Plans for Bermuda to become a full member of the Caribbean Community should be decided by a referendum, according to the Opposition.

Jarion Richardson, the leader of the One Bermuda Alliance, claimed that the Government was moving ahead with the proposal without any consultation with the public — and was at risk of “running roughshod” over the process.

Bermuda has been an associate member of the bloc since 2003, but plans to strengthen the relationship through full membership were unveiled in the Throne Speech last November.

David Burt, the Premier, obtained a Letter of Entrustment from the UK Government and met Caricom leaders at a meeting in Guyana last week.

Mr Burt has insisted that there will be a period of consultation before a final decision is made — but has so far made no comment regarding a referendum.

Mr Richardson told The Royal Gazette: “The OBA asked questions of the Premier to make sure that he doesn’t run roughshod over the Caricom process.

“We made it clear in our town hall meetings that matters that have a significant and lasting impact, given the very small size of our community, must be dealt with fully, and the best way to do that is by way of a referendum.

“The Premier has said that there will be a process of consultation and that everything will be worked out, but it is clear that certain parts of the Caricom issue have already been figured out.

“The free movement is a very good example. The Premier has made it clear that a decision has already been made on this aspect. We want to make sure that he takes it to the people of Bermuda, so that they can decide if this is the right fit for us.”