Michael Dunkley, the Premier, has released this statement in response to the referendum results:

“With yesterday’s referendum, Bermuda has expressed its democratic right to vote on two questions that have been the focus of discussion and debate for more than a year.

“Based on the Referendum Act 2012, a referendum question shall be taken to be unanswered if less than 50 per cent of the persons registered in the parliamentary register vote at the referendum.

“And with the results indicating a majority no vote, and a less than 50 per cent turnout, the Government will now consider the next steps that respects and reflects the views of the people.

“It’s important to stress that Bermuda is not alone in its struggle to address the legal issue of same-sex relationships. It is a contentious issue in many jurisdictions.

“Globally, the courts have become actively engaged in opining on a series of challenges relative to the issue.

“And with the results of yesterday’s same-sex relationships referendum, the reality is that Bermuda will likely see its own share of court challenges.

“It is worth recalling that the referendum was preceded by the presentation to Government, in May 2015, of a petition to legalise same-sex marriage.

“Six months later, in October, a second petition was presented to Government asking that marriage remain as defined in existing legislation.

“In March this year, the Government brought forward legislation authorising the referendum. Its purpose was to hear the voice of the people before taking action on the important questions contained in the referendum.

“Throughout this period, the Government conducted a series of public meetings and initiatives whose purpose was to educate and stimulate community discussion on the issues of same-sex couples and marriage.

“The question of same-sex marriage has proved to be an emotive issue, and yet these meetings, which attracted hundreds of Bermudians, upheld a level of respect and civility that we as a community should be proud of, showing how well we can work together to address issues that matter to us.

“Ultimately, yesterday’s referendum was an important moment for Bermuda. And I want to take this opportunity to thank the Office of the Parliamentary Registrar and their management and oversight of yesterday’s process.

“There has been much discussed, much said and much shared throughout our community regarding the issue of same-sex relationships.

“And what is evident is that there are very passionate advocates for and against the matter. This has been and will continue to be a highly sensitive matter.

“Despite our differences we must progress forward. And my hope is that as we move forward as a country, we move ahead with greater tolerance, understanding and respect and appreciation for one another.”

Shadow home affairs minister Walter Roban said in a statement: “Bermudians of all walks of life came out and voted in this referendum.

“The result was a solid no to both referendum questions, despite the turnout being less than desirable.

“It is now up to the government to lead this country to heal from the divisiveness that has permeated our community for the last few months.

“We must unite and come together and heal our divisions. There was much energy expended on this issue by both sides. We hope that all of these voices will continue to use their energies into also fighting for other issues facing Bermudians — gun and gang violence, racial inequality, economic inequality, immigration, joblessness, education, among others. To fulfil our destiny, we need all hands on deck and much too often, we sit in our silos and only fight for isolated causes.

“With respect to the specific issues of same sex marriage and civil unions, regardless of what side was supported, we must respect the result delivered by those that participated.

“We wait to hear from our government how Bermuda will move forward on these issues. There is much healing that must come after this referendum period.”