Information commissioner Gitanjali Gutierrez has invited the public to a debate by the Bermuda National Debate Team.

The event celebrating the two-year anniversary of the Public Access to Information Act will see students discuss whether individuals should be able to to file requests for public records anonymously.

“We are always looking for more opportunities for local students to be able to practice their debating skills and the ICO public debate presented a perfect opportunity,” Akilah Beckles, coach for the Bermuda National Debate Team, stated. “It is not often that school-level debaters are granted the opportunity to participate in discussions of policy issues in Bermuda.

“We are certain that the preparation and execution of this debate will benefit both the debaters and the wider Bermuda community.”

And Ms Gutierrez added: “This is a question about the evolution of the Pati Act.

“Who better to begin our discussion than our future political, community, and professional leaders on the Bermuda National Debate Team?”

Ms Gutierrez added that it is important to discuss the filing anonymous Pati requests in smaller jurisdictions.

“Many requesters will be very open about their desire for public records, especially to promote public accountability for public decisions or spending.”

But she said some requesters may fear that a breach of their confidentiality could lead to retaliation or other negative consequences.

“For these requesters, the ability to make a Pati request anonymously may determine whether or not they exercise their rights,” she added.

Ms Gutierrez invited the public to join the Bermuda National Debate Team, along with their coaches, parents and honoured guests at the debate. She will also host a reception after the debate.

The debate will take place at Hallett Hall at the Bermuda College from 6pm to 7.15pm on Wednesday. The 2017 Bermuda National Debate Team members include Berkeley Institute students Yasser Baia, Sierra Brangman and Tyrese Coakley, Bermuda High School students Erin Jones and Megan Sutcliffe, and Warwick Academy student Asha Symons.

Further information about the Bermuda National Debate Team is available on the Bermuda Debate Society’s Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/bermudadebate.