently, kind hearted people etc. And then you say it is unspeakably violent in Bermuda. Then you start talking about the blue water, and then about some Peter Pan nonesense. What rubbish are you talking? Make sense please. Back up your comments.

Philip,

People don't just do crime because they can get away with it. if that were the case, you and I might be criminals (I assume you are not one.)I do not see how my comments offend the hard working people in Bermuda. You will note I said such crime is inexcusable!! But I am also saying flooding the streets with police everywhere is not going to stop the problem. The UBP tried this with operation Cleansweep and failed. They built a larger prison and what has this done? Only made the prison experience that much more pleasant.

Perhaps we should refocus the police activities away from other less pressing issues. Perhaps the current force needs more efficiency.

[shipstones on 27.01.05 at 16:28]

Cleansweep was working but was stopped because they were getting too near the top !
Drugs, get rid of them! you will solve the violent crime problem!

[Onion on 27.01.05 at 16:32]

Shipstones,

You make an interesting point.

You say:"Cleansweep was working but was stopped because they were getting too near the top !"

This was done during the UBP era, so who was at the top? Maybe Diane can answer this.

[shipstones on 27.01.05 at 16:37]

We will never know!
Mat be it wasn't a politician. May be a lawyer!

[Diane on 27.01.05 at 16:38]

Onion,
Thanks for the info....I am assuming you live on the island, so therefore have a better understanding of what is going on. I never knew that riots took place under the UBP government. It is true, that not living in Bermuda, we only see it through rose-colored glasses. Keep on giving those reality checks. You act as a good balance to those tourists, like myself, who have over-romanticized what we thought once existed.

[Onion on 27.01.05 at 16:45]

Shipstones,

How about a combo of the two!! We've had enough of those types!!!:-)

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 16:45]

Shipstone,

I never said I wanted something for nothing. I was only correcting something Replicator said about other resources. Our constitution states that Great Britain is responsible for internal security, if it is not being handled properly than maybe Great Britain should honour its responsibility. One thing I could never understand is how Great Britain can have responsibility for internal security while we pay for it.

I have never in my life referred to anyone as a "Jump-Up" and never will. I was raised to respect people until they prove that they do not deserve it. Further, what are you trying to insinuate by saying that I would prefer "those people that black Bermudians used to call jump ups!" Did I ever state that had a problem with British Police Officers? Not that it is any of your concern but my mother happens to be white and was born and raised in England.

Take the time to get to know someone before you decide to judge because to do otherwise is prejudice? And all along you were saying you are not a prejudice person.

Diane,

At 39 years old I cannot say with certainty what the bill was for the British troops who were sent in to end the riots but I believe, and I stand to be corrected that it was a few hundred thousand dollars.

[Philip Barnett on 27.01.05 at 16:46]

Onion,

i didn't say "People don't just do crime because they can get away with it." I said crime and drug dealing is all about risk and reward.
I agree with you abour repositioning our current force. Methinks there are far too many chiefs and far too few indians, plus lets be honest, that $1000 fine for dealing is a horrible return on investment of numerous officers/dogs/specialized equipment, compared to the $10,000 that one officer with a laser gun can generate in the afternoon at East Broadway. Guilden, you and I agree on that point.
For the police to trot out the rubbish about stopping the carnage on the streets, why don't I ever see radar traps at 1am on Hog Bay level through to Cambridge Road (oh yeah, late at night/past policemans bedtime/only get four - 100 k.p.h. maniacs (who do it every night) compared to the fifty - 55 k.p.h. office workers "rushing" home).
Yes, return on investment and risk vs. reward, we are a veritable Economics 101 society.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 16:49]

Onion,

You took the words right off my screen. Who is at the top and why did the UBP put an end to the operation and send the British Commissioner back (I can't remember his name for the life of me)?

I think I posted somewhere else in here that the people who are arreested for drugs are only pushers the importers have, I guess been protected because of who they are our who they associate with.

[replicator on 27.01.05 at 16:55]

Guilden, I thought the Bermuda Government was helpless to deal with policing as it is the UK's territory (you said they're responsible for internal security)? So how the hell did the UBP put an end to Cleansweep?

I'm not saying they didn't, I'm just saying you can't have it both ways, crowing about the UK as having control and then stating that the UBP had enough control to end an operation.

[shipstones on 27.01.05 at 17:03]

Guilden,
It was a generalization. But guess what as fornicator learned we have to be careful what we say as people take it personally. Now don't side step the issue. Why would a current Bermuda government (PLP) ask for help from people who don't look like them? They prefer people that that Bermudians in general used to call jump ups! We may even get some Cubans soon!

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 17:05]

Replicator,

I never said that the Government was helpless. You made the comment that Bermuda was different in that it could not access resources for help in policing. I pointed out that under our constitution Great Britain has responsibility for internal security (police, fire brigade, regiment)

I also said that I felt that the police force was adequately manned and any problems must be in the adminsitration of the force.

When I said about Great Britain stepping in I was sugesting that those who feel the job is not being done properly should turn to Great Britain to live up to its obligation under the constitution under which we live.

Replicator, I trus you are starting to realise that I enjoy a good debate. Call me arrogant but rest assured I am adequately armed to handle myself in the debates I choose to enter. So if you wish to continue, bring it on.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 17:11]

Shipstone,

Are you now implying that the Police Officers that come from Great Britain are better than those who come from the Caribbean. If not then maybe you should re-word your posts because that is what your posts imply.

When did I ever say that we need to look outside the country for police officers? I believe the force is large enough. For crying out loud it has the highest number of officers per capita than any other force in the world.

Finally, what the hell does Cuba have to do with all of this. My understanding is that the relationship is for cultural exchange only. Further, I have addressed the 2-faced nature of the U.S. regarding Cuba. In 2003 the U.S. was a big trading partner of Cuba, they sold beef to Cuba. How can you on the one hand expect countries to isolate Cuba when you yourself are trading with the country?

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 17:57]

Replicator,

"Who cares that we got a bill, we got the resources didn't we?

I seem to also recall that after Fabian we told them no thanks when they offered support for the cleanup."

Out of your comments come some interesting points. In your initial post you say we do not have access to resources now you are say that we got the resources. If you are going to debate me at least be consistent so as to make me work to prove my point.

Clearly Bermuda did not need support after Fabian. I have been home since Fabian hit and the Island was cleaned up very nicely. Does that not prove we can do things on our own it we act together as a country?

[shipstones on 27.01.05 at 18:05]

"Wait a second here, as Bermuda is a dependent territory and Great Britain has responsibility for internal security should we not be able to turn to HRH Police force for resources?"

These are your words Guilden! I merely pointed out that people that Bermudians used to treat with disrespect are now our policeforce!

[shipstones on 27.01.05 at 18:14]

Guilden,
Don't you think I realise that your main goal is to turn everything I say into a racist comment?

I repeat what you say ad verbatim!

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 18:14]

Shipstone,

Yes, they are my words and I was using the to address Replicator's comments that Bermuda had no where to secure outside resources.

In all honesty I don't get the point of your second sentence. If you are referring to officers of Caribbean descent then I disagree with you. Colin Blades has been widely accepted by the Bermudian population. Ian Moe is widely accept. He and many other officers from the Caribbean have married Bermudian women. Many of the officer from the Caribbean have been a part of Cup Match and National squads.

Quite frankly much the same could also be applied to some British officers.

What is it you are trying to imply? Please make a sensile point that I can respond to, otherwise please read my post to Replicator regarding my ability to handle myself in a debate i choose to enter.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 18:16]

Hello?

When and where did I turn anything into a racist comment? Did you not take your medication today? Or are you confusing me with someone else?

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 18:17]

Sounds to me like you are feeling a little guilty about something. Have I ever called you a racist or implied that you were a racist? If I did please direct me to the post.

[shipstones on 27.01.05 at 18:29]

"The problem I have with people like Shipstone is that when you mention something like the disparity in income between blacks and whites his first response is not to research it but to deny it is fact. Its amazing how he could not take me at my word when I raised it yet never questioned Limey when he presented the page numbers out of the Census."

Your words Guilden, insinuating that because I accepted fact from a white guy I was racist! You are very shallow in your debating!

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 18:38]

Was what I said untrue? I stated a fact you questioned my comments. But when Limey gave you the page numbers you then accept it as fact. Where is the racist comment in that?

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 18:50]

Where in that did i say you accepted fact from a white guy? I said you accepted fact from Limey.

Why do you say I am shallow in my debating because I have countere everything you have said? Sounds more like sore grapes to me.

[shipstones on 27.01.05 at 18:53]

What Dereck Burgess said wasn't racist either was it! I said "Insinuating"!

You haven't answered a damn thing I've raised!

Where is your reply about Bermuda hiring only people that look like renee? just one. Thats why Bermuda doesn't hire UK cops isn't it?

[shipstones on 27.01.05 at 18:59]

Bahamas, land of milk and honey!

In February, the body of a young man was found on the Grand Bahama Freeway. The family of the victim made allegations of police mistreatment following the coroner's report that his wounds were not the result of a traffic accident as previously thought. Police claimed there was no evidence to support the family's assertion, and the matter remained before the Coroner's Court at year's end.

On August 7, a RBPF reserve police officer shot and killed a 16-year-old girl. Police asserted that the victim's friend brandished a weapon and fired, which resulted in return fire by the police. The supposed gun used by the victim's friend was not found. The Coroner's Court, which investigates cases involving sudden or unnatural deaths arising from accident or violence, was reviewing her death at year's end.

In December 2002, police officers shot and killed a young man who was fleeing a suspicious vehicle. Claiming the man was armed and reaching for a gun, police initiated the gunfire. Further investigation proved the victim was unarmed. At year's end, this matter remained before the Coroner's Court.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 19:00]

Am responsible for the hiring of persons in Bermuda? How would you wish me to approach Renee's comments. Quite frankly I agree because under the UBP all large scale Government contract went to "white" firms to the exclusion of the "black" firms. Unfortunately the history of Bermuda has shown that it is okay for a black to work on a site but he can't own the company.

I believe C.V. Jim Woolridge said it best, "The white boys don't mind a black boy being in charge as long as they can tell him what to do." I do believe Jim was a Minister under the UBP.

Need say more?

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 19:04]

Ships,

Youcan go on and on about the Bahamas and its crime. I can tell you that there has been a riot all today in one neighbourhood here in Nassau because the police allegedly shot someone who was attacking them.

But I thought this forum was to discuss Bermuda and its issues.

Just in case you missed it, even with all te crime you are stating the tourist visting Nassau has increase from 4 to 5 million. Is the level of crime holding back the economy? Not at all because as I said it is not random crime.

[shipstones on 27.01.05 at 19:09]

No the point is Guilden you used Bahamas as a primary example of a great country that went Independent and is a model for Bermuda.
You also said that it is not part of Caribbean. Trivial but where do you get this rubbish?

[shipstones on 27.01.05 at 19:12]

So the white bosses did it! We are now the Boss man so we will do it! Eye for an Eye! Shoes on the other foot! Not equality for all! There is nothing left whites, you must go fornicate in the bushes and increase the white population!
Crazy logic isn't it?

[clydesdale on 27.01.05 at 19:14]

Onion,

"When you come up through a UBP public education system (which unfortunately is carried on by the PLP), a system that has failed the majority of Bermudians (outside of Berkely, WA), they turn to crime."

I along with thousands of Bermudians came through the public education system under the UBP and never turned to crime. You used this a little to loosely and were hinting at something that could be considered racial.? The problem lies with the ministry which needs a shake up to fix a lot of problems.

As far as policing goes, traffic fines help boost government coffers, where busting drug dealers only puts them in prison and makes us pay for them. Many of Bermuda's police have come close to busting HUGE drug rings, involving Police, Customs and MP's (UBP and PLP) but were mysteriously fired or let go. Drug dealers let their girlfriends or relatives enter the force to keep them informed. It is all about money.

But this is getting off topic and should get back to the original topic of tourism. Black or white it affects and involves us all. How bout posting great ideas to help Bermuda's failing tourism industry?

Perhaps Guilden can tells us what the Bahamas does to get 5 million besides being right next door to the US?

[shipstones on 27.01.05 at 19:15]

You didn't mention the thousands upon thousands of Haitians in Bahamas who are stateless! What's the story there Guilden?

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 19:18]

Ships,

You are looking at one aspect. Crime is a serious problem in Bermuda, which is still a territory. Where does Independence and crime relate. Please show me the correlation.

http://www.infoplease.com/atlas/caribbean.html

Please go to this website and see for yourself where the Bahamas lies versus the Caribbean Sea.

Seen as neither Michael Marsh nor Bill Cox have accept my challenge to a public debate on Independence maybe you will be willing to accept it. What do you say? Are you up to it?

[Souvenirs on 27.01.05 at 19:19]

Guilden obviously has too much time on his hands.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 19:21]

What does the illegal Haitians in the Bahamas have to do with Independence? Explain the Cubans in Miami. Once you explain that to yourself you will have a better understanding of the Haitian situation.

[shipstones on 27.01.05 at 19:26]

Jobless rate 10.8 per cent

Statistics Department announces new survey

By LINDSAY THOMPSON,Guardian Business Editor lthompson@nasguard.com

In 2003, the official unemployment rate was 10.8 per cent, with Bahamians' average annual household income pegged at $37, 861.

The information was revealed on Monday as the Department of Statistics launched its 2004 Labour Force and Household Survey in order to obtain data on the economic and employment situation in the country.

[shipstones on 27.01.05 at 19:27]

Guilden they are not illegal they have been there for decades! First lot came in 1800's. Not a good example for independence Guilden!

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 19:28]

Hey Ships,

Tell you what, coem to the Bahamas, you can stay at my home. I will show you around so you can get a firsthand look because reading about the Bahamas or any country for that matter does not do it justice. You only get wha the author wants you to get.

I'll introduce to some Bahamians who can tell you about life before and after independence.

When would you like to come down? Just gotta let the wife know that we are expecting company. Gotta let the housekeeper know too so she can get your room ready.

[shipstones on 27.01.05 at 19:29]

Alex Scott said after independence crime would go down because Bermudians would control police. That's where it comes from Guilden!!!!

[shipstones on 27.01.05 at 19:35]

How many tourists stay at casino's Guilden as opposed to other boring hotels?
How much money is generated by gambling Guilden?
How does this affect crime and Bahamians becoming gambling junkies?
All very relevant to Bermuda!
You could be a mine of information about what its like under independence and with gambling.

[replicator on 27.01.05 at 19:46]

Phil, I do believe that you should rename this site to "A Bermudian in the Bahamas pretending he's in Bermuda but really in love with the Bahamas (and his own voice)". It'd be a long URL but might just work.

Just like pink is the new black (that's about fashion folks not race), Guilden is the new Graeme.

Or maybe he realizes how dumb some of his comments are and is trying to push them further up the thread and off the main page?

Oh, I know Guilden, you debate loud and proud, strong not arrogant so I'd better be prepared for your assault blah, blah, blah.

Isn't the sun shining down south? Take a break, go out and enjoy the weather, it might clear that fog in your head.

[jake on 27.01.05 at 20:10]

Replicator, you have offered no response to his arguments.

Guilden makes valid points which you are unable to refute. I am not surprised that you cannot respond to him but with lame insults. you have so little to offer.

[The Limey on 27.01.05 at 20:14]

Stick to the point, people. This thread is about tourism in Bermuda - specifically, Dr. Brown's plans to revive it. It's not about the Bahamas or independence.

Any more off-topic comments will be deleted.

[replicator on 27.01.05 at 20:33]

Oh Jake, it's called a little fun. You guys all take yourselves too seriously. But anyway, it is hard to find the relevant GG comment because he seems to work off of quantity not quality.

Anyway, the point I was making was that what might appear 'adequate' as a per capita count shouldn't be looked at so simply.

And calling in the UK was not for police if I recall but troops. Very different. I'm talking about roles where you can achieve some economies of scale and can keep one or two specialised officers constantly busy rather than the spurts of activity that probably happen here with specialised roles, not extraordinary events like riots.

Anyway, Guilden said this:

"If Bermuda has more police officers per head of population then anywhere else in the world the force cannot be under-manned, it has to come down to improper administration and utilisation of the force."

and then went on to say that the UK should honour their responsibility for internal security if things aren't going well. Well, the Government approves new officers, budgets etc., so I look to them.

And you know that internal security is technically the UK's role but is delegated to Labour and Home Affairs which is why the relevant Ministers (of any party) always charge out at the most temporary slightest good news to claim credit.

But his second comment in the thread was that he took umbrage at blame being placed on the PLP Government when they Servive is effectively over-staffed, and then later made a fuss about the UK having ultimate control.

Seems pretty clear that he's in the Alex Scott school of blame the UK when the heat turns on the PLP.

But anyway, I'll relax on the wise-cracks seeing as you take offense.

[shipstones on 27.01.05 at 21:21]

me too!

Seriously, we have to get crime back under control, more beds, gambling and workers providing great service, now that the airlines are providing more seats at reasonable costs. Then we might stand a chance!

[Ecky Thump on 27.01.05 at 21:41]

PBARNETT: "For the police to trot out the rubbish about stopping the carnage on the streets, why don't I ever see radar traps at 1am on Hog Bay level through to Cambridge Road (oh yeah, late at night/past policemans bedtime/only get four - 100 k.p.h. maniacs (who do it every night) compared to the fifty - 55 k.p.h. office workers "rushing" home)."

I'm glad someone mentioned this: If the pleece were serious about road safety then where are they at these times. It's crazy out there!

BoomBoomZoom with that coooool UV lighting and high intensity fog lamps on...why do they have fog lamps here...other than to look cooooool when they are driving 6" off your rear bumper...

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 27.01.05 at 21:58]

Shipstones,

Seeing as you were doing so much searching on the Bahamas you should have found that Bahamians cannot gamble. The casinos are for tourist only.

Replicator,

Just for the record I do not agree with Alex Scotts views on the correlation between Independence, control of the police force and crime. The crime has nothing whatsoever to do with Independence.

[shipstones on 28.01.05 at 00:23]

Guilden, the thread is about tourism.
Bahamas = gambling = tourism = money!
The answer to my question about gamblings effect on Bahamians was what I already knew. It didn't affect them because they couldn't participate!
So lets try it again. One of the reasons for Bahamian success is gambling as opposed to Bermuda where tourists don't have gambling or any other form of entertainment.
This is not illogical is it?

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 28.01.05 at 00:42]

Ships,

No it is not illogical at all. Let me answer each of your previous questions:

How many tourists stay at casino's Guilden as opposed to other boring hotels?

There are two hotels in Nassau with casinos and one in Freeport. Atlantis is by far the largest hotel with 2,800 rooms and ground has been broken for 600 suites. It also, from my understanding, has the largest casino in the region.

How much money is generated by gambling Guilden?

That is a good question and one I do not know the answer to but will if I can find out. I can tell you that the croupiers are all Bahamian and with tips are probably averaging in excess of $70,000 per year in income.

Michael Jordan spends a lot of time in the Bahamas and stays at Atlantis. It is not usual to hear that he has lost $250k in a night.

How does this affect crime and Bahamians becoming gambling junkies?

I have seen no evidence that gambling has an effect on crime. I have never heard any talk about the mafia or prostitution, not saying that prostitution doesn't exist but in walking through the casino and the hotel there are none that are noticeable. Bahamians cannot gamble therefore, they cannot become gambling junkies.

Hope this helps.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 28.01.05 at 09:37]

Has there ever been a feasibility study done in Bermuda regarding the establishment of a casino? I know there are a lot of opinions bantered about but a decision on casinos should be solely based on opinion.

A comprehensive study can show the economic impact, including potential tourist numbers, employment, etc.

I have heard many negatives about the crime associated with casinos but having now lived in the Bahamas for nearly 8 years I have not seen or heard of any crime associated with casinos.

What is so ironic is that many of those who oppose a casino in Bermuda are the same ones who will go to casinos in Atlantic City, Las Vegas and on cruise ships.

Many church leaders have spoken out against casinos but how many churches hold Bingo nights. Is Bingo not a game of chance involving money?

Rather than get into heated discussions over it why not discuss the matter in public forums after the compilation of factual information. Therefore, whatever decision is made isnot made on emotion.

Just a thought.

[Tiger Bay on 28.01.05 at 10:22]

I have no problem with casinos per se, but am wary of some Bermudians' fascination that gambling is the silver bullet that will save tourism.

If I recall, the Bahamas once had a range of casinos which were rolled up as part of the huge Atlantis resort deal (backed by South Africa's Sun City). This remains one of the largest tourism investments in recent history -- it was done right. In many respects, Atlantis IS Bahamas tourism now.

Does Bermuda have the land and the players to build, operate, and market a world class casino/resort? Are we willing to give up the driver's seat to attract an operator of magnitude? It's a totally different type of tourism from what Bermuda has traditionally served (resort/package vs small property/entrepreneurial).

A few one armed bandits or small standalone casinos will probably not make a ripple. You need rooms and turnover to feed the casino - and that's what we don't have.

Agreed, the decision should not be made on emotion, but neither should it be lead by so-called gambling consultants.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 28.01.05 at 11:35]

Tiger,

Sol Kerzner, who owned Sun City purchased the former Resorts International on Paradise Island, whcih included a casino, only one. There are only two casinos in Nassau and one in Freeport. I believe there will be one in Exuma at a new Four Seasons $750 million hotel.

Sol Kerzner has so far invested some $1.5 billion dollars and is starting a third phase at a cost of $1 billion and has phases 4 & 5 planned. His investment is the single largest and he employee 6,000 Bahamians. "Atlantis IS Bahamas tourism now" I wouldn't say that. I would say that it the major player.

The Hutchinson Whampoa Group out of Hong Kong has invested over $2 billion dollars in Freeport, including a hotel (I believe 1,800 rooms) and an international container port.

The Hiton Group has invested in excess of $100 million.

There is a multi-billion dollar proposed re-development of the Cable Beach strip. A few hotel developments are scheduled for Eleuthera at about $250 million. There is also a $150 million development scheduled for Andros.

Realistically, if Bermuda decides to open a casino it may be best, in the initial stages to put it in the hands of an experienced group because of all that goes into managing a casino. Not that Bermudians cannot do but we do not have the expertise, that is real.

I don't think gambling consultants are required, it really comes to what Bermudians feel is best for Bermuda because as you state it will change to way tourism has been handled in Bermuda.

[Anon (with reason) on 28.01.05 at 14:10]

Easy.

Get a time machine. Rewind 10 years. Walk into TCD. Wait three hours to be served.. then FFW back to today. I present: The Success of Dr. Brown.

Negative Energy = Negative Results. Perhaps instead of deciding that Dr. Brown can't achieve what he has set out to do, look into what you can do as a citizen to help him reach his goals. After all, they don't only directly effect him... they effect all of us. So instead of asking "How are you going to do this cause it doesn't really look possible" - why not ask "How are you going to do this, and how can I help?".

Sorry. I don't have the time (right now) to read how individuals have responded so far. I will later.. and reply accordingly.

[ace on 28.01.05 at 14:27]

Anon is absolutely right about TCD. If Dr. Brown can do to Tourism what he did at TCD then there will be crow to eat.

But...TCD is an entirley different kettle of fish.

What can I do to help Dr. Brown?

I also agree with Guilden regarding casinos. Introducing them in Bermuda could easily turn tourism around on a dime. Making it so that locals cannot gamble would silence the social arguments against it too.

[shipstones on 28.01.05 at 15:27]

Guilden,
Great post thank you for your insight

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 28.01.05 at 15:30]

Anon,

Therein lies the success of any government. In order for political maturity to be arrived at people need to put aside their political skews and do their individual part for the betterment of the country.

It is okay to criticise as long as you are doing your part to better your country. If youare doing nothing then youhave no right to criticise. Whoever is in government is there because that is the wish of the majority. It was not political parties that brought Bermuda where it is today, it was the people of the country.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 28.01.05 at 15:38]

Ships,

Anytime.

[Anon (with reason) on 28.01.05 at 16:07]

Correct- Tourism and Transport aren't the same thing. Then again, I'm pretty sure Dr. Brown didn't go to University to train to reform TCD systems. (Unless, of course, TCD 101 IS part of med school.) While we're on this topic- who knew Brown was going to get Tourism during the last election, let alone keep Transport? Brown has advisors, and aides- he knows how to asks questions and work towards results. He isn't sitting idle or moaning about why things can't be done. He's saying "This is what we're going to do".

Point being: Brown has set some (much needed) goals for Tourism. Yes. Okay. Some of these goals are a little high, and more than likely all of them won't be met. But, judging by the Ministers record to date I'd put money down that at least a step (or the length of a triple marathon) towards each of those goals will be made. That's closer than we are now. That's vision. That's what tourism needs.

Okay.. there are steps along the way that need to be met. Okay- maybe we won't reach any of those goals. But why can't we? What are we doing wrong, and how can we start doing it right?

I'm not saying that SMART doesn't make sense- and that your points are unwarranted Phil. But- setting a SMART plan isn't a guarantee for success. Heck- some of the SMARTest (did you like that?) plans have been killed by negativity- or worse yet, lack of action.

Thanks for the article, Phil.

[Intrigued on 28.01.05 at 18:38]

The topic is about tourism and people have lost sight of that. Just as many Bermudian’s have lost sight of why people used to come to the island. Service with a smile. They were treated specially and were prepared to pay for that treatment. No gambling was necessary, just Bermudians treating them well and appreciating them.

So we are debating this point and we have a real live tourist, one who has spent a lot over the years on her visits, tell us what she thinks. Diane said:

“It is a shame that Bermuda has gone down the toilet ….. because we really came to love this island over a period of some 30 years of visiting this one-time paradise.”

And the response from a Bermudian, (I hope not a typical one but perhaps more and more he/she is):

“Diane, don't be so daft! ….. What do you think the island was like in 1998??? No crime, no drugs, no violence?? …. This is not a utopia. But where else in the world can you still have a crime rate as low as Bermuda?
Go home to your safe country wherever that is. I'm tired of listening to such foolishness.
Be realistic please.”

Damn, is that ever welcoming and appreciative of a long time tourist.

A sample of how many feel about tourists .. they are a nuisance, they expect too much? They are unrealistic? No wonder people aren’t coming back.

Onion, they seem to be finding lots of places to go where they “perceive” the destinations to be more welcoming and safe. Whether their perceptions are valid or not they sure seem to have them, I have heard the same from many long time visitors who have chosen not to return.

I don’t know how you change things, but many many service workers in Bermuda have lost their charm and friendliness and appreciation for the tourists. The sense I get is that they resent having to do what admittedly are very hard jobs. I have the sense that they in fact feel as though they deserve a better slice of the pie, that is Bermuda, as they see so many others feeding in the frenzy at the trough.

I understand these feelings, but I also understand that the Lord helps those who help themselves. You don’t get a bigger slice by standing around and sucking your teeth.

I wish I knew how to change these attitudes, but I’m not sure independence will. I’m not sure better policing will. Education sure couldn’t hurt. But I do know that casino or no casino, unless more people start taking pride in their service jobs and putting more smiles on their faces the tourists will NOT come back. No one is going to pay as much as it costs to come to Bermuda to be treated with distain.

One man’s opinion. Worth what you paid for it.

[Martin on 29.01.05 at 22:24]

This has truly been fascinating to read, with some tremendous thoughts/ideas etc. We have heard about crime and policing...about drugs, about Casinos and so forth.

Not quite sure what they have to do with turning the tourist industry around. Along with everyone else, I don't say.."I can't go on holiday to such and such a place because they have violence and drugs". I can't think of anywhere that doesn't have violence and drugs. If I want to go somewhere for a holiday - I go there. I suspect most of us do the same.

Surely, the key point at the end of the day, is that the 'tourist of yesterday'that used to visit Bermuda, has gone or at best has 'changed'. Tourists want 'more and better' for the precious dollar they have saved...their expectations are higher...they have become more discerning in their choice...they want better value for money.

It's not about sunshine/beaches/expensive hotels anymore. You can get sunshine and excellent hotels for a fraction of the cost in Vegas.

We go on holiday for all sorts of different reasons. Some want to be entertained...others just to rest. It seems to me that there is little here to entertain...and it's dam expensive to come here just to rest. So - it seems to me that if we want tourists to return, we have to change. We have to offer something that is new...that is different. And - whether we like it or not - whatever we change to, it cannot last for long. People's needs/tastes etc are fickle and change frequently, and we must be prepared to change to meet that when it happens.

Why does Dr Brown talk of 'increasing air arrivals'? To see what? To do what?

Why talk of 'increasing visitor spending by 7%? With an annual inflation rate continuing at it's current rate....that shouldn't be difficult in any event.

There's an old adage that seems to make some sense atill today and applies here, i.e. you have a choice - either you go 'forward' or you go 'backward' - one thing is for certain, you cannot stand still, which Bermuda seems particularly good at doing.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 30.01.05 at 10:09]

Martin,

I do not know the exact items in the basket of goods used to determine the rate of inflation but I very much doubt if housing is one of them because housing cost has increase by some 65% in the last 4 years, from what I have read.

That being said, increasing housing cost has a trickle down effect in that the costs of anciliary services are increasing, which in turn leads higher salaries, which leads to more money in circulation, which in turn increases personal spending, which in turn causes inflation.

The Government cannot and should not control housing cost because to do so prevents a freemarket where price is determined by supply and demand. This thought does not include rent because I believe there needs to be some price controls on rent as they are abosultely ridiculous.

Governments in Bermuda (PLP and UBP) have only used monetary policy (the control of total money supply in the system) to try to control inflation. Fiscal policy, the use of interet rates has been given to the banks. Banks are privately owned and the first priority is profitability and return to shareholders rather than the economy

I think the Monetary Authority needs to be allowed to act more as a central bank in that both fiscal and monetary policies are use to manage the economy.

Inflation as I said early really comes down to the money supply. Money supply should be controlled by interest rates. During inflationary periods interest rates are raised to encourage deposits, which reduces the M1 (notes and coins in circulation) this takes money out of the hands of the public by encouraging them to save and invest their money instead of speading it. If this policy were adopted I truly believe it would be much easier to control the inflation rate in Bermuda.

The system is much more complex than can be fully explained here but I think I have shown the concept that I believe is best.

[Martin on 30.01.05 at 12:49]

Thanks Guilden,

I am sure you are right with regards to the point you make, and my reference to linking an increase in spending to inflation was not thought through well enough.

At the end of the day, I guess what I am saying is that addressing any singular point or referenece, will not be the panacea for the tourism industry. A casino MAY be part of the answer, less violence MAY be part of the answer - who knows? What I am convinced of, however, is that it will take a significant mind shift by all stakeholders (over used expression I know) and a subsequent commitment to change, to reverse the continuing downward slide of the industry.

Tourism is an industry - like manufacturing, finance etc. Those industries know that if they do not change when they need to - they die.

That is what is happening to tourism here. With regards to change, sadly, I do not see evidence of that or a real willingness to address it.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 30.01.05 at 13:19]

Martin,

I could not agree more with the contents of your last post. Tourism is an industry and should be managed as such and all parties in Bermuda are stakeholders of that industry. I think the wealth that many Bermudians have acquired outside tourism has caused people to forget an industry that was once the major pillar of the Bermuda economy.

[Anon (with reason) on 30.01.05 at 17:45]

"I think the wealth that many Bermudians have acquired outside tourism has caused people to forget an industry that was once the major pillar of the Bermuda economy."

Bingo!

[bermyinlondon on 01.02.05 at 12:50]

Diane -

I think we can all agree that the upsurge in crime in Bermuda is bad for tourism. I'm interested though, in where you got your data about what Bermuda is like today? Your description sounds like a place more lawless than Jamaica, and on my fairly frequent trips home to Bermuda, I haven't found things to be anywhere near that bad.

All--
I'm not a particular fan of the UBP or the PLP, but it does seem to be that the situation has gotten worse under the PLP than it was in recent history under the UBP.

On the one hand, that's probably an extension of trend, directly related to the decline of tourism.

On the other hand, this lawlessness that's creeping up on Bermuda does stem from a lack of leadership. Young Bermudians are growing up with a sense of entitlement, and when they don't have something, they just take it... and they see our leaders behaving the same way: The lack of accountability for things like the Berkeley project, the downright criminal behaviour (excuse me, unethical) behaviour at the BHC and the general sentiment of entitlement and self-enrichment that certain Ministers display is not adequate leadership.

[jake on 01.02.05 at 13:17]

To suggest that the increase in crime in as a result on the matters investigated at the BHC by your most senior unit, Scotland Yard and our highest legal officer, the DPP - and found lacking is both cowardly and disingenuous. To equate potential negligence at the Berkeley site (on parties yet undetermined) to criminal behaviour betrays a lack of knowledge of legal process and is premature, at best. No criminal allegations have even been launched, much less proved.

Your comments are without merit as there is no causal link between the increase in crime and the PLP or UBP Governments. Both have tried to stem the tide in crime - both with limited success. This is particularly offensive where the Police were/are not under the direct control of either.

We have social problems, yes, but cheap, illogical comments do nothing to help solve them.

I do not excuse you.

[ace on 01.02.05 at 13:41]

Guilden, I have a question about casinos in the Bahamas, specifically about the fact that locals are not allowed to gamble in them.

How on earth is this policed?

If a very wealthy black or white Bahamian gets all "dolled" up for a night of slots and roulette how does the casino stop them from entering the premisis?

In Bermuda would you see this rule applying to all residents, or just born Bermudians...again, how on earth can this be enforced?

I mean, if Michael Douglas and his wife attempted to enter a casino in Bermuda would they be turned away? If not then surely you cannot turn any Bermudians away?

What do they do in the Bahamas?

[Pitts Bay on 01.02.05 at 13:59]

Jake

Off topic, I agree, but by the tone of your post, you appear to imply that nothing untoward happend at BHC. That is not what the report said. It said that in accordance with current Bermuda law, no criminal activities occurred. Just because something is not criminal in accordance with an outdated statute does not mean that everything down at BHC was AOK. Quite the contrary, my understanding of the investigation was that had Bermuda adopted modern legislation that complied with standards elsewhere in the world, then there may well have been criminal charges.

Given the above, do you believe that this unethical behaviour (which might well have been criminal in other jurisdictions) by politicians &/or senior civil servants provides a good role model for Bermuda's youth. "They got away with something, so why can't I".

Politicians and Senior Civil Servants are the public role models provided by government - and in my opinion, some of role models the PLP have put foward over the last 6 years have not been conducive to teaching our children what is right and what is wrong. The UBP had some of the same problems, but not to the degree of the PLP

Ace,

It is plain and simple, Bahamians and those with residence status with the right to work, which includes expats on work permit, cannot gamble. If caught there are severe penalties.

As a Bahamian or resident you can walk through the casinos at your leisure you just cannot gamble.

The population of the Bahamas may be 300,000 with roughly 180,000 in Nassau, y