A new direction proposed for de-escalating violence in the community is to go up for debate today in the House of Assembly.

Tabled last month by Michael Weeks, the national security minister, the National Violence Reduction Strategy combines a “call to action“ for the Government and community groups with education and identifying the root cases of violence.

The document gives special focus to gun and knife violence, opting to pursue “sustained reduction rather than total eradication”.

It states that it “focuses on redemption rather than punishment, offering opportunities for individuals to reintegrate into society without stigma.

“This approach includes policies for relocation and support for those seeking a better social and economic environment.”

Aspects of the proposal have been questioned by a community group that deals with the outcomes of homicide in particular, with activist Gina Spence-Virgil asking to see the data behind its suggestions.

Also up for debate today is a change to the Employment Act 2000, raising benefits for workers.

The Employment Amendment Act 2024 will revise the maximum severance allowance of wages paid to an employee on termination of employment from 26 weeks’ wages to 32 weeks’ wages.

Walter Roban, the home affairs minister, is to speak on the tabling of amendments to the Clean Air Act 2024, while education minister Diallo Rabain will give a statement on the Bermuda College Annual Report 2023-24.

Wayne Furbert, the transport minister, will update MPs on the 2025 cruise ship season, and Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, will speak on the 2023-24 annual report of the Department of Financial Assistance.

In addition, a string of Bills will be tabled today — promising a busy final sitting of the House next Friday ahead of MPs going on Christmas break.

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Order of Business December 6.pdf

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