Good morning everyone.
It is proper for me to start by thanking my colleague, the Minister for Tourism and Transport and Culture and Sport, and all of the organisers, agencies, departments, volunteers and community partners who have worked so hard in preparing for Bermuda Day.
I know this day does not come together overnight. The events during this beloved holiday take many months of planning to ensure that the parade, the races and the wider holiday activities can be enjoyed safely by residents and visitors.
Bermuda Day is one of the most important days on our calendar. It is a day when we celebrate who we are as Bermudians. This year’s theme, “For the Culture”, as the Minister has stated, speaks to our pride, traditions, families, music, people and the and the very fabric of our community that binds us together.
That is why my message to all of Bermuda today is simple: Please celebrate safely.
I would expect everyone to enjoy the festivities of the day and the entire weekend but, do so with the utmost care, respect and good judgement.
Many people will be on the roads this weekend. I ask motorists, riders and pedestrians to drive and ride responsibly and in a respectful manner towards other road users. Please slow down, pay attention, wear your seatbelt, wear your helmet where required, and above all else, do not drink and drive.
A few careless seconds on the road can change a family’s life forever. None of us wants to see a holiday weekend remembered for a serious collision or a phone call with bad news.
Many residents will also be heading to the beaches and out on the water. The Royal Bermuda Regiment Coastguard will be on patrol during the holiday period, helping to ensure safety on our waters. But safety cannot rest with patrols alone.
If you are operating a boat or jet ski, please be responsible. Know your limits. Look out for swimmers, other vessels and changing weather conditions. Make sure your safety equipment is in order. I If alcohol is part of your day, please make sensible decisions before you get behind the wheel of a vehicle or take control of a vessel.
I also want to speak directly to anyone who may be thinking about using this holiday weekend to cause trouble, settle a score, or take part in violence or anti-social behaviour.
Stop and think.
Think about the families who would be left to carry the pain. Think about the young people watching. Think about what Bermuda Day is meant to represent. Think about how your future and that of your entire family will be forever changed for the worse.
This holiday should leave us with good memories, not grief. It should bring people together, not tear families apart.
I also ask the public to play their part. If you see something that does not look right, say something. Do not stay silent because you think it is not your business. Community safety is everybody’s business.
The Police, the Coastguard and other agencies have their roles to play, and I thank them for their service over this busy period. But they cannot do it alone. The cooperation of the public is a very important component for the overall safety of Bermuda.
Let us make this Bermuda Day one that reflects the best of us. Let us celebrate our culture, people and island in a way that is safe, respectful and peaceful.
Thank you.