Bernews

One person has died following a collision in Smith’s, the police confirmed. A police spokesperson said, “Shortly before 6:00 p.m. on Monday, June 1, 2026, Police, Emergency Medical Services as well as Bermuda Fire and Rescue Services, were dispatched to a serious road traffic collision involving a rental micro-car and a motorcycle near the junction …

The Bermuda Captive Conference announced Thomas McMahon as the recipient of the 2026 Fred Reiss Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising his “outstanding contribution to Bermuda’s captive insurance industry and his decades of leadership, advocacy and service to the captive community both locally and internationally.” A spokesperson said, “Presented annually at the Bermuda Captive Conference, the Fred …

Thoughts Become Things, the six-minute short poetry film produced by Bermudian creative company SJD World Ltd, has won two awards at the 47th Annual Telly Awards. A spokesperson said, “The wins bring the project’s total award count to 13 and mark another significant milestone in what has become one of the most decorated independent film …

Premier David Burt spoke at Westminster Abbey, one of the United Kingdom’s most historic and iconic churches, during a special service held to mark UK Overseas Territories Day today [June 1]. According to the United Kingdom Overseas Territories Association, the “primary objective of the UK Overseas Territories Day is to raise awareness and foster a …

The Department of Culture recently premiered Voices of the Rock: Ruth’s Mosaic, honouring Ruth Thomas and her contributions to Bermuda’s cultural heritage. A Government spokesperson said, “The Department of Culture welcomed guests to the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute [BUEI] on 16 May for the premiere of Voices of the Rock: Ruth’s Mosaic, the first film in …

In an effort to improve customer service, the Department of Immigration has introduced dedicated email channels for enquiries relating to “work permits, British Overseas Territories Citizen [BOTC] Bermuda passports, Bermudian status, and Permanent Resident’s Certificate applications.” A Government spokesperson said, “As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance customer service, the Department of Immigration is pleased to …

Bermuda hosted the 48th Annual Caribbean Customs Law Enforcement Council conference, bringing together regional leaders to discuss topics including Customs standards, intelligence sharing, technology, risk-based enforcement, trade facilitation regional cooperation and more. A Government spokesperson said, “Bermuda’s role in regional border security took centre stage last week as senior Customs and law enforcement leaders from across …

Minister of Health Kim Wilson and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Shaun Ramroop held a press conference today [June 1] to launch HIV Awareness Month 2026. “HIV remains present in Bermuda. As of December 2025, an estimated 306 people are living with HIV. Last year, we recorded three new HIV cases, one new AIDS case, and …

A two-vehicle collision involving a “micro rental car and a motorcycle” occurred in Smith’s this evening [June 1]. A police spokesperson said, “There has been a serious two vehicle road traffic collision involving a micro rental car and a motorcycle at the junction of Knapton Hill And South Road, Smith’s. “The motorcycle rider has been …

The Bermuda National Trust [BNT] has enhanced sustainability efforts at its Waterville headquarters with the installation of a new solar pergola. A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda National Trust [BNT] has taken a significant step toward sustainability with the installation of a new solar pergola at its headquarters, Waterville, on Pomander Road. The solar-powered structure now …

One Communications advised that a “service issue currently affecting approximately 15% of its broadband customer base has been identified, and restoration efforts are actively underway.” A spokesperson said, “Technical teams have been working around the clock to isolate and resolve the matter as quickly and safely as possible. While service has already been restored to some …

The selected finalists for the 2026 Singer Songwriter Competition are Brixx, Aalai, Jashae Allen, Marseille Williams, Abede Matthews, Fiyah Marshall, Fire Wayne, and Natasha Krista, the organisers announced today. A spokesperson said, “Carnival in Bermuda is set to officially kick off its 2026 festivities with its highly anticipated Family Fete on Wednesday, June 10, bringing together …

Team Hayward is inviting people to a Pembroke Branches C16– C21 meet & greet on Tuesday, June 16th the Pembroke Sunday School Hall. A spokesperson said, “Team Hayward is extending an invitation to a meet & greet event to the Branch Chairs, Executives, members and those seeking to be members of Pembroke Branches C16, 17, …

A 16-year-old male has been arrested in connection with the shooting in Southampton, police confirmed, with the arrest following after a 17-year-old was also detained in relation to the incident. A police spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Police Service [BPS] can confirm that a second person has been arrested in relation to the confirmed firearms incident …

The Government introduced legislation to “provide a 10% increase in pensions for public sector retirees” and said that “payments will begin in October 2026 and will include retroactive amounts back to April 2026.” A Government spokesperson said, “On Friday, the Government introduced the Pensions [Increase] Amendment Act 2026 to provide a 10% increase in pensions for …

Neriah Bean and Benjamin Crofton are the inaugural recipients of the Department of Energy Bursary Programme, which offers two scholarships of $25,000 each and a paid summer internship at the Department of Energy. A Government spokesperson said, “The Hon. Alexa N. H. Lightbourne, JP, MP, Minister of Home Affairs, announced the inaugural recipients of the Department of …

As part of World Ocean Week 2026, the OurOcean Art Competition is inviting young artists across Bermuda to share their creativity. The Nonsuch Island website said, “The competition is open to two age categories (ages 6–10 and 11–18) and encourages students to explore this year’s theme, “Celebrating Our Ocean,” through original artwork inspired by Bermuda’s …

An Honours & Awards Ceremony was held at Government House to recognise a number of people for their service to Bermuda. Government House said, “At an Honours & Awards Ceremony held at Government House, the Governor, Premier, Ministers, Acting Leader of the Opposition, and other distinguished guests, were able to celebrate the contributions made to …

Light rain did not dampen the spirit at Bernard’s Park today [May 31], as families came out for Mama Bermuda’s Touch A Truck event, enjoying hands-on access to a range of vehicles while supporting P.A.L.S. and Beyond Inclusion. The organizers previously said, “Kids of all ages will have the chance to get up close with …

A 22-year-old man, who was riding while disqualified, was arrested after failing to stop for police, colliding with one officer on a police motorcycle and later causing an unmanned motorcycle to strike a second officer. A police spokesperson said, “Around 11:55 p.m. on Saturday, May 30, 2026, police officers were conducting stop-and-search operations along Crow Lane …

CG Insurance marked the launch of its newly rebranded CG Wellness programme with the inaugural CG Wellness Festival on Saturday [May 30], featuring fitness classes, live local entertainment, Gombeys, vendors and more. “The festival reflects CG’s broader commitment to making wellness accessible, engaging, and community-driven,” the company said. “Rebranding Zest Wellness to CG Wellness is …

The Bermuda Tourism Authority [BTA] has launched its “9 People, 9 Parishes” feature, showcasing the island’s nine parishes through the stories, traditions, and local perspectives of the residents who know them best. The BTA website said, “You might not even realise it’s happening, but as you explore Bermuda, you’ll cross invisible boundaries into distinct parishes, …

In an effort to showcase Bermuda’s natural beauty each morning, Bernews features a “Photo of the Day” in our email newsletters and on various social media networks seven days a week. Judging by the number of reader “likes”, the month’s most popular photos included images of Somerset Bridge, the West End, Fort Albert and more. Our “Photo of …

Two males were taken to hospital after they were found with “what appeared to be stab wounds” on Front Street in Hamilton this afternoon [May 30], the police have confirmed A police spokesperson said, “Shortly before 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 30, 2026, police and other first responders were dispatched to a reported incident near …

A 17-year-old male has been arrested in connection with a recent firearms incident at Southampton Rangers, the police have confirmed. A police spokesperson said, “The suspect was arrested after police yesterday, executed a warrant in the Warwick area as part of ongoing investigations into the confirmed firearms incident which occurred at approximately 10:15 p.m. on Sunday, …

“This Government is committed to taking decisive action to move from promise to delivery by advancing two pathways concurrently: strengthening and amending existing legislation, while also establishing standalone legislation through a comprehensive Disability Act,” Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors Tineé Furbert Speaking in the House of Assembly on Friday [May 29] the Minister …

“The Minister of Education’s answers regarding her involvement in the Port Royal Primary School disciplinary matter have only deepened allegations of political interference in our public schools,” Opposition Leader Ben Smith said. Opposition Leader Ben Smith said, At a time when teachers are facing unprecedented challenges, the Minister has chosen to involve herself in a …

Government is committed to building a Bermuda where “mental wellness is treated with the same urgency and compassion as physical health; and where no person feels isolated because of their mental health challenges,” Minister of Health Kim Wilson said. Speaking in the House of Assembly on Friday [May 29] the Minister said, “As Mental Health …

Following the three recent firearm incidents, the Commissioner of Police said there “will be a further stepping up of our already heightened presence” which “will likely result in some disruptions due to increased stop and search activity, traffic calming and other initiatives.” Commissioner of Police Darrin Simons said, “In light of three confirmed firearms incidents …

The public consultation on the Green Paper on Caricom membership closes on Sunday [May 31], Minister of Home Affairs Alexa Lightbourne said, adding that at the close of this consultation phase, the Ministry will review all feedback received and “then prepare a White Paper that sets the Government’s settled position.” Speaking in the House of …

The Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors has introduced a pilot hearing support program to  provide support towards the cost of hearing assessments and hearing devices for adults in financial need who are uninsured or underinsured.” Speaking in the House of Assembly today [May 29], Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors Tineé Furbert …

Minister Diallo Rabain announced the launch of the “Grow Local” initiative, an online facilitation tool designed to connect private landowners with farmers, with an aim to increase the island’s local food production. Speaking in the House of Assembly today [May 29] the Minister said, “I rise today to highlight the launch of the Grow Local …

The initial phase of the Affordable Housing Programme will deliver 229 residential units, Minister of Housing and Municipalities Zane DeSilva said. Speaking in the House of Assembly today [May 29] the Minister said, ”I rise today to provide this Honourable House with a timely update on this Government’s resolute commitment to addressing one of the most …

“I rise to introduce the Annual Report of the Registry General for the year ended December 31, 2025,” Minister of Economy and Labour Jason Hayward said in the House of Assembly today [May 29] The Minister said, “The Report, which deals primarily with the vital statistics pertaining to the Island’s residential population, indicates that there …

“The same approach that helped make Bermuda a global leader in insurance and reinsurance is now being applied to digital finance,” Premier and Minister of Finance David Burt said in the House of Assembly today [May 29]. The Premier said, “Cabinet has approved policy proposals to advance Bermuda’s digital finance legislative framework. These proposals will …

The Ministry of Health is reminding residents to “take simple but important steps to reduce rodent activity and prevent mosquito breeding as warmer months create conditions that allow both pests to multiply.” “The Ministry’s Vector Control team has seen an increase in reports of rodent activity in recent weeks,” said Minister of Health, Kim Wilson. …

The House of Assembly will be in session on Friday [May 29] and the statements listed on the Order Paper include Pension [Increase] Amendment Act 2026, Advancing Digital Finance in Bermuda, Update on Government Housing Initiatives, Annual Report of the Registry General 2025, Pilot Hearing Support Program, Advancing Disability Inclusion, Commissioning of New Airport Rescue …

The Ministry of Home Affairs advised that “further cost of living relief has been introduced through an expansion of the Essential Commodities Regulations.” A Government spokesperson said, “The Ministry of Home Affairs is pleased to advise the public that further cost of living relief has been introduced through an expansion of the Essential Commodities Regulations. …

The public consultation on Bermuda becoming a full member of CARICOM will end on Sunday, May 31st, and the government has reminded people to please submit feedback by that date. A Government spokesperson said, “The Hon. Alexa N. H. Lightbourne, JP, MP, Minister of Home Affairs, issued the following statement ahead of the close of the public consultation …

Harbour Nights returned to Front Street yesterday [May 27], marking its second event of the year, and featured local artisans, crafters, refreshments, entertainment, and a Gombey performance as part of the ongoing summer series running through September 16. A spokesperson previously said, “Running every Wednesday evening through 16 September 2026, Harbour Nights transforms Front Street …

Rosewood Bermuda announced the promotion of Bermudian Esan Frederick to Resort Manager, where he “will oversee all operational departments, with expanded responsibility for day-to-day performance.” A spokesperson said, “Esan Frederick is promoted to the position of Resort Manager. Having dedicated 14 years to the property, Esan’s journey is a true reflection of what passion, commitment …

The Department of Sport and Recreation said they are “aware that some parents experienced confusion regarding Summer Camp placement notifications issued through the registration portal.” A Government spokesperson said, “A review conducted with the Department, Digital Transformation Team, and stakeholders confirmed that the lottery process itself worked correctly and that camp placements were properly assigned. …

The Bank of Butterfield has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire 91.7% interest in CIBC Caribbean Bank Limited. A spokesperson said, “The Bank of N.T. Butterfield & Son Limited [“Butterfield”] [NYSE: NTB | BSX: NTB.BH] has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire CIBC’s 91.7% interest in CIBC Caribbean Bank Limited [“CIBC Caribbean”], a …

A male was injured in a shooting last night in Prospect, the police have confirmed. A police spokesperson said, “Shortly after 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, police received reports of gunshots at Cedar Park, Prospect. “Officers and Emergency Medical Services were immediately dispatched to that location “Initial investigations confirmed a firearm had been …

The Ministry of Housing and Municipalities has submitted planning applications for two residential developments that would create a total of 48 units in Sandys and St George’s. The plan for Sandys is a three-story development with 24 two-bedrooms, while the plan for the East End is also a three-story development, however this will include 12 …

A planning application has been submitted to create a 30 room hotel on Burnaby Street in the City of Hamilton. The planning application stated said, “Proposed Change of Use and Redevelopment of 26 Burnaby Street from Office [Business – Class 4] to 30‑Room Hotel [Tourism – Class 7], including additions to the existing 5‑storey building, …

Deloitte Bermuda announced that Katryn Smith has been appointed to the firm’s Partnership. A spokesperson said, “Deloitte Bermuda is pleased to announce Katryn Smith, a Bermudian, as Audit Partner, to the firm’s Partnership, effective June 1, 2026. “Katryn has played an important role in serving clients across the [re]insurance industry. She brings extensive experience working …

The OBA’s Reply to the Budget “proposed regulating local insurance companies, including premium and rate changes,” Shadow Finance Minister Dr. Douglas De Couto said, adding that “regulation of local insurers must include whether they can own and operate medical practices and pharmacies, and how they control customer choice for prescriptions.” Dr. De Couto said, “Recent …

[Opinion column written by the OBA’s Joseph Marable] When speaking with constituents and transportation professionals, many concerns continue to be raised regarding transportation policy and whether legislation reflects the realities of the industry. These concerns are being raised because transportation professionals and everyday users believe there is an opportunity to modernise the sector and better …

[Written by Stephen Wright] Jaden Masters has reflected on her football career after prematurely calling time on her decorated playing days because of persistent injuries. Masters, one of Bermuda’s most talented women’s players, hung up her boots after Bermuda’s 8-0 home defeat to Costa Rica in a Concacaf W Championship qualifier in March. She said …