Michael Dunkley has expressed hope that the impasse between the Bermuda Government and the Bermuda Police Association will soon be resolved.

The two sides have been at loggerheads over budget negotiations since last year and matters came to a head in December, when about 100 police officers amassed on Cabinet grounds to present complaints to the Premier.

Mr Dunkley acknowledged that a resolution would probably not satisfy either side completely, but maintained that one could be reached if both parties were prepared to compromise.

“When I hear morale is not as high as it could be, that concerns and bothers me,” Mr Dunkley said. “I have tried to tell the police that these are very difficult times, the financial challenges that Government faces are very real.

“There are very difficult decisions to make and I would appeal to the Bermuda Police Association to have understanding and faith and be forthright in their discussions.

“I am hopeful that there will be a resolution shortly. I’m sure that the resolution will mean both parties are not as happy as they would like with the agreement but that is how it happens.

“Everyone understands it is tough being a police officer and everyone appreciates the work they do. But if both sides say, ‘OK, this is the best deal, let’s move it’, then this situation can be resolved very quickly.”

The Premier also revealed he expected to receive a review of the Department of Corrections “shortly”, that would determine which of the three facilities would be shut down to cut costs and make the department more efficient.

“Given the low numbers in prisons at the moment, there has to be an opportunity for us to close one of the facilities and continue to improve the safety, security and rehabilitation options necessary,” he said.

“Those who are incarcerated should understand that closing a facility will not make it harder for them to see hope in the future.

“Closing one of the small facilities does not mean that if it is needed again it could not be reopened.

“If we were to close the farm and combine the two facilities in the East End we could still use the farm for its farming facilities and workshops. But I will await the commissioner’s review, which I expect to be provided shortly.”