The opposition One Bermuda Alliance is calling for an independent inquiry into last month’s cyberattack that crippled the Government’s IT systems.

Michael Dunkley, the OBA’s spokesman on national security, spoke out two weeks after David Burt first revealed at a press conference that the network had been breached by hackers.

The Premier has held two press conferences on the incident since, but has repeatedly ducked some questions from reporters, insisting that the Government’s chief priority was on restoring the system and services.

Today, Mr Dunkley accused the Premier of showing a lack of leadership during the crisis.

Mr Dunkley said: “Members of the public are asking questions daily — what is the latest? When will government systems return to fully functional? Has our personal information been compromised?

“We are no clearer than we were when Premier Burt left us to attend a party under the guise of business.

“While we understand and appreciate the gravity of the situation, and the need to be careful about what is released publicly pending a criminal investigation, the public has a right to know more than has been released by the Premier and colleagues.

“Hacks occur across the world on a daily basis, but whether it’s a government or a corporate business, those affected by the hack are regularly kept informed. Why must Bermuda be an exception to the rule?

“The people have a right to know what is being done to fix the matter and if their information remains private. The Premier has handled this matter poorly — and it’s time for that to change.

“There are so many questions. How was this able to happen? Who is responsible? Is or was there a ransom involved? How can the public be assured that this won’t happen again any time soon? Will funds be allotted to enhance and continually protect the Government’s IT infrastructure? Will ministers become compliant with training requirements in a timely manner going forward?

“The public deserves more than a thinly veiled press statement and evasive answers; the One Bermuda Alliance supports the call for an independent inquiry.”

The Government has been sent the OBA statement in full for a response.