Question Time: Jamahl Simmons

Shadow Transport Minister and UBP spokesman Jamahl Simmons is now available to answer your questions. He'll be online until about 9.30pm this evening.

If you have a question you'd like to ask him about the UBP or local politics, please leave it in the comments section.

Please observe the following rules:

• All comments should be addressed to Jamahl.

• Ask tough questions, by all means, but be courteous. Personal attacks are strictly forbidden.

• No more than two questions per poster (excluding follow-up questions that you may ask in response to Jamahl's replies). Give others a chance to speak.

• If possible, avoid posting a question if there are several others still outstanding. This will avoid Jamahl being overwhelmed with questions, and make it more difficult for him to simply avoid answering any he finds too difficult!

Offending comments may be deleted.

Without further ado, lets get started with a question from Onion: "What is your response to the suggestion that your party lacks direction, identity, and substance, and as such is not a viable alternative to PLP despite some people's misgivings about the present leadership of the country?"

» This Q&A session is now over and comments on this thread have been closed. However you can continue the discussion here.

Comments

[loki on 16.11.05 at 19:30]

Hello Jamahl,

The PLP has demonstrated this week that it lacks the moral courage to even debate the issue of gay rights in Bermuda. I would like to know what the UBPs stance is towards adding discrimination on the grounds of sexuality to the prohibited forms of discrimination under the Human Rights Act 1981.

Thanks in advance.

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 19:33]

Onion asked: "What is your response to the suggestion that your party lacks direction, identity, and substance, and as such is not a viable alternative to PLP despite some people's misgivings about the present leadership of the country?"

We recognise that gaining the confidence of the people, being considered a viable alternative etc starts with the building of trust. As effective as we may be at pointing out where the PLP is going wrong it is obvious that we need to do a better job of telling the people what we would do instead. If you look at our Throne Speech reply and previous ones under Grant Gibbons an effort has been made to lay out an alternative vision but we need to keep pushing our vision out there as aggressively as we expose flaws in the PLP's agenda.

Do I agree with your premise? No but I would be foolish if I believed that we are getting our vision out there as effectively as we could

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 19:39]

loki asked: "The PLP has demonstrated this week that it lacks the moral courage to even debate the issue of gay rights in Bermuda. I would like to know what the UBPs stance is towards adding discrimination on the grounds of sexuality to the prohibited forms of discrimination under the Human Rights Act 1981."

At present the party hasn't determined a position on the issue of gay rights, nor have we discussed it extensively in our caucus.

As for me I've been discriminated against because of my race, my political affiliation and in one bizarre circumstance my sexual orientation (I'm straight!)

Because of this I am very sympathetic to the plight of people who are being denied opportunities in their own country - think about it for every gay Bermudian who is denied a job or a place to stay that's potentially one more guest worker or one more person sleeping in a tent or cave - anything that stops qualified Bermudians from getting employment or finding a place in their own country needs to be eliminated.

As we deal with this issue one of the biggest problems that I have had to deal with on almost a daily basis is mothers or families being denied housing because they have children - we need to ensure that our Human Rights are not only extended but enforced otherwise it becomes a farce

[sleepy on 16.11.05 at 19:42]

Specifically, what 3 (or more if you like) things would you change in laying out the party's vision?

[Slowhand on 16.11.05 at 19:43]

Why do you think that the UBP has not discussed this, as it does seem to be an initiative that has interest in the community.

[The Limey on 16.11.05 at 19:44]

Jamahl

Why has the issue of gay rights not been discussed more extensively in the UBP caucus? This is not a new issue. Shouldn't the UBP have a position on it?

The belief now seems to be that Renee Webb will bring a private members bill. If she did this, how would you vote?

[Julia on 16.11.05 at 19:48]

Good evening Jahmal,
In light of the recent 'discussions' surrounding independence I would like to know if the Premier can indeed go ahead with his idea of a 'unique solution' of a referendum/general election combo, despite being told by England that he may have an election and then a referendum at a later date. I would also like to know with supposed upcoming 'public debates' about independence coming up will the Oppostion or a group of some sort be educating the public on very real risks such as currency and losing the right to live/work in the UK, so that people are just as aware of that as they are right now on all the reasons the Premier wants independence.

[wklc on 16.11.05 at 19:49]

Jamahl,

What is your response to the fact that Lt Col Burch, Minister of Works & Engineering and Housing stating that he believes Morgans Point should be reserved as a land bank for future Bermudians? I personally think it's a good idea provided we can make inroads in Bermuda's housing problem without touching Morgan's Point. It is somewhat clear that housing is not an issue as much as it is Affordable Housing. There are enough homes, we just all can't afford to live in them.

[Storm on 16.11.05 at 19:49]

Dear Mr Simmons,

I'm a thirty-something born Bermudian who left the island about a year ago to live in the UK. My sole reason was that I completely gave up hope of ever owning property on the island and so (with British passport in hand) decided to buy a piece of a bigger rock. I love and miss Bda but I don't see any other solution. How do you and your party propose to reverse the flow of young educated Bermudians leaving, stem property hyper-inflation and offer young people real hope of owning a home?

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 19:50]

sleepy said: "Specifically, what 3 (or more if you like) things would you change in laying out the party's vision?"

I'd probably hire a new spokesman :)

Seriously though we have some really good ideas not only in our platform but in the heads of my colleagues that we need to do a better job of selling to the community - whether it is through canvassing, town hall meetings, position papers, op eds whatever these ideas should be (and will - stay tuned!) brought forward and promoted.

2 of the things that I am most proud of being a part of was the development of the Economic Empowerment Bill and our Economic Empowerment Zone - David Dodwell and the his committee hammered out both of these ideas got them before the public and for a while got a good national dialogue going on the issue of leveling the economic playing field

Once people know what you stand for and what your values are there lies the beginning of trust and we recognise that by pushing our ideas, our beliefs and our values and discussing them with the wider community we can get others to embrace and share that vision

[wklc on 16.11.05 at 19:51]

Jamahl,

Don't you think the UBP should identify their opinions on Independence and Gay Rights and all the issues, rather than criticizing and opposing nearly every stance the PLP Government takes?

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 19:53]

The Limey said: "Why has the issue of gay rights not been discussed more extensively in the UBP caucus? This is not a new issue. Shouldn't the UBP have a position on it?

The belief now seems to be that Renee Webb will bring a private members bill. If she did this, how would you vote?"

I don't have an answer for your first question but to answer your second question I would probably vote for it depending on the actual content of the bill

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 19:59]

Julia asked: "In light of the recent 'discussions' surrounding independence I would like to know if the Premier can indeed go ahead with his idea of a 'unique solution' of a referendum/general election combo, despite being told by England that he may have an election and then a referendum at a later date. I would also like to know with supposed upcoming 'public debates' about independence coming up will the Oppostion or a group of some sort be educating the public on very real risks such as currency and losing the right to live/work in the UK, so that people are just as aware of that as they are right now on all the reasons the Premier wants independence."

To answer your question - I don't really know what the Premier and his party intend to do whether it would be the election/referendum combo or an election followed by a referendum within a year - he's floated them both!

What I do know is that they are going against the wishes of the people who overwhelmingly want this issue decided by referendum. By not listening they have created an atmosphere of fear and division in almost every segment of the community. We called for a referendum in the first quarter of 2006 because it would allow both sides of the issue ample time to argue their case and inform the public and also present a timetable that would allow the people a sense of resolution. So far the PLP have ignored this proposal.

At the moment it would be presumptuous for me to say at what level we will or will not participate in these town hall meetings.

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 20:02]

wklc asked: "What is your response to the fact that Lt Col Burch, Minister of Works & Engineering and Housing stating that he believes Morgans Point should be reserved as a land bank for future Bermudians? I personally think it's a good idea provided we can make inroads in Bermuda's housing problem without touching Morgan's Point. It is somewhat clear that housing is not an issue as much as it is Affordable Housing. There are enough homes, we just all can't afford to live in them."

Sorry this is the first I've heard of this - was this on the news tonight? I would have to hear what he actually said before I could give you a concrete answer - on the surface I don't have a problem with it but let me reserve judgement until I've heard the Col's proposal

[Raptor on 16.11.05 at 20:03]

Hi Jamahl,

P. Hiltileen Burch wrote a powerful letter to the RG about the bad state of the public schools. Does the UBP have solid plans to bring them up to par? And will a technical college be opened again?

[SRP on 16.11.05 at 20:07]

Jamahl,
While I applaud your desire to serve country, how can we have confidence in you when you have in the past aligned yourself with the PLP, the NLP, and the UBP? How can we be sure you are here for the country, and not for personal gain?

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 20:10]

Storm said: Dear Mr. Simmons, I'm a thirty-something born Bermudian who left the island about a year ago to live in the UK. My sole reason was that I completely gave up hope of ever owning property on the island and so (with British passport in hand) decided to buy a piece of a bigger rock. I love and miss Bda but I don't see any other solution. How do you and your party propose to reverse the flow of young educated Bermudians leaving, stem property hyper-inflation and offer young people real hope of owning a home?

First off Mr. Simmons is my father - you all can call me Jamahl!

I can relate to what you are saying, I have personally experienced this and it seems to be a common experience for people in our age group

Our housing plan is made up of a couple of parts

Using the land zoned for housing at Tudor hill to add to the existing housing stock

Introducing a shared equity plan allowing people to buy "shares" in a BHC home at the level they can afford, buying more "shares as their economic conditions permit - thus becoming part and eventually full owners of a home

Substantially reducing duty on building materials to help drive down the cost of housing

That's just part of the initiatives that we have rolled out and there will be many more to follow!

[silencedogood on 16.11.05 at 20:10]

In line with Raptor's comments, what specifically does the UBP propose to improve the quality of education and graduation rates? What is government's role and where does the community need to improve?

Thanks!

[Tim Taylor on 16.11.05 at 20:12]

Dear Jamahl,
On the issue of housing, many locals have given up on the idea of home ownership (who has any hope of earning two million dollars or more to pay off a mortgage) and are therefore forced to rent. Rents are spiralling upward. What protection and help, if any, can any Government (UBP or PLP) offer to these people who are are seeing more than half their income disappear simply to put a roof over their heads?

[The Limey on 16.11.05 at 20:17]

The following question was sent in by Tiger Bay:

"The PLP instinctively attempt to undermine any black Bermudian with a leadership position in the UBP with crudities like "house nigger." How do you feel about their opinion and the personal animosity with which it is delivered? What's your advice for Bermudians when they hear this attitude being expressed?"

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 20:20]

Raptor asked: "P. Hiltileen Burch wrote a powerful letter to the RG about the bad state of the public schools. Does the UBP have solid plans to bring them up to par? And will a technical college be opened again?"

To answer your question let me refer you to our leader's throne speech reply

Full implementation of teacher certification

Added resources for teachers and parents to help not only with special needs but with special talent as well

Performance of individual schools to be monitored and reported on a regular basis

achievement levels of all students to be tested regularly against internation standards

This is just some of the suggestions we have but to learn more and get more details check out our platform on our website, www.ubp.bm.

[SRP on 16.11.05 at 20:24]

Jahmal,
I find it interesting that the UBP is critisizing the PLP for going against the countries wishes for Indepndence. They are only discussing the issue. Yet when Cedarbridge was being disscussed they went againt the wants of the people and built our now failing system. The people said they didn't want it. It seems to me that the UBP has proved they are the ones who will follow through against what bermudians want. Does the UBP really want what is best for Bermudians or is it that they do not want to talk about Indepedence because it is under a PLP government? Independence is a much better idea than a mega school.

[The Limey on 16.11.05 at 20:26]

Jamahl

You left one part of Raptor's question unanswered: what about the technical college? This is an issue that comes up again and again on this site. Was it a mistake for the UBP to close it down and would you re-open it if returned to power?

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 20:35]

SRP asked: "While I applaud your desire to serve country, how can we have confidence in you when you have in the past aligned yourself with the PLP, the NLP, and the UBP? How can we be sure you are here for the country, and not for personal gain?"

I'm glad you asked me that question! I think I should explain first why I served in each party - My father was a PLP MP (Lionel Simmons) who was part of the group that were expelled during the 80's and founded the NLP

Despite this my home was for many years the headquarters for the PLP in Sandy's and I grew up with people like Eugene Cox, Walter Roberts and Dame Lois Browne Evans as prominent figures in my early development. So despite my father's treatment at their hands when I returned from the US I wanted to be a part of making the vision that they espoused a reality. At that time a former PLP MP warned me not to get involved because he said I didn't have the tempermant to deal with the mindset in the party. In retrospect I should have listened to him but I didn't and after my membership expired I was so disgusted with some of the things going on within the party that I just walked away and for a year I didn't have any involvement with politics at all. Some people have claimed that I left the PLP because I didn't advance fast enough or because I wasn't offered a chance to run for the party but that simply isn't true.

My involvement with the NLP however is one that I am very proud of - I joined because I wanted to play a role in helping the party my father founded become a real force in Bermudian politics. I don't regret belonging to that party at all. Unfortunately, the message that I kept receiving from the voters is that they were locked into 2 camps PLP and UBP and that they weren't interested in change. When I witnessed some of the things that were going on within the PLP and around the country I became very concerned that if we in the NLP began to gain ground it would only help keep the PLP in power. After losing the smith south by-election Wayne Furbert and David Dodwell began to approach me with their vision of where they wanted to take the UBP and I found it extremely appealing, I saw people who not only looked like me but people who shared my values joining the party and i wanted to be a part of making it a reality.

As for whether you can believe in me I can't answer that but I will tell you that after I left the PLP I never intended to go back into politics at any level but when my son was born in 2000 I knew that I didn't want him to grow up in the Bermuda that the PLP were building - at the end of the day that is and remains at the core of why I do what I do and the second that politics gets in the way of my relationship with with my family is the day I leave politics for good

[SmokingGun on 16.11.05 at 20:36]

Jamahl,

A couple of questions if I may:

The UBP has quite a few smart and resourceful people. Yet the party rarely comes up with any real solid innovative and visonary ideas and plans. Except when it's just before election time. I think this also happens with the PLP. Is there a fear of letting the ideas out to be used by the opposite party or is there just a lack of real vision?

In your opinion, is there room in Bermuda for a legitimate third party?

Thanks for your time.

[The Limey on 16.11.05 at 20:36]

Jamahl

I think you missed wklc's second question: "Don't you think the UBP should identify their opinions on Independence and Gay Rights and all the issues, rather than criticizing and opposing nearly every stance the PLP Government takes?"

[loki on 16.11.05 at 20:37]

Jamahl,

I hope that we can all agree that there has been a massive increase in dangerous driving/riding on our roads and, indeed, antisocial behaviour in general in the last seven or eight years. It would appear that there is a growing underclass of individuals in Bermuda who engage in antisocial behaviour and who could care less about anything or anyone. What would you and/or the UBP do to combat this increasingly prevalent problem?

[jake on 16.11.05 at 20:43]

Jamahl,

1.
Since you have indicated that the issue of gay rights requires discussion before the UBP could take a stance, what do you think are the reasons that could be advanced in support of keeping the status quo?

2.
After 30 years in Government, what responsibility does the UBP have for the state of our education system, and do you believe that UBP members (specifically MP's) will have their children in that system if they are elected?

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 20:44]

Tiger Bay said: "The PLP instinctively attempt to undermine any black Bermudian with a leadership position in the UBP with crudities like "house nigger." How do you feel about their opinion and the personal animosity with which it is delivered? What's your advice for Bermudians when they hear this attitude being expressed?"

Let me answr that question by telling you an incident that occurred just last week - a PLP Senator saw me walking in town with my son and when I introduced him he proceeded to tell my 5 year old that he hopes that he grows up to be a better man than me and not compromise himself by being in the UBP - 5 years ago the RG would have been reporting UBP MP breaks senator's jaw but in this game you get a tough skin.

The PLP do this because it devalues and dehumanizes the black members of the UBP - if you can take away a person's identity and take away their individuality it's easier to create a scapegoat - it's funny but racists would often say that all blacks are alike and now in 2005 the PLP says that if all blacks don't think alike than there is something wrong - typical crabs in a bucket mentality and it all stems from fear - fear that people might begin to look at the UBP as they are today instead of how they were 30 years ago and begin judging us by our ideas and our values rather than on our party affiliation.

The great thing is that people who hold these feelings are dying out every day but while their numbers dwindle their hatred for anything that differs from them becomes louder and more vitriolic.

We who want to seriously deal with race need to speak out loudly whenever anyone behaves in a racist or otherwise hateful manner and let them know that behavior isn't acceptable in our country.

[island dweller on 16.11.05 at 20:46]

Good evening Jahmal,

Thank you for taking time out to communicate with us. I would really like to understand two things:

1) Why are there 3 people at the top of the UBP org chart - Dr. Gibbons, Mr. Dunkley and Mr. Brunson?

2) Why don't I hear more from others in the UBP, like Cole Simons, Trevor Moniz, David Dodwell, Neville Darrell.

Sincerely,

[SmokingGun on 16.11.05 at 20:50]

Amen to your comments on racism Jamahl.

And next time tell your kid to kick him in the shins....

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 20:52]

SRP said: "I find it interesting that the UBP is critisizing the PLP for going against the countries wishes for Indepndence. They are only discussing the issue. Yet when Cedarbridge was being disscussed they went againt the wants of the people and built our now failing system. The people said they didn't want it. It seems to me that the UBP has proved they are the ones who will follow through against what bermudians want. Does the UBP really want what is best for Bermudians or is it that they do not want to talk about Indepedence because it is under a PLP government? Independence is a much better idea than a mega school."

Well I can't speak to the mega school issue - that was before my time! If the UBP didn't listen on Cedarbridge than the people made them pay the price for that and a myriad of other sins at the 98 election

What we want to do is not repeat the mistakes of the past and perpetuate the mistakes. I personnally don't support the mega school concept and was mystified when the PLP built and expanded on a system that they considered flawed!

Let me make one thing perfectly clear the United Bermuda Party isn't opposed to the discussion of independence but we believe that this is an issue that should be determined by the people not by 36 politicians in Parliament

One of my most inspirational possessions is a small picture of the then Prime Minister and Opposition leader of Jamaica smiling and shaking hands as they signed the papers taking Jamaica to independence. That's what independence is about the people taking this step TOGETHER not a divisive battle with lines drawn on race and party. Handled properly the issue could unite the people but being handled the way it is now has only created division and we need to find a way to bring our people back together again

[Julia on 16.11.05 at 20:55]

Good evening Jamahl,
I would just like to know your take on the Cabinet Minister Burch having a radio show and blatantly making it political by having the Premier on etc. and at the same time Gina Spence-Farmer is being told she can not help with the Bermuda College's youth radio show on Power 95- seems the double standards are just outrageous.

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 20:56]

The Limey said: "You left one part of Raptor's question unanswered: what about the technical college? This is an issue that comes up again and again on this site. Was it a mistake for the UBP to close it down and would you re-open it if returned to power?"

Again this was before my time - I think I was about 5 when that happened! In retrospect it was a mistake and knowing what we know now the current UBP team wouldn't have closed the school.

One of the things that we have been discussing is a 21st century Tech - the plumbers of yesterday are the IT men of today - we need to not only bring back technical training such as the great work being done under the NTB but we should also look at broadening what technical education means to encompass a wide range of things that Bermudians can do with their hands and their minds.

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 21:02]

SmokingGun said: "The UBP has quite a few smart and resourceful people. Yet the party rarely comes up with any real solid innovative and visonary ideas and plans. Except when it's just before election time. I think this also happens with the PLP. Is there a fear of letting the ideas out to be used by the opposite party or is there just a lack of real vision?

In your opinion, is there room in Bermuda for a legitimate third party?"

Well since 2003 we have been making a better effort of getting our ideas out there - our housing plan, our economic empowerment bill, our economic empowerment zone idea, my PEACE plan for transport - the list goes on

But as I said earlier we recognise that we have to do a better job getting our ideas out there.

Also we have no problem with the PLP "stealing" our ideas as a matter of fact we offered them our housing plan - at the end of the day we would rather see our ideas become a reality because we believe they are good for the country - it doesn't matter who does it so long as it's done right.

As for a 3rd party - that would have to be up to the people - the challenges associated with forming a credible party are enormous - finding candidates who are credible and respected, raising money, running a campaign are just some of the things that need to be done that are a lot tougher than they look - trust me I've tried. But I believe that the people whether I agree with them or not are always right and if the will is there for a viable 3rd party Bermudians will somehow find a way.

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 21:06]

wklc asked: "Don't you think the UBP should identify their opinions on Independence and Gay Rights and all the issues, rather than criticizing and opposing nearly every stance the PLP Government takes?"

Sorry wasn't trying to duck it - we have identified our stance on independence and on the other issues we have always believed that our diversity is our strength and because of that we prefer to discuss these issues and think them through rather than just taking a position on everything that comes up.

Also we don't oppose everything that the PLP suggests -if you look at the record we have supported way more PLP bills than we have tried to block - As a matter of fact this Friday I will be debating 3 bills with the Minister of Transport that we will probably support

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 21:10]

loki said: "I hope that we can all agree that there has been a massive increase in dangerous driving/riding on our roads and, indeed, antisocial behaviour in general in the last seven or eight years. It would appear that there is a growing underclass of individuals in Bermuda who engage in antisocial behaviour and who could care less about anything or anyone. What would you and/or the UBP do to combat this increasingly prevalent problem?"

To give you a quick answer we have come up with what we call the PEACE Plan - Promoting Education Accountability Consequences and Enforcement

This plan incorporates increased education of motorists on the front end through expansion of programs such as Project Ride, Graduated Licencing, The Points System (which the PLP will pass through Parliament on Friday, tougher penalties for drunk drivers and expansion of the police traffic division for a heightened more visible police presence on our roads

That's it in a nutshell but if you look back in Limey's archives we had a post on this where I laid out the details of the plan for feedback from the community.

[You can find the post here - The Limey]

[The Limey on 16.11.05 at 21:17]

In a recent speech, former UBP Premier Sir John Swan said that despite the PLP's current troubles, the UBP is not seen as an alternative by the majority of Bermudians. He ascribed this to "a legacy consciously or unconsciously of how blacks within the UBP have been and continue to be treated when there is disagreement". Why do you think Sir John made this statement? Is it true that black members such as yourself have less influence than the party’s white members?

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 21:18]

jake asked: "1. Since you have indicated that the issue of gay rights requires discussion before the UBP could take a stance, what do you think are the reasons that could be advanced in support of keeping the status quo?"

None that I can argue in support of but I owe my colleagues the decency of working through our position on this issue - each of us will be voting based on our conscience at the end of the day

"2. After 30 years in Government, what responsibility does the UBP have for the state of our education system, and do you believe that UBP members (specifically MP's) will have their children in that system if they are elected?"

I have both of my children in the public school system but at the end of the day every parent has to decide for themselves what is best for their children and I wouldn't condemn anyone for where they decide to put their children no matter how good the education system is or becomes- as for responsibility the UBP has to take responsibility for everything that occurred up to 98 but as a product of the public school system I don't ever remember a time when so many people were voting with their feet black and white and taking their children out of the public school system.

Today's UBP didn't create the problem but we take responsibility for it and are prepared to deal with it

[jake on 16.11.05 at 21:20]

Jamahl,

The UBP has always been the party of the wealthy, and whilst few of its black members join as wealthy members they were clearly seen to leave that way. Did you receive financial support from UBP members when you took the job as MP?

[jake on 16.11.05 at 21:23]

Today's UBP?

Other than you who joined most recently, how many MP's of the current UBP were members pre 1998? Is this not an attempt to avoid the actual legacy of the UBP?

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 21:25]

island dweller asked: "Thank you for taking time out to communicate with us. I would really like to understand two things:

1) Why are there 3 people at the top of the UBP org chart - Dr. Gibbons, Mr. Dunkley and Mr. Brunson?

2) Why don't I hear more from others in the UBP, like Cole Simons, Trevor Moniz, David Dodwell, Neville Darrell.

Are you asking why those 3 or why there are 3 positions?

Those 3 were chosen by us their colleagues to represent us on the frontlines based on their individual strengths and abilities. Why three positions? We found that it works for us because for one thing none of us are full time politicians and you need a pool of people available at the top when one or all are unavailable

I wouldn't presume to speak for any of my colleagues but I will tell you that David has been extremely active behind the scenes developing our Race Relations and Economic Opportunity agenda, Cole is extremely vocal in Parliament and Neville Darrell has built a solid reputation for getting things done for parents seeking answers and resolutions to problems with the school system - i'll pass your comments on to them!

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 21:27]

Julia said: "Would just like to know your take on the Cabinet Minister Burch having a radio show and blatantly making it political by having the Premier on etc. and at the same time Gina Spence-Farmer is being told she can not help with the Bermuda College's youth radio show on Power 95- seems the double standards are just outrageous."

Well I think people see it for what it is - but it does open the door for a Shadow Minister to have a radio show - would you tune in to conversations with Private Simmons?

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 21:31]

The Limey said: "In a recent speech, former UBP Premier Sir John Swan said that despite the PLP's current troubles, the UBP is not seen as an alternative by the majority of Bermudians. He ascribed this to "a legacy consciously or unconsciously of how blacks within the UBP have been and continue to be treated when there is disagreement". Why do you think Sir John made this statement? Is it true that black members such as yourself have less influence than the party’s white members?"

Well Sir John is entitled to his opinion but I haven't seen him at any UBP meetings lately!

This is one of the biggest misconceptions that is out there in the community. We make our decisions by consensus and the blacks outnumber the whites in the room so you do the math! When I look at the impact that people like Kim Swan, Kenny Bascome, Wayne Furbert, Pat Pamplin and so many others have had on our party I can only laugh at the people who still hold these outdated notions. As for me I'm a young black male! We don't take too kindly to being used and silenced!

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 21:35]

jake said: "The UBP has always been the party of the wealthy, and whilst few of its black members join as wealthy members they were clearly seen to leave that way. Did you receive financial support from UBP members when you took the job as MP?"

Absolutely! Santa Gibbons and the ghosts of 40 thieves past climb down my chimney every night and gave me a bag of gold to tuck under my pillow!

Seriously though that's a pretty insulting question but to answer it NO!!!! Despite the best efforts of people in your party to stifle any attempt for me or my wife to make a living we have somehow managed to muddle through without handouts

[island dweller on 16.11.05 at 21:38]

Thank you.

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 21:40]

jake said: "Today's UBP?

Other than you who joined most recently, how many MP's of the current UBP were members pre 1998? Is this not an attempt to avoid the actual legacy of the UBP?"

There is no avoiding the UBP's legacy but in the words of Oscar Wilde "Every saint has a past and every sinner has a future".

When I talk about today's UBP it goes a lot deeper than the 14 who got elected to Parliament - it's people like R. Wayne Scott, Christian Dunleavy, Kenneth Bascome, Gina Spence, Keith Young and so many others whose names I have unintentionally omitted and some whose names will become public knowledge really soon!

It's about building on the past and trying to build a better Bermuda.

Seriously though blaming the folk who make up the UBP for what happened 400 years ago is like blaming President Bush for Thomas Jefferson committing adultry!

[Sergio on 16.11.05 at 21:41]

What have any members of the PLP done to stifle any attempt for you and your wife to make a living?

[Uncle Elvis on 16.11.05 at 21:42]

Sorry I'm late.

Just one question, with a few parts.

Jamahl, after Col. Burch's offensive remarks were brought back up this week, I had to ask myself, "Where is the outrage?"
Where IS the outrage? Where is the angry letter from the UBP decrying this? Which leads to the next part, same lines, I think. Why can't the UBP become more proactive? It seems, and this is personal perception, but one that is shared by others I talk to, that the UBP is always playing catch-up, and slowly, at that. Why ISN'T there a solid party position on Gay Rights? Why ISN'T there a solid party position on Independance? Bermuda needs leadership. Why can't we get it?

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 21:43]

SmokingGun said: "Amen to your comments on racism Jamahl.

And next time tell your kid to kick him in the shins."

He's young, his immune system is still developing and I don't want him touching trash.

[Big Bad Wolf ^..^ on 16.11.05 at 21:44]

It is unfortunate that Jamahl does not know how to tell the truth.Before the Smith's South by-election came to an NLP executive meeting and said the UBP were interested in merging with the NLP.The Executive committee decided that the NLP did not want to merge with the UBP but would designate Jamahl to continue contact with the UBP so that we could keep contact with what they were up to post losing the Government.Jamahl and his wife Sherry continued to work hard in the NLP and were vital help in the run up to the polling.Alot of fear was generated concerning this election that if the UBP lost the by-election it would destroy the party.The Conservative nature of Smiths South gave the election on a platter to the carpet bagging Maxwell Burgess.The UBP held NLP support bled away to both the UBP and PLP and I never got my chance after much hard work and many attempts to win the seat.However I did pick up enough PLP vote to keep Burch out.Several days later in the Bermuda Sun an Article apears that Jamahl is joining the UBP.The morning the article runs Jamahl phones our past party leader that he has joined the UBP.No letter no notice just the Bermuda Sun article.When I finally get to speak to Jamahl,I tell him that this not a good way to change parties and that the manner of his switch though an article in the Sun before informing the NLP executive is really a cheap shot.Sherry enters the conversation and encourages me to switch to the UBP along with our remaining active members.I said my political principles are not that easily discarded as hers.I lost respect for Jamahl on that day and until now nothing has changed that judgement.

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 21:47]

Sergio asked: "What have any members of the PLP done to stifle any attempt for you and your wife to make a living?"

Let's just say that there are people within that party who have learned very well how to use threats and intimidation with members of this community and let's leave it at that.

[Uncle Elvis on 16.11.05 at 21:51]

I saw nothing that contradicts this in Jamahl's post on this. Calling someone a liar is pretty serious, Wolfie.
I know you probably have bad feelings about this, but ease back, 'k?

As for my follow up:

What do you think of the casting of Kelsey Grammer as Beast in X-Men 3?

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 21:52]

Uncle Elvis said: "After Col. Burch's offensive remarks were brought back up this week, I had to ask myself, "Where is the outrage?"
Where IS the outrage? Where is the angry letter from the UBP decrying this? Which leads to the next part, same lines, I think. Why can't the UBP become more proactive? It seems, and this is personal perception, but one that is shared by others I talk to, that the UBP is always playing catch-up, and slowly, at that. Why ISN'T there a solid party position on Gay Rights? Why ISN'T there a solid party position on Independance? Bermuda needs leadership. Why can't we get it?"

We actually have filed a complaint with the human rights commission on this issue - Our party has a very clear position on independence - we believe that it should be determined by a referendum and not be a political decision

It would be unfair to my colleagues to comment further on the gay rights issue as we haven't reached a consensus on the issue but I will say that I take your point and will take it back to my colleagues

[SmokingGun on 16.11.05 at 21:52]

A party that has a sense of humour is very important.
Something the PLP is deeply lacking in. Good night all.

Oh and Limey, please don't cut a thing. I want to read how this plays out!

[Sergio on 16.11.05 at 21:54]

I'm sorry Jamahl but that's kind of a half-assed answer.

If you are going to make allegations, it would be better if you stated your case so we can understand where you are coming from.

If you dont want to discuss it, then it doesn't make much sense bringing it up.

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 21:54]

Graeme,

you are absolutely correct about one thing I handled the decision to leave the NLP extremely badly - all I can say is what I have told you in person is that I am sorry and that if I could do it again I would have handled it differently

You are a person who I respect and admire. I truly regret that poltics and my poor handling of that decision have driven a wedge between us

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 21:56]

Uncle Elvis said: "What do you think of the casting of Kelsey Grammer as Beast in X-Men 3?"

I don't know what to think - everything I hear about X-men 3 fills me with equal parts anticipation and dread!

[Big Bad Wolf ^..^ on 16.11.05 at 21:59]

Heah its water under the bridge....I guess you best continue to work on your future. All is forgiven but I must point out the truth of what happened....as that is really important.

[Uncle Elvis on 16.11.05 at 22:00]

So are there plans to become more proactive? To prove to us that the party can get things done? Maybe it's just a publicity thing and we're just not seeing things that ARE getting done. If so, are there plans to make this happen?
At this point in Bermuda, there are a lot of people in the "I don't care WHO leads us, as long as they frickin' LEAD us and get stuff done!". What is the party either doing or planning to do to prove to me and others like me that they are the ones to do this, rather than the usual, "Hey, at least we're better'n THOSE guys!" tact that both parties seem to take?

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 22:01]

Sergio said: "If you are going to make allegations, it would be better if you stated your case so we can understand where you are coming from. If you dont want to discuss it, then it doesn't make much sense bringing it up.

You are correct - I'm not willing to go any deeper into this subject so I withdraw my comments and regret mentioning it

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 22:02]

Uncle Elvis said: "So are there plans to become more proactive? To prove to us that the party can get things done? Maybe it's just a publicity thing and we're just not seeing things that ARE getting done. If so, are there plans to make this happen?
At this point in Bermuda, there are a lot of people in the "I don't care WHO leads us, as long as they frickin' LEAD us and get stuff done!". What is the party either doing or planning to do to prove to me and others like me that they are the ones to do this, rather than the usual, "Hey, at least we're better'n THOSE guys!" tact that both parties seem to take?"

All I can say is stay tuned......

[Julia on 16.11.05 at 22:07]

Jamahl,
I would just like to take the time to thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to tend to the queries and feelings of the people of Bermuda. I think it is commendable, putting yourself out there like that and again, thank you. You certainly shed light on issues important to me:).

[Jamahl Simmons on 16.11.05 at 22:07]

Well guys,

Phil tells me its time to turn off the lights and hit the road!

Thanks for your questions - I'm sorry I couldn't get through all of them but I will do my best to get any questions I missed answered through Phil.

Thanks again, you guys have been great and I hope we can do this again sometime!

[The Limey on 16.11.05 at 22:10]

I’d like to thank Jamahl for having the courage and taking the time to answer questions here this evening, and for going for half an hour longer than he originally agreed to!

Comments on this thread will now be closed, however if you wish to continue the discussion, you can do so here.

If any member of the PLP - or any other public figure, for that matter - would like to do something similar, please contact me.