Today, the Minister of National Security, the Hon. Michael Weeks, JP, MP and the Minister of Public Works, Lt. Col. the Hon. David A. Burch, OBE (Mil), ED, JP, MP, gave remarks at a joint post-Budget press conference in Prospect.
National Security Overview of Budget Plans
Good afternoon everyone, and thank you for joining us today. I am happy to highlight the key initiatives within the Ministry of National Security budget for 2024/2025.
Our Ministry’s goal is to ensure that Bermuda remains a safe and secure community, and this budget is a testament to our dedication to achieving this goal.
Our total operational budget for the upcoming fiscal year is
$137,759,000, with an additional $8,160,375 dedicated to capital funding.
These figures represent a strategic investment in our personnel, infrastructure, and technology across all departments within the Ministry.
Starting with the Ministry Headquarters, we are investing an additional $450,000 to support the recruitment of two crucial cyber security posts for our cyber security unit, and a Disaster Coordinator in the Disaster Risk Reduction and Mitigation Team, which is responsible for bringing together multiple Government agencies to plan for and mitigate against any potential disaster.
Moreover, as promised in the Throne Speech, we are launching a uniformed services training programme to prepare candidates for service in our uniformed branches, ensuring we have a pipeline of capable and ready personnel.
The Royal Bermuda Regiment is set to receive $8,827,121, plus $949,000 in capital funding.
This funding will facilitate the construction of a Coast Guard shed and the completion of a hurricane preparedness shelter, which will significantly enhance our disaster response capabilities.
The Bermuda Police Service's allocation is just over $64,837,878, with an additional $1,600,000 for capital projects.
This capital allocation for the Bermuda Police Service will allow the Government to keep its promise to provide the funding to refurbish the Police headquarters here in Prospect, which is in need of crucial repairs. As you can see, repairs are already underway, and the Ministry of Public Works is assisting with the project.
Our investment in the BPS will enable the recruitment of thirty new police officers to fill vacant posts; fund essential upgrades to the police headquarters at Prospect; add to its vehicle fleet; and I.T. infrastructure. These measures will ensure that our police service remains equipped to protect our community.
Our Customs Department will receive funding of over $18 million in 2024/2025. Part of this funding will be used to fill twenty critical posts that when filled, will enhance security at our ports through improved cruise ship enforcement, export control, and compliance.
The Department of Corrections will receive over $25 million for operational costs and $1,960,000 for capital improvements.
This funding includes allocations for recruiting thirty-six new officers, integrating the Right Living House treatment programme into our departmental operations, and funds for vital infrastructure and security upgrades across our facilities.
Lastly, the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service will receive nearly $17 million for operations and $3,602,860 in capital funding.
This funding will support the recruitment of 15 new firefighters and the purchase of four new trucks that are being specifically designed for the BFRS team at the L F Wade International Airport. These new trucks will replace ageing trucks and greatly enhance our emergency response capabilities at the airport.
When you combine the recruitment plans of all of our unformed agencies, it means more than 100 positions will be needed, providing opportunities for Bermudians looking to start a career within our uniformed services.
In conclusion, this budget indicates the Government's dedication to the safety and security of Bermuda and its citizens.
Through these funding allocations, we are strengthening our national security infrastructure and ensuring that we remain prepared and resilient in the face of any challenges to the stability of our country.
Thank you.