The Government’s efforts against crime will continue to focus on prevention in the coming year, the Minister of National Security said today.

Fleshing out policies outlined in last week’s Speech from the Throne, Michael Weeks said that too many lives had been affected by crime and that the Government was committed to making Bermuda safer for everyone.

At a press conference today, Mr Weeks said: “The National Violence Reduction Strategy remains a top priority, and we will continue working to tackle violence at its roots.

“A key part of this effort is providing early intervention for our youth.

“Last year, I stood before you and promised to restore youth counselling services — because we know that young people who are facing challenges need access to professional support.”

Mr Weeks said that Bermuda Youth Counselling Services will now operate under the Department for National Drug Control, providing structured guidance to young people between the ages of 10 and 18.

“This initiative ensures that those who need help can receive it in a way that is accessible, professional and designed to create real change,” he said.

Mr Weeks was questioned about another agency set up to nip crime in the bud — the Gang Violence Reduction Taskforce, a consultancy overseen by newly elected government MP Leroy Bean.

Mr Weeks said that he saw no reason why Dr Bean should step down from the task force because he is now an MP.

He said: “The struggle that we are facing with the antiviolence strategy that we’re trying to implement is ongoing and Pastor Bean brings a vast amount of experience and advice to the table.

“I’m happy at this point with his work.

“I am definitely confident it [the task force] is having an impact.

“In the three years I have been working closely with Pastor Bean and his team I have seen the work that they do in our elementary schools and middle schools and high schools and on the streets and in our communities.

“I am confident that they are doing a yeoman’s job.”

When it was pointed out that there were nine murders in Bermuda last year, Mr Weeks replied: “It could have been 20 murders.”

Mr Weeks conceded that police numbers were down, but that the Government was making efforts to bolster manpower and put “boots on the ground”.

Also in the pipeline will be an examination of the 2014 Security and Defence Review.

Mr Weeks said: “A modern Bermuda requires a strategic, well-equipped and adaptable security structure, and this review will allow us to identify areas for improvement.”

Laws will be passed to reduce the risk of the island becoming the victim of a cyberattack.

Mr Weeks said: “How we approach security is evolving and, in today's world, digital security is just as important as physical security.

“In response to the increasing risks posed by cybercrime, this legislative session will introduce amendments to Bermuda's cybersecurity laws.

“The Electronic Communications (Cybercrime) Amendment Bill will update our legal framework to address modern threats and protect our digital infrastructure.

“Businesses, government agencies and the public rely on secure communications, and these legislative changes will strengthen our ability to combat cyber threats effectively.”

Other legislative amendments will “clarify and modernise“ the rules surrounding the importation of medicinal marijuana and hemp products.

Mr Weeks added: “Changes to the Misuse of Drugs Act will establish a clear and structured framework that ensures Bermuda’s laws are practical, enforceable and aligned with international best practices.

“We aim to create a regulatory system that removes uncertainty while upholding Bermuda's legal and social obligations.”

Mr Weeks also revealed that 90 per cent of the 247 CCTV cameras shipped in for a new surveillance network were installed.

He said: “As we move forward with this initiative, we are approaching the final implementation phase, which will introduce speed cameras as part of the broader CCTV network.

“This is the next step in a multi-phased strategy that began with increasing CCTV surveillance across the Island.

“The integration of speed cameras is a natural progression in this effort and will provide additional tools to encourage safer driving and reduce road fatalities.

“While enforcement is one aspect, this ultimately prevents dangerous driving and saves lives.

“Introducing speed cameras is not a stand-alone initiative but rather the culmination of a long-term plan to modernise traffic enforcement and enhance public safety.”

Mr Weeks concluded: “The Ministry of National Security is not just about enforcement — it is about building a Bermuda where people feel safe in their homes, streets and communities.

“Our work in the months ahead will focus on providing young people with opportunities, enhancing security infrastructure and ensuring our laws keep pace with modern challenges.

“These initiatives are about protecting what matters most — our people, our communities and our future.”