Legislation introducing a speed ticketing system in tandem with the roadside CCTV network is in the works, the Junior Minister of National Security said yesterday.

Lindsay Simmons told the Upper House that speed cameras were expected to be operational late in 2026 or early in 2027.

She said the Bermuda Police Service, the Ministry of National Security and the Ministry of Transport would collaborate with the Ministry of Justice on necessary legislation.

Research has found additional locations for speed cameras to optimise the system.

Senators heard that testing had begun, with Ms Simmons saying she recently witnessed the system in operation and was “very impressed” at how it had advanced.

She added: “This is wonderful progress and I look forward to further development in this area next year.”

Ms Simmons said 219 CCTV cameras had been installed around the island, with 204 of them online at 229 site locations, providing 454 distinct camera views.

The project, which started in September 2023, faced several setbacks but is now 90 per cent ready, with a July deadline.

Ms Simmons said an additional 34 sites were being examined for more cameras to complement the system.

She told the Senate it was designed with privacy protection in mind, aligning with privacy regulations and with privacy controls adequately addressed.

She added: “Residents have expressed a greater sense of security now that CCTV coverage has been enhanced.

“This has increased confidence and has encouraged more community involvement with citizens more willing to report suspicious activities to the Bermuda Police Service.”

The ministry and the BPS have engaged the Privacy Commissioner’s office to discuss matters related to the network.

She said that as its completion date neared, a town hall meeting would educate the public on privacy matters and best practices.

Marcus Jones, the Opposition Leader in the Senate, said the One Bermuda Alliance’s support was on the record, and that he was “thrilled” to have the end in sight.

Responding to a question from Mr Jones, Ms Simmons said the project was within its budgetary allocation, with additional funds for completion to be included in the upcoming Budget.

Mr Jones raised concerns about the positioning of cameras, with Ms Simmons saying residents could contact the BPS or an e-mail the ministry over any issues.

Privacy concerns around the CCTV upgrade have been brewing since last year.

The Free Democratic Movement warned last April that the upgraded system might pose “an unlawful search and infringe on a person’s freedom of association”.

The Human Rights Commission echoed these concerns, calling them “far-reaching and alarming”.

The group also voiced concerns about the CCTV network’s planned use of artificial intelligence for facial recognition, which at the time had been criticised for making racially biased mistakes.