Log In

Reset Password
BERMUDA | RSS PODCAST

Protesters gather outside House of Assembly

First Prev 1 Next Last

About 100 people gathered outside the House of Assembly today calling on Government to do more for ordinary people.It was organised by the group Concerned Bermudians and protesters told The Royal Gazette they weren't against foreign workers but just wanted Government to do more for them.Placards included "Change the laws, stop the wars" and signs calling for the protection of children."Children of work permit holders shouldn't be able to work when our own young people can't get jobs," one woman said, as the crowd gathered waiting to be addressed by the Premier.A cheer greeted the arrival of Opposition members Glenn Blakeney, Zane DeSilva and Walter Roban.Earlier, social activist John Holdipp also marched on the House.He expressed disappointment at the lack of supporters and set off alone."If people don't want to stand up and make their voices heard, I'll go alone because this is what I believe is right."He chided Home Affairs Minister Michael Fahy for "making people feel small" in announcing the elimination of term limits."I feel Government has shown more concern over expats and international business than for the ordinary Bermudians," Mr Holdipp said. "Government's primary responsibility is to the electorate."A few onlookers called out their support when Mr Holdipp, carrying a placard, set off from Union Square at 10.30am.But he couldn't hide his disappointment at being outnumbered by members of the press. "Where are the Bermudians?" he asked.After marching to Wesley Street, Mr Holdipp was joined by a smattering of supporters on his way to Parliament.A woman identifying herself as a concerned senior said she was waiting to show her annoyance at having to pay for a car licence.Addressing Mr Holdipp outside Parliament was Premier Craig Cannonier, joined by Home Affairs Minister Mike Fahy.Mr Cannonier said he understood the fears of ordinary Bermudians, adding that residents could respond with feedback on a draft of work permit policy by March 8."I know there's been concern, fear and confusion over term limits," Mr Cannonier said, adding: "We found that it was redundant. All we had to do was enforce work permits."Mr Holdipp denied that Bermudians were xenophobic but said their fears arose from Government's apparent preference for "the visiting workforce".