Speed cameras are expected to be introduced within the next fiscal year as part of the Ministry of National Security’s boost to the CCTV network.

A ministry spokesman confirmed that the technology was being tested for use in better traffic law enforcement.

He added that 204 security cameras had been installed and were fully operational across the island, signifying an 81 per cent upgrade in the island’s network.

The spokesman said: “The cameras are actively recording and capturing footage, and already contributing to public safety and security.

“Initial testing has begun for speed enforcement technology and full implementation is expected in the next fiscal year.

“The ministry remains committed to delivering a modern, reliable CCTV network that supports public safety and road enforcement efforts.

“Updates on the final implementation phase will be provided as the project progresses.”

The long-awaited update to Bermuda’s closed-circuit television system was proposed in February 2023.

The project, which would install and maintain 265 cameras across the island, was seen as a way to combat crime and antisocial behaviour.

It was re-established in the Progressive Labour Party’s platform, which outlined a plan to put speed cameras within the new CCTV system.

The national security spokesman said that work to complete the necessary electrical upgrades was continuing at more than 30 sites across the island.

Privacy concerns around the new CCTV update have been brewing since last year.

The Free Democratic Movement warned last April that the upgraded system might pose “an unlawful search and infringe on a person’s freedom of association”.

The statement echoed the concerns of residents of Loyal Hill in Devonshire, who told the FDM that the presence of the cameras sparked “a sense of anxiety and distress”.

The Human Rights Commission echoed these concerns, calling them “far-reaching and alarming”.

The group also voiced concerns about the CCTV network’s planned use of artificial intelligence for facial recognition, which at the time had been criticised for making racially biased mistakes.

The plan to use AI was later put on hold over “practical challenges”, according to a government statement.

Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security, said this week that the Government was working to strike the right balance between security and privacy through the upgrade.

He added that his ministry was taking seriously concerns that were raised about the placement of cameras.

Mr Weeks said that engagement with residents, community leaders and stakeholders would remain a priority as the CCTV upgrade process continues.

“My top priority is the safety and wellbeing of every resident of Bermuda,” he explained. “A strong partnership between the Government and the people we serve is essential to achieving that goal.

“While CCTV cameras have played a critical role in crime prevention and law enforcement efforts, I fully understand that their presence raises valid privacy concerns.

“I assure you that we are actively reviewing these concerns and assessing the placement of both existing and future cameras to ensure they meet our shared objectives — enhancing security while respecting individual privacy.”

Mr Weeks added: “Your input is invaluable, and we are committed to working together to find solutions that address your concerns while keeping Bermuda safe for everyone.

“Thank you for your patience, feedback and trust as we navigate this important issue.

“Rest assured, my team and I are listening and we are dedicated to implementing a CCTV system that supports security and the rights of our community.”

The Ministry of National Security was asked if it had received recent concerns from the public regarding privacy.

CCTV cameras have been used for national security in Bermuda for decades — and have been met with backlash for just as long.

They were first put forward in 1997 when the Corporation of Hamilton proposed a $1.3 million public-private CCTV project between itself, businesses and the Government.

The move was immediately contested by lawyer Tim Marshall, who feared it would “trample on the privacy rights of law-abiding citizens”.

The system, which then spread island-wide, was upgraded in 2014 to include cameras with licence-plate reading capabilities.

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