Empowering expatriatesDecember 24, 2011Dear Sir,Taxation without representation could be preventing Bermuda from prospering. Expatriate businesses and expatriates pay taxes, but are not asked to contribute to the governance of the Island. International Business and its staff are largely responsible for the high cost of living in Bermuda, but are not required to help in finding solutions for problems such as the lack of affordable housing.Of course elect Bermudians to govern, but please find a meaningful role for the expatriates. Bermuda is being deprived of a large potential source of leadership and ideas. If selected members of the expat community could participate in the governance of Bermuda (selected, appointed, or elected take your pick), think of the possible benefits:l Thousands of highly educated, law-abiding people from all around the world, living in Bermuda and also contributing to the management and future direction of the Island.l People without historical or family conflicts of interest.l People who would now have more of a stake in what happens on the Island, and could be held accountable.l People with experience from around the world and ideas about how to make life better for all those living on the Island.l People who would now have an incentive to do something other than simply making money and having a good time.l People no longer required to maintain a low profile in order to avoid incurring the wrath of Bermuda’s authorities because they would have someone to represent them.If you picked any small city in the western world and disenfranchised a similar percentage of its most educated and experienced “citizens”, it is doubtful if the community would realise its potential.My wife and I spent four years in Bermuda and were active in the community as volunteers. We volunteered because we admired Bermuda and its people and wanted to give something back. Many expats contribute in this way, and will continue to do so. They can do so much more.When I lived in Bermuda, I thought there should be an Ombudsman to deal with expat issues. I still think that this would be a good idea, but have come to realise that a much more extensive expatriate empowerment could have great benefit.International Business should contribute more to Bermuda, and probably would if more representation was offered.Expatriates on jury duty! Expatriates in the Senate! Expatriates involved in Bermuda’s communities as if they were “back home”.Merry Christmas Bermuda!STEVE McMINNVancouver, British Columbia