metadata.tsv

idea_id	cluster_id	title	description
b0df174a-b875-46ff-b81a-2cb23d19a702	0	Bermuda Impact Fund	Every country in the world is grappling with the same issue – how do we recover from what many commentators are forecasting to be the sharpest recession ever recorded.  Governments around the world are taking unprecedented action to support businesses and individuals by spending unparalleled amounts of public funds. But government funds are limited - government borrowing can't be infinite and it can't pay for everything.  There is an unprecedented opportunity facing us all, which we should grasp with both hands. Rebuilding an economy requires investment, not just subsidy. Investing with impact is the best way to ensure that economies are built back better: fairer, stronger, more resilient, with greater economic participation and with better outcomes for citizens.  After the crisis of 2008, UK government set up 2 new impact funds to stimulate the economy. The Green Investment Bank focussed on supporting environmental infrastructure projects, and the British Business Bank consolidated a number of separate business support schemes, creating a specialist entity focussed on financing small and medium sized business. Both placed government capital alongside private investors.  The Green Investment Bank was eventually successfully sold, recouping the Government’s investment. The British Business Bank is now leading the UK’s business support loan schemes in response to Covid-19, fulfilling its most important purpose – giving the government a direct route to rapidly inject capital into small business, the life-blood of the economy, in times of economic stress.  Mainstream investing targets just financial returns. Impact investments seek to deliver financial returns while also delivering economic, social and environmental outcomes. Impact investment therefore benefits everyone, and not just those who profit financially from economic activity.  Why not establish a privately run impact fund (perhaps seeded with some of the investments the Bermuda government has already made) which benefits the Bermudian economy, creates jobs, supports local business, local people and protects Bermuda’s most important assets – the island and oceanic ecosystems which draw so many people to the island. Why not put Bermuda at the forefront of Impact investing - a rapidly growing financial services sector which does not yet have a definitive home. Bermuda could become a global centre of excellence in this field just as it has done in (re)insurance.  What was once widely seen as a niche investment area is increasingly understood to deliver commensurate (or better) returns on investment, while actively managing and mitigating economic, environmental and social risks. Global asset managers with $90trn under management have signed up to the UNPRI. The Climate Action 100+ represents some of the world’s largest pension funds with over $40trn in assets. The Task-force for Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) has the support of organisations controlling balance sheets totalling $120 trn, of which nearly $12 trn is in the private sector. These supporters include the world’s top banks, asset managers, pension funds, insurers, credit rating agencies, accounting firms and shareholder advisory services.  IFIs and private investors alike are seeking places they can invest with impact. Why not Bermuda?
ca2713b1-795d-44f3-a608-cc66c63999b7	0	Set the Default Sorting in this Forum to "Trending"	This will help those less technologically-inclined to see the top / most discussed / useful ideas right away, rather than random idea of less interest. Leave the "finding the new ideas" to those who spend an extra few minutes scrolling or sorting by "Recent" or "Random".
a41abc0f-55d0-405f-8741-2cff818b17d5	0	Caroline Bay	The Single Family Office program at Caroline Bay we heard about from Brian Duppereault and his colleagues had real merit.  This could well be the third pillar of the economy we are seeking! If they can do what Bermuda can’t, in attracting billionaires to set up family offices in Bermuda, why hasn’t Government supported this option? iIt sounds like a far better idea than a hotel. We have to use private enterprise with their sources of capital to generate revenue for the island. What’s stopping this idea - it’s the best one we’ve heard?
379054d6-3956-4464-be89-96f46976e93b	0	Refocusing to medical, wellness and athlete training tourism	I always felt that Bermuda should deviate from cruise ships and sun seeking tourists given Bermuda's inability to compete with (much cheaper) destinations like the Caribbean (that also enjoy a far longer season of guaranteed sun/ some of them all year round).  Instead the focus should be on those who don't care what time of year they come to Bermuda, in fact who possibly prefer to visit outside of the hot summer - during the typically "low" season months.  Who could these people be?  Bermuda could reposition itself as a destination for medical recuperation/ general wellness tourism. We have a very mild, healing climate and stunning nature. We are surrounded by (still) clean and unpolluted ocean. We have some under-utilised hotels that could be converted for that purpose. We have a huge pool of fitness and health professionals who are world class and could serve as a "destination" in their own right (think repeat tourism). One just needs to put together the different elements of such a proposition. We already have clean ocean and air (about that later).  This will require some investment, but will also provide an opportunity to increase the net margin per visitor multiple times. This will create new training and job opportunities. This will put Bermuda on travel destination map of a very different customer.  Bermuda could also focus on attracting professional training athletes. As an example windsurfing foiling has just been added to a list of disciplines for the Olympics 2024. Sailors from many countries across the world could in theory come here in colder months to train, should Bermuda put itself on the map for athletic/ sailing training. We enjoy a range of breezes, almost daily enough for foiling. The list could be easily expanded into other (water sports) disciplines.  In summary, I believe Bermuda should try and reposition itself as a destination where people come here with a purpose / for an activity. This way it could attract people all year round and could potentially aim at tourists with higher budgets (especially in the case of medical / wellness tourism).  As a side note, I always felt Bermuda could make a much bigger effort to reinvent itself as a global role model/ leader when it comes to utilising solar energy. Making that an important goal for its future, Bermuda would surely attract a different kind of visitors - environmentally aware, focussed on health, wellness, sustainability and desiring unpolluted travel destinations.  Needless to say, all of the above would greatly benefit Bermuda residents - providing some with training and job opportunities, some- with a potentially reduced cost of installing solar panels/ reducing their electricity bills, all - with a potential to feel proud of this beautiful island that has so much to offer - just to a different kind of a visitor than we have been focussing on perhaps until now?....
b5e9cf0d-5c31-4827-80c7-58d5b128c3b8	1	Employment Needs Analysis Current and Future	Conduct on going data collection exercise to determine if and where we have employer and employee mismatches ie what skill sets are missing in the Bermuda workforce.  Where do have individuals who can not find jobs, why and do we need to reskill current workforce sector.  Conduct data collection to identify future jobs and job skills required.  Use this information to develop education system which meets the needs of future employers and employees.
8007cf14-b287-4c5d-bc4a-c30fe1ccfadb	1	Probate judges	Hire another 2 probate judges on contract to clear the backlog in the probate courts and bring in stamp duty to government coffers. Facilitates faster transfer of assets to next gen and those inheriting to be able to utilize assets, sell properties etc.
26543204-91a1-4a5d-89d2-0c798bd4a341	1	OIL/Electricity	With the price of oil at around $18 to $19 a barrel this would be an opportune time for the Government of Bermuda to purchase large quantities of oil and gas and store it on the island and then sell it to Belco and the gas stations at these low prices which should be a way to keep our electrical costs down for a lengthy period of time ( dependent on how much they can buy and store). Electrical costs and gas costs are such a large component of individual and business expenses that this is a real opportunity to take advantage of very cheap oil/gas prices.  My second thought on this is more blue sky but if we had the warehouse space to store large quantities of oil would the US or other governments be willing to ship their additional inventory for Bermuda to store. This would be something that would generate rental/storage income as well as create jobs storing and safeguarding the stored oil. The US has no place to stockpile additional oil but is very interested in making sure that the shale operators stay in business which would mean they would need to buy at higher prices than what the market is charging but they can't because there is no place to store that inventory.
6dfa5d8e-0dda-44c4-8ff0-818ea40830fc	1	Government bond	Government finances are going to be very stretched, If more borrowing is required why not issue a government bond rather than borrowing in the market.  This should be restricted to local investors. I don't think there would be a shortage of funds as people would be keen to invest in the recovery of the country. A good cause with a return.
e8795a34-8694-4798-8186-91948b1ef9c5	1	Stimulate new investment offering PRC2 in return for investment In local economy	Offer PRC2 with pathway to eventual citizenship (BOTC) to wealthy individuals  in return for certain criteria,  (which can be adjusted over time) including minimum investment in new BD$ govt bond (paying 2.5% interest?) of, say, $10m per applicant. Applicants must obtain permanent address on island (rent or buy) and reside on the island for minimum of 30 days per year. They must pay a $250k per year tax to keep PRC2 status (Note equals interest on bond). Target wealthy Hong Kong citizens in addition to other wealthy displaced groups globally looking for stable residency. Encourage local firms to target  applicants with raft of wealth management services in addition to real estate etc. These wealthy people will not take local jobs but will create them, while stimulating the property market and spending money in the local economy.
00f3e4b5-ccc1-4f32-8b89-2b8696d1e8db	1	Technical school and legalize marijuana	It is time we opened a technical school to better equip students who do not fair well in our current education system.  We continue to not recognize that all do not learn the same way Some require welding to understand mathematics, for example the ratio of oxygen to acetylene.   High school men and women could leave school with basic skills  Further let’s not dance around medical marijuana-legalize it once and for all. This will generate income for government, farmers and solve many other problems that go along with it.
88c84615-21cb-4d68-b7bc-c28769b3ef16	1	Government borrowings/bond	I note Government continues to borrow from the local banks, perhaps it would be better for them and the economy if they floated a local bond. This in effect would allow residents to participate and also to receive a better return than they can do from the local banks. The local banks take in deposits pay very little if any interest and then charge high loan/mortgage rates. Government then borrows from them and they make money off of our deposits and from the Government. Surely it would be better for the Government to borrow some from the people and in turn pay them a better return  than they can receive from their local bank and put more money in the hands of Bermudians.
9999ed9e-8225-474d-b0c1-4bc5abf72159	1	SALE OF BELCO	Proceed immediately with the sale of Belco which will put several hundred million dollars of foreign capital into Bermuda and help to stimulate the economy
f61ff133-5c02-4321-a0b7-3add6f67710b	1	STAYCATIONS - AFFORDABLE VACATION PACKAGES FOR HOTELS AND GUESTHOUSES	Why don't the Hotels and Guesthouses create a plan to promote Bermudian Staycations.  Most Vacationers, Bermudians and Foreigners, will not have the confidence to travel this year and will have to find ways to staycate.  Hotels and Guesthouses need to find a way to keep operating even at a minimum so they should put together packages (LIKE ALL INCLUSIVES) that might include breakfast and/or lunch that are AFFORDABLE for both.  Sonesta Beach used to have a wonderful vacation strategy to entice locals to staycate and many Bermudians, I included, took advantage for the weekend and over holidays. This can help Bermudians, most of all, to stay employed in the hospitality industry.
668e7108-8f72-4294-9f98-d36a5e7c56b1	1	Stimulate Residential Construction	Construction and home improvement are labour intensive. Any home renovation projects should be welcomed and encouraged as these potentially touch a wide range of professions from Architects and Engineers all the way through to Painters and Landscapers. An additional benefit to Bermuda is the corresponding contribution to the islands to retail sector.  I suggest for home renovations which receive a Government occupancy certificate before January 1st 2022 a properties ARV is not adjusted to reflect the work completed until January 1st 2026.  The delayed adjustment to a properties land tax will hopefully encourage those who are considering renovating their homes to commit to doing so sooner rather than later in order to take advantage of the tax holiday and in turn assist with stimulating the economy.
e37e2375-be4e-4d6f-8805-02d7c1b604e9	1	Futureproof Workforce: Convert Buses to Electric, Ferries to Hybrid Electric	Our buses and ferries are expensive, bring us huge maintenance headaches and cost us way to much for their utility. But let's not outright replace them; instead why not train locals for the future of electrified transportation by converting existing buses to electric drive trains, and existing ferries to hybrid diesel electric. It's happening around the world and we're a prime place for it (high cost fossil fuels, high cost maintenance).  This would allow us to operate these assets much more cost-effectively (lower fuel costs, lower maintenance on electric motors) and have trained experts in the civil service who will now be more valuable in the private sector as the rest of Bermuda's transportation sector electrifies.  Spend some capital, save money in the long run and help move civil servants (a cost) into skilled private sector jobs (taxable income).
00b17438-c8d3-49b1-8c3e-8181c73fdb0f	1	Govt should borrow at least SOME money locally in B$ or U$	It seems each time the Bda Govt needs to borrow monies for their expenditures they do so by issuing bonds in the international capital markets.  I cannot recall the Bda Govt ever issuing bonds in the BERMUDA MARKET (either in B$ or U$).  If they would, this  provide Bermudians and other Bermuda residents the opportunity to invest in such bonds and earn a decent coupon (e.g. 3%) the Bda Government is willing to pay overseas investors for their capital.  With the deposit rates close to ZERO, there are numerous Bermudians and other Bermuda residents looking for a DECENT YIELD (e.g. 1% bank CD or 3% bond coupon?).  Such a LOCAL BOND OFFER would be attractive to these people and BENEFIT BERMUDA by keeping the investment returns in the BERMUDA ECONOMY.  I appreciate all the money the Bda Govt borrows (almost $2B) cannot be raised in Bermuda but I am pretty sure a B$25-50M local bond issuance would be fully subscribed and the local banks/BSX could facilitate it again benefiting LOCAL INSTITUTIONS.
6ff9ec24-17a9-4941-83a1-c86aea240c69	1	Small business development	Govt must take steps to assist people to start small businesses. Recently, govt approved borrowing funds from private pensions for people aged 65 or older. For the most part people that age may start a business but the motivation is often to keep busy as opposed to developing a robust company. Just want to keep busy and not have a lot of headaches. The same program should be expended to anyone with a private pension who wants to start or expand an existing business. This will allow people to start a business without one of the main stresses - debt. The establishment of small businesses will be crucial when we come out of this pandemic!
6bd1a442-6098-4288-9809-709f382e3c5c	1	Bermuda Capital Accumulation Plan	· Local Business investment  Invest in and expand viable Bermudian owned private and public businesses into worldwide companies and franchises.  The more product the businesses buy at wholesale the cheaper the goods which should lower costs to consumers. Selling to bigger markets diversifies the income streams of these businesses that will make them more resilient to changes in the local economy.  With this plan we grow the local business economy while lowering prices because we are selling at scale around the world which should enable lower buy @ prices for products and services.  Bermudians can get jobs abroad in Bermudian owned companies.  · International business investment  Invest in businesses that are poised to lead the future with new technologies like renewable energy, hemp and cannabis Businesses,AI, robotics and self driving technology. Like Tesla, Apple etc..  A percentage of funds from investments and ventures should be directed towards a “universal basic housing, food and income scheme”  This plan helps the Bermuda economy by creating a funnel of funds into the country.  “Act locally but think globally”  · Education Grants  Make grants available to Bermudians aged 18-40 so those interested can gain the skills to effectively run and work for local and international businesses.  Government should gain more in payroll tax dollars locally from the increased wages paid to Bermudians.  This plan grows the skills and standards of living for people of this community and helps Bermudians at home and abroad through education, and career placement.  · Duty free holiday for businesses  Allow businesses a one time 3 month duty free window.  This should stimulate economic activity because the duty holiday would entice business importers to overstock, Because they will be overstocked at a lower cost . The businesses out of their own good will can pass on savings to customers.  This should increase economic activity because persons will have saved funds that they can now spend on other products or services that are local only.  · Duty Free Imports for Homeowners on construction supplies, fittings and appliances for renovations or remodel.  This will encourage homeowners to upgrade their properties which will lead to economic activity by way of funds paid to painters, maintenance and construction workers. Homeowners could gain by having higher home valuations from upgrades.  · Build businesses to the needs of government. Ex. Create businesses local and abroad to replace current suppliers of Government necessities like products and outsourced services with Bermudian owned suppliers so that Bermudian tax dollars go to Bermudian Businesses.  · Government Can guarantee the purchase of land for Bermudians in Bermudians favorite vacation spots like Florida, Jamaica and Atlanta so that when any Bermudian travels we can AirBnb Bermudian owned properties which keeps our dollars in a closed loop. When Bermudians aren’t occupying these properties they will be AirBNB to any persons vacationing in those areas creating passive income for Bermudians.  Land usually holds its value and less risk if guarantees fail to pay. Government can reclaim the property and allow another Bermudian to takeover the property under a new agreement.  Bermudians will get higher percentage return on their investment than investing with traditional businesses.  · Build Residential Parks & Retail outlets  Government guarantees the purchases of the land for Bermudian entrepreneurs to build housing developments and retail and wholesale businesses and franchises.  Florida  Atlanta  Jamaica  Africa  · Hemp, Cannabis & Agriculture Farming  Buy land in Africa to grow hemp, Cannabis and food to export to Bermuda and other Markets.  We can pay Africans Better wages and still have Cheaper labor compared to majority of regions around the world.  Cheaper land  Cheaper maintenance  Cheaper electricity  Fund the development of manufacturing centers in Africa for Bermudian owned enterprises which they can use to manufacture branded products made from hemp, Cannabis and foods grown, prepared and packaged to be sold in Bermuda and markets around the world.  “You make your money when you buy not when you sell”  Why just create expansive Bermuda grown cannabis on limited land when we can buy acres and acres of land in Africa (that’s not in any proximity to schools and other areas that may be restricted)  This will help decrease the cost of fresh produce and cannabis for Bermuda based consumers. Local wholesalers and retailers will be purchasing goods from Bermudian owned businesses based in Africa.  This plan would make every Bermudian feel invested with local and international Businesss that we share investments and partnerships with. Their success now becomes our success.
75769822-330a-48c3-91fa-8938c28bad51	1	Bermudians to get First Right to All Future Government Debt/Bond Issuance	With all the major benefits of issuing debt to locals, in local currency (interest payments go to Bermudians to spend locally, not foreigners, and maintaining the balance of Bermuda dollar FX trade by reducing foreign currency purchases, among others), why has this not become the standard already?  The Bermuda Bond is a great idea as many Royal Gazette articles have recently pointed out. It should become the baseline standard that any debt issuance by the Bermuda Government is first issued locally to Bermudians in Bermuda Dollars before reaching to foreign markets in USD.  Let locals gain the interest and reinvest in in Bermuda rather than send all of it overseas.
c09d381f-3201-4968-9f88-64917e65c7cf	1	Clarification on the next level	Just last year the government made an amendment to clarify what is considered hemp. So now we know that any part of the cannabis plant that contains less than 1% THC may be imported as it is considered hemp  ( http://mobile.royalgazette.com/politics/article/20191106/house-hemp-legislation-amended&template=mobileart )  . However part of the picture is still very grey as we do not know how the law views the cultivation of hemp. The reason why it’s a good point to clarify is because we have already had talks about changing legislation and the possibility of cultivation of medical cannabis. As we know the use of medical cannabis is legal ( https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_in_Bermuda) with a prescription however we are limited to 2000 grams per year for importation as of March 30, 2020. Here is where it gets interesting; the cannabis strain Dinamed is one of those strains that produce less than 1% THC and up to 20% CBD. So is it legal to grow? Moreover hempseed is becoming a more popular choice for a protein source due to the presence of Omegas and the absence of Lectins. So can the industrial hemp strains be grown? I know that it seems like an odd thing to suggest as the seeds and possibly equipment to grow it would need to be imported and we have social distancing in place until further notice. However we are looking at post lockdown ideas. So I put it forward for your consideration as it does not require the law to change rather a review of what is in place and a statement of clarification. As a researcher I would love to join the CBD cultivation and seek out phenotypes that produce even more CBDs so as to become competitive in the global market with the first strain containing 25% CBD.
55eb25a1-0f47-4335-8539-59652405e72a	1	Immigration	Perhaps consider giving PRC to foreign workers who have lived, worked and contributed to Bermuda for over 10 years. Give them an incentive to want to stay and contribute even more to this beautiful Island and it’s economy. Allow them to buy properties, which would help stimulate the housing and residential construction economy, increase payments to land tax and also encourage them to spend even more money in Bermuda i.e schools, pensions etc, not to mention continuing to benefit the local supermarkets, restaurants, bars, taxis and all the other small businesses around.  Go ahead with the change in the 60/40 rule of opening a business which would allow people more choices regarding investing their savings, future and family’s future into Bermuda and it’s economy, generating more income and creating more jobs for Bermudians....again, taxes, pensions and being able to spend money on other services, products etc.  By offering those with the means to invest, give them an incentive to do it  here rather than elsewhere. Perhaps changes like this would not only help to boost the recovery of Island more but secure a better economical future.
bd02abbc-0a36-4bc6-9b8a-77bfacdb2d85	2	Marine & Ports	Deal with the removal of abandoned sunken vessels which are unsightly and have a negative environmental impact on our shorelines.  Develop scheme for entrepreneurs to lead the removal and proper disposal of abandoned sunken vessels (at their cost) in return for the entrepreneur to takeover responsibility for the abandoned mooring. The benefit is no cost to government (except legal ads warning of vessel removal) and the return of annual mooring registration fees to the government for the associated abandoned mooring.  Also consider the installation of several small floating walk-on docks in various secured areas by entrepreneurs to allow more dense mooring of boats. Boat owners would still need punts to access the floating docks. The benefit is no cost to government while adding additional boat moorings in closed locations which in turn will increase mooring registration revenue.
04fe79e6-e83d-4f3f-bd70-ce56753fffcc	2	Ride Sharing App	Once shelter in place is lifted, we are going to provide a number of simple ways for Bermudians to earn a few extra dollars so that local dollar churn can increase.  Allow Bermudians to monetize their private vehicles through deregulation of an already existent infrastructure (Hitch)  is a way to help people to put a few extra dollars in their pockets (at a price less than a taxi), using equipment they already own and infrastructure we already have (ie: their car, bike and smartphone).
08d6b616-4c12-46b1-a58f-2d570cd559eb	2	STAMP DUTY DISCOUNT!!!!	Perhaps government could give some consideration to home owners for a period of 18 months to 2 years, by offering a discount for the Transferring of Property and Homes. Commercial property will not qualify. This offer will only be good for FULL payment of the stamp duty.  EXAMPLE:  Properties under 1 million dollars --50% reduction  1 million to 3 million+. --30%  4 million to 6 million +. --20%  7 million + --10%  This maybe a way for government to generate some quick revenue and at the same time help to protect family homes.
506d1e0f-d5ef-4c27-957a-1304014714a0	2	Cannabis Convention	To  bolster the introduction of Cannabis legislation, Government should hold an annual international Cannabis convention in Bermuda. A Cannabis convention would bring interested parties within the community and those world-wide together to focus on skill, education, and innovation. Relevant professionals would come to Bermuda to share their knowledge about the industry and what it has to offer with people who are at various stages of the industry. It would introduce innovative ideas to the industry and would help ensure  things are done correctly.  Finally, it would bring an economic stimulus to the island as it would attract people internationally to our shores.  Perhaps there could be a one day smoke day to culminate the event for those who wish to indulge.  Note: This proposal has no affiliation with my personal belief .
caf4541f-2649-45c8-b9b2-1c32fa7610ad	2	Tracking progress of Bermudians Studying oversea	Perhaps a good way of planning for future economic development to include young Bermudians could be by tracking them  through school and university. Those that go away to boarding school are dropped from the Bermuda system and no one has any idea of their progress.  Similarly a register for Bermudians at university would enable businesses, large and small together with the Govt to have a idea of who is ‘in the pipeline’ and plan for the future of the island.  Of course this is could encourage young Bermudians to return home by feeling ‘wanted’. This would also be enhanced by giving them the right to vote via proxy or post, since most elections are during term time.  This should be a bipartisan decision to avoid either party party feeling advantages or disadvantaged. The point being that anyone over 18 has a right to vote where they are resident.
29ece590-dd23-482f-b2e4-b61e37da0985	2	Covid free tourism	Good afternoon.  When Bermuda was Zika-free and other destinations were not we benefitted from increased tourism. We can do that again. Make tourists pay for mandatory 14 day quarantine upon arrival. If they are working from home anyway then perhaps they would rather work from Bermuda. After their quarantine is complete they will likely stay for a longer visit since they are unlikely to be traveling anywhere else and have nothing to return home to anyway. It is possible to keep Bermuda safe and still have visitors.
014ad547-97c8-4854-9a3c-5cb64dff2168	2	Repeal section 19 of the Employment Act 2000	Section 19 of the Employment Act should be repealed. Some managers and supervisors are using it as weapon of vengeance against fellow Bermudians for reasons other than professional ones. Many Bermudians have left our shores as a result of employers who have abused this law. Some victims have tried to fight against being terminated under this section of the law, by enlisting the assistance of the Union's. But even they are powerless to reverse such injustices.  It not only hurts the individual, but it hurts the community as a whole, when someone, who has invested their money and time studying abroad in a specialized field, comes back home to Bermuda and is then victimized by unethical employers who hide their true motives behind by this section of the  law. In some cases, the victims have no other choice but to return overseas to seek employment.  The abuse of this law can negatively affect families on multiple levels; emotionally, financially and on many other personal levels. I know this from my personal experience of having a family member unjustly terminated by a dishonest employer who hid their true motives for termination behind this section of the law.  This section of the law (below) must be repealed.  =========================================  Section 19  Probationary period  (1) A new employee may be required to serve a probationary period.  (2) During the probationary period, the employer or employee may terminate the contract of employment for any reason and without notice.
fa43d7f5-eb2e-48af-b4fa-ef04c596e70d	2	Eco Turism	Bermuda has one of the healthiest reefs in the planet and one of the few that will not be totally destroyed by Global Warming as it is so far North .  It makes no sense to further damage this paradise in order to develop a mass tourism when the island can make much more money focusing on what it is unique here. It is a pity to rely on the Cruise Ship industry, greatly damaged by Covid for years to come, one of the most polluting and toxic tourist industries there are, and one that leaves few dollars as it caters for food and accommodation outside the visiting places.  Let's specialise on a more exclusive and targeted tourist that comes to experience clean Ocean water, virgin beaches, scuba diving tours, sailing, lion fish hunting, marine turtle observation, family educational summer camps etc. We already have a fantastic BIOS institute for Marine science and many environmentalists, biologists, water sports professionals . This is not the Galapagos but it has an enormous natural wealth in its own right and can be very attractive to the growing amount of people in search of unspoiled nature . We need to think out of the box and open up to new and modern ideas that also benefit future generations as the World is facing enormous environmental pressure.
793a068f-be2c-4bdc-9e8b-32d987b99528	2	More opportunities for younger enterpreneurs to start agriculture businesses	I was thinking of these things and am certain am not the only one. There are too many to mention but these are some are as follows. I want to know if Bermuda National Trust can and is legitimately allowed, this charity group to issue out LIFETIME leases to people in the agricultural industry? Bermuda needs a national plan and acton for arable land to plant, and in additionally evenly distributed amongst us and not just the majority sector of Portugese but those willing and able. If or when Bermuda allows the regulated cultivation of Marajuana, a Co-op should be formulated.
b2265361-29e7-4401-bd30-17f65c1f561f	2	Payroll tax changes	Bermuda continues to be an expensive place to live and the Bermuda Government has limited tools at its disposal to address inequalities that exist in our economic system. One important tool for raising government revenues is the payroll tax.  The problem with payroll tax in its current form is that, despite its progressive intent, the tax is often undermined because high earners are often fully insulated from paying the tax as it is sometimes covered by their employer in its entirety.  The reason why this is detrimental is because high income earners are not experiencing a dampening of their earnings in the same way lower income earners are impacted by the tax. This inequality leads to unfair purchasing patterns of consumer goods when, for example, a high-income earner can easily afford Bermuda’s highly priced goods and services while lower income earners struggle to afford their basic necessities.  In order to raise revenues, the Bermuda Government should tap into the salaries of high-income earners by increasing the payroll tax on upper income bands while also prohibiting companies from covering the increased tax on behalf of their high-income earning employee. The government should have at its disposal enough information available to ensure companies do not cover this added tax burden via paying it outright or through unusual salary increases during a time when very few people are receiving salary improvements.  The benefits of this approach are that it will raise government revenues, reduce the common complaint that the cost of doing business in Bermuda is high and, most importantly, improve income equality by reducing the earnings gap between high-income and low-income earners. In my opinion, there is limited downside since Bermuda still continues to be an attractive place to live and work and the supply of labour in these high-income positions is relatively inelastic.  It is time for a more equitable payroll tax structure on the island and the above approach is one way to help address this ongoing inequity.
2b234152-dd07-4f65-80f2-f9de53339ebd	2	Establish a Caribbean Airline	A number of airlines will go out of business and there will likely be cheap assets available. Consider the formation of a public private airline serving just the Caribbean region to encourage intra Caribbean (including Bermuda) travel without the need  to pas through the US. Covid infection rates in the Caribbean are low and islanders will be looking for safe places to travel.  Direct flights to and from Bermuda and larger islands.  This would either be a private venture or in conjunction with the various governments.
a7244104-2dd9-4a09-983e-50b4cb8cd079	2	Citizenship by Investment	Similar to St. Kitts and Nevis (SK&N) or other citizenship plans elsewhere, whereby foreign investment instantly generates income by way of citizenship buy in program.  Due to our size our rates would be higher than the SK&N plan while also fewer applicants would be potentially be granted. Say $2-4 mil for lifetime or limited citizenship along with purchase of home valued at no less than 2 mil.  Limit applicants to 200. This would add direct monetary influx to all industries (restaurant and service lines) as well as paying down our debt and support for government initiatives. https://bluemina.com/citizenship-by-investment/saint-kitts-nevis/?utm_source=G_brand_ads&utm_medium=ppc&utm_campaign=9705928267&utm_content=427169638521&utm_term=&adgroupid=100899396458&network=g&device=c&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIpLGj7auL6QIVh43ICh3sGAsxEAAYASAAEgLqUPD_BwE
7a5e97ed-42a0-4245-b1d1-eb09a2eb8ea8	2	Formula 1/Formula E	Bermuda has such beautiful scenery and amazing views from the roadside, as well as some fantastic roadways.  It would make a great destination for a similar race event to that held in Monaco. This would make Bermuda destination to be visited for the event itself, and subsequently enthusiasts year round
17b72ea3-3e67-41e3-86e2-5e59d9e5638a	2	Private Car Licensing initiatives	* The number of private vehicles to be able to be licensed at an assessment number should be increased to 2 vehicles.  This is an easy amendment to make in terms of legislation and should result in a short term increase in motor vehicle sales, increased revenue for vehicle licensing for the Government, insurance revenue, vehicle maintenance, etc.  Whilst I appreciate the potential for more vehicles on the road causing an increase in congestion on the road / trouble parking in town on 'busy' days, I don't think that this would actually materialise.  The majority of 2nd cars will likely be smaller and even more likely electric due to their increase in popularity but this change in legislation should not restrict the type of car. * Vehicle testing should be charged even if the vehicle fails an inspection.  Currently, a vehicle can be tested and failed as many times as necessary before obtaining a final 'pass' inspection.  The charging for failed tests (on final payment of license fee) will potentially generate some revenue but may also increase the efficiency of the testing process.  Revenue for garages may also increase as vehicle owners may be more likely to perform maintenance prior to a test rather than waiting to find out what's wrong and then fixing the 1 issue. * Parking Tickets issued to vehicles should be notified (electronically) to TCD and licenses not issued if they are outstanding.  This will force the settlement of parking tickets on at least an annual basis for license holders, increasing cash flow, and also help reduce the number of offences in the long term. * There are a number of vehicle license plates that are no longer used as the original holders did not renew or the vehicle is no longer road-worthy.  Whilst not a large revenue generator, the option to purchase an old license plate number should be made available, say at an extra $100 fee (or more).   Vehicle license holders should also be able to transfer their license plate number if they wish to sell their number to another party. Potentially a % fee applied to the private transaction can be charged, collected by TCD on licensing.
00231f87-cfdd-49e9-b21f-557260316fb9	2	charge / Increase IB taxes	The US charges state and federal ~ 25% taxes on corporations.  Possibly more after the crisis to help stimulate their economy.  The Cayman Islands will likely start charging to stimulate theirs and Bermuda should as well.  The charge should be based on Bermudian employees, i.e. the more Bermudians employed in management and above positions, the less taxes they pay, based on gross revenue.
888ac7fc-ff3a-4ed4-a363-43c7e7c3af4a	2	Economic Help for Small to Medium Size Businesses	Small-medium sized businesses will need more than 3 months grace period on loan payments from banks. If Government approached local and international banks doing business here in Bermuda, to increase the grace period to                 9 months-1 year, this would go a very long way to helping business owners to keep their enterprises afloat during this very uncertain time. Even 6 months would be a major help. Please take this onboard for us all.
21949586-b23f-497a-a495-26d14604d61d	2	International Business & Immigration, Tourism	The economy of Bermuda survive because of main two drivers International Business and tourism.  International Business is the only driver going to survive after Covid19,  supporting IB and encouraging it to stay in Bermuda, making it attractive for more players to join. This can only be achieved by improving immigration policies in terms of processing work permits fast and issuing permanent residency certificates to those who have lived here for more than 10yrs.  Immigration - Opening up immigration policy to allow foreign investors to bring in investments with little to no tax as an incentive.  Give Permanent Residents Certificates to foreign workers who have worked and lived in Bermuda for more than 10years. Allow them to buy properties, thereby increasing people paying land tax etc. Encourage them to invest and spend their money in Bermuda. We need the numbers, we need more people to contribute into our pension, help our healthy system and take care of our seniors. The more we are the better.  Tourism- There is no hope for tourism not until after a year or so. People who normally spend traveling are losing their jobs, so even if covid dies out after summer, chances are people spending pattern has been affected. Hold on spending in tourism until covid passes.  The point is not bringing new ideas but for government to support economic growth in areas that are already successful, I.e. International business, Immigration and to promote Tourism once covid dies off.
db6eba3e-aa6c-4689-a87d-8a23330d1569	2	Modernizing Payroll tax in an Ecommerce society	Not all businesses are based on hours worked or they could be very little hours needed once they are up and running, but the OTC says someform of hours are needed.
5a8a75d0-0df7-470a-b5cc-fef3e381c34b	2	At Home Delivery Services	Even in the absence of a global pandemic, the need for efficient delivery services was already obvious. An aging population presents an increasing number of people less able to travel for their own needs on top of a working population that itself has limited time to do so.  Going forward, these needs will be coupled with a persisting need to social distance, which will concentrate in the places where people shop for essentials.  A clearing house for online or telephone ordering working in concert with a well supported delivery service network and cooperating stores can ensure efficient movement of goods and simultaneously reduce the number of contacts each individual makes.  As the demand grows, deliveries should become more efficient as each "run" carries more goods to more destinations.  Granted, there may be the caveat that such a service may not scale as quickly as demand increases
cfad15dc-9c64-462f-9b6e-97f933033981	2	Our children , our future.	As I have been an educator for preschool and primary children for over the past 12 years I have experienced many rewarding and challenging aspects of teaching. With our current situation and the future of the island’s children may I share a few concerns I have:  Children  have a special bond with their friends and teachers and the first thing we normally want to do amongst a school environment or in another public setting is to want to reach out ,hug , hold hands or high five each other to those who we care about.This will be a challenging task to try and prevent our children NOT to do this and to keep social distancing , 6 feet apart and washing hands constantly , not touching each other as well as their own faces is a challenge at best of times.  Children especially in the younger years, preschool and primary are just learning all these “social graces”, daily life skills as well as acceptable behavior and right from wrong.  Given the ‘shelter in place’ is finishing this saturday , the children of all ages ( our future)  could continue their virtual learning and improve on their life skills  at home . A principal once told me the best education is with family as home first where foundations can be formed then school.  I do hope that careful consideration for our youth will be addressed as it would be dire to open schools when we are not fully in the clear and this awful virus still with us.  Thank you for your time and efforts during this pandemic .  from the ones we care about
b8aaff92-3c07-491a-a580-a6516a9d29b1	2	Build a Business Framework for the Recreational Use of Cannabis	It is clear that attitudes towards cannabis are changing at home as well as abroad: we can foster a new industry, increase employment and boost economic activity all at the same time. The legalisation of the recreational use of cannabis, if done as a full industry model will indeed create jobs, boost imports of technical equipment, and will also engender a new tax-revenue stream for the island.  We should consider all the positive economic benefits that will accrue in the private sector, but primarily an entirely new industry will need to hire employees. Growers, dispensaries, security, and delivery services will all need to scale up. Within the civil service there will be a need to create new roles for licensing, inspectors and technical experts.  Additional economic gains will be realised as the current best model, indoor grows will require technical equipment such as high-end LED lighting and fertigation systems. Further, the processing of oils and concentrates will add to the import of technical equipment and educational requirements. Imports of trays, packaging, fertilizers etc will all need to ramp up.  This additional economic activity will obviously come with opportunities for the government to impose import duties, payroll taxes, sales tax etc. Less obvious is the future demand for specialised education (Bermuda College) for the requisite growers, processors and other staff.  Further, we don't have to re-create the wheel: we already have respectable jurisdictions with established cannabis industries to emulate: e.g. California & Canada to name just two.
95cdbd4c-3f9a-45b3-8032-84db96bfb03a	2	Public Works: Round-a-Bouts Instead of Lights at Tee Street & Collectors Hill	The Bermuda Government needs to find beneficial labour-based construction projects to spend on to keep the economy going.  Stop lights outside of city intersections are a detriment to effective traffic flow (and our sanity). Instead of lights, we should be implementing more round-a-bouts. The following are suggestions based on existing plans/infrastructure:  * Tee Street & Middle Road a dangerous intersection and is slated for stop lights, this needs to be a round-a-bout. * Tee Street & South Road is a dangerous intersection and was once slated for a round-a-bout but is not anymore. This should be pursued. * Collectors Hill & South Road is a slow headache of an intersection with Stop Lights and would greatly benefit from a carefully considered round-a-bout.
e3451791-d4ae-4869-969c-24387f6d0b15	2	Long-term tourist visas	“Working from home” has now been tested and proven largely successful on a global scale. Why not exploit this development, Bermuda, by offering long-term “tourist visas”? These would be available not only to non-Bermudian retirees who would like to spend, say, 6 months holidaying in Bermuda but crucially to non-Bermudian employed persons who wish to work-from-home in Bermuda. The latter would be conditional upon their business being based outside Bermuda and not a competitor of any Bermuda-based business. Issuance of such long-term “tourist visas” would not require a controversial change in Immigration Law and could presumably be implemented rapidly and could be readily adjustable/reversible. The presence of these temporary residents in Bermuda would contribute significantly to our economy. No need for reams of red tape or extortionate Government fees. They should be welcomed with open arms.
022b7662-d8dc-4701-901e-d7df86d7654e	2	Reduce size of Government	Over the past few years, government has increased taxes across the board to a point no longer sustainable.  Additionally over the past few years, government has reduced spending to a point that is no longer sustainable.  It is absolutely clear that government should get out of any business it should not be in. Some examples have been widely identified such as privatizing or outsourcing; education, transportation, post offices, prisons, Tynes Bay, Water Section, waste management, highways and road works, public housing and disposing of derelict government buildings.  By moving in this direction, government revenue is increased in terms of leases, permits and land tax and similarly the civil service is equally reduced as civil servants working within these areas would continue to work within these areas via the private sector. This is a win-win for both government and the private sector because you are reducing government while at the same time maintaining revenue and stimulating the private sector .  Government should focus on industry regulation, not running businesses.
9c4a2775-8848-4389-a8de-92951806b285	2	PPP Development of Front Street	Seek public private partnership to develop front street,  in similar or same concept as previously applied.  http://bernews.com/2013/07/video-sir-john-unveils-hamilton-waterfront-plans/  With expanded marina, pedestrian access only past 11 am, outdoor dining and activities. Employs Bermudian workforce in all areas and expands Bermudas global presence as premier destination. DO NOT SELL FRONT STREET TO A DEVELOPER!
78d2784a-77e5-4f0b-98ce-3e299e881901	2	Canadian citizens Tourism	Has the tourism department had communication with the Canadian government regarding Canada’s two week quarantine being extended to August 31st. Considering Bermuda has sporadic cases and air Canada and West Jet are increasing flights, what makes you think Candians will come to Bermuda for vacation, then return home to quarantine for two weeks. They would require a number of vacation days to do this. This also goes for work permit holders in Bermuda. If you only have a limited number if vacation days, how do you get back to Canada  and return to Bermuda for work?
a6d3db93-6d34-422f-a061-1ea339dc9650	2	Legalize marijuana, lower taxes, international business,lower insurance premiums	Legalize marijuana for production & to be sold in Bermuda. This will open new opportunities for entrepreneurs to set up shop and workers to tend to the fields but implement a tax on it. This will provide a new revenue stream for government. May even lower gang violence.  With economics, when the economy is not doing well government should lower taxes. When this is done consumers will likely spend more with extra savings. Therefore, spending will be going into the economy.  If if you want small businesses to remain open, lower payroll tax and social insurance for a period of time to allow them to get back on their feet.  With international business, make it mandatory for them to support our community by donating funds to charities and perhaps give some kind of break for example a small decrease on annual fees. Or relax some regulations to allow more international businesses to come to Bermuda with a certain percentage of employees required to be Bermudian.  Get insurance companies to lower their premiums. This will allow consumers to have more money to spend which will be injected into the economy.  Lastly, if we want our economy to grow we need new revenue streams. Bermudians will be fully stretched out on finances and will only have so much bargaining power. There is no new money going into the economy. Therefore, immigration policies should be looked at to allow new money to come into our system by bringing in more people. Also,    changing policies on international buyers for properties/ condos for a certain $ amount. Stamp duty can be increased for foreign buyers.  Groceries stores should lower healthy food options which will allow consumers to make healthy choices. As a result, it should lower the number of unhealthy people in Bermuda.
c0295b6b-625a-4339-a343-4ec0b8f8a8ea	2	What happened to the shipwrights?!?	Once upon a time Bermuda was known for building the best boats that money could buy. This was actually are market, so to say that everyone wanted a Bermuda built vessel. We had the top of the line ships and not to mention the fastest. So what happened to the industry? It disappeared with the wild cedar tree. I understand fully that we don’t have the natural resources that we once had but that should not mean that the craftsmanship has to be gone for good. In fact it’s to our advantage to restart the industry. With our history to back our name and brand we would do well with collectors and those who can appreciate heritage.
9f0fbd93-4648-49fe-88da-de4c8636fb57	2	Distillery in Bermuda (and other local food and alcohol products)	We need to change the law (SPIRITS ACT 1890) that makes distilling alcohol on-island illegal, especially since it was likely developed at a time when they were trying to keep Black people from tapping palm trees for wine!  Food, alcohol, and skincare products made from Bermuda flora are perfect items to built local industries that have an international demand. Additionally, creating high quality items on-island decreases money being sent overseas for imports.  NB: Of course, export costs are a factor, and, in order to grow local industry via expanding to an international audience, ocean freight shippers must consider lowering export rates, taking into account the containers depart mostly empty,
85205b33-bf04-4ab8-ad73-b7d550a7738a	2	Front Street Alfresco dining / bars - short Term Proposal	Close down Front Street between Burnaby Street and Queen Street after 10 am until the start of curfew to all vehicular traffic and use the street and the car park area at number 1 Shed to allow Food and Beverage Vendors to set up temporary Alfresco Dining / Drinking Areas complete with Social distancing.  This can be achieved quickly, with limited initial costs and using on island equipment .  Traffic management should be fairly straightforward with only inward bus routes needing  careful thought as to how it could be managed  (Perhaps a single, dedicated bus lane bus route along the North side of the street or possibly closing Burnaby Street to cars, whilst allowing Buses to travel North to access the Terminal or to allow Buses to travel along more of Reid Street  Open initially to established F&B operations without a current on premise Outdoor Area, with minimal fees / rent / paid to both the Corporation (for loss of parking revenue) and to Government (for use of roadways etc.) All vendors would have to commit to environmental best practices and have normal sanitation / hygiene practices.  if successful, it could pave the way for a more established / permanent Al Fresco experience, utilizing some of the world’s most beautiful Harbourfront locations.
6d9d2f45-9608-45db-87be-9a583a5719c7	2	Local Food Sources	Designate a number of our local farms as 2 West, 2 East, 2 Central as strategic to the country and provide them equal subsidies to grow specifics crops to enhance locally available food sources.
79330089-697a-4b8e-afd8-8674e368d1fe	2	Shelter-in-place: Expand on-island deliveries to non-essential goods	The shelter-in-place guidelines have residents spending most of our lives confined to our houses. Whilst we can receive deliveries of essentials it would be great to be able to receive non-essential deliveries from Bermuda's businesses and from overseas.  I would propose that businesses be allowed to operate on a delivery basis only, like in many other countries around the world. The WHO states it is safe to receive packages as the risk of catching the COVID-19 virus from a delivery package is low.  Is this not a better solution than the current Government proposal to open select businesses (e.g. hardware stores, pet shops, etc.) in the coming weeks? As permitting deliveries would not only ensure that residents do not have to congregate in one location to buy goods (increasing the risk of community transmission) but also this would allow our businesses to continue to trade during the lockdown if they wanted to.  Several countries (UK, US, etc) around the world have only permitted businesses to trade via delivery.  Deliveries of takeaway food, retail goods and Fedex/DHL are still operating in other countries. (Currently our overseas deliveries are being held at Fedex/DHL offices as they are not permitted to deliver on island).  I fully understand there may be flaws in my argument as I am not in Government and I am definitely not a virus scientist! I just find it confusing that we cannot maintain deliveries when other countries are perfectly able to; especially given the WHO advice that it is safe to receive deliveries. I suppose the main issue we might have is if there are sufficient taxis and delivery professionals available to meet demand, or are they already fully employed supplying the essential delivery of groceries to our community?  Long story short I'm sure everyone would appreciate the joy of being able to enjoy a Ruby Murray's, ordering a proper work desk & chair to allow easier work-from-home conditions or receiving a package from loved ones abroad...  It would certainly make shelter-in-place a lot more enjoyable!
00bca054-39c6-4e8b-9ed2-949a594a1e2d	2	Let's become the most envirnomentally friendly place on the planet.	As an island impacted by global warming and in particular rising sea levels and hurricanes we should be a global leader in what is a virtuous project in so many ways:  Create jobs with residential and commercial solar installations including battery storage;  Provide financing arrangements for householders to install solar/batteries to reduce their energy bills including the repayment of the financing arrangement;  Build a windfarm offshore and create significant battery storage;  Electric cars and bikes;  Create opportunities for investors, including international business, pension providers and individuals to participate in providing finance to transform our energy infrastructure.  This could be a vision to bring everyone in Bermuda together and create a significant stimulus across the island and in all sectors of the economy.  With a vision for Bermuda to be the most environmentally friendly place on the planet we will become a beacon in the world and attract investment, tourists and business to our shores.
cdd6a972-46c5-426f-a43f-a8767671ffd2	2	A place to call home	As we saw this pandemic leave our homeless population until last, can we please have a place for them to call home?  There are many reasons they are in their current circumstances and these factors may not have been addressed as they matured. It is my hope that someone can provide a building, for them to be rehabilitated.  I don't want anyone to tell me they want to be there, as not many have had in depth conversations with them.  I feel they could receive assertive training, community support, learn about social cohesion, and the ability to use their talents around the building ie repairs etc. Ther can also be some training provided in areas such as mechanics, electrical, plumbing.  There could be communication between employers and the government of giving them a second chance - with agreements between the parties involved.  Obviously, there will be a requirement for them to move beyond their situations, but in order to recover you must have the proper support as you navigate through the emotions, rejections and periods of self loathing.  I believe everyone can change. There is no limit to who or how far one can go.
3b2fde1b-1452-4acc-aa87-dac8e001d267	2	CDC Approved Bower Blowers that can disinfect Schools Hospitals playgrounds	I want to introduce a higher level of Disinfectant commercial cleaning  using a CDC Approved Cleaner and power sprayers that can put  crews of men to work insuring that we are cleaning our spaces with  total quality leadership and preventative maintenance by a schedule.  Secondly, my company Bermuda Security Solutions Ltd can employ  thermal detection cameras  to assist boarder security and  Covid 19 tracing and tracking,  Our cameras are rated and approved by  U.S. Federal Government.  Note: we can power our cameras using  solar power providing you the ability to place both lighting and cameras in very  unique locations and save save, save on the cost to power the operation.  contact for details as some of our protection we consider confidential
f7aa3eb1-1ecf-40ae-9166-558df162558f	2	Utilize young Bermuda talent	There are so many young Bermudians who have completed their degrees in several areas specifically marketing and should be utilized vs using overseas companies to cut down on expenses.  We have several who have worked in the US or UK to gain experience and either have returned home and are not being utilized or have stayed in the UK or US if they can to find opportunities.  I was glad to hear the Premier state in his Press conference that they are utilizing some of our young talented individuals (ie biochemist Carika Weldon).  These young persons have spent a lot of funds and time on their education and some gaining experience off island so that they can come back to Bermuda and contribute to Bermuda.  Hopefully these young people can use their skills and assist with this economic recovery.
af80f0c4-892e-40aa-b09e-07abce98b4a9	3	Sociological Effects of Earthquakes (same as covid 19)	With the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Government has taken an all hands on deck approach that encourages Bermudians of all walks of life to do their part to help Bermuda emerge safely into the post COVID-19 world. When it comes to the economy, there will need to be a major recovery effort to get Bermudians back to work, business reopened and our economy growing. We want to know what you think needs to happen to get our economy moving again after COVID-19.  Sociological Effects of Earthquakes -----------------------------------  The Circum-Pacific belt  ( https://digitallylearn.com/what-is-the-pacific-ring-of-fire-and-map-upsc-ias/ )  is a major area in the basin of the Pacific Ocean where many earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur. The Ring of Fire (also known as the Rim of Fire or the Circum-Pacific belt) is a major area in the basin of the Pacific Ocean where many earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur.  Less Economically Developed Country suffer the greatest loss of life from earthquakes. This is because buildings are not as strong and emergency services are not as efficient. The economic cost of earthquakes can be greater in MEDCs ( are countries which have a high standard of living and a large GDP) as the economic life of a MEDC suffers greater disruption.  Treat this pandemic just like an earthquake (just like that- a natural disaster)  Thanks !
d60fa723-be03-4e0e-944b-37eb6a8b6c2d	3	Reopening trails and allowing solo sports - eg cycling, swimming, surfing etc	First of all, I wanted to express my gratitude for everything that Bermuda gov is doing to keep us safe. I am very impressed with the level of leadership, transparency and ability to make tough decisions and quickly.  Having said that, I feel the restrictions around the exercise are unnecessarily severe and limit people in their ability to keep fit - physically and mentally. I strongly believe that pushing people to walk and run onto the roads is subjecting them to either putting their exercise on hold or running along the (very) fast moving traffic. Since the beginning of the lockdown last week due to less cars on the roads, the trucks and vans that are there - drive very fast. I feel very unsafe when I run (daily). I really believe it would be such a welcome change if people could walk and run on the trails again. Even before the lockdown everyone was keeping their distance, therefore I am confident this won't pose any health risks if people continue being respectful of social distancing rules. I also believe it would not pose any health risk if people were allowed to cycle on the roads for exercise as well as swim, paddle board, kayak, surf (use unmotorised watercraft of any kind) as long as they practice these alone and keep themselves safe (close to shore). We will need our mental and physical capacity once Bermuda is in the position to slowly open itself again and start economic recovery. In that context, I believe that if an activity can be practiced solo and naturally allow for physical distance - it should be allowed. No risk - only upside. We need to stay sane and healthy through this. And not stress about being hit by a truck for no good reason (as an example). Please trust we can and will behave as responsible adults should these amendments be introduced. Because we are. Thank you so much for giving these thoughts the time of day.  Update: I came across this research which shows that COVID19 is spreading  indoors in majority of cases. So not only will exercise outdoors keep us sane and mentally and physically fit, it is a safer place to be - as long as we keep our distance from others.  https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.04.04.20053058v1
81b266b4-5e38-4231-827f-0daecf73d220	3	Vacation Exchange Idea	Would our tourism sector be interested in entering into a dialogue with other countries who have been successful at "managing" COVID-19 in order to explore the idea of exchanging tourism with them.  A country that comes to mind is Iceland. They are an island that is not too far away who have a completely different climate and culture than we do.  Perhaps they would be interested in taking a holiday in Bermuda and we likewise might be interested in holidaying there.  They have their own airline (s) which could facilitate traveling back and forth.  This perhaps could then extend to include other "safe" countries such as Norway and Finland.  Taiwan and New Zealand would be great too if we could get there without risk.  Thank you!
40e1e6ec-c821-4510-8642-10f9eed2bc5f	3	Land tax changes	There are many derelict properties across the island that have become inefficient economic assets for the country. Not only do they become an eyesore in their communities, but they also become an economic burden when they do not pay their fair share of land tax.  I believe the government should repossess properties that are severely delinquent in their land tax payments. The properties should then be sold to first-time Bermudian home buyers at a reasonable price in order to recoup the outstanding land tax and transfer the property into a new homeowner who is likely to renovate the property and convert it into a productive economic asset.  The benefits of this approach are that (1) it will help to increase government revenues by eliminating outstanding taxes, (2) it will be more fair to property owners who are current in their land tax obligations by negating the need for the government to keep increasing their tax burden, (3) it will benefit the neighbourhoods where these properties exist by removing underdeveloped properties, (4) it will lead to an increase in construction activity as properties are renovated to ready them for occupancy, (5) it will work to increase home ownership on the island for young Bermudians and (6) it will create a new land tax income stream that will actually be paid.  This proposal will work to help to beautify Bermuda’s neighbourhoods, increase home ownership and improve the finances for the government.
784150ee-6694-45e5-a23b-875a7385514c	3	Energy security - it's time to switch to solar	Bermuda is highly reliant on imports of fossil fuels to produce electricity and to power our vehicles. We are highly vulnerable to disruptions to oil supply. Although this is not something we have had to contend with in the past, the pandemic highlights the vulnerabilities we face as we move in to an increasingly unstable world.  We should urgently consider incentives for land owners to install solar panels. We could produce a very large percentage of our electricity from solar. This needn't even cost people anything. With the right incentives, businesses would spring up to install solar panels for free on the basis that they get to reap the benefits of the energy produced for a number of years. This would also be an economic stimulus, creating many jobs assisting with installing panels all over the island.  Once we have sufficient solar energy, we can then switch to electric vehicles charged from electricity points. Given the size of Bermuda and the length of journeys, it is an ideal place to switch to electric vehicles.  After these two steps are completed, we will be largely resilient against any shocks or disruptions to oil supply, and we will also enjoy better air quality and quieter roads. If people install battery back-ups, they will also be able to maintain power through hurricane outages.  There would be a reduced role for BELCO to continue to burn oil for times when solar cannot meet demand (through the night and on cloudy days). The cost of electricity per unit from BELCO would likely increase as a result of this, but would be offset by the fact that the running costs of solar panels are effectively zero.
653dbd06-ee47-4d54-8294-6c5b42eb5579	3	Charitable Giving	Deduction of $1 of payroll tax for every $1 donated to a registered Bermuda charity during the relevant period e.g. 1 March to 31 December 2020.
903bdb7b-53b9-4020-9229-7b8a950cfbf9	3	Employees working from home	Employers should allow some employees to work from home and some work in offices to implement more jobs. I spoke to most people in their 40's and above who love to work from home and the young ones in their 20's prefer office base.  I think it is a great idea to create more jobs in our country.
eb6b0926-c3f7-4fb5-a74b-c8dd073b8a34	3	Bermuda College	I think it is a great idea for college classes to be online as well to have less students in class and practice social distance. It should be options to do online or on campus.
dac09b11-4613-4919-9c6b-af341cb5e740	3	Events and our culture	Because everything was coming out of the west this year for 2020 and due to Covid 19 I think events such as Bermuda Day, Cup Match etc, should come out of the west again in 2021.
58ba8550-fb9a-4317-a2ee-2aef6335956a	3	Taxi deliveries	Allow retailers to do phone/online orders, with taxis taking on the role of deliver drivers. Same for restaurants.
8a5d7ee6-4b8e-4a56-9ae0-2c36dab24da7	3	Economic Growth	Firstly I want to say that I love living here in Bermuda and have great admiration for how the Government has handled the recent COVID-19 crisis. I have only been a resident here for 3 years, and I haven’t done my research before suggesting the following but here are some observations...  A) Create high streets (in Hamilton, St George’s & Dockyard) where people want to shop, eat and drink. There’s a couple of gems, but otherwise the current one is dated and owned by a few big companies, e.g. Island Restaurant Group, Little Venice Group and Calypso Group. The small selection of shops also makes it repetitive - why go shopping in Dockyard or St George’s, when there are the same shops in Hamilton? Increase entrepreneurship, diversity and innovation in the high street by promoting new business start-ups:  * Small business loans * A Government-backed small business division providing support/ workshops / forums on how to turn ideas into businesses. E.g. how to set up a business, create business plans, get funding, day-to-day running a business. * Different import duty rates for businesses vs. individuals - provide a reason for customers to shop local and businesses to identify a gap in the market and sell a product. * Allow foreigners (e.g. partners of work permit holders) to set up businesses too, with conditions on ensuring locals are hired and used in certain aspects of their business. * Make use of the derelict/ unused buildings that need to be refurbished/occupied. * The above also applies to more beachside dining, create something at Horseshoe than just a little shop selling fried food, create beach side dining strip for both locals and tourists.  B) Increase tourism. I don’t think the money is in cruise ships.. those tourists get off the ship, go to the beach then return to the ship for dinner. We need to increase hotel guests, but $300+ a night for a room that is dated?! Tourists will go elsewhere, paying $300 a night for a luxury all inclusive in the Caribbean.  * Provide an internal Bermuda star rating of hotels and cap the price of the room rate dependent upon it. Hopefully this will drive some of the dated hotels to improve their rooms, facilities & service. * Promote Air BnB, etc. * Promote staycations at discounted rates * Increase transatlantic flights to the island, e.g. Amsterdam, Munich, Paris. I much prefer holidaying where I don’t need a connecting flight! * Also, there are a number of great businesses here.. but they have either a telephone number or Facebook pages. Help these businesses create websites that tourists are able to Google.  C) Increase farming/ fishing/ local food production and reduce the reliance on food imports.  D) Increase immigration and the ability to gain residency (through specific conditions) - I’m not saying open the borders but a third of the population is expats that are returning “home” one day. Make Bermuda their home and in turn they will invest in the long term needs of the island.
00904c28-5b80-4520-98b5-511f02647c0a	3	Promote Home Ownership via a Mortgage Transformer	Affordable home ownership is a critical component to long term stability for families, as well as a mechanism for establishing intergenerational wealth.  Why is it that dedicated, responsible individuals can pay rent consistently for decades, but never manage to secure home ownership? Key barriers to home ownership include  accumulating the substantial down payment and overcoming the burden of high interest rates.  A 'Mortgage Transformer' can overcome both of these challenges. The Mortgage Transformer will facilitate a sale in which the seller finances the sale of the property and the Transformer secures the loan for a fee. The seller will finance the property at a low interest rate of (for example) 2%.  The buyer will pay an interest rate of 3%.  The additional 1% interest will go to the Transformer to cover costs.  Most sellers will not be interested in  financing a sale ('rent-to-buy") for two reasons:  1) They want/need the full amount of the proceeds upon closing of the sale; and 2) They cannot assume the risk of a default on the loan.  Most sellers will be in the first situation and the Transformer will not accommodate them - which will keep the banks in the Mortgage business.  For those in the second scenario, the Transformer will assist by "underwriting" the loan.  The Transformer would be required to maintain an appropriate amount of capital to secure the volume of sales/transfers that it is supporting (any actuaries around?).  It must also be granted legal authority to take over a transfer if the buyer defaults - similar to traditional mortgage terms.  The key is that the Transformer would take on the risk and maintain all payments to the seller. If the buyer defaults, the Transformer takes on the responsibility and can then sell/transfer the property to another buyer.  Buyers should have to maintain a minimum number of months security to protect against default. The security replaces the downpayment.  Larger securities can be encouraged by a preferred interest rate to the Transformer.  For example:  Minimum 3 months security (2% interest to Transformer); 6 months security (1.5% interest to Transformer); 12 months security (1% interest to Transfomer).  In this way, capital remains on the books of the Transformer to generate some investment income while providing a default cushion for all parties.  If a buyer is out of work for six months, payments can be made from the security provided at inception of the transfer.  The Mortgage Transformer model will not serve all buyers or sellers.  However, it has the potential to serve many.   Mature individuals can sell a second property to a family member at a reasonable cost without fear of default. Overseas land owners who don't need cash up front can generate monthly payments without the hassle of landlord responsibilities.  AND hardworking, responsible families who can live up to the challenge of affordable monthly payments, but are unable to amass hundreds of thousands of dollars for a down payment.  AND, this approach can provide a significant benefit over renting.  As a case study, there is currently a 3 bedroom condo in a popular division listed for rent at $3,800 per month. Another 3 bedroom condo in the same division is for sale at $465K.  Without laying out all of the calculations, the above model would result in a $3,400 per month payment for a 25 yr mortgage.  Restrictions can and should be put in place. For example, open to first time homeowners only and the maximum property value eligible may be capped at $750,000, consistent with the level for Stamp Duty exemption for first time buyers.  The Mortgage Transformer model would create opportunities for affordable home ownership and the many inter-generational benefits that come along with it.
397c4f24-4ab7-4bd0-8f7d-59fe4fb98cfe	3	Foods That Can Reduce Cholesterol	Cholesterol is one of the fatty compounds (lipids) that resemble wax. Most of the cholesterol is produced in the liver and some of it is obtained from food. Cholesterol helps in the production of healthy cells, a number of hormones, and vitamin D.  Even though the body needs it, excess cholesterol will accumulate in the walls of blood vessels so that it can narrow and block blood flow. As a result, many parts of the body are deprived of blood supply, which puts them at risk of causing serious health problems, such as a heart attack or stroke.  Read Also : 4 New Expectations That Come When Loving Yourself  ( https://www.hemn.me/2020/10/4-new-expectations-that-come-when.html )   So, what if the cholesterol in our bodies is already high? Diet can be a solution in regulating cholesterol levels. Here are foods that can lower cholesterol!  1. Oatmeal ----------  Oatmeal can lower cholesterol levels because it is rich in fiber. Oatmeal contains soluble fiber, which can reduce low density lipoproteins (LDL), aka "bad" cholesterol, which can increase your risk of heart attack and stroke.  2. Soybeans -----------  Food sources derived from processed soybeans or soybeans, such as tofu, tempeh, soy milk, or green bean milk, contain isoflavones which function as substances that can suppress bad cholesterol (LDL) so that they do not develop more in the bloodstream. .  3. Olive Oil ------------  Olive oil is a cholesterol-lowering food because it is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E. Both of these nutrients can lower LDL cholesterol or bad fats, and raise HDL cholesterol, aka good fats. You can replace regular cooking oil with olive oil for cooking to help lower cholesterol levels.  4. Salmon ---------  As we know, salmon contains omega 3, where omega 3 can lower cholesterol. Apart from containing omega-3, salmon also contains EPA and DHA which are very good for the health and function of the heart organ.  5. Avocado ----------  Avocado is a cholesterol-lowering fruit that contains monounsaturated fatty acids which can help increase good HDL cholesterol levels, as well as reduce LDL levels, aka bad cholesterol. Avocados also contain beta-cystosterol, a type of vegetable fat that works to reduce the amount of cholesterol absorbed from food.  Read Also : 10 Choice of Tourist Attractions in Indonesia for New Year's Holidays  ( https://www.streetsofnaija.net/2020/10/10-choice-of-tourist-attractions-in.html )   However, don't overeat avocados because avocados are high in calories.  6. Apples ---------  Apple peel is a soluble fiber that can flush out bad LDL cholesterol in the body. Because apple skin contains plectin. Pectin works by absorbing cholesterol and bad fats from food and excreting it through urine and feces. Apart from being rich in fiber, apples are also high in polyphenols, which are powerful antioxidants that can reduce inflammation.  7. Oranges ----------  The vitamin C content in oranges can help prevent the buildup of LDL cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Just like other cholesterol-lowering fruits, oranges are also rich in water soluble fiber which can bind cholesterol from food. This fruit also contains d-limone, which is a chemical compound that can dissolve cholesterol in
64ea79f3-56d9-44c5-9d84-c4ea9b725cc9	3	Continuing Tourism	Open resorts on all inclusive basis only, to the tourists. Provide everything on resort so they don’t need to leave the resort, until this passes.  Some tourists are happy to not leave a resort (like in Jamaica) - the conditions of incoming tourism could be on resort only basis.  Bermudian residents then need not worry about income tourists so much.  Hospitality staff would likely wear PPE.  Hotels  don’t have to run a full capacity to keep to social distance guidelines.  Restaurants could be segregated, tourist seating area and locals seating area.  Public beaches only to locals this year, or perhaps also tourists one side - locals the other.  Thanks
905d4021-7db9-4de1-a168-378f026151fe	4	Financing Stimulus	* Refinance existing government debt/raise new debt through tapping the local Bermuda dollar market and issuing Bda denominated debt to local investors. FX risk is eliminated and, given we have control over this currency, we can inflate to reduce this debt burden in future if needed.  This will cannibalize  bank deposits. So be it. Banks have no offered competitive savings rates for a long time. * Cut payroll tax and plug the gap with tax on rental income. When trying to increase productivity and stimulate growth, it makes no sense to be taxing labour and supporting rentier extraction. To those that say no system exists for collecting rental income, it does. Require any new leases that are not holiday rentals to be registered with the land registry. This will provide a data set for government to determine if owners are not assessing to tax. * Immigration Reform. Enough has been said on this. After the damage wreaked by this pandemic, and the possible expatriation of existing migrant workers, it should be a no brainer and will be necessary to replenish the labour force on the island.
1882b576-cb3d-4fcf-84f8-e5a416b5584b	4	Bermuda  Economy	In the 2020 Budget it was stated that we would be allowed access to 25% of our pension fund but it was never acted on. Now would be a good time to release this pension benefit to help families and the economy.
c89aa9d7-ff79-4dd3-962b-4c4d314b6943	4	short BDA Tourism video during shelter in place	The BTA need to aggressively (and quickly) push out  to our key target markets a short video on social media with well wishes and thanks.  Assuring them Bermuda will be here for them with open arms, the world's best (pink) beaches, pristine water and warm hospitality when world travel resumes.  Flood them with hope, inspiration and desire for an amazing Bermuda holiday. Bermudians (and all Bermuda residents) should then be encouraged to share this on social media so it goes as viral as Covid-19.  I really don't know why this has not already been done but it's not too late.
99c691a9-6d36-4610-98a3-b8b7acae1c82	4	Getting our middle down economy back	I do not envy his position of the Finance Minister.  The plan announced to help Small/Med Business back up missed the mark  * Government gave BED more cash to loan (add to debt). Why is BED increasing their interest on loans at this time? even if less than the banks it's still more than it used to be.. why not even offer interest free loans on the first half or all of the amount borrowed under X? * Suspend (not defer) private pension payments for 6 months, this would cost Government nothing * Payroll tax deductions or eliminated (for 6-8 months) for jobs kept after allowed to reopen. * Government concessions on cleaning, sterilization and disinfectant items when business reopen. 5. Government to pay employee portion of HIP for all staff a company laid off but keeps insured..  How would they pay for these..  While not a popular option for a labor government. Cuts to the civil service or place all those not working on the same $500 a week benefit until say 75-80% of business are allowed to open.  Look at a tax on company profits over 15% (pick a number) of gross earning. So if 1 million comes in and a profit is seen of $150,000 they pay nothing but if they earn $200,000 a tax on the extra $50,000  Millions in lost Government earning is in the area of business not reporting or under reporting of staff earning affecting the payroll tax they do pay. I would suggest a unified payroll system that the government builds and all self employed up to big companies have to enter their pay numbers and generate their payroll. This would ensure correct tax calculations and give the Government instant access to the data. Signing up for this service would be mandatory and cross referenced with BEDC, TCD taxi/company car and trucks, register for LLC, Bank Merchant accounts and imports for businesses.
4a04f260-a2ab-49c9-a2cb-893abb1ade98	4	My opinion	I would add that the government need to cut down on the GP cars. They make enough money to drive their own cars. Only the premier should be given a car. Also when I was school we had to pay for our own bus pass. Even if it was at a small cost and even consider making seniors pay for the bus again at a lower cost that way you make some type of revenue. When you drive down the highways in the states, prisoners are out there a lot of the time doing road work and clean up, make the west gate prisoners work around the island supervised of course. Get them to do the dirty work around the island. I’m sorry I hear about the prisoners complaining about the living conditions in west gate. YOU ARE IN PRISON Due to your own choices next time make the right choice. I would cut the west gate to the bare essential. Make Bermuda a year round tourism, not just 5 months of the years. Hotels have to lower their prices and if they won’t they have to consider making the hotels all inclusive and the same rates that there at. But as a whole prices have to come down. In my 30 years of living no one has ever given me a justifiable reason to why everything cost so dam much. Maybe we should switch sides and become a territory to the USA at this point.
73f01de1-3135-4763-b85d-be7bd714058f	4	Economic stimulus	When we are at a stage where we can begin to gradually open up to our workforce, I suggest that the construction industry be one of the first.  It is a large employer of both skilled and unskilled workers who are unable to work from home.  There are a few major projects in progress which could continue.
3e34f14f-3b4a-49c1-9345-c2dadcbad6f9	4	Tourism Sector - Small Businesses Guarantees - Hedge Fund	In addition to the work outlined in my profile I have also worked for some years with companies in the reinsurance and hedge fund markets.  Hedge funds exist to provide protected investment for their shareholders while also providing equity for managed risk activity.  Bermuda's Tourism Market is an established pillar of our economy and also provides a large part of our national identity.  I would like to help explore the potential for a hedge fund to be created that exists to support Bermuda's Tourism product, specifically in the form of providing guarantees for small businesses with local banks so that they are able to secure financing that enables them to navigate the challenges of overhead in the local business sector. In particular because Bermuda's Tourist season is 'seasonal,' many small business owners struggle with normal overheads and various other costs of doing business.  Much of a similar type of capacity is offered through the BEDC and their efforts are extremely helpful. However their equity is not sufficient to provide coverage on a scale that helps all suitable small businesses to succeed. Their vetting process, though, is an extremely valuable step in ensuring that a small business is geared up for success.  So my proposal would ideally take the shape of a hedge fund with reinsured risk protection being able to provide finance guarantees via local banks, with a proviso that businesses are vetted by and assisted by the BEDC in their business practices to enable viable business models - while the hedge fund itself manages assets through their own internal strategies so that their profits are appealing to large scale investors, who may wish from a philanthropic point of view to see Bermuda's Tourism products succeed for the good of the country as a whole, but may not wish to take on the risk of directly investing in a small business themselves - either due to unfamiliarity with whichever particular sector of the industry, ot due to a low general appetite for risk.  The hedge fund management level protects and secures the fund and its investors. The BEDC assists with vetting to ensure small business viability in their own planning and operations. The local banks are satisfied as to the security of their loans. The small business owner is able to secure financing to make their unique Bermuda Tourism businesses succeed. The country benefits from a more robust Tourism economy.  Thank you,  Chris Gauntlett  799-2420
6a887c76-3cc8-4c4c-9680-9d686bbde636	4	Build Baby Build	It is good that we have a forum to discuss what will ultimate affect all of us. The issues are comprehensive with health as top of the list. Running a close second is the economy and economic recovery which is a peculiar subject because we are dependent on people feeling it is safe to travel and safe to work and entertain the company of others.  No doubt the government needs revenue which they get from taxes and equally important private sector needs revenue in order to have its businesses open whether they are big or small. If people don't have income the whole network crumbles.  Aside from the myriad of hospitality jobs construction is perhaps the one area that can generate a significant cash flow. However with the size of this economic slowdown to replace the job loss vacuum with bodies and wage earners would mean hyper construction mode not just jobs to satisfy Bermuda's unemployment. We need "hyper" employment because we need to play catch up This means the long mooted 2000 employees now tis the season.  It is unfortunate the Morgan's Point project stopped even though the reasons may perhaps have been justified, it came at a hard time. Notwithstanding it is that type and scale of development going full blown that would help our economic situation.  Additionally Bermuda has an archaic infrastructure with regards to tourism transport and maritime shipping etc aside from the infamous issue with bridges. Also the city of Hamilton has long jerked and retreated over the long needed development of the Hamilton Waterfront. I have suggested enough to indicate at least $4 to 5 billion dollars worth of development. That level of development could span over 7 to 8 years during which time generating hundreds of million payroll tax and stamp duty revenue. The wages have also a circulating value of paying rents which in turn pay mortgages property maintenance and property tax. The salaries also pay for food and clothing which keeps the stores open.  Other than that, we have borrowing and social assistance, where effectively the government would need to borrow to support an unemployment program for people to stay at home. The construction industry is also a supplier of goods which means trucking and warehousing and hardware stores are generated in support. It causes contracts and accounts and clerical work, wherein legal and accounting firms are engaged. All aspects of the economy are stimulated by construction and this could for a period become the additional leg of the economy we can rely on until tourism returns.  The big questions should be is this possible if so when and how? and the answer is very possible and very soon. The  question to the forum would be would you want this?  When tourism returns, we need to have a new infrastructure in place with greater capacity to deal with more tourist in particular cruise visitors. Now is the time to reinvent ourselves and build out towards a new horizon. There simply is no other way every other method is asking for mercy from somewhere.
d4e895b6-d3bf-4c89-9cb9-0f6bd07c861d	4	Flexible Learning	I would like to see more flexibility in education. I think Teachers could work in shifts. Early 7:30 - 3:30, Mid 9- 5 and late 10:30 - 6:30. Students could arrive at any point between 7:30 -10:30 and leave from 3:00 -6:30.  The teachers could work in teams of three with multi-age class groups.  Socially the older/more mature students model better  behavior and would also be able to assist younger learners. The teachers would also agree on multiple themes that engage students e.g. cars / flowers. They would use topics of interest to teach Math, Language arts, and Social Studies. Each Teacher would present only 1/3 of the lessons and be monitoring while the others present. Each activity would have three levels of tasks.  I would like to see teachers who understand that movement is not bad behavior and aids learning especially in boys.
fe2b5158-6446-433d-958c-afa9f3d919f8	4	Hazmat work	To prepare for peak covid 19 outbreak wouldn't it be a good idea to hire and train people for hazmat cleanups?
7becab2e-52e3-4bc3-b310-af672e8196c0	4	Early retirement and redeployment	Offer early retirement to government workers.  redeploy staff unable to manage the technology to work remotely and with speed and accuracy to other areas within government. Refine jobs to prevent silos in a particular department and identify skill sets which can be used as needed within government.
a21b4f81-0b9d-4d39-afc4-073363a061ef	4	Ideas to assisting  with  mitigating COVID-19	* Discuss with store owners/pharmacies  ways to make affordable price on healthy, immune boosting foods, vitamins, minerals at local grocery stories. * Create an electronic diagnostic type survey which generates numbers for tracking testing results. * Daily fever temperature reading for all hospital  and front line workers. * Place vulnerable and elderly in remote hotels provide medical care, food etc. * Conduct weekend lock downs, make mandatory COVID-19 testing  of general public, information is uploaded in secure database(breaches to the laws can be discuss with Ministry of National Security, COP etc) * Run daily temperature readings over local map using signatures to generate "fever maps". * Deploy medical teams to "hot parishes" to conduct extensive, testing and tracing.
b99a5aa9-ea92-4bb2-b56a-6920d59b01d2	4	Getting Back to work	We need to re-open the economy as soon as possible and immediately on May 3rd. We should open up the economy slowly and keeping social distancing in place. I suggest that for the 1st 2 weeks from May 3rd that everything be re-opened but at half pace. By that I mean that restaurants could serve food in their establishment but that they could only operate at half their capacity in order to keep social distancing in play. Bars could re-open but everyone need to be seated and that they also would be at half of their capacity. Stores could be open at reduced hours with some in the morning and some in the afternoon. This would reduce the congestion for traffic and on the buses. Businesses would be open but a rotation of half the people going in on one day and the other half on the next day. Again this would reduce the congestion on the roads and in offices. I would continue to have the curfew in place from 9or 10 to 6. I would open up all beaches, golf courses and water sports but would continue to keep gyms closed for that 2 week period. Once we saw what the statistics showed we could then relax the 50% rule and perhaps move to 75% or even 100% and open everything up. At the same time government needs to talk to Canada, US and UK and the airlines to see how we can open up travel internationally. Hopefully we would have quick testing that would determine whether someone is positive before boarding the flight or testing for fever. The later would not help with asymptomatic cases but again we need to open up the economy and hopefully social distancing will impede an explosion of Covid -19. Lastly I think that the government should ask for the help of retire people on the Island to help small businesses on the island by volunteering their assistance in providing direction/advise on hoe these companies can best recover. There are a number of retired individuals that I know who would be happy to assist these businesses at no cost to them. It is in all of our best interests to get the economy going again and at some point in time we need to do so soon.
6b4dea75-6ff9-4320-83af-4101b84f2d1d	4	Thinking out of the Box CORONAVIRUS	We have all the big data that we need right now from the test sites. They should be re-deployed to help open business. Testing at the end of a street ((Front Street as an example) using barricades, to allow employees and customers to enter and do business if they are virus free or show antibodies; at City Hall, at the Museums and Art Galleries, coming off the Cruise Ships, at hotel entrances. etc.  This, of course,  is after the National Protection Act in the US is utilized to make every pharmaceutical company, in every country, start manufacturing the 5 minute test. It is ludicrous that only Abbott Labs is producing 50,000 test kits a day for a country like the US of 350 million people.  Testing should allow us, and help us, to re-open business.  Kindest Regards,  Kathleen McCormick
98abee13-7ade-440c-86e3-4f711461df29	4	Lift Shelter in Place Order!	i just read an article stating that an estimated 350 can still die in Bermuda  due to covid 19 WITH shelter in place order. So what is the point? I know this may sound harsh but people will die regardless. We are never going to see zero cases of Coronavirus. It's hear to  stay. 5 years from now people will still be dying from this and people will remember how the whole world shut down for nothing because it STILL remains. A German scientist argues that the Young and strong should be exposed to create some type of heard immunity because of the less then 2% death rate and most get mild symptoms. We need to resume getting back to "some sort" of normal life. Open businesses, people need to work who can't work from home to keep they're homes or do you want 50% of the population on unemployment benefits. Will you then burrow another 150 million to add to our $2.9 BILLION debt! We have to be realistic. What happens 6 months from now we're still locked in our homes and people are still dying!? America is working on reopening states! Bermuda should do the same. And I'm not saying business as usual! Still social distance, wash your hands and wear a mask if you like! Older and vulnerable people can self isolate but we need to learn to LIVE with Coronavirus and not hide from it forever it's not logical economically!
547a8377-ea51-4558-9458-6a16c178e767	4	Controlled access to selected services	As we move to ways in which the shelter in place can be lightened without forgoing the gains we have made thus far with COVID-19, a suggestion is that certain selected businesses (hardware stores, IT repair shops, car repair shops, aircon repairs, etc) open on a reduced basis, whereby you make an on-line appointment to visit these stores, which limits the numbers to an appointment only basis. You need an on-line appointment confirmation to travel from your shelter in place to visit these stores, which can be checked at the check points.  Could also consider take-out food pick up and delivery, using taxi industry.  Would enable some businesses to start up and enable citizens to have things repaired and enjoy more services, where necessary.
f4ce6b5a-0eb6-454b-8c24-2c2c41c1e801	4	Improve Economic Outlook	1) Allow Ascendent sale to Algonquin IMMEDIATELY.  2) Accept Duperreault's proposal for a Family Office IMMEDIATELY.  3) Scrap new Health Care Plan IMMEDIATELY.  4) Furlough all nonproductive MP's IMMEDIATELY.  5) Scrap plans to take over Corporation of Hamilton IMMEDIATELY.
e840b72d-6706-4ba0-b547-5fcf92ad80ec	5	Economic recovery	Gorhams needs to answer the phone so that orders can be placed. Their website is completely unsatisfactory for choosing the right product for the right job.  I have tried many times to call them and no-one responds on ext 255 which is the customer service option given on the automatic phone service. They need to provide an email address to which enquiries re products can be made.  A small business owner ought to be able to open shop so long as the owner wears a mask at all times and disinfects surfaces as necessary.  Social distancing of course and customers only to be admitted one at a time with masks.  Customers and shop owners, in fact everyone, should be required to wear a mask when out in public.  If the public knew how many ICU beds there were at KEMH perhaps the public would be less likely to want to go out in public. Could the government include in its daily briefings the number of ICU beds that are occupied and how many are left for more intensive care cases?
62518f38-b7fe-414c-9cb8-ba0cd0cd8aaa	5	Tribe roads now off limits?	For 2.5 weeks, we have abided by all the rules: for the good of all. We regularly walked to the top of the Elbow Beach public steps and NO further: we are not allowed on the beaches, right? That’s our half mile from home walk.  in those  2.5 weeks, we have twice encountered police, who simply reminded us that the beach was off limits. That is the law. Not a problem. They thanked us and drove on. We stayed off the beach.  Today, another police car. We were reminded beaches are closed; yes, we know, we are only going to the steps. Then, that policeman decided to say the TRIBE ROAD Was also closed for walking.  What? The safest place to walk, while (as another poster noted) cars are careening along the roads at dangerous speeds.  what logic is this? The place where we can spread out, be safe and still not go into the beach? Now closed. An arbitrary decision by one person. A reading of The rules? No mention of tribe roads.  These no-common-sense laws are the ones that make people chafe. Please stop punishing the people who are following your rules. Stop changing the goal posts.  Police the law breakers, not the law abiders
9bce833d-a406-43a7-84a5-d603a46f5b2f	5	Economic recovery	It should be possible for all single owner operators to continue doing business with the usual social distancing requirement.  All should be required to wear protective masks, preferably N95s.  All subcontractors on building sites should be allowed to continue on a project where the team of subcontractors can maintain social distancing and all must wear masks as above  Similarly with landscape gardeners and house cleaners where social distancing is possible and the team of workers can find their own way to the job site, this also should be a relief to the workers and the economy.  However in the case of housecleaners it might be necessary to limit the jobs to one a day and require cleaners on leaving to disinfect all surfaces in the home.  All workers of whatever kind should wear proper protective masks.
22176bc3-1837-47bf-bb96-bb4dd7d8faaf	5	Delivery Company Stimulus Package	Social distancing appears to be the new normal and shopping won't be the same for a while. We have the following problems:  * Many are or may be out of work and still require some form of income. Many of these individuals still have transportation. * Many people still require good and services (essential and otherwise) but moving freely about the country is a risk. * Many retails shops will need to change the way they do business to survive. This idea proposes to have the government allow any individual to easily apply and obtain a license to become a registered delivery person.  With this license, a member of the public can:  * Negotiate with businesses to perform deliveries on behalf of any business. This will allow anyone who has been impacted by the virus to find a means to survive without any qualification. It will be up to the delivery member to find work.  Things to consider:  * It will need to be considered how this interacts with Payroll tax.  In order to do this, the government would need to keep a record of deliveries and payments received which may not be ideal.  A more sensible approach is to have a sign on fee and/or monthly or annual membership fee. * Membership identification and expiration. Businesses and the general public should only work with members with the correct identification issued by Government.  This membership should need renewing. * Part of the membership process should be vetted to ensure that trustworthy and applicable people are allowed to join. * Consideration will need to be made on how payment will work. Is payment done by the business or up to individual members to create? Will the government introduce a flat fee? * Consideration will need to be made on which businesses are allowed to have items delivered. * Proper safety measures should be made to ensure the public remain safe (masks, gloves, etc.) * Consideration will need to be made on who ensure delivery. * There needs to be a way to report members who violate the rules of delivery and a method to investigate this needs to be committed by Government. * Penalties needs to be created for non-members delivering items. This should allow people to volunteer their time unemployed to a market that may become the norm in the immediate future.
6a79a44e-5cbc-47e4-9f1a-9ce4bc3d0f7a	5	What about Free Lance Entreprenuers	Suggestion:  What about creating a Bermuda CARES program a temporary unemployment assistance program that would factored in those that are outside of the treshold of unemployed self-employed. Such works as self-employed individuals, independent contractors, consultants etc.
68b24077-79fd-4e2b-b1ee-315501fdfb2a	5	Good information can lead to good decisions.	https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2020/04/18/coronavirus-economic-impact.aspx?cid_source=dnl&cid_medium=email&cid_content=art1HL&cid=20200418Z1&et_cid=DM508281&et_rid=853462433
e9d4c177-d6ab-495a-8159-27c8e4d5a76e	5	Equal opportunity	Although I am completely in support of, and understand, the need to Shelter in Place,  it is frustrating that some businesses are able to open, and others are not , nor are they given the opportunity to apply. It would seem that businesses are now being able to operate in a limited capacity if they are deemed a "necessity" for the public during "shelter in place" orders. What is necessary for one, may not be necessary for another, and vice versa. Who is to declare what is, and isn't, necesary?  All business should be able to submit application to operate, based on the restrictions and requirements of the government. Classifications should not be imposed, disqualifying one type of business over another.  fair consideration should be given to all.  Should any business be able to meet the standards needed, they should be given due process and equal consideration
c9826518-6bc9-4235-9c98-979106791570	5	Helpful Article	https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/public-sector/our-insights/how-to-rebuild-and-reimagine-jobs-amid-the-coronavirus-crisis
f638e731-03e4-4eae-99fd-46ac6d509513	5	All Bermuda Pensions	As the world manages this crisis it is clear that after cash savings (where possible) the only other available source of cash without draining the government purse by relying on the recently announced unemployment cheques would be to make at least 80% of all pensions available for rent and mortgage payments.  The current legislation makes provisions for this; however, this needs to be automated and transitioned to a similar to the UK and or US system where is is more readily available and managed by  The only other option is to mandate deferred of all payments as the country changes adapts its economy.
b45d3ae1-553c-48da-a95e-7d999e06cf1e	5	Encourage Small Business Growth!	Small businesses contribute to local economies by bringing growth and innovation to the community in which the business is established. Small businesses also help stimulate economic growth by providing employment opportunities to people who may not be employable by larger entities.  Small businesses are the lifeblood of the U.S. economy: they create two-thirds of net new jobs and drive U.S. innovation and competitiveness. A new report shows that they account for 44 percent of U.S. economic activity.  Start with the elimination of the onerous and longwinded process currently in place that kills most small businesses, locally, before they start; the permission to purchase and license a commercial vehicle!  Not all businesses can be in the virtual realm, most trades and skills require the transportation of labor and goods to a customer not the other way around, let persons be able to earn without hinderance!
6e5d9d64-ad13-4507-bf2f-b89f0b97cc79	5	Social Distancing and Family and (close) friends	I would like to see an ease on visitation for family members and close friends post shelter in place. Most of us in the community are fully aware of how we need to "behave" in the new world and as such are now conditioned to take extreme caution when dealing with people - such with family and friends. I would therefor suggest rolling out a testing scheme covering an individual member in a household to "kind of" certify the household being social responsible and in line with covid-19 best practices.
9d6fb263-6d05-473e-a564-a0105ea2d9b1	5	Bisnis Online : Tips Bisnis Menguntungkan Di Masa Pandemi Covid-19	Pandemi Covid-19 mengubah prilaku konsumen menjadi lebih hati-hati dalam berbelanja. Perubahan ini memberikan dampak yang besar terhadap roda perekonomian, tidak hanya di Indonesia tetapi juga dunia.  Berdasarkan laporan yang dilansir dari Yelp: Coronavirus Economic Impact Report pada bulan April 2020, beberapa aspek bisnis yang malah mengalami tren pertumbuhan yang diakibatkan pademi tersebut.  Hasil laporan dari Yelp ini merupakan laporan di negara Amerika Serikat namun cukup menggambarkan kondisi perekonomian di Indonesia saat pandemi ini.  Mayoritas aspek bisnis yang mengalami penurunan menurut hasil laporan Yelp adalah aspek sekunder yang dalam pemenuhannya dirasa tidak begitu penting untuk para konsumen seperti toko gaun pengantin yang turun sebesar 63 persen.  Sementara itu, karena diberlakukannya larangan melakukan aktivitas di luar rumah, pusat-pusat perbelanjaan mengalami penurunan omzet sekitar 63 persen sampai dengan 70 persen dan toko-toko di pinggir jalan juga turun sebesar 41 persen.  Sementara itu, aspek bisnis yang mengalami peningkatan pembelian terjadi pada bisnis-bisnis yang dilakukan secara online seperti bisnis agrikultur (seperti toko buah dan sayur, hasil perkebunan) dengan peningkatan sebesar 430 persen, toko bahan pangan naik sebesar 200 persen dan jasa kurir mengalami peningkatan sebesar 95 persen.  Peningkatan pada aspek bisnis tersebut disebabkan karena sudah mulai diberlakukan pelarangan aktivitas di luar rumah sehingga para konsumen lebih memilih memenuhi segala kebutuhannya melalui media online.  Informasi tersebut sejalan dengan data yang diungkapkan oleh Kirill Mankovski, selaku Managing Director ADA Indonesia yang menerangkan bahwa terdapat dua perubahan karakteristik konsumen yang timbul karena dampak dari pandemi Covid-19 yaitu konsumen adaptif (The Adaptive Shopper) dan bekerja dari rumah (Work from home).  Perubahan karakteristik konsumen tersebut terlihat dari banyaknya pemakaian aplikasi belanja online selama bulan Maret 2020 yang naik sebesar 300 persen dan mengalami puncak kenaikan lebih besar dari 400 persen di pertengah bulan Maret 2020.  Kirill juga menambahkan, hal tersebut tidak menutup kemungkinan akan bertambah lebih besar di bulan-bulan berikutnya seiring pola karakteristik konsumen yang sebagian besar sudah melek teknologi digital.  --------------------------------------------- Tips Jalankan Bisnis Di Masa Pandemi Covid-19 ---------------------------------------------  Menjalankan bisnis di tengah situasi pandemi virus Corona jelas bukan pekerjaan mudah. Selain karena pembatasan sosial yang membuat masyarakat tak leluasa berbelanja, beberapa perusahaan pun memutuskan untuk melakukan PHK massal yang membuat daya beli masyarakat menurun.  Namun jangan khawatir, untuk meminimalisir kerugian akibat dari dampak pandemi Covid-19, berikut merupakan beberapa tips bisnis yang bisa Anda pertimbangkan.  ---------------- Ubah Mode Bisnis ----------------  Hal pertama yang harus dipertimbangkan adalah, mengubah cara menjalankan bisnis dari mode attack menjadi mode survival. Hal ini dilakukan sebagai bentuk efisiensi, sekaligus ‘cari jalan aman’ untuk mencegah kerugian yang lebih besar.  Misalnya, Anda bisa menunda kegiatan branding, ekspansi perusahaan, hingga menunda campaign tertentu, seperti program diskon dan lainnya.Dari internal perusahaan, Anda bisa memberlakukan aturan unpaid leave, pemotongan gaji dan penurunan proses produksi.  Berempati dan Berbisnis Sambil Berbagi --------------------------------------  Pandemi virus Corona bisa Anda jadikan pelajaran untuk memahami jika menjalankan bisnis bukan hanya sekedar untung-rugi, tapi juga misi kemanusiaan demi menyediakan apa yang dibutuhkan konsumen, misalnya alat kesehatan dan lainnya.  Tidak masalah memberikan paket promo gratis masker untuk konsumen yang membeli produk Anda, atau mengumumkan kepada pelanggan jika sebagian keuntungan dari produk yang dijual, akan disumbangkan untuk memenuhi APD bagi tenaga medis.  Baca Juga: Tutorial Seputar Blogging Untuk Pemula Teknologi Dan Marketing - Bungmais.com ( Tutorial%20Seputar%20Blogging%20Untuk%20Pemula%20Teknologi%20Dan%20Marketing%20-%20Bungmais.com )  Pengaturan Karyawan -------------------  Jika memungkinkan, Anda bisa memberlakukan Work From Home (WFH) bagi seluruh karyawan. Tentu saja ada beberapa aturan yang harus dipenuhi oleh para karyawan, salah satunya menyediakan absen virtual untuk menjaga produktivitas perusahaan.  Anda pun bisa membuat rencana harian, termasuk target yang dibebankan kepada karyawan selama bekerja di rumah. Jika tidak memungkinkan WFH, maka karyawan wajib mengenakan APD, menjaga jarak aman, dan menyediakan fasilitas kebersihan, termasuk tempat cuci tangan portable.  Strategi Marketing Baru -----------------------  Selama masa pandemi ini, Anda wajib mencari cara untuk tetap memasarkan produk tanpa melanggar aturan yang sudah dibuat pemerintah daerah setempat. Misalnya, dengan fokus menjual secara online, dan memberikan fasilitas delivery order.  Bagi pemilik cafe atau usaha kuliner dan sejenisnya, Anda pun bisa mengambil kebijakan untuk tidak melayani konsumen yang makan di tempat. Agar lebih memudahkan, kemas semua produk yang Anda tawarkan sebelum diberikan kepada konsumen.  Beri Kepercayaan Kepada Konsumen --------------------------------  Yakinkan kepada konsumen jika produk yang Anda jual benar-benar steril. Caranya dengan memberi update sterilisasi tempat produksi, memfoto karyawan yang sedang bekerja sambil mengenakan APD lengkap, dan proses sterilisasi diri dari karyawan produksi sebelum-sesudah bekerja dan lainnya.  Dalam setiap konten promosi yang disebarkan, Anda harus terus meyakinkan jika upaya sterilisasi produk yang dilakukan sudah maksimal. Dengan demikian, konsumen akan merasa tenang dan aman saat menggunakan produk Anda.  Memanfaatkan Semua Fasilitas Yang Ada -------------------------------------  Selama masa pandemi virus Corona, pemerintah telah melakukan berbagai upaya untuk menekan kerugian yang mungkin diderita oleh para pelaku usaha, seperti relaksasi kredit, diskon listrik, keringanan pajak hingga bantuan langsung kepada usaha yang terdampak Covid-19.  Manfaatkan semua fasilitas tersebut dengan maksimal. Meski tidak mampu menutup semua kerugian akibat pandemi virus Corona, setidaknya Anda sudah meminimalisirnya. Teruslah berjuang karena usaha tidak akan pernah mengkhianati hasil.  Jika saat ini kamu ada kebutuhan darurat, kamu bisa mendapatkan dana cepat tanpa ribet dari Maucash hingga 8 juta. Maucash adalah platform pinjaman uang online cepat dari Astra yang sudah berizin OJK. Yuk wujudkan mimpimu dengan Maucash. Ajukan pinjaman di Maucash sekarang!
dfbf257a-bf8f-4ce9-a9b9-457dddf0fe2e	5	Event Board	Government should implement an Event Board within the Ministry of Tourism which may fall under the Tourism Authority.  The purpose of the Board would be analyze and approve proposals, and to provide expert, technical and/or financial support if needed to enable the seamless delivery of the event. This Board would consist of persons with event planning expertise, local and international connections, and legal  knowledge.  The Board should be provided with perhaps three officers to assist with its duties.
b534d258-4de3-47aa-adee-9fdd5eff1782	5	Private Pension Regulation Amendment	It is high time that the Government of Bermuda amends the private pension regulations with regards to the maximum fees that the administrators are allowed to be charge. A recent review of my private pension revealed that, including both the administration and investment management fees, I am being charged 1.75% per year. WOW! When the Government first enacted this legislation (I believe around the year 2000), the allowable fees were based on the fact that there would only be a small pool of assets in the beginning. It is now roughly 20 years later and I’m certain that the amount of pension assets under administration have grown significantly. I don’t know the numbers but I’m sure they are readily available to Government?  As a comparison, most investment management companies in Bermuda now charge one percent or less. If one were simply to invest money in mutual funds, then the fees charged are much lower and they continue to decrease. It appears to me that this is what most, if not all, the pension administrators simply do now, presumably to lower their costs.  I’m sure that the pension administrators will argue that there is more administration work involved with pensions but these days just about everything is done electronically - electronic bank transfers, electronic data transfers and reporting, statements via website portals etc… So this argument only goes so far.  In the same regard, my private pension and those of a large number of Bermudians have even less administration owing to being unemployed. For these the administrator does not even have to deal with monthly contributions etc... Surely the administrator should charge a lower rate for such pensions?  By regulating a lower maximum fee that the administrators can charge, the Government will essentially be putting more money in the people’s pockets. I think that everyone will agree that is a great goal during these very difficult economic times?  (Also posted in the modernising of laws forum)
45cc4791-6798-4f82-92a5-fb6bcb3fc40f	5	How to help our country prosper through new opportunities	The Covid-19 experience to me is a sign for us as a country to make some serious changes to our lives here in Bermuda.  Many of the systems in place now are outdated and ineffective.  I think that online learning for children is amazing.  Benefits include:  * Students work at their own pace * More bonding time with parent/caregiver * No more cumbersome travel to school * Teachers may be more relaxed, calm and compassionate * More sleep time for students and teachers * Eat breakfast in a relaxed manner * Avoid rush hour traffic Children can learn at their own pace. They get to spend more time bonding with their parents or caregivers. They don't have to be rushed off to some cold uninviting building with cold grumpy teachers. (not all teachers are grumpy). They can get all the sleep they need. The power of sleep is terribly underestimated in our present day society. Many of us need to sleep more to replenish our brains. Many students cannot learn because they are sleep deprived and hungry. They can eat breakfast at a comfortable pace. Learning is more conducive in relaxed familiar surroundings.  If parents can continue to work from home this would be an added bonus. It would cut down on pollution. It would ease the need for public transportation, freeing up more transportation for our tourist population. Not having to actually leave your home to go out to work will cut down on your gas bill and your wardrobe bill. However with that extra cash you can redecorate your home. You can buy organic fruits and vegetables. You can invest in self improvement for your entire family if you want. The possibilities are endless.  If parents still must go out to work qualified teachers and caregivers can make rounds to homes to supervise children.  Other areas that would benefit include:  * Parents can save on having to purchase school uniforms * Government can save on having to maintain school buildings etc. * No one will have to worry about mold in the schools. * The entire country will be more relaxed * Self actualization will thrive * Local farmers can supply our food When people are unrushed relaxed and have more time to self-reflect and or meditate and have more time and energy to devote to preparing and eating well balanced and nutritional meals, they become more creative and more productive. They become proficient in their thinking. The brain has the chance to recalibrate and grow and develop to its fullest potential. We become more loving, forgiving friendlier citizens of excellence. The result would be a country that thrives in every area.  To some this might sound impractical. I disagree if enough of us decided that we want to care about humanity this will not be such a daunting task. The world will not be perfect. It will probably never become perfect, but there isn't anything wrong with shooting for the highest standards achievable.  Many times we do things just because it is the way they have always been done. Tradition is not always the best way to do things.  Thank you Minister J. Simmons for giving me the opportunity to voice my opinions.  Kind Regards  Mrs. Angela Ming-Bean
ac1a4641-89f7-4c2d-80f6-da0f1df3853f	5	time to open up the water and beaches	It is time to get the beaches, the railway trail and parks open. Boating should be allowed again. these are areas that entrepreneurs should be encouraged to start new businesses, unlike the past. Remove the government hindrances. Allow food carts at the beaches, food boats, floating bars and restaurants, The amount of time it takes to move from an idea to actually open a business and get a company up and running needs to be reduced. You should not have to write a letter to government begging for a commercial vehicle!
0af03fc3-a29f-45b9-bbc9-b3a095530059	5	To early to end shelter in place.	I feel it is to early to end shelter in place ,some people are still not got how serious this pandemic is they are still visiting friends and family like there is nothing going on, there are barbeques be held where no social distancing are going on ,its my opinion that we extend for another 2 weeks for the good of us all.
79538f51-ed2f-477d-a4b9-d168ba78195b	5	Come to Bermuda!	BTA - Run a Covid-specific ad campaign. There are people all over North America sitting at home stressed out, unable to go on vacation. Maybe they missed a trip because they were on lockdown or flights were cancelled. They probably can't wait till all this is over so they can finally go away somewhere and destress in a beautiful paradise. So we target them with a lovely campaign. Beat those post-Covid blues, come to Beautiful Bermuda. So when they finally can get out and can fly again, it's in their mind to come here.
b0a777ef-75a6-41f2-87bc-8b6f5e9b2667	5	Post  covid19	This is a good time for Government  to  Approved small businesses With a grace period of Government tax  not paid. and red tape.  With keep social distance Nature walks and Seashores should be open (swimming and fishing)This behavior is mentally soothing.  Bermuda should be up and running before our borders are open At least three weeks And everyone come into the island should be tested. At their expense
c1102f81-9d4d-4534-90f9-a932ea888d69	5	liquor stores	Please consider opening liquor stores for business, even if only drive-through, curbside pickup and delivery. During the shelter-in-place, liquor stores will have been closed for four weeks while convenience stores and gas stations continue to sell beer, wine and alcohol. Opening liquor stores will reduce congestion at grocery stores, promote consumer choice through fair competition and employ Bermudian workers. Thank you for your consideration. Jack Lee - Howzat Liquor Store, Hamilton Parish 293-3333
6c567a13-c7ec-44de-b082-dca414fce250	5	Restaurants	Good day,  I am a Bermudian, who has worked in the restaurant industry for over 25 years. We really need to get the restaurants open again. I can probably see us going back to the takeout only situation next week. Okay, that's a start, but, people like me, "front of the house," also waitstaff and bartenders, who a good percentage are local, need to start making money again. I realise bars may not get back yet, but we will still need bartenders to make drinks for diners. If the kitchen is already making food for takeout, we just need the restaurant itself back. Government could implement new rules and regulations, where tables would have to be 6 feet apart, staff would have to wear face masks and constantly wash hands. Cleaning of menus, tables and chairs after each use also. There could be spot checks on restaurants by government officials. (Personally, I feel Bermudian's will complain if rules are not being adhered to anyway). Sure, on a busy night, we will be making half the money we used to make, but it's a start and a step towards getting back to normal. It also seems as though, "busy" won't be happening anytime soon, so it should be no problem for restaurants to adhere to the new rules.  I think Bermuda will support the local economy, after all, nobody is probably gonna travel this summer. Hopefully many locals will have staycations and support the hotels and restaurants of Bda.  Never said this in my lifetime, I look forward to getting back to work! Good luck and good health to all, thanks for your time.  R. Chris Morley
fc85757e-ae52-439e-beab-5b834abcd173	5	PAYROLL TAX ???	What is going on with Payroll Tax?  No extensions, no reasonable answers and for many employers, while they are closed, no way to pay.
c4ee33da-68b9-48b2-b1e6-de48c697b78a	5	Freedom with safety	Maintain social distancing at all times and wearing masks /gloves in public buildings  WASH HANDS whenever possible or use wipes always over and over  Precautions optional outside except social distancing  open parks,  open beaches but no grouping or crowding: social distancing  open the water particularly for individual sports E.g. kayaking, or family boating or fishing  groups not permitted except for groups up to 10 but only household or family groups and even some close friends if comfortable and confident with each other provided social distancing maintained regardless  shopping island wide is permitted  stores/ restaurants/services (museums, spas, hair) may open with strict guidelines avoiding crowding and taking precautions such as social distancing at all times and gloves/masks where appropriate. Each business type may be a separate consideration.  Anyone who has any symptoms whatsoever to quarantine completely and report to physician  When possible widen testing to all who wish it and offer antibody testing/ drive through testing sites at three locations by appointment first come first served however there are some priority groups  Those immune or tested negative given more freedom for working/business but social distancing and other precautions still required.
45844eae-b5b9-411f-bd8f-0e7cc97caaa6	5	Look at Mulitple ways to Strenghten the Economy	* Look at the prime economic pillars and keep them going. International Business continue to grow it and encourage it and provide incentives.  Construction Industry - Keep that moving by fast tracking permits and encouraging people to build and renovate if they can. * Look at other International business opportunities.  Call centers, IT.  What about promoting health care tourism. * Bermuda needs outside investments and people.  People to our shores to work.  They will spend money on the island, rent homes, buy groceries, buy gas etc.  People coming to the island will require people to keep apartments up to date and repair and maintained and spend money in the retail sector and at our restaurants.  We need to encourage outside investment in properties.  People that have money will bring other people that have money and flow this into the economy. * We need to get people building and doing construction. Construction is another key business sector to promote.  Look at what is holding up Building Permits and encourage construction. Refine the approval process for smaller projects. * Create new business ideas for people that want to start their own businesses and help them get started. * Look at duty rates and immediately lower them to help bring cost of living down.  Look at payroll taxes and bring them down to help put money immediately in people's pockets so they can then reinsert it in the economy. * Encourage spending.  Everyone was affected but we need spend money in the economy to get it moving again and support each other. * Decrease un necessary government spending. * Open businesses back up with more stringent protocols We have to look at every sector - have focus groups in each sector and get ideas from business people in all these areas.
e98cda49-81a2-4ad4-8461-10847be361b5	5	Post shelter in place	We must come out of shelter in place very slowly , with several individuals still in quarantine and only half the positive cases recovered - another month of evening curfews, restricted shopping days, limited community movement is acceptable with ,social distancing, and all other health preventive measures to remain in place until a vaccine is available - if we are our brother and sisters keepers then this is a small price to pay to save lives - businesses to open gradually after they have met all health and safety standards - thus business owners, hotels and all establishments need to meet to adopt  and then implement the new norm - visible hand sanitizer available to all patrons on entering buildings , at elevators, in public restrooms and public workspaces patrons , employees  and employers to wear face masks wherever possible providing staff with  the necessary  ppe to conduct their jobs effectively - opening the borders should also be done only if we are able ensure arriving guests are healthy and virus free - take temperatures or have airlines check passports and health certificates prior to boarding - so much more to say but I trust the government will work through this in the best interest of the bermuda people
2f40a28d-f51c-4992-97c5-fc21d8a58c2b	5	Use outdoor public space for restaurants and eateries	Expand restaurants ability to use outdoor space for clients. This would provide more opportunities for distancing and still allow restaurants to serve customers.
71a67620-d0d9-44c1-9094-2b80f2ef3cbc	5	Lockdown & Control	Lockdown / control only COVID 19 cases / subjects and allow the general public to get back to normality, test all incoming travelers.  Congratulation to the Bermuda Government on a job well done thus far.  We are willing to assist in any way deemed possible.
7f183138-f790-4c5c-ad38-135a6430836d	5	Post covid19	Employee Pay cuts should not be Considered  . Bermudians  with insight to receive education on island. and know that they can live comfortable in  Bermuda, have had their pay at a stand still for over 45 years. These jobs were ones  top paying jobs we greeted at the front line, and were skilled in trade  electrician masonry, plumbing etc. This was a deliberated act to hold our pay back by the status quo,  because they would have  to hire us .  Businesses that can apply with the new safety rules ..Government should  encourage all small businesses to open and pay their staff. This will keep our cash flowing.  We need to make money to spend money.
7a3d1623-9b3a-41e6-9a7b-940bb59ea1d5	5	Testing - Donations	I suggest offering covid-19 testing against monetary donations of at least the cost of the test itself. I have spoken to many who would be eager to not only donate for their own test but also donate for those where it is needed. This way the Gov can cover the cost for continuous testing going forward.
d5205d06-045c-45ea-a797-c74d728a28bb	5	Suggestions when SIP Ceases	Continue grocery days as is, apply curfew, open restaurants for takeout only, lift the restriction for businesses being open 3 days but still keep the name system in place, let seniors take their test to graduate because once test are over school is techinally done for senior school anyway, no Cambridge worldwide so primary & middle will continue wat they are doing, private sector will continue to WFH and filter employees back in. Social distance from now until 2022.
f4e09384-c476-4051-bcd4-642c11bff8dd	5	Post office	Need to open postal service for outgoing mail ASAP
71186f07-fc9a-4d77-811a-99b295a85e65	5	Hotel payment for quarantine	Can donations for Covid-19 also be used to help with the stay. Students, seniors and others  will not be able to pay for this at all.  Please rethink this another burden to residents.  Thank you
f08c76e3-e404-45bf-aa00-794bd2859d35	5	Curbside Takeout	Please allow curbside takeout from all restaurants like the rest of the world do.... especially House of India. Thanks!
24707aad-5fec-4c5c-8044-8670d7bcff90	5	Proposed Ideas for Economy during Covid-19	* Allocate and designed public preparedness health clinics around the island  in additional to KEMH hospital, provide primary physicians and volunteers with additional training and preparation for an outbreak. * Consider purchasing the new antibody test kits, also drive thru testing centers. * General public displaying respiratory or any Covid-19 symptoms receive government-subsidized treatment and medication at these clinics, to avoid transmission to others. * High-risk Bermudians , residents without (HIP)  health insurance with suspected Covid-19  should undergo diagnostic testing at no cost. Level-1 * Working and unemployed  residents with health insurance can pay a minimum fee for testing- Level 2. * Perhaps create a local crowdfund for all essential workers as an ongoing appreciate gift, named  Bermuda Super Hero Funds perhaps  the local community can donate via online or bank deposit fund or donate at local pharmacies  or food store. Show appreciate for their courage in the fight against COVID-19..
8797aff7-90a8-4e21-b61c-01fdb2180719	5	How to resume slowly	I hope to hear a solid reopening strategy this week. I agree it needs to be a balanced approach. Opening in phases makes the most sense. Businesses that are a benefit to Bermuda as a whole should be first, then others every 10-14 days. Most importantly, a high level of social distancing must be maintained. That includes curfews and shopping by surname. Recovery will be a challenge, but it will be a lot easier with the support of all who call Bermuda home!
5487e452-c775-4d79-bad0-9c0539181c8e	5	REDUCE GOVERNMENT EXPENDITURE	* Restructure salaries and wages for all ministers , civil servants, and government workers by capping pay scales to $90,000.00. In other words the highest salary a minister or civil servant can earn  will NOT EXCEED $90,000.00. * Streamline public transportation to run 5 days per week Mondays through Fridays between the hours of 6.30 AM - 9.00 AM, 11:30 AM - 2.00 PM, and 4.30 PM - 7.00 PM. This allows minibus entrepreneurs to provide innovative solutions to address shortfalls. * Decentralize education by setting up satellite classrooms for Berkeley and Cedarbridge in each parish to eliminate students having to travel outside of their parish to go to school. * Restructure the Post Offices so that they can provide additional services such as vehicle licencing and registration, passport renewals, purchasing of money orders, and notary public services
a0e75e30-ee67-4cb4-8e5a-b54c320682b7	5	Do Part-time workers need to eat?	It is extremely disheartening to get a form letter during this pandemic being denied government assistance. As was stated several times people are not working due to the virus. I have two part-time jobs simply because I have not been able to secure full-time employment. This means I have less saving than the average full time worker and  less benefits and my work stoppage stared earlier.  Don't part-time worker need to eat too? Don't we have bills also? Why is the government not providing assistance to everyone out of work due to COVID-19?  It might help to provide assistance to all those in need not a select few.
d73b2ae8-b26e-4925-a1b7-49879f585860	5	Ideas Moving Forward	* Continue Zoom learning for those who want it * Allow people who prefer to work from home to continue to work from home * Assist teachers who are interested in setting up their own online schools or single courses. Thanks  Angela Ming Bean
c8e6f77b-8937-47ac-ad09-b10a8a18dd1d	5	Marijuana and Education	It is past time to legalize marijuana and stop wasting money on all of those other silly steps towards it. Government should also open up opportunities for those new and old 'entrepreneurs' to be educated and trained in the basics of farming the product, running a legal business as well as the fine details of the product.  In visiting stores in Canada and Europe, there seems to be a lot of diversity in the product and variety in the modes of selling it to the public so learning and knowing the business and product side is very important and cannot be done without the opportunity for training to be provided. The cost of this training will reap rewards and provide a good return for the investment .  It should become an opportunity for those who have been historically denied opportunities or purposely targeted in Bermuda but Government must first vet and then invest in the education of those entrepreneurs in order to reap the economic benefits from the trade. The preparation re: education should start post haste.  Economic benefits to the country would come from local sales as well as farming for export. .The legalization of marijuana would also help to build our tourist industry. Persons who have not visited because of our laws may well reconsider visiting.
703b4401-4699-44bc-94e6-64c758113ea8	5	Back to School	It will be difficult to send parents back to work without first opening the schools. However before opening school we have to look carefully at the physical environments in schools. Most school buildings are old and we know how easily mold can grow in buildings that are closed up and not used. Please ensure that all buildings are thoroughouly disinfected before putting our children back into them. Has the disinfecting of schools begun?  On another note. Some parents are still nervous about sending their children back to school when they deem it may be too early. Will that be considered and will parents have the option of keeping their children home longer with eg them or a grandparent and continue with online activities?  When it comes to the curriculum, I do not think we need worry about whether the entire curriculum has been completed for the year. I do not think that we need to hold school over the summer in order to catch up. Children have years in school to catch up and every classroom and subject teacher can adjust as necessary in September.  On that note, we need only focus on the needs of our graduating students and those in S3 of high school. Academically they are the only ones that this crisis could negatively affect.
af0215c8-7597-44b9-9cc1-3a2f2edee80b	5	Investing in our country	This is a new opportunity to build a fairer and more equal society.  I don't know much about business but is there a way for historically established companies and historically established businesses in Bermuda to open up the ownership, in the form of giving opportunities for more Bermudians to buy shares in the business. Most Bermudians are unaware or have been denied the opportunity to buy shares in established Bermuda Companies and thus become a 'part owner'. Those larger companies that are falling on hard times should consider opening up to share ownership. This would also bolster the potential to 'Buy Bermuda'. One would be more apt to buy from themselves, knowing that as the company profits, so do they. We need more public education on investing in our own country.
5da78c32-367e-4319-8a83-b3a9cc793052	5	Repatriate Pension Funds	Bermuda has $4B in pension investments overseas.  Requiring that local pension funds invest just 5% of those funds in locally approved schemes would bring $200M of investment back to Bermuda at a time when we would critically need it.  5% would be a tiny sum at risk for these funds.  Independent commissions could be established as essentially private equity funds, perhaps with mandates to invest in businesses and opportunities in various sectors like retail, real estate, tourism, etc.
ac12e970-fe14-4e06-92ba-8e000a29e59a	5	Post covid19 economy	The big group of companies should want businesses circulating on island. Lowering prices a bit to invite locals. Not trying to throw our economy into a deeper recession
53aba600-2ebd-4c63-9ef6-6966125585fa	6	Covid19 recovery economically	Housing for the lower paid  must be put in place with two weeks wage covering the rent.  We need to start leading by example.
9c4f669f-cf4a-41c4-9356-ffa122959c4d	6	Postal service	No suggestions at this time just a question about when will normal postal service resume? Thank you.
5ea85e38-bee7-4650-bdb5-457ea658aae4	6	COVID19 Immigration Incentives	Keep ahead of global trends where innovation is the driver of health based economic reform.  The intent of this would be to generate a stimulus to the economy for things on island that are either in train already (Caroline Bay) that need funding and as absurd as it may seem, Bermuda's national debt is not that much.  With some innovative and collaborative ideas, the debt could be clawed back with a massive investment into the island that has perks that those with the capital assets would be interested in.  The 'what' is where the innovative ideas need to be non-traditional and true economic catalysts.  The business as usual model(s), and there are many, need to be put on the backburner for now.
a772ae18-705c-41ea-bb31-1ea6a12cafe7	6	Restarting the Economy	* Free parking in town * Open stores and restaurants ASAP but with social distancing in mind, limiting number of customers inside. * Curb side pick up for more stores * Open up the real estate market to allow non Bermudians to buy homes. * PRC status for long term residents.  This may encourage them to buy a property in Bermuda. * Campaign for IB.  ie.  Bermuda is open for business!! * And finally allow same sex marriage. Thank you
6d31afb6-44c7-4686-bcb5-19f6098fc7e5	6	Faster return to "Dine in" options	The concern we have is safety inside Restaurants that have a Dine-in option, and there are some that's there only option.  It's not an answer to all that fall into this but perhaps an option would be to adopt more outdoor dining.  For Example, shutdown Front street between Queen and Parliament street and allow those restaurants to extend their tables from the sidewalk to the harbor, allowing for 6 foot separation between tables, allowing people to sit down and eat.  There are still safety protocols that need to be identified and put into practice and that may be the biggest hurdle.
497257bc-6464-4f3f-aed7-bf0348140b6f	6	Stimulate Bermuda's economy	* Be more open with immigration, increase Bermuda's population size as seems the only way to stimulate the economy. Encourage foreign investment etc. whilst keeping Bermudians at the centre of all of this. Us Bermudians have many skills, but not a big enough population to provide everyone so will certainly need to encourage more skilled people to the island. * Encourage more tourism on the island to provide stimulus, drive down prices. Provide better service, Bermudians should work hard and be friendly and welcoming.. * Reduce crime by stimulating economy, providing jobs * Drive down cost of living - not sure how todo this, * New sector of economy - fin tech? encourage as it has been a failure so far. * Drive Bermuda tobo carbon neutral, green energy..
3fa4fdbc-01a2-4b50-bba3-1d41f1051c58	6	Helping Government at the top.	It is time for those Privilege Big groups of Companies  along with Government put together to  invest in  low cost housing... This allows the money to circulate on island.  Need minimum wageTwo weeks pay should covers rent.
5eb76d33-4ef2-4445-bbad-56fda587bbf2	6	TCD revamp	There should be no reason in a modern 21st century country for its citizens to have to sit in a queue in order to register a vehicle.  Proposal 1 : Have details of all vehicles on the Island uploaded to a secure computer system that is (can be) accessed by the Police Service, Insurance companies, TCD and certain elements accessed by members of the public (not sufficient to identify private information of the owners, but could access if the car/bike you are buying has been previously stolen or involved in accidents). When buying/re-registering a vehicle a member of the public should be able to do it ALL online including instant payment of fees.  The examination of the vehicle would still need to take place, could dealers and independent garages become involved in this provided their examinations have been deemed suitable by TCD, for a fee obviously. Once that examination has taken place and been passed, either a physical certificate could be provided with a unique code, or the TCD records could be updated immediately by the garage. When registration then has to take place either the TCD record already includes the passing of the examination or the owner inputs the unique code.  Prior to coming to Bermuda, I was able to sell two vehicles on the same day, transfer ownership to the new owners, and take confirmed electronic payment immediately, without leaving my house. Those transactions totalled the equivalent of $40,000. If the new owners had been stopped by the police down the road, they could have checked immediately that the car had just been bought, registered and insured.  For those that don’t have/don’t trust the internet, perhaps the registration forms could be obtained at post office and mailed in with associated unique code, still offer a counter service but much reduced.  Proposal 2: Motorcycle riding tests, why on earth is there no on-road element to the test? I have yet to read in the Royal Gazette of any accident on the cone course at TCD, but lots and lots on the road. The Bermuda Youth Licence allows very young people out into a dangerous environment, precisely at the time of maximum vulnerability and minimum aversion to risk. This is not only an issue for youngsters. There are hundreds of expats from different country’s with differing rules, differing driving positions (ie. left side or right side) that would benefit from a test “fit for purpose”.  There would have to be enhanced enforcement of road rules, I have lost count of the number of riders I have seen carrying Xmas trees, 6x4 sheets of plywood or more worryingly, a 3 or 4 year old child standing on the footplate of a scooter.  Further for both motorcycle and car, make the computer test accurate. There are numerous questions in the test, whose answers are not contained in the TCD book.  Thats all for now.  I speak from a position of experience and my qualifications are available to the ministry if needed.
2736f0e2-48ef-439e-93e0-b881bdf19fef	6	Job Creation for Bermudians	The airports will open in Phase 4 of the Governments current plan. That could be a long time away and many Bermudians are hurting now.  I expect lots of Non Bermudians would be happy to leave to take their families back to their home countries given that no one knows how long this wave and the following waves of the pandemic will last.  Why not open the airports "for outgoing flights only" to get any expats off island who want to get off.   That would likely be hundreds. That creates no risk of more instances of the virus getting on island and potentially opens up hundreds of employment opportunities for Bermudians.  The airlines must want the work at the moment. If people were told a month in advance - the Govt is organising two weeks of outgoing flights to the UK and USA, people can sell off their items and pack up and go.
9bc02e0b-b726-45a1-9b06-6d2d5c99c6b0	6	steps to help economic stimulus	promote domestic tourism package, encourage businesses and hotel industry to provide deep discount off rooms, meals and activities.
a7092ec7-9734-48e6-817c-25ad94454a07	6	Economic recovery post covid19	With the pension fund  the government can invest in Bermuda Realstate for low cost rentals.  the people can also invest  they can have their money working for them. They  can put their invested money back in to their pension plan two weeks wages should cover rent. A well  needed housing complex. (rent or buy)
2a47215a-b62e-4948-ba9d-4451805017c6	6	Revive an Old and Establish a New Tourism Focus	* Revive College Weeks for an April 2021 start. Invite ideas, proposalsand applications for services and activities from small business entrepreneurs and  'pop-up businesses. * Complete renovations at  Shelly Bay towards  Bermuda's fully accessible beach for the 2021 Tourist season. Promote Shelly Bay on cruise ships, travel consultants and airlines as Bermuda's Fully Accessible Beach for all differently-abled visitors.
07730d6b-8792-4df8-ab99-b6362f51dbfe	6	Retail Stimulation & Import Duty Generation	In the same way, residents once had to register electronics before travelling, in order to avoid duty upon return, I think it would be fair for people to have to register certain luxury items, valued above $500.  In which case, if they do not have a waiver upon return, then, the item would be taxed at a premium. Premium items would include: jewelry, purses, bags, sporting equipment, outerwear.  Ofcourse, electronics would be included.  In order to generate additional revenue, there could be a charge for registering items, and if someone wanted to register a number of items at one time and have a full "Registered Item Card", they would have to pay $20.  Enforcement - For individuals travelling for less than two weeks, they should be limited to one suitcase - this will assist in customs in their processing time.  Individuals returning with more than one suitcase, would automatically be charged $100 per extra bag.  Hoping that individuals purchasing low value items online will not put upon too heavily, as many of us love living in Bermuda and do so as a choice.
60b378c2-f9ed-42c9-a1e7-b4f92f6916bf	6	Restorative Practice and COVID-19: responding restoratively during the crisis	Restorative Practices is already being used in some schools by educators and moving forward it is also a way for schools to run virtual classes in a more supportive and connected manner. Students understand that when discussing subjects that are important to wait their turn and take the time to fully listen to someone's ideas or thoughts. Supported by extensive research, restorative practices has demonstrated positive outcomes in a wide variety of settings. We've consistently seen proactive circles improve behavior and decrease bullying and violence in schools, fair practice improves student morale and student's feel they are being heard and their problems assisted. As small group training is permitted, Restorative Practice training will aid and support educators in providing a more conducive environment for learning and will ensure less stress and more connectedness for both children and educators.  A plan to use virtual circles can be developed with small groups of young people, the idea would be to enable these young people to discuss and express their thoughts and reflect on the subject matter.  A virtual check-in circle with young people about their struggles with online learning would be beneficial to educators, so they understand the issues and concerns the young people have. This would provide participants with an enjoyable opportunity to discuss their feelings, how they are coping, the problems they are facing and the impact that the crisis is having on their lives. This methodology would also be beneficial during these times of increasing domestic abuse, helping support young people while increasing tensions within homes where non-violent conflict was already present. Teachers trained in restorative practitioners will be able to identify children under stress and provide support to help resolve and respond to conflicts to help prevent, reduce and repair harm, Noting that children who are confined in unsafe environments, without the respite or temporary refuge of school are at higher risk. Ultimately, this is recommended as an online way to support children and educators during a crisis, making it less stressful and enjoyable. However, it does not replace the need for children to be together face-to-face to create community or resolve conflict as soon as the need for online tutoring is past.
d4efafb6-a80c-4480-904e-cb3dbf391964	6	Opportunities for Bermuda Government to Save Money/Grow	1.) All Departments that have been able to successfully work from home should remain working from home. Office leases can be terminated savings of  5 - 15k a month per department/office space.  1a.) Use the many government buildings that are not currently in use or need of repair vs spending the government money on costly commercial monthly rentals. All government buildings should be fitted to use solar power, Led lights, etc. Cutting cost on electric bills 1-5k savings a month.  2.) Departments that have to be open, automate as many services and paper process, a central application that can be used by all departments complete a document/application form once use many times within the government, this will result in saving time, money, minimization of errors and the overall efficiency of government processes . Paperless/online/contactless payment options should be the norm not the exception. Savings 20k+ a month  2a.) Departments that are open, that have boardrooms can be used by the remote working departments when there is a need to hold in person meetings  if need be. Sharing government resources in a more efficient way. Meetings can also be held via internet conference applications.  3.)Schedule appointments should be incorporated, more efficient processes if implement as pointed out above will mean, less wait time and applications process will become shorter, processing more in less time  4.) Less need for physical equipment such as printers , paper, ink, etc. Savings of 5- 10k a year per Department. Each department that is open can limit the number of printers within the office no personal printers on desk. Controls can be set on printers for those who think privacy is an issue.  5.)Post office to offer forwarding services to collect items like its competitors, increase of money for government approx. 10-15k income per month. Customer service reps will need to be increased takes wait time too long to get a package at the post office currently.  6.) Government Department resources needs to be shared, removing the duplication of applications and work  7.) Closing of schools that don't support the numbers of incoming students to maintain open.  We have known that the birth rate has been declining and the aging population has been increasing. Convert some of the schools if possible into nursing home, rest homes, residential care homes.  Creating jobs and a place to send persons in need vs Financial Assistance paying out to private facilities as the only option.  8.) There needs to be a Bermuda First Strategy, no matter the government in power, there are a core number of things that will and should be completed regardless of political party affiliations to move Bermuda into the 21st Century, instead of the chopping and changing what is thought to be the best thing for Bermuda according to the party  currently in power, if not we will forever be running in the same place and our neighboring competitors will if not already will move ahead of us.  9.) If as a country we will be on a restricted access for the forceable future then there should be standards across the board that are used. I.E the grocery store has you wash your hands and limited numbers in a store at a time, then that example should be applied to all business, It shouldn't be any different walking into a convenience, hardware, bank or retail store. The process should be the same cross the board. Which it currently is not, we want to get business running again then this needs to be enforced island wide. Companies should be encouraging the use of online options and delivery/curb-side pick up.  10.) After all this we need to be able to track and interpret the data, there needs to be a shift in the culture of Bermuda Government and to hold individuals accountable that need to be held accountable, there is no point in implementing half of the needed things going forward as a country if this is not enforced. Targets, goals, patterns and action plans needs to be incorporated at all levels of the process to help move Bermuda forward as we come to live in the Post Covid-19 World.
958b8291-6c96-495c-9051-ce97cc7ce19c	6	HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY SOLUTION	With great uncertainty, comes great opportunity for the people of Bermuda. Firstly, I would like to greatly thank and commend you and your team in your handling of the Covid-19 situation. Once the necessary restrictions are lifted, we are looking at a new Bermuda norm. I believe there is an opportunity for Bermudians to become majority workforce in the hospitality industry and I have the solution to make that happen. The demand on the front street restaurants will take a significant time to recover and we have state of the art underused kitchens. This pandemic will leave many Bermudians without employment, while many in Bermuda still want to enjoy the variety and quality of delicious world food that we have become used to. Long term, many foreign chefs will leave and with high unemployment, the government will ethically struggle to approve replacement work permits. The hotel college was closed many years ago. 1st SOLUTION – Culinary Arts Courses to train our next Chefs. The current amazing chefs in each restaurant become the instructors in their dishes. It is likely that the Government doesn’t have the head space or capacity to create a wide-ranging Diploma in Culinary Arts and the College will be overwhelmed with more students staying on island to study. 2nd SOLUTION – Bermuda has just repatriated many extremely intelligent under graduates. It is unlikely that they will have culinary experience, but throw a lot of young, enthusiastic and intelligent minds together with experienced culinary & teaching supervision, they will coordinate the logistic and create an amazing program.
a4d58cc2-1eff-434a-8362-8072962a8136	6	Path to Building a better Bermuda	* Path needs to include all in the same capacity * Path needs to have the same benefits for all regardless of income or status * Path should not be aimed at benefiting any group or individual over another * Path should remove obstacles and worries for all * Path needs to incorporate all putting back into system building a better future * Path should be transparent and publicly viewable * Path should be put forward united, with parties backing, but independent of both What people will be facing  * No job to go back to * Job unable to pay as much * Jobs offering less, taking advantage of system * mortgage/rent * electricity * internet * cell * transportation Alleviating these worries using BELCO as an example (utilities)  BELCO is used by all People on Island  Removing this bill as a worry  Pro  * Removing this bill would allow people to not worry about having power turned off and would free capital for people island wide * Removing this bill would allow businesses to free capital * Covering the costs of belco would allow the company to function with out having to chase bills Con  - Added cost to debt  Proposed solution  5% income tax island wide paying solely to any costs incurred during recovery of covid-19  co regulated by gov and by private entity. should be separate from gov  (Avg income) x (Tax) x (Population) -  population is always halved due to fluctuation  (50k) x (5%) x (15k)  =
64eb9080-3860-41b0-967c-48cdbec6cdb0	6	Collective Economics	In the world that we now live today, much has changed, except the way governments treat their people. We get treated like a herd of cattle using us to pay bills that the people didn’t make.  How can I ever even image Government, the reason for all Our turmoil, being the solution to the same turmoil? Impossible!!  A collective effort is what is need, a true, honest, transparent, non biased, equally benefitting economic strategy, where in it everyone receives a relative reward for their efforts. Government Fails every time, it’s getting a lil Ridiculous now.  If the “whole country“ doesn’t gain from the ideas put forth to this suggestion platform then, in my opinion, this whole process is a bust, a farce and a waste of time.  Number Don’t lie! If you want to me and talk Numbers, feel free to contact me! 5056970
9e289175-3d5c-4b81-b5bb-e762d3a7d312	6	Economy Boost	By balancing the spread of wealth between those that can earn money and those that cannot, we could ensure more people have the ability to earn. If government workers, including Ministers, took a 20% pay cut for the duration of the emergency status, the surplus could be redirected to small businesses to allow them to remain solvent. Better that everyone has some income, even it is a reduced one, than some people have none and go under.  Also those businesses that can do online ordering should be allowed to do so and have the goods delivered by the taxis, sargasso and postal workers who are already in the community. This way you have no increase in public traffic but some revenue can be earned, allowing those businesses to stay afloat. The same could apply to restaurants providing take out service.
ff374368-6b1f-4a8e-a3d7-cf8a9aec3949	6	Education and exportable goods	With the global state of affairs in its current condition Bermuda must seriously look at setting up some new pillars for our economy. Right now we survive on Tourism and International Business as our economy pillars, yet we are faced with a pandemic that has closed down tourism and greatly affected the international business. So I propose that we establish a couple of new pillars for the future understanding that it will take time to build these pillars but in the long run it would stabilize the economy.  Education is a service that is sustainable and profitable. So much so people around the globe compete for places in the top flight colleges and universities. Not to mention that a lot of courses can be completed online. What does that mean for Bermuda? Should we strive for and become a recognized leader in education people would look to us. Now we know and understand that the elite institutions did not get their overnight and they had to uphold a standard of excellence in order to be recognized as elite. However there are many areas of modern advancement and technology and research that represent a niche market in education. Not to mention vocational courses that Bermuda is ideal for training; sports and fitness, agriculture, fire work displays to name a few. So if we capitalize on those areas and set our standards high in time we will reap the benefits and solidify a new pillar of the economy. Recognizing that any student that has to stay on island while in school will be a bonus to that end.  Exportation of goods. This will require goods to be produced on an industrial level and that sounds impossible for us with limited space and raw materials to work with. However it is not impossible and again we will have to work in niche markets in order to be effective. Once upon a time we exported Easter Lillies and to this day we supply (mainly through distributors overseas) products like Ginger Beer and Black Rum. So I propose that we create some signature products like those and seek to export and/or distribute overseas. I cannot comment on what products I have in mind personally at this point but I can say this much. Like they do with many beers and even a Jamaican wine, I would have a local product that is slightly different (better) than the exports so that visitors would travel to Bermuda in search of the products. Surely they can take some away when they go to share but they will have to visit the island to get more. I hope you can see how this would create yet another pillar to the economy in time and also how these new pillars like the ones we have now can work together.  Thank you for reading my thoughts and for your consideration and comments.
98655cf8-a9a1-4468-bfd2-657d22a5df2f	6	Reopening stores	Why not allow the plant nurseries and hardware stores operate like the grocery stores do, in respect to specific days of shopping by surname and a limited amount of people in the store/nursery?  Smaller stores with confined spaces should allow customers to shop by appointment.  All sales of items should be non-returnable to avoid the risk of an item going into a home that might have COVID-19 without realizing it and then spreading the virus by having merchandise returned to the store.
871c6e58-031d-4c46-ab68-2aeda4be0a05	6	IB Job Fair	Lobby International businesses to open a few jobs that may have been consolidated or eliminated due to the 2008 crisis.  There are still very qualified people who have lost their job in the years after.  It would seem to make some sense as a lot of money is being donated to charities etc, but the long term goal should be to make sure that people are employed so they that they are not living off of handouts.  I have been to job fairs held by workforce development, but have rarely seen any of these companies represented.  They may be open to this idea.  Also please do not forget that those of us that lost jobs due to that market crash because we are living off of savings and do not want to later have to apply for financial Assistance which will only compound the problem.
7fdff3df-75a7-4726-b2e7-c961ca696bd3	6	Expand outdoor dining.	We should close Front St on Friday and Saturday evenings and allow the restaurants to expand their outdoor seating areas while we are in phase 2 and 3.  This would be similar to Harbour Nights or when it was closed during the Americas Cup.
af8fa43b-4f72-442e-8af1-3117be9c9762	6	Shared Sacrifice	Hello Government of Bermuda,  Obviously there will be hardship going forward to recover from this pandemic.  During the previous financial crisis, it was private companies that caused the economy to collapse with bad fiscal management.  It did not help that the Government at the time did not see what was happening elsewhere and then try to protect Bermuda.  We are in a similar situation with private companies not being prepared for an emergency.  Since they did not learn lessons from the past, it is up to the Government to implement measures for them to be prepared.  We can be certain the company directors, shareholders and owners are living comfortable  during this time, while their hourly workers are relying on Government assistance to get them through these times.  Private companies cannot be trusted to ensure that they are prepared for emergencies and can afford to pay their workers through the tough times.  There are stores and other businesses that have laid off their staff while their owners live in big estates.  In order to assist with the recovery and protect the Government in the future, there should be consideration to an unemployment tax.  This can be something that goes in line with the progressive payroll tax.  It would be unfair for Government workers to have to foot the bill by way of pay cuts or furloughs, so by implementing an unemployment tax it would mean those in the private sector will be contributing as well.  If the tax is progressive and not a huge percentage, then there could be buy in from Government employees.  Our current Finance Minister is very competent and I have no doubt he could come up with a progressive unemployment tax so that Government workers are not left in financial hardship due to poor private company management.  Regards
27d3e571-e422-4996-acd8-80a2c1bb3216	6	Buy Bermuda Campaign	Government and the Bermuda of Chamber Commerce partner with the retail stores to ramp up and really promote buying Bermuda. This would probably involve concessions to the retailers so that they can offer meaningful discounts to encourage locals/Bermudians to buy Bermuda.  This in combination with the fact that many of us will not be able to travel to do our shopping, give us incentive to buy Bermuda versus buying from overseas online and/or saving until we can travel to spend. Most will admit that it is still a lot cheaper to shop overseas with the duty added.  Not sure how all this would work but this would help the retailers to sell their goods.
935ba9e1-7bf3-4a0b-ab76-5c4a3ed9da97	6	TCD  examining of vehicles	TCD examining of cars to be examined every two years instead of every year Bermudians are very proud of their upkeep of their cars and this will be cost cutting measures for TCD  officers or allow license garages to be able to provide the examinations along with a portion of the garage service payable to Bda Government
02664b86-cf9d-46ae-b463-ffea2f67485f	6	Mơ thấy còng số 8 đánh con gì? Ý nghĩa của việc mơ thấy còng số 8.	Mơ thấy còng số 8 đánh con gì? Ý nghĩa của việc mơ thấy còng số 8. ( https://xoso24h.info/mo-thay-cong-so-8-danh-con-gi/ ) Trong cuộc sống của chúng ta có rất nhiều điều mới lạ mà chúng ta chưa từng biết đến, nó có thể xuất hiện vào những thời điểm mà chính chúng ta cũng chưa từng biết trước, đối với những giấc mơ đây lại càng là những điều được bộc lộ rõ nét hơn cả bởi những giấc mơ chính là một sự dự đoán trước cho tương lai của mỗi người. Người ta biết đến còng số 8 như là một biểu tượng của pháp luật, sự đấu tranh gay gắt của pháp luật với những tên tội phạm đe dọa đến trật tự xã hội, bởi vậy, mơ thấy còng số 8 cũng sẽ mang đến cho bạn nhiều điều bất ngờ.
b52d5507-015e-48a2-8957-3bf6342ecac6	6	Bermuda National Lottery Relief Fund	Keep an open mind....My kids attend a National Lottery funded school in London. They do amazing work out here with proceeds. My suggestion is a Bermuda National Lottery Relief Jackpot  Held Biweekly for specified period of time  $10 each entry  Government takes 30% to be used towards unemployment or whatever the need.
43e1665d-bb1a-4d6b-b0b3-9a5471d14231	6	Regulate cannabis already	Why don't you keep your promise to create a domestic cannabis market by passing the regulation of cannabis so that people can grow and export.
2fbadec2-7502-4331-a19f-7b3a3b37e1c6	6	Website Services - Bermuda College and Local Business Partnerships	A common complaint has been about the lack of websites showcasing the local businesses' inventory or for not being user friendly to navigate. Consumers want to shop locally but when you don't know what is in stock, how much it costs and then have to call the store, wait on the phone to confirm the item, then pay, then arrange curbside pickup and etc. it can be more of an annoyance and not worth the energy.  As Bermuda continues to think of ways to stimulate the economy, could the Corporation of Hamilton, Bermuda Business Development Authority and the Bermuda College partner together to provide the following:  * Have students studying Computer Information Systems teach basic website design or SQUARE SPACE 101 on how to set up a basic website for business owners (how to set up a website, how to post their inventory, how to setup/accept secure payments with credit/debit cards)  * Business owners could take advantage of bringing their business into the digital world and students could be paid for their services and gain career experience There are some successful entrepreneurs who have been using Instagram, Facebook and other social media platforms to reach consumers - even a speaking series on what they use for their websites could help those less technologically inclined.
04c9b2bd-8edd-4877-809f-e3eb6b31626a	6	Start Satta matka Game in Bermuda For Economic growth and Financial stability	There are people who want to know more about Satta Matka. Here is the Brief of Satta matka Game.  SattaMatka or Satta Matka is the Game where user Guess numbers and if the number is the number that came out in the market on a specific time is the winner. Indian Satta matka  ( https://sattafixjodi.com/ ) Game has received huge amount of popularity on this forefront. This Game was introduced in 1960s by the name of KalyanMatka in Recent time Satta Matka has gained so much popularity. Every year Almost lakhs of people are trying their luck in SattaMatka .  Satta Matka is very different than other lottery games. Playing satta matka is very simple method. Anyone who can do basic math can play satta matka easily.  The biggest risk is now so many players play it or want to play regularly, players get support and services from any online agent. If agent is good means its fine but the wrong agent can use the player to earn money by himself. In india most of the players have the fear of losing the money, so they hesitate to play online. We Satta fix jodi can help you get the best online games out there. We assure to get money back and huge earning with us.  You can win easily, when you play satta matka with right method. People generally lose the game because of over confidence. its just a number’s game and we all should play with tricks.  While doing anything or playing any Matka game “luck” plays important role, the same thing happens in sattamatka game also, try your luck and play the game by following specific strategies. Luck can make you win and can enable you lose the satta matka  ( https://sattafixjodi.com/index.php )
e2d5cb62-9f37-4b13-a4eb-4cd4b64c9c15	6	Bermuda as a safe haven	Bermuda has done well to contain the spread of the virus for the most part with the latest figures and models reflecting that. We know that the predicted peak of the outbreak locally is set to be in September, best case scenario. I would like to believe that it is possible for us to do better than the best case scenario and create a safe haven here in Bermuda. In the long run this will play a key role in reopening the tourism industry. This is because people will still want to travel for business and pleasure in the future and they will first look at places where the outbreak was controlled best. Common sense would make those places a top destination. So it is in everyone’s best interest to work to that end and obey the regulations set up by the health department to be better than the best case scenario statistics.
15223e5b-15b3-4998-a388-5cb45efc11a8	6	Early Access to Superannuation/Pension	Australia has allowed tax free early access to superannuation funds, up to $10,000 in the 2019-20 fiscal year, and another $10,000 in the 2020-21 fiscal year (begins July 1st). By doing this they aim to let people help themselves, rather than rely on government handouts or stimulus.  A similar approach could be taken with defined-contribution plans (such as the Bermuda National Pension Scheme). Access to defined-benefit plans (Public Service Superannuation, Social Insurance etc) could be government supported or benefit adjusted.
7dc3dc7a-4883-4ae9-828a-e6452a7dacb8	6	PENSION SCHEME WITHDRAWAL	I am a Hotel Worker. I was informed today from Fairmont Southampton that the workers cannot withdraw from the Hotel Pension Scheme. We need money like everyone else, what can we do?
15f9d50d-8559-4fda-9986-2ee24bec7865	6	New Tourism Paradigm	Once Bermuda is COVID-free, we will be a haven for wealthy tourists looking for somewhere safe to spend their summers, particularly since weekends in the Hamptons won't be an option. Let's encourage these people to come to Bermuda on charters and private jets. After they do a mandatory 2-week quarantine, they can then stay for the rest of the summer and live like the locals, eating at our restaurants, shopping at our stores, taking our buses and taxis, staying at our hotels, guest houses and private rentals and engaging in our local cultural activities. If we can figure out how to get people here safely and into an effective 2-week quarantine (maybe even hire people who have already had COVID to check in on those quaranteened or provide rides from the airport), we will finally be in a position to rival the Hamptons.  With regard to long term strategy, we need to encourage outside investment by premier boutique hoteliers in our hospitality industry in order to develop more luxury, modern boutique hotel options.
a1df1365-0eb1-46a9-82bf-c624bfd44836	6	RE: Bermuda College Collaboration with Tourism Industry	Given that few major restaurants have Bermuda College culinary students employed during their practical curriculum, here is my proposal:  Bda College students team up with Tourism industry stakeholders (ie hotels, restaurants, major events) to consider promoting their product on a regular basis so our local talent is showcased more broadly, instead of using the existing restaurants, to save money as they probably will not charge for their services, and if they do, it will be far less than the major catering companies do.  Just a suggestion, and also, I would be willing to help with the business side of that, if they do a collaboration for events such as "Plates of Passion" even though that is held at BC itself; or they should open up their own little business somewhere off campus.
41b8d129-2235-482c-94f5-c08de1dba6e1	6	Embrace Change or Fail.	THE WHAT: We are living in an increasingly competitive, fast-paced, and volatile environment. In order to survive, local businesses must accept this reality and identify ways in which they can quickly adapt in order to survive. We have seen multiple stores close down in Bermuda with many of the owners attributing their closures due to the increase of ‘online shopping’. Whilst this attribution has its merits, it is not the only reason why we see many businesses closing worldwide.  Bermudians shop online for two main reasons: price consciousness (finding the items they need at a ‘cheaper’ price’) and variety. The latter can be argued to be irrelevant here due to the fact that by the time the item arrives on island they would have paid the ‘Bermuda price’ for it anyways (sometimes more). The second reason - variety - however, is something that we need to address and CAN address by having the item here and available for purchase in the first place.  THE WHO: Most will agree that the younger generation to middle aged adult range are our ‘frequent spenders’ - i.e. they hold the spending power in regards retail; this is the group who are looking to shop for themselves or their kids often. This is also the group who is affluent with online shopping and thus, constantly…online shopping.  With that being said, why are local businesses not catering to their likes and providing the variety? It can be said that local business owners have lost focus on actual fashion trends; have a lack of awareness when it comes to evolving consumer habits; or like many, aren’t sure where to start.  THE WHY: As a result, businesses alike need to take a chance on the young and upcoming generation by providing them with a platform to be creative and assist experienced owners with the skills needed to not only adapt and transform, but to survive.  THE HOW: There is an abundance of talent on the island within the fashion arena - some with higher education and some without - and you can either go out and look for them OR create opportunities which will attract them to YOU.  Young talent here refers to: marketing enthusiasts; social media advertising experts; graphic designers; models (influencer marketing); website development + content etc.  This also refers to the tourist shops. Yes, visitors would still like to purchase t-shirts; shot glasses; hats; Bermuda memorabilia etc. But how about pop-sockets; a Snap-Bar to attract visitors and capture digital memories; yoga mats; swell bottles etc. Again, young talent assisting those to provide insight into trends.  PROPOSAL: BEDC/Relevant Government Entities to organise a workshop where local businesses can network and meet with business professionals (local or international) to discuss ways in which the landscaping is changing and how they can embrace these changes in order to compete and most importantly, survive.  Towards the end of the workshop, have an open forum/contest where young creatives can pitch ideas about how they would improve existing businesses here in Bermuda. Allow them to do the research and pitch their ideas about: improvement of merchandise which fall in line with the businesses appetite; marketing + promotional ideas etc.  CLOSING: There is no doubt that many brick + mortar stores globally are losing or have lost its foot traffic…now being replaced by scrolls + clicks. Yet due to our geographic location, the ‘one-click’ and same day delivery has not yet surfaced. Local businesses here have the opportunity to hone in on this advantage by accepting reality, changing to adapt and find ways to be competitive.
f7149e98-5305-423b-b5ec-032284cedf0a	6	Reopening tourism	MAKE BERMUDA SAFE TO TOURIST  Step 1: Make all streets in Hamilton/St George one way/one lane. Restaurants could then open terrasses and stores display their goods outside. Consider BTA subsidy to help with the extra expenses;  Step2: Make access to public beaches "by reservation only" (similarly to what is being implemented in Spain) in order to mandate proper physical distancing;  Step 3: Implememt mandatory mask, everywhere,  rule for all (locals and tourists) to replace mandatory 14-days quarantine for travelers;  Step 4: At the airport arrival duty-free shop, replace booze with locally designed face masks, face shields, gloves, hand sanitizers, etc...  Step 5: Consider offering free, or subsidized, testing at the airport using a locally developped app to deal with confidentiality;  Step 6: Sponsor study on the impact of Bermuda weather, in cluding air salinity, on the ability of the virus to survive in the open.
0d408a59-51f4-44fe-a33a-5aa34aa08923	6	Mandatory Safety Protocol	When all businesses, having close physical client contact, will be allowed to reopen, I would suggest that the Government put in place an Official "Mandatory Safety Protocol" that staff and clients will be obliged to follow. For instance, I am concerned that some retailers will not be prepared to open their doors and have all social distancing measures in place. Business owners need to protect their staff and clients. Maybe the Government can assist employers in getting masks, gloves and hand sanitisers (at the expense of the business). I work in a store where you need to stand very close to our clients. I would like to be sure my employer will have all supplies available in May or June...Also a Government memo would have more weight when we have to face a client who does not want to comply and respect the measures.  Thank you
d6ab850b-629c-465e-81a3-5701b2791b3a	6	Exchange-stay (when tourist season is back and corona is controlled)	The idea steams from exchange student. Since Bermuda deals with a lot of overseas businesses this can create an interest in persons wanting to come back not just for work but for vacation. Tourists get to come to Bermuda and Bermudians can travel to where they have never been before. No, people will not stay at one another homes. Being apart of a group or an app that can be all inclusive vacation and the family can leave a list of what they could possibly do while in the other country.  Its starts with an idea!
d816b1e9-7598-42b4-8e62-3eba96152bf7	6	Let rent the Islands we have, like Paget, Darrels and Ports Islands	We have some beautiful islands that can be rented out to Disney World and the cruise ship company for A day a beautiful island to relax, swimming , snorkeling,  and fishing Bermuda style. Have local entertainment and some local food restaurant serving local food, peas and rice, fish cakes, home made roll or buns. We need to have more restaurants  that serve local food by locals. That what made Bermuda famous was our friendliness, hospitality and food. We have lost that and need to bring it back. This is a time when we can turn a small hotel into a hotel school like we had before to train young Bermudian in hospitality industry. Let get back to where we came from and Bermudian cooking and serving our visitors.
24a9701c-b050-468f-a3d6-5bc43f889faa	7	Business development	* Small business would need experienced management and financial support beyond the assistance provided by BSBDC. I envisaged a private public partnership with access to capital and sound business experience to help businesses to restart their operations. Capital from both sources must feel confident with the business model, management and expectation of returns consistent with risk. * Most developed countries encourage immigration that brings skill sets, new businesses and create jobs. Bermuda must consider a bold immigration policy  that would encourage new businesses that would produce jobs for Bermudians. Creative thinking is necessary to capitalize on the attractiveness of Bermuda by high net worth entrepreneurs who want to make Bermuda their home yet not impacting Bermudians negatively.
9f47bd26-66b9-41e4-8bd1-1c7209c656e3	7	Civil servant cuts	Good Morning,  As a civil servant, who has been employed since 2013,  I entered the government service on October 2013 with a furlough day from my very 1st paycheck.  For 18 months it was extremely hard to balance life with a daughter in college who started September 2013 and receiving a reduced paycheck.  Now due to COVID-19, a furlough day looks like the option for the civil servants.  Due to COVID-19, my household went from 3 paychecks to 1 in 1 month.  I am earning under $75,000K and I do not know how my paycheck will keep my family surviving.  My idea is for the employers under $75,000 be subjected another way other than the furlough day, or not be subjected to a furlough day at all or given some other option.  I am of accepting a cut somewhere, but because I am the only 1 working in my household, and will be for some time as my spouse is  a hotel worker and daughter is in the tourism industry, it will be a bumpy road for me for a while.  Many thanks!!  NH
06c2b20e-2057-404e-a357-ecf2014e620d	7	Property Restrictions and Govt	Bermuda needs desperately to open up property restrictions to overseas and expats also relax immigration laws and procedures.  Promote idea of open immigration for those who work online around world. A permit for people that work overseas but can be resident her. Encourage Call Centers, IT support hubs, from around the world. It will benefit all locals aswell.  We will badly need investment on island, bums on seats here!! Simple ecomonics,  We have to rationalize the expensie of Govt, its crazy --- outsource services as all anyone can see coming is further tax rises to try and cover crazy govt salaries.  Govt salaries should be reduced in line with all that private sector is taking a hit on at least - 20%.  I'm sure most other people have suggested this.
1616a46e-38de-4b37-8c08-f4a4e60d37aa	7	Extend 25% personal import duties to cover all incoming personal purchases.	We are all already used to paying 25% duty at the airport when bringing in goods for personal use.  As there are no flights coming in for us to bring in our own goods, we are all now shopping online and having the couriers bring things in for us. The 25% import duty that applies to personal imports brought with you in person via the airport should be expanded to apply to goods that are being imported via courier for personal use from online stores such as Amazon, Best Buy, etc.  Not only would this supplement a source of revenue for the government which is lost due to no air arrivals, it will also give us a choice of whether to buy from Amazon +25% or shop locally.  Shopping locally keeps the $'s in Bermuda.  However, many local retailers are not setup to sell online yet, but surely they are working on this.  Shopping on Amazon.com is so easy, but that sends $'s overseas.  Local retailers who have to pay rents, taxes, payroll costs, etc - all of which support the gov't and locals (via jobs) and, in turn, the local economy - should not have to pay the same import duty rates for personal goods as individuals who are importing goods themselves and having them shipped to their door - and that creates an impossible situation for local retailers.  If we are going to get our economy going again, we are going to need to spend money locally... bars, restaurants, and retail stores.  But why would l line up outside of Gorham's to wait to pick up my item, when I can order it online much cheaper, pay the same duty rate as them, and have it delivered to my door?  There are some items that already have a 25% duty (vacuums, for example).  So perhaps the policy is that anything imported directly for personal use is the current Bermuda tariff plus 25%. So if I import a Dyson for myself, I pay 50% duty whereas Gorhams pays 25% (plus rent, taxes, wages, etc).  If I import clothes, I only pay 6.5% duty, which is the same that Gibbons/ASC pays.  Again, it is not a tenable situation for Gibbons/ASC.  If I had to pay 25% for  my clothes that I ship in (or 31.5% if the 25% is on top of local tariffs), then I would consider leaving my house and head to Gibbons/ASC to see what they have.  Local resellers (ie: local retailers that import goods readily available on the internet and re-sell them) are at a massive disadvantage.  Allowing Amazon purchases into Bermuda at the same duty rate as local resellers pay will close down many of the local retailers/resellers... Reid street will be a ghost town and that will be bad for Bermuda.  I am aware that this plan would increase costs for locals, and we are all already on tight budgets given the layoffs and bleak economic outlook.  But if the 25% applies to non-essential goods, then it will at least make us think before we hit Buy Now on Amazon, and it will at least make us consider shopping for it locally before sending our $'s overseas.
f1fd9c25-d7eb-4d74-a723-64bf0709aa35	7	Duty/Import Tax Free Shopping Days	Have duty/import-tax free days in which the government would reimburse/cover the import and duty taxes added to items to encourage local shopping. I.e. if the import tax to bring in clothing for a retail shop is 10%, the government would reimburse the retailer for this tax on the items sold that day. One of the biggest complaints is consumers are able to order an item online, ship here and pay a duty and the item is still cheaper than if purchased locally. They do not understand why the local retailers are not able to take advantage of economies of scale with bulk purchases, import the items, add a profit and the item NOT be cheaper than if they did it themselves.  The stores would have their inventory and know what taxes they've paid and hopefully this decrease in price could encourage local shopping.  Here is an example:  * one Saturday every clothing retailer can take a % off their inventory price, have in-store events/giveaways/raffles (whatever is needed to increase foot traffic) and then able to submit the total sales for the day to government with the corresponding tax receipts (since they would have already paid it to bring the items on island). * Each Saturday could be a different sector - clothing, hardware, nurseries, art/crafts and etc. This isn't an immediate fix and will probably not be a dollar-for-dollar cost break for the consumer BUT it could help get local stores open and still cover the cost of such taxes for the local businesses they've already paid.
4e91db77-e349-4c86-a094-95ee04c97292	7	Innovation and reform as we navigate the economic shock of Covid-19	As Bermuda residents slowly start to emerge from their homes it is obvious to all that the humanitarian and economic challenges that will flow from the scourge of Covid-19 will be unprecedented in our lifetimes. Given the fiscal realities that Bermuda faced even before the pandemic swept across the world, the island’s economy will require the implementation of a radical, flexible and multi-faceted regeneration plan.  The Bermuda Government has not shied away from our new reality, and has invited the public to identify initiatives and ideas for the Government to consider. In that spirit of collaboration, senior lawyers from across the practice groups at Carey Olsen Bermuda have considered key legislative and/or regulatory innovation that could help resuscitate and then grow the economy.  Firstly, a caveat. As lawyers we are trained to limit risk, and protect and/or enhance our clients’ position. We are not economists, and do not hold ourselves out to be. However, we hope our experience can provide some ideas for potential solutions. It is an unfortunate reality that most solutions require not only effort, but investment. Whilst we have ideas to offset some costs, given Bermuda's balance sheet it is inevitable that money must be taken from elsewhere in order to invest in these and other initiatives. Difficult choices are ahead, but there is little doubt they must be made.  Proposal 1: Invest in and modernise the Registrar of Companies  The existence of an effective regulatory framework, demonstrating clear adherence to and leadership of global regulatory standards, has a powerful positive impact on the generation of international economic activity. Add to that an efficient and accessible regulator, and we have a clear recipe for success. The Bermuda Monetary Authority’s well-earned reputation for effective, risk-based oversight of Bermuda’s regulated sectors is a perfect example of this success.  That same model must now also be applied to the Registrar of Companies which, in a little more than a year, has seen its role transformed from being a repository of corporate records to an economic substance regulator of all entities, across all industry sectors.  This is critical, as the bedrock of Bermuda’s international business pillar is its corporate structures. Bermuda companies, LLCs and limited partnerships, as overseen by the Registrar of Companies, provide a full suite of structural solutions for investors looking to do business in Bermuda and are a key driver of the Bermuda economy. Anything that can be done to protect and enhance the ability of those entities to operate effectively in Bermuda will have a direct and very significant positive impact on our economic well-being.  With the successful release of the new e-portal Economic Substance Declaration system, the Registrar and his team, supported by the Ministry of Finance, have demonstrated some progress in this area. Bermuda entities will be the direct beneficiaries of that, with the Registrar’s compliance team well positioned to deliver an effective, risk-based approach to economic substance regulation.  The opportunity now clearly presents itself to build on that success, and fully modernise the Registrar’s structure, systems and service delivery. We are pleased that work by the Registrar is underway to develop and implement a digital e-registration system, allowing filings to be made online, and thereby greatly improving the efficiency of access to, and maintenance of, public entity records. These initiatives should be robustly accelerated as a matter of urgency.  Proposal 2: invest in and modernise Bermuda’s commercial dispute resolution infrastructure  One of the reasons international business is comfortable investing in Bermuda is because of the justified perception that we have a robust commercial court and high-quality commercial judges.  Much like the aftermath of the global financial crisis, we expect that this pandemic will lead to an increase in international commercial disputes. Bermuda will inevitably play host to its fair share of these. To maintain and enhance our reputation, our system will have to accommodate these cases in an efficient manner, in addition to swiftly clearing the backlog that will have built up because of the Supreme Court’s ongoing restricted operations.  We appreciate investment is extremely difficult in times such as these; however, we cannot stress enough that now is the time for additional investment in the Commercial Division of the Supreme Court, including its physical infrastructure, staffing levels (both in terms of the number of full-time commercial judges and administrative support staff), specialist training and (crucially) technology. We are competing with multiple offshore jurisdictions as a place to hear disputes. Indeed, we are even competing with some onshore jurisdictions. Many are ahead of us.  To ensure the requisite investment is feasible, the Government should consider whether the court fees levied in the Commercial Division of the Supreme Court are appropriate when compared to those levied in the commercial courts of other offshore financial centres. By way of illustration, the fee charged to a creditor filing a winding up petition in the Financial Services Division of the Grand Court of the Cayman Islands is US$ 6,500. In Bermuda, the fee for the very same application is $50. Obviously one has to be careful of balancing an increase in fees with access to justice - but we do not anticipate increased fees for petitions (for example) would be of concern. We also have to ensure that increasing fees leads to a requisite increase in efficiency and service of our court "product". Otherwise such an initiative would be self-defeating.  The Government should also look to further develop Bermuda as a world-class centre for alternative forms of commercial dispute resolution, in particular arbitration and mediation. The planned Ottiwell Simmons International Arbitration Centre should be completed and modelled on other leading global centres for alternative dispute resolution (most notably Maxwell Chambers in Singapore) to make it commercially viable. To maximise publicity and best practice, the Centre should be launched alongside a full suite of branded and bespoke arbitration and mediation rules.  From a legislative perspective, the outdated Arbitration Act 1986 (which governs domestic arbitration in Bermuda) should be repealed, and the Bermuda International Conciliation and Arbitration Act 1993 should be (i) expanded to cover both domestic and international arbitration; and (ii) updated to include all of the latest amendments to the UNCITRAL Model Law on International Commercial Arbitration.  Proposal 3: introduce legislation, regulatory reforms and tax reliefs to attract family offices  Bermuda has an impressive history of attracting ultra-high-net-worth families to establish Bermuda law governed trusts, private trust companies and other entities to facilitate the administration, management and succession of the family’s wealth. A number of such families have also established private offices, employing their own teams. Such families ordinarily employ investment professionals, administrative support workers and many others to meet the personal needs of the family.  The Government announced in its 2020 Budget that it is working with a number of stakeholders to introduce a new family office offering to further facilitate the estate planning objectives of this demographic and to persuade family offices to establish physical operations on the island.  Some of the proposals which we endorse include:  · Offering Permanent Residency Certificates to high-net-worth families if they agree to meet certain conditions  Such conditions should include (at a minimum):  1) establishing a permanent and fully-staffed family office in Bermuda;  2) the direct hire of Bermudians to work for the family office;  3) the purchase of real estate; and  4) donations to local charities.  · Introducing a designated family office work permit  This new category of work permit should be made available to all non-Bermudian employees of family offices, and come with guaranteed short timelines for processing and no limit or extra conditions on the number of work permits that may be obtained for skilled professional staff. All of these permits will be issued subject to the family office meeting the necessary conditions.  · Streamlining licensing, exemptions and reporting requirements for family offices  Exemptions should be granted to family offices from some of Bermuda’s licensing regimes and/or family offices should be permitted to make a consolidated application for the licenses they may require (as opposed to having to make separate applications for different license and exemptions for funds, private trust business, corporate service providers). Further, family offices should be permitted to file consolidated annual reports which include information that may be required under multiple licenses, provided that the activities are regulated under the same entity.  · Granting tax exemptions to family offices  These tax exemptions should include, as a bare minimum:  1) a payroll tax holiday for new Bermudian employees hired by family offices; and  2) a reduced rate of (or complete exemption from) stamp duty on real estate transactions where a qualifying family invests in real property and on residence transfers by the family and essential staff.  Proposal 4: liberalise and eliminate inefficiencies in Bermuda’s real estate market  The well-publicised slowdown in Bermuda’s real estate market since the global financial crisis has had a demonstrably negative impact on Government revenues because of a large decline in stamp duty and other fees. The time is now ripe to reform and open up the market in a way which drives revenue into the pockets of Government and homeowners, while ensuring that Bermudians are protected. Initiatives that we as a firm endorse include:  1) allowing work permit holders to buy properties in condominium developments;  2) allowing Permanent Resident Certificate holders to purchase property without a landholding license; and  3) drastically reducing the processing time of applications for landholding licenses by non-Bermudians.  Conclusion  This list is not exhaustive, there are many other initiatives to consider, a large one being immigration reform (which would require a thesis rather than an article). For our part, we will continue to look out for opportunities that are in Bermuda's best interests, and hope we can help protect and then enhance our island's position in the months and years to come.
8505248f-6e31-43ea-80f8-245c69994217	7	Payroll Taxes	Although offering lower interest loans could help some businesses, it’s taking on an added cost at a time when we will be rebuilding our business.  If the government could lower the employer percentage of payroll taxes for the rest of 2020,  it could help in making sure we retain all our staff, thereby avoiding increased unemployment.  Losing 6-8 weeks of business is a very difficult thing to catch up on and some interim help in the form of reduced payroll tax, would help get us back on our feet and be able to pay wages to our staff and help a small business to survive.  It’s a difficult time for everyone and without any help to get us over this closure period, we feel a lot of small to medium size businesses will not make it.  thank you for your consideration and providing the Forum for us to post suggestions.
b8448aee-526e-4905-944b-164d9c77c210	7	Closure relief for small businesses	Similar to the unemployment benefit for employees, offer small businesses (less than 10 employees) a stimulus of $500-$1000 a week for 12 weeks. No strings, no convoluted application process. This would go a long way to the smaller businesses staying open once  allowed to reopen.  Conversely - government could forgive any outstanding payroll taxes due from small businesses - set it at 0 from April 1.  Private pension mandatory contributions should be allowed to be suspended for a period of 1 year without having to have been current with payments.
dcffc64b-03d7-468e-be14-af8b177ebbb5	7	Outdoor street dining	With outdoor dining now allowed, I think you should close down Front Street and/or Reid Street, maybe just on Friday and Saturday nights, and allow restaurants to set up tables in the street. It would allow for maximum social distance, the police could easily patrol to make sure everyone is following the rules, and it would allow restaurants to have a much greater capacity than they could otherwise. Many restaurants have very small outdoor areas, and with social distancing added in, they would only be able to set up one or two tables, which would not be economically viable. This would create an economic boost for them, and a morale boost for the public as I think it could be a really fun summer activity.
51a46463-1feb-46f4-89ff-d7e5ba25eeaf	7	The new normal should not be GDP-focused	There is rising evidence that people are wary about returning to a pre-COVID normal. There was already discontent with historic and contemporary inequality, and the hardening capitalistic markets since the 2008 great recession have worsened the inequality, whilst excessively elevating the wealth of the elite to heretofore unbelievable heights.  This has been a time for reflection for many, as such Government must moves its focus to a new standard on which to base the welfare of its people. Robert Kennedy in 1968 stated “GDP counts air pollution and cigarette advertising, and ambulances to clear our highways of carnage… It counts jails, napalm, nuclear warheads, and the loss of natural wonder in chaotic sprawl… Yet, it does not pay attention to the health of our children, the quality of their education or the joy of their play... It measures everything in short — except that which makes life worthwhile."  Stimulating our economy needs to focus on strong and effective responses to both economic and health initiatives that also ensure our society becomes more equitable.  There needs to be a strong sustainable green economy which should be viewed as an exciting new growth and job-creating opportunity, that will accelerate the transition to a new sustainable and more inclusive economy.  This focus will result in improved human, economic and environmental health. It is a place where bold and visionary leadership supports the creation of new local sustainability-focused companies flourish, create jobs, and build a better, more inclusive, future.
dc35d7af-b725-43a3-a803-cdfe774f726c	7	Detailed Economic Jump Start and Sustainability Plan	Plan would need to be a combination of how to shift taxes (such as aligned to luxury taxes), along with expenditure elements and provide some baselines for economic stimulus.  Government Expense Management  - Review of salaries required, and potentially long term amendments. Union support is needed, and either have a combination of the reduction of staff or salaries.  - Engage with corporate Bermuda on how to mitigate the impacts of reduction in income, as Government are largest employer. Deferred payments, discounts, sidecar arrangements on outstanding amounts would have to be considered, and what would be given in return (as it has to be a commercial arrangement still).  Unemployment Fund (after 3 month)  - The current fund to remain in place at this time for up to $5/600 week (60%) if unemployed – however, controls in place to confirm that they remain unemployed  - Discounts for Grocery, Utilities. Existing Bank loans on a reduced rate/repayment whilst on fund.  - Portion of the benefit to be allocated directly to landlord/utilities if long term plan  Taxes to make up Government Revenue  - Larger car purchases, cell phone purchase (above $200 or so)  - Increase Petrol tax, Incremental Belco tax (ie, if you use over 800/1000 KWH a month  - Domestic Travel tax for residents leaving the island for vacation  - Corporation of Hamilton and St Georges to be brought into Government fully – share resources and staffing  - International Business with minimum presence on island/minimum economic substance (such as less than 5 staff) should be taxed at a higher amount. Will cause a number to leave Bermuda, however, they would have limited wide spread economic value. It should be either you are hiring in Bermuda or you have to pay a sizeable annual fee to benefit from our jurisdictional framework. This would also assist with some elements of corporate real estate.  Domestic Tax Credit Scheme  - For next 12/24 months, for money spent in the local economy, specifically at restaurants, hotels, retail, obtain credit to offset their tax obligation, such as land tax or the employee portion of payroll tax  - Just as an example, Such as for every $100 spent receive 0.1% up to max of 10/15% off – encourage spending rather than saving  - Either track through spending on debit/credit card activity or through receipt system  Equity Investment Fund for Domestic Bermuda Business  - Say for $50-$100m to support local and hospitality businesses  - Government support for guarantee for minimum return of 4/5% ($4-5m a year) of issued funds for first 3-5yrs. No principal guarantee, or something up to 50% for limited time.  - Equity agreement for the share of business, up to 49%  - Run as an independent organization, potentially with a small team in support with BEDC officers  - Close management leveraging existing resources:  o Leverage Banks for AML/KYC/CDD requirements – ie, Banks provide confirmation of compliance.  o Work closely with BEDC to leverage the business support network and access to resources  - Profits based on equity portion feed up to the Fund. Some businesses would fail, however, with a large enough base, it should provide a stable platform.  - Businesses involved in the fund obtain payroll tax benefits, with taxes paid on the profits up to the Fund  - Commitment for at least 3-5yr buy in, can be tiered penalties for early closure  - Equity value will fluctuate, but would not be active to start  - Engage the Banks to have their experts involved, to leverage lending experience on this fund  - After 3-5yrs, be based primarily on dividend yield  Tourism jump start  - Waive payroll tax for 2yrs on all hotels  - Allow domestic travelers  - Government to continue commit of letters of credit to support the airlines to secure airlift  - BTA launch a pre-pay scheme for 2021 to encourage early bookings, with clear deferral or cancellation terms, that would not result in 100% refund, but credits for future trips. Packages to built with this to support taxi, retail, charter boats, restaurants and hotel – an all-inclusive option available for early bookings.  - BTA advertising campaign to offer teaser campaign – “we look forward to showing you a Bermudaful time you next year” campaign  - Reduce red tape for new excursions and activities.  Restaurants/Retail Assistance  - Plan for social distancing table service for rest of 2020 – limit number of people in restaurant and controls around serving  - Tax introduced on delivery service of 5%  - Allow for liquor sales of wine and beer as part of the delivery, along with specialty cocktails  - Work with BTA for leveraging ideas, such as hosting dinner party service, with appropriate health controls in place, to substitute dining experience  - Use the Parking Lots in evenings for social distancing dining experience  - Customs duty for Retailers to be relieved for select months, in the immediate easing of bring in products  - Work with shippers and BEDC to maximize economies of scale – bulk orders/shipping for
0fa18c7e-df6a-435c-98d1-3cab2c231f50	7	Educational Opportunity	(sharing a concept I gave the reinsurance company that i contract with - they didn't spearhead and I'm not in a position to )  Challenging times make us creative in how we connect internally & externally. With so many students at home and technological advancements, it’s so simple to connect & conference.  Basic Concept:  * Career Development calls - I personally would love to sit on a conference call with 4 to10 students (maybe another colleague) and talk to them about In/Reinsurance & Accountancy and my journey to becoming a Reinsurance Accountant.  Medium Concept:  * Teacher or representative to be on any call. * Structured Questions & Facilitator Notes. * 1 HR / Week Commitment Per Employee  Full Concept:  * Local Connections - an educational hour taken off parent / teacher load. * Employees – external connection and giving back.  Overview:  At xxxxxxx & also with the CPCU Committee, I attended a couple of 6th Form Careers Presentations in Bermuda & also Career Speed Networking. I really enjoyed interacting with the students and I remember saying to the students that my Accounting qualification was like a second passport which would allow me to work in many places over the world. Conference Calls are the perfect medium right now, but they would actually work Long Term as it doesn’t take as much time out of an employee days and it should be quite straight forward.
060c3cf3-f075-4029-8498-b8394c75b4c9	7	Get more Bermudians involved in economic recovery by ending age discrimination.	Age discrimination lives vibrantly in our jurisdiction because no government has dealt with the issue. Bermuda has many capable seniors who have for quite some time been actively seeking gainful employment. These individuals have decades of experience and are usually very grateful for the opportunity to work. It is likely we will see small business closures post the COVID-19 crisis, and the subsequent exit of some non-Bermudian workers. Let’s utilize an under-used tool in our economic recovery - the skill sets and willingness of our own people, regardless of age. Many older persons are willing to turn their hand to anything in order to make ends meet. We should not continue to overlook these individuals simply because they are no longer young. Neither do we need to return to the practice of encouraging future employees to our shores to fill job vacancies in certain employment sectors when we have available unemployed/under employed older locals. It is time to be progressive in the workplace. Employers should be encouraged to institute job sharing. We must encourage, use, and reward ‘cottage industry’ efforts. A fine example of the latter working well is the recent on-island production of face masks – some of those seamstresses are in their 70s and 80s! Let’s get Bermuda back to work as a whole with everyone who seeks gainful employment having the opportunity to be contributory, even if only on a part-time basis initially.
9185c0b1-48a2-4d38-9637-79022d809a40	7	Open Hamilton but with less people	Many of us have now demonstrated that we can work from home. Those who can could continue working from home say 3 out of 5 days each week.  You choose which days you want/need to go in.  Benefits:  * Re-Open Hamilton earlier and fully * Less traffic on the roads in general * Should be an average of 2/5 of the usual number of people in town (plus those who can't work remotely) * More parking available due to less cars in town * And importantly, ability for social distancing due to less people in town on average Drawbacks?  * Distribution of daily people may not be quite identical because people are choosing randomly which days to go in or not, but hopefully should average out due to randomness * Only really covers Mon-Fri.  Saturday may still be overly popular * There may be reduced business?  Maybe.  Maybe less going out for lunch / grabbing lunch in town.  But as for buying things, I don't think people would buy less, just save up the buying for those days they go in
15f6a8d1-5f5c-42a8-9300-561f3a06a36a	7	True E-commerce	A summary of the concept is as follows:  Centralize the payment functions of government departments in a similar fashion that Payroll Tax is collected.  Departments include:  * FISHERIES * Water Section (W&E) * IMMIGRATION * All other departments who do not have online payment options. The only option available for some departments include direct deposit but this is less efficient than a direct payment feature and it is unknown why one government would have so many different manners of receiving payments rather than putting the onus on the consumer. In this digital age, there should be more online options that can incorporate accessibility for seniors and those others who may not have online access or IT literacy and have a consolidated location such as the post office which has been the subject of various government surveys over the past few years.  COVID19 will likely be the catalyst for many of the suggestions that are similar, if not, the government will not collect revenue during these trying times.
ece6c0a1-4a78-4e95-83ef-0b1850eb3893	7	Imports to Bermuda	Analyze items being imported and raise the duty on the items most popular. If I see a shirt for sale for $12 then paying $18 for that shirt is not going to be an issue if its not available in Bermuda and if I really want it. Same thing I think applies to many other items popular to purchase. If I feel it's too expensive then I will choose either to not but it, continue with the purchase or spend my money in bermuda on a similar item. Most people shop for clothes etc on sale sites or cheaper foreign sites.
94111c7b-060e-4c2a-8738-c6607a07d193	7	Governmant Size	Government need to reduce its size by at least 10%. It is unfair to have such  a huge employemnt to support 60,000 people.  They should be having a payroll cut while we are experiencing stay at home. The Government should also show their leadership by reducing their salaries 50%
cbcd266f-a7ef-4dfb-9112-74a93db53b06	7	Sports Organizations	Each sporting organization should be asked to participate in a think tank to recommend any new sport (water or Road) that can have a tournament in Bermuda most likely in 2021 or 2022.  They cannot recommend any sport related to their organization.  They must look for a new sport that could work in Bermuda.  Once a number of sports have been identified, they can form a committee to approach the organization.  One of my examples would be a sport I don't know the name but the equipment is a take from Special Olympics for runners.  The prosthesis is worn by able bodied persons.  The other is a water apparatus that is somewhat like surfing but you don't need waves.  Hope that is enough to get started.  This will up the Tourism side of the economy.
02fb7423-8767-4a13-b3bb-389085d37540	7	Pension funds	In the Caymans they did this to put half a BILLION dollars into the economy..  Under the changes, employees will be allowed to access up to 100% of any private pension fund not exceeding $10,000, and 25% of funds in excess of $10,000. The amendments also pave the way for a six-month pension holiday for employees and employers.  Think its time to consider this. This may save people from losing houses . That is worth more than a  slightly reduced pension.
0083ebd6-8391-483e-995b-ecbe6025857d	7	Bda. College Extension	Eventually, when the island is back to regularly scheduled programs if ever, as an island we should think about having dorms for the Bda College. This would offer students from all of the world willing to study in Bermuda and obtain a degree or spend a semester in Bermuda. This would create jobs, open others' eyes to Bermuda, and more importantly extend learning partnerships with overseas colleges/universities. For example, I went to Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) which does some courses with Bda College; SCAD has more then one location in which their students can go for a particular quarter to study if the courses are offered during the quarter. Of course, money has to be spent out to bring income but this could create income to the island. It would allow students to study at Bda College who don't have the opportunities to study abroad they could obtain the same education as someone who has been overseas.
8ace54a1-0aa7-40fb-a4e0-d50129c61d2f	7	Marv's Ideas to help Bermudas's Economy	Good day,  Here are some ideas that I (Marvin L. W. Burchall) would like to propose to the Government of Bermuda to help with the stimulation of Bermuda’s economy post COVID-19 stay in place.  Within the coming weeks I feel that it would be of great benefit to the Government of Bermuda and its people if they were to setup a variety of agricultural markets in conjunction with ALL (if not a select group) of Farmers, Horticulturist, Arborist and Fishermen.  Here are a few of my ideas;  1. An unprecedented network of greenhouses ISLAND WIDE (even the uninhabited islands) with the sole objective of making this country reasonably sustainable and dependable upon its self when it comes to providing produce for all of the people (as many as possible) in Bermuda. In addition, those familiar with gardening can assist the public (civilians) in cultivating home gardens to promote a healthy sustainable lifestyle backed by their very own home-grown food.  2. Setup a few fish farms if possible (as natural as possible). Reason behind this thought is to grow the marine life in Bermuda (endemic species of fish, lobster, etc etc) Also, while on the subject of the fisheries in Bermuda, SET UP A CLUSTER (see Sir John Swans' plan) of Fish Markets... ie:Eastern Market, Western Market, and HAMILTON (Front Street).  3. Finally, LEGALIZE IT!!!!! Set up an infrastructure of grow fields, grow houses(hydroponics), green houses, storage facilities, and dispensaries. All to serve the purpose of having medicinal and recreational use of MARIJUANA LEGALIZED. This in turn will provide jobs, (FARMERS, HORTICULTURIST, ARBORIST, LABORER, PROPRIETOR, and SECURITY PERSONNEL). In addition to providing jobs, the legalization of Marijuana can benefit our sick people of Bermuda, discourage anti-social behaviour, and encourage on new style of tourism.  Thank you for your time and consideration to read this.  Marvin L. W. Burchall  If there is any questions, contact me 333-2827 or at mburc314@gmail.com, thank you
878e9f04-4550-4d16-9adc-57c4408cb31f	7	Restaurants and Physical Distancing	Perhaps physical distancing presents an additional incentive to consider utilizing the Hamilton Waterfront for activities beyond parking, etc.  Perhaps Front Street could be closed to traffic, including during the day, and dining tables, at appropriate physical distance,  could be set up along the waterfront and sidewalks.  Restaurants in close proximity can have an allocated area.  Customers could perhaps choose their restaurant, book their table and order their drinks/meal via an app.....
1ba58366-6919-4457-a3c7-dd16741badff	8	LEGALIZATION OF CANNABIS ( Medicinal/ Recreational )	Government wins, Entrepreneurs win, Tourism wins, as it stands now....Mr.Dealer wins ! This is a thriving Billion dollar industry worldwide, not that it will ever be that in Bermuda..... BUT there is a lot of money currently being made that can be claimed by a proper industry , proper licensing, with proper regulation....BERMUDA WINS !!!!
3ef563bd-bf32-4f70-b474-c0638eb20587	8	Data Centre Campus	Data center hubs enable companies to rapidly add server capacity and electric power, creating economies of scale as more workloads migrate into these massive server farms. As cloud computing gains momentum – driven by social networks, Big Data and the Internet of Things – the scale of these facilities will grow ever larger. It has become routine for companies like Apple, Google, Facebook and Microsoft to invest more than $1 billion in a single location where they place a cloud campus (Source: data centre frontier)  By securing a big name like GOOGLE a facility would support the computer processing power of the local and international businesses on island and give additional opportunities to facilitate the following:  * The development of a Smart country or smart Nation; * The digital enablement of government; * The development of IP with economic substance * The development of a Tech city * The training a development of Bermuda’s people through digital upskilling * The development of a bio-tech industry * etc.
ce7c4df6-f0a5-48c6-92e3-e070cacce7c9	8	Investing in our Local industry	Can we find a way to enhance access to our local Industry such as the produce and fisheries. An agricultural market at each part of the island would be interesting and also somewhat healthy for tourism and great for locals alike. But the balance of this is trying to make sure that it’s affordable. There is no reason that we should be paying more or equal amounts for local produce and marine catch as the imported products.
7869ca38-95fd-40ee-a251-69e5b5d3ddb4	8	Stimulate Hotel growth	Hotels to lower summer rates to attract locals $150-$300 per night throw in some incentives for staycations, upgrades, spa treatments, restaurant discounts, bring back dine around, local band’s,  host late night dinners and desserts. But most of all make it affordable for the locals.
101a61ed-1764-4ddb-89d4-6fc69f024b5f	8	Opening online platforms for international sales	Currently Bermudians, based in Bermuda, wishing to sell on Amazon cannot as our banking institutions don't allow us to accept payments from the organisation. In order to do this at present one has to have a credit card in one of the appointed  countries such as the US or UK to name only two. But if Bermuda was added to the country list on Amazon, product designers, of which there are many, could get their items produced overseas in jurisdictions where the cost of living is lower and then be able to sell worldwide on this platform. Another idea is for Bermuda to be able to receive payments into our bank accounts from PayPal, Google Pay and others. Currently we can use Paypal to purchase items and receive payments, but then we are not able to turn those payments into actual usable cash in our local accounts.  In my opinion this would stimulate growth for those that want to use e-commerce as a way of earning a living or for building a business. Also our bank's merchant accounts are limited to accept payments from either Visa or Mastercard only, but this does not assist when potential clients want to pay with Maestro, Discover or American Express....
80ac0126-d91d-4e17-af5c-2c0002d6ffe1	8	Government Schools	Good day,  I have a suggestion regarding schools.  Being that schools may not re-open as expected and the Children have missed many days.  I would like to suggest that maybe the children stay in the same year until after Christmas break. To allow them to get adjusted back to some order.  Than in the New Year transfer them into the next year especially the Primary years.  This will allow the children to feel comfortable before moving on to the next level and missing the teacher from the previous years.  Sincerely,  Toni Tucker
4601943c-df12-4246-a632-3cb5e7c5d366	8	Saving our fishing indutry	I would like for government to open a licence for me to start fish farming. As we see with air borne viruses there will be ocean born viruses that will attack our fish. If we are able to start now we can save a food supply.
d3e25d3e-b4fa-4ab3-90e5-1870b3a195ce	8	Local Retail Bond Concept	Establish a local retail market for the issuance and trading of Bermuda Government bonds  Main principles  · Securitised debt in the form of low denomination notes e.g. par value $1000 (or $100 but shouldn’t go too low as the trading friction will erode more of the value)  · Cost benchmark against Bermuda’s cost of debt (“COD”) – last observed at 5% interest. The pricing is COD minus foreign exchange (BDA-USD) minus sovereign risk – coupon value ~2.5-3.5%  · The bonds should be issued through the primary offering from the Bermuda Government via an efficient & low-cost vehicle. Propose a block-chain based solution. Would demonstrate Bermuda as a leading platform for Fintech.  · Multiple tiers should be considered with different maturity periods e.g. 5 year, 10 year & 15 year – the coupon value may need to adjusted to factor in time value of money  · The block-chain solution should also manage a secondary market to allow trading between retail investors with minimal fees.  o The secondary market should provide liquidity to investors by holding a small reserve that allows retail investors to sell back to the primary issuer at a discount that allows the Government to recoup the cost of seeking alternative funding e.g. $1000 par note sold back to the primary issuer prior to maturity will be discounted to $850 (or a sliding scale).  · Retail investors would need to sign up through a KYC processing location (or online?) with the Government (designed to be easy access) and source of funds would beneed to be disclosed. Retail investors could auto debit their paychecks, trade online or use designated broker (though this is likely to be more expensive)  · If used to fund Bermuda-based expenses would avoid some outflows of capital.  · Would directly compete with banking institutions as the coupon value would exceed the yield for traditional savings.  · Could also be marketed as a patriotic contribution.  · Important note: this helps lower the cost of debt to Government but DOES NOT generate revenue. This will need be addressed by economic growth, especially in light of the declining birth rate.  Other considerations:  Pre-sale of future tax revenues at a discount and the ability to secondary trade those notes  - Eg, I can buy payroll tax for each quarter of 2021 at a discount. You purchase it now and can use the token to pay for your taxes.  How about fixing the rates as well? Being able to lock in tax rates now to be exempt from future tax increases.  - This allows you to tap into the good will of the community who have to pay those taxes anyway but are sitting on cash due to uncertainty and when combined with the ability to sell them on a secondary market, provides confidence of liquidity.
e092a7c9-36ff-437a-8fa5-9c4fd8eb85b6	8	Allow Restaurants to Sell Alcohol With Takeout	Good Day All,  ____Long Story Short___  * Allow wine/beer sales with takeout * Tip & Takeout (if you can) ______________________  As a consumer, I would like to be able to support local restaurants by purchasing wine/beer with my take away (once restaurants are allowed to resume take out and delivery services).  Anyone in the hospitality industry will tell you that the largest profit margins come from the sale of alcohol, and restaurants who were selling take out food before the Shelter-in-Place were missing out on margins from alcohol sales and gratuities.  Restaurants can chose to sell wine a-la-cart or offer pairing suggestions with their menu.  There could even be the potential for collaboration with distributors.  We can all look back and chuckle that many of our island liquor distributors had to stop taking delivery orders before 'lock-down' because Bermudians went into panic-mode,  but even our distributors are hurting that our restaurants are not placing their consistent and typical bulk orders.  We always need to consider the knock-on effects of policy change and spread the potential for economic recovery.  Lastly, those of us who have the means to do so should consider adding the gratuity that you would normally be charged to your meal were you served at the restaurant.  If you are a restaurant manager/staff, I would not be offended if I were asked if I wanted gratuities to be added to my bill at the point of sale. While some consumers may not be able to further support your business,  it never hurts to ask !  Thank you- what do you think?
1d72deab-4ca7-4657-82ff-f263ec31bfc3	8	Bermuda's Big Dig (5yr + island-wide capital project)	This idea is focused around creating economic activity in the construction industry that would have a beneficial effect in both our other business operations as well as public health & safety.  Start an initiative to mandate increased road widths that accommodate sidewalks (and possibly bicycle lanes) along the major thoroughfares. e.g. Middle road, south shore, north shore.  The program could empower home owners to complete / manage the work of small to medium sized contractors to make the required adjustments to property bordering the main thoroughfares. By offering tax incentives and/or low to 0 interest loans the construction industry and businesses that support construction would see several years of increased activity.  The small scope (individual lots) could facilitate the workers on each site practicing social distancing. In addition, the projects could be staggered to manage the impact on road traffic. Commencing the initiative while many are still working from home / sheltering in place would make the road traffic issue moot, or at the very least minimally impactful.  In places where widening the road is infeasible (house sits on road's edge) changes to neighboring sections can be made to implement one-way traffic through the sections that cannot be widened e.g. Flatts Village.  Regarding the cost for the land. The government could leverage right-of-way access instead of eminent domain, allowing the land owner to maintain ownership of the sidewalk (similar to the US & Canada, where the sidewalk ownership is shared, but the occupant is responsible for maintaining the entire segment of sidewalk in front of their property)  While a detailed survey would be required to measure the impact against the various demographics on the island, there is definitely a significant proportion of plots fronting major thoroughfares that are large estates with ample room to move their border wall further back from the roadside with minimal effect on the owner's enjoyment of the land.  The widened roads would help to reduce road traffic incidents, especially with the continued trend in increased vehicle widths. It would also open up the possibility of purchasing more electric vehicles that are currently not eligible for licensing due to their width.  The addition of contiguous sidewalks along the major thoroughfares would encourage the population to walk more as it would reduce the number of walkers having to navigate the roadside with traffic rushing by, thus improving public health & safety.  Having contiguous sidewalks will also make the island more inclusive to disabled persons who currently have no option other than to operate their mobility device in the road and contend with motorized traffic. Mandating sidewalk dips/curbs where they break for driveways would also make the sidewalks more walkable for our aging population.  This initiative could be implemented almost immediately and could provide significant economic activity via the construction projects and supporting services. The initiative could also provide work in the technology industry wherein developers could be contracted to design a system that could facilitate semi-autonomous approval of submitted plans for road expansions.
d7f23ace-31d0-4b6a-9ef2-9ab6b1392373	8	Single Family Office	Tom Lawrence ‘s article in the RG today has merit.  Our current economic model of IB and tourism can be supplemented by this one. The aforementioned models are mature and long reached their zenith.  There are many super wealthy in the world looking for a place like Bermuda. Obviously they are looking to protect that wealth. Therefore, for Bermuda to remain a transparent community, these wealthy would have to be given a tax resident domicile in Bermuda.  Become tax paying residents..  one potential is their philanthropy, which can be seen  elsewhere like in the Caymans.
b58947ff-1fb5-439b-a0a8-cd431f3743a8	8	Review Customs Duty	Is it not time to review our customs duty policy?  Almost everything we consume in Bermuda has customs duty imposed upon it.  Shipping costs, customs duty and profit margins above all of this make it very difficult to compete with outside overseas markets.  Perhaps a consumption based tax would make more sense?
a892a02e-0cad-4404-80d9-5fecdb78b73c	8	Staggered reopening of the Bermuda Squash Club	Once cleared as safe to do so the Squash Club would love to implement a staggered reopening of the facilities to its Members, families and guests.  The health benefits to getting active and exercising again are well documented and if possible the squash club would like to provide a safe environment to do this. The nature of the sport of squash being in an enclosed space played by just two participants should lend itself well in limiting group contact and maintaining social distancing.  Initial stages would see limited access to our four courts allowing only the court capacity of 8 into the building at anyone time. All bar and lounge services would be closed. No group classes or events initially. All players would be required to wear full face safety masks and socializing post work out would be prohibited.  As time goes by and safety restrictions permit we would increase the court allowance and implement limited use of socializing areas post workout. We would also start to run small group sessions for up to 4 players staggering this over whatever period of time necessary to maintain a safe environment.  Our membership of 180+ players aged 7-77 yrs old would be thrilled to get back on court in anyway that they can. Health benefits for members would accompany the start of badly needed cash flow to the club which has struggled during this tough time.  The Bermuda Squash Racquets Association and its members will wait for guidelines to be published by Government and then amend this plan to hopefully provide a safe, fun, healthy activity to support Bermuda in getting back to business as usual.
610d6ed4-cc62-4c87-9701-3eaa3750f1cc	8	Don’t Turn Caroline Bay Into Another Hotel	Bermuda has a glut of hotel beds already. Turning Caroline Bay into another hotel would be a disastrous idea, especially on the back of the current crisis. Government should explore the family office idea further.
634410bc-5c25-4cb6-8d85-c2fa22101277	8	There is to be security or a person to ensure each ATM use	There is to be security or a person to ensure each ATM use  I have seen many people using the ATMs without facemask on and gloves.   You can take it off after you leave the ATM.   Could a person administer hand sanitizer before ATM use.   I am indicating about ATMs outside the banks.  Isolated ATMs located at various spots on the island of Bermuda. This will be difficult to manage.   ATM users would have to access with their own risk, but hand sanitizer dispenser could suggestively be present to minimize the contact of Corona covid-19.
74ca83db-f9fb-40f1-931d-015d2552c218	8	Economic stimulus	NATIONAL LOTTERY :  USER FUNDS :  LOCAL CITIZENRY :  ISLAND WIDE  POST OFFICE & GROCERY STORE SALES & GAS STATIONS & PHARMACIES : ticket sales  ACCOUNTANT GENERAL : FINANCE MINISTRY ADMINISTRATION  MONTHLY  :  QUARTERLY  :  ANNUAL PAYOUT :  LOCAL,PARTICIPANTS RESTRICTIONS  LEGALIZATION & REGULATION :  CANNABIS SATIVA  HERBAL SPECIES  REMOVAL FROM SCHEDULE 1  & SUBSEQUENT DELETION OF BLACKMARKET STIGMA.  SMALL LOCAL ORGANIC FARMERS &  SMALL SHOPS & PHARMACIES : PRIORITY
b72ce30e-e4e9-4915-a49f-ac61d823e484	8	Tax Breaks for Small Business	ALL small businesses will need tax breaks and other incentives to keep their employees working once they are allowed to reopen. Many businesses will not  see the same number of clientele return for a number of COVID related reasons. Their overhead needs to be drastically reduced in order for them to be sustainable.
aa2c9302-8ccb-412c-982c-a4936f3b2942	8	Rapid testing and monitoring	The govt needs to recognize that for most tourists, a mandatory 14-day quarantine is a non-starter.  With the testing resources you have developed, if you are confident in their accuracy and specificity, you could test upon arrive before coming through immigration.  In addition, you could have hotels install wastewater monitoring as an early warning system for new cases:  https://www.statnews.com/2020/05/28/wastewater-testing-gains-support-as-covid19-early-warning/
04459d15-189a-460e-b1a1-e37a006810d0	8	Addressing obstacles to change	Bermuda is a deeply divided island suffering from a lack of trust. This makes it extremely difficult to implement changes that may be necessary if we are to move forward.  I suggest that in order to bring people on board, it is necessary to work on increasing trust, and helping people reach their potential. This goes far beyond making some nice statements. It will require serious financial investment to do the work on societal, community and individual levels to achieve this - to build genuine connections across community divides, to help people who are struggling to thrive.  If we cannot create a true sense of fellowship and sense that everybody has the means to achieve their potential in Bermuda, then we will find it a constant uphill struggle to move forwards.
8a4e6374-b073-4bc5-8f08-4d8eb4683541	8	Proposed Economic Stimulant	* Create a Small Farmers Association encourage local farming to expand their local food production. * Discuss with Bermuda College the Sciences and Technology Department  to develop face shield protectors, hand sanitizers, etc? * Offer remote island experience to attract tourist to island, hotel and air packages. i.e Perot island, Hawkins island to name a few.
2be77d5d-0f72-4d65-a54c-d13279839b66	8	Harley's in Bermuda	A lot of Bermudians own Harley's and other large motorcycles overseas and they cannot ride them in thier home country.  My proposal is to allow Bermudians over a certain age limit to repatriate their Motorcycles and be able to ride them anytime. Also allow Bermudians to purchase a higher capacity motorcycle and bring it back home if they wish.  Harley drivers are not disrespectful road users. They just love to ride and enjoy their machines.  The speed limit is the speed limit no matter what size the engine capacity is on a vehicle. Also Harley drivers are some of the most accomplished, safety conscious and respectful persons on the roads.  A special licensing  fee could be charged for the privilege of owning such a vehicle.  This proposal could also potentially result in a Harley Dealership  opening here if demand drives it ... hence more employment.
00d4adfa-e281-4084-bc4c-d68bda3b4cf3	8	Vegetable supply and marijuana	I suggest turning the round abouts into community vegetable gardens.  I suggest legalizing the cultivation and sale of marijuana
804ed765-9f09-4f59-8707-8f8bbf906afd	8	BERMUDIANS FIRST	When this government looks at employment after the restrictions end at the end of PHASE 4, the employment of Bermudians is of paramount importance. There are hundreds and hundreds of persons born in Bermuda who possess the same or even better requirements for job placement. Most are industrious, care, have the education required and possess a great work ethic.  IF there are vacancies after all/ most Bermudians are adequately placed, then and only then should this government look outside of Bermuda. Not before!!  The government must not look outside of Bermuda, until appropriate employment is given to Bermudians FIRST!!!!!
8d6e3033-400d-419a-9c2f-b6c9c6604d16	8	Cannabis & Other Research Development	Given the strong science being generated globally in immunity boosting research and pain management within the Cannabis sphere, and the current/future needs arising from the pandemic as a result it may be wise to dig deeper into allowing scientific research and study facilities to be expanded on island with tax incentive plans. This could also help provide a platform for future development and export of Bermuda branded Cannabis strains to both the medical and recreational markets globally.  Research: https://www.uclahealth.org/cannabis/  Global Branding: https://www.marleynatural.ca/
2e23b32b-9333-4a89-903e-392c577e5d19	8	Science & Religion	Expand Science research and study within the schools.  Tax Churches.
985b2e86-420e-4a16-957d-e36efdc806cf	8	Other Ideas	Bring tech minds to the table and see if there is any advantage in creating  a Silicone Valley model of tech advancements and investments (maybe Sargasso Seas) here in Bermuda.  Perhaps smaller foot prints (Cross Island, Lantana,  South side, Harmony Hall etc) whereby research and development can thrive with tax and location incentives.  Invest in Hamilton Waterfront Development and pedestrianization? Seek PPP investment WITHOUT selling the city to a private developer!  Expand Community Gardens. Creates sustainable supply of homegrown food sources, while also being known to help curb certain stresses and anxiety? Brings communities together.  Research and development into the environmental areas? Attracts global interest and investment as well as helps our own environments sustainability.  Is there any opportunity by way of investment to attack the lion fish population with mass culling and industry export for income? Or at least local consumption increase?  Given the global economic impacts on the horizon our own locally sourced food supply via fisheries in general will be needed.  Any/All of this will depend on reactions to my previous feedback surrounding inclusiveness over divisiveness.
6b45b4b2-68e1-4d48-928c-4a23da98836b	8	Introduce New Trade School & Prisoner Support Initiatives	Trade School: Open a new trade school at the Bermuda Regiment that trades a 1 - 2 year study of various skills at no cost (masonry, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, mechanics etc) for a 3-5 year commitment (at reasonable days and times monthly) to duty in the Regiment. Seek investment from the corporate and private sector to support the curriculum expenses.  Practical experiences can support the regiments own as well as all gov facilities.  CAOB oversees the course outline and introduces/expands their construction safety programs as part of the plans. Adds more use of the regiment facility and better support during times of need, while also enhancing our desperately needed trades sector and expands CAOB's reach and effectiveness toward trades and safety.  Prisoners: Create an incentive program for prisoners to work within the community safely on various projects. Such as: road side clean up crews, community carpentry works, vehicle mechanics, trail development, parkland clearing and maintenance, assistance to W&E where needed  etc.
c57867a8-288d-4470-b868-83cef2e84e70	8	Price Goughing	Island Engineering Limited marked up their price for PVC small coupling (3"). Gorham's charged $2.49 and they charged $3.50. Also, they charged around $74 for four lengths of PVC piping.
877755b1-177e-4fc0-8be2-94576ed45b92	8	Outdoor Bars along Front Street	hello - not my idea.  https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/apr/28/lithuanian-capital-to-be-turned-into-vast-open-air-cafe-vilnius  No actual cost to Government, just inconvenience to traffic along Front Street.  5pm onwards like every Harbor Nights, close the street and let the restaurants operate Open Air.  My business was Reid Street Extension, do definitely doesn't help me, but a potential great idea!
96da082c-834a-46d6-a9ac-02f402395711	8	Increase Al Fresco Dining for Future Re-opening Phases	Provide Restaurants with additional outdoor (sidewalk/parking lot) space where available to promote additional "distance dining" areas. For example, there are lots of parking lots along Front Street. Could even be covered. This would allow indoor tables to be more spread out; help maintain total capacity in a safe manner; add the additional al fresco "distance dining" experience to encourage people to dine out; promote waterfront dining.
fe259767-4b6e-43c2-839b-7dd1e5d9b5af	8	Economic recovery	I just learned from Germany that some of the larger stores make their aisles one way only.  I think this is a great idea for supermarkets and indeed for Gorham's.  I hope this can be implemented immediately.  The aisles in the supermarket are too narrow to maintain a safe social distance.In such times of confinement it is the perfect time to be gardening and doing all the DIY chores around the house.  The same in respect of the nurseries.  Aberfeldy has rows and this should be easy to manage. Brighton nurseries seems to have a good system of calling t o order and having a pick up.  But it is much easier to order on the phone or online seedlings, seeds etc but impossible to order the right product from Gorham's for, say, the removal of rust from iron ornaments.  You really need to be able to see what is in stock and be able to ask what might be the best product.  As I have said previously Gorham's is not answering the phone.
bfcf02b4-5604-45af-ad08-a08601cc9d03	9	Stimulate INTERNAL Tourism	2018 figures suggest 330M being spent by residents on OVERSEAS tourism. Encourage 'stay-cations' to reduce these outflows that do little to feed the economic spiral in Bermuda. A concerted campaign by Government and BTA.  * Encourage hoteliers/ restaurants/ bars to reinvest & upgrade. Subsidized loans for scrutinized upgrades. * Advertising campaign (paid by BTA) with high quality location focused TV and Print. * Encourage deep discounting (20%) for pre-booking with 20% non-refund deposit. 25% discount for long-stays over 5 days. Govt. to give 5% subsidy. * 50% cut in occupancy tax (it will be made back through stimulation of services/ supplies bought by hoteliers). * Bermuda College low cost courses for new entrants into the Services industry. * Ensure quality/service is provided by using random government inspections. Failure might result in 5% subsidy being withheld or License put on probation. The 'New Normal' may be to buy locally, support Bermuda food production and vacation locally. For those who are or will be out of work - the luxury of all this will appear annoying. Those luckily still employed, please SPEND LOCALLY not just go for the cheaper option overseas - support your neighbour.
0186c711-0d10-48c5-9bc2-511130f4f3e7	9	Internet based business enhancement	We need to bring in foreign income. Internet based businesses could do this, but our power and internet costs are among the highest in the world. Therefore we need faster and cheaper internet if we intend to compete in a global market.
b3834fae-fafb-41a5-a577-4124278c67b2	9	Flights returning to Bermuda	The Vienna airport now offers a Coronavirus test for departing and arriving passengers for a fee. This enables visitors to travel to Vienna and avoid the 14 day quarantine if they test negative for the virus. Could this be an option for Bermuda to help safely get tourists traveling back to Bermuda? Link for this is https://www.travelandleisure.com/airlines-airports/vienna-airport-on-site-coronavirus-testing
9385fb2a-c8b5-4682-80d7-c8c4e4303e5c	9	New DIRECT flights with countries with low COVID-19 cases	As our borders begin to open my main concern is with transported cases, leading to an increase in local infections and transmissions. This is particularly of concern with locations that have had high numbers of cases, as well as those that act as major hubs and therefore have high numbers of visitors from all over the world. Bermuda has suffered losses but has also been very successful in controlling local transmission rates and I have no doubt that this is largely due to the policy to close borders early. Re-opening them however will increase our risk.  With tourism being so essential to our economy I would like to propose that new direct flights be discussed with countries that have had low numbers of COVID-19 cases. I personally would prefer to visit a country that had been successful in it's COVID-19 policies, and to do so directly, as opposed to flying via a major city. It may be completely naïve to suggest that this could be put in to place before re-opening our borders to the existing 'higher risk' locations, but it's an idea.  I believe that Bermuda is a low case country and there are others, Iceland and Grenada being two examples. This could be an opportunity to develop direct links with new locations, which benefits both countries. If a second wave does materialize then there may also be the opportunity to close borders to those higher risk locations and remain open to visitors from countries who have a proven track record of keeping cases low. This would help keep tourism going even during a second wave. Partnerships with hotels or other tourism providers could be established, forming a relationship with a new country that could last way past the current crisis and in to the future. This can also stimulate Bermuda residents to travel, as new locations would peak new interest. The same could be said for the residents of the other country in question.  The risk of persons from high risk countries traveling through low risk ones to ours still exists, however there are other measures that could be put in place for that e.g. testing, quarantine and/or opening up to residents of those countries only (i.e. no hub travelers).
e31ee6cb-0eab-4fbe-b10a-f0368ef643e7	9	Front Street  - Pedestrian Only	Post Covid  Close Front Street and water frontage to traffic.   Allow shops, restaurant/bar, art galleries, Bermuda authentic businesses and other entertainment venues to use the whole area and attract tourism into the city.  At the moment there nothing to attract our tourists or entice them to spend money within Bermuda.  Dockyard, Hamilton and Saint George should work together to offer visitors exceptional and complimentary experiences.
80549592-566a-40b8-83f3-1d88e2d89d4d	9	Expand Hitch to include selected private vehicles	Allow authorized persons to join the Hitch network to increase efficiency in ride sharing as well as allow persons the flexibility of a side hustle. This will also enable residents to be social “end to “end” without the stress of the last bus, ferry or lack of taxi services available. And of course a trickle down effect of less drinking and driving and more spending this summer within our own economy.
1e398117-ef77-479e-b9da-8f58c929c82c	9	OPEN OUR CHURCH FOR WORSHIP AND PRAYER	We need to feel comforted and worship in our church  Please allow us to go and Worship in our Church
b0957ec3-7dbf-498a-9bc1-465203829f23	9	Opening the City - Get retail/business open sooner	There are many ways to reduce volume of people streaming into Hamilton to keep in line with the covid-19 etiquette. An effective way would be to allow alternate access to town based on vehicle license plate numbers (odd vs. even) rather than the alphabet - also easier to police. This way we could start opening businesses sooner rather than trying to figure out crowd control.  It would be good to start thinking about retail opening hours to allow those who do work to take advantage of shopping in Bermuda. In this time and with the long summer evenings retail could offer opening hours till 7 or 8 pm to start stimulating the shopping experience locally
37596f86-3951-4794-b2ae-3479401442de	9	Summer jobs for students and Engaging Local Talent for the Future	As many businesses in Bermuda have not been ready for the change that has been cast upon them, I would suggest that they hire Senior high school students and college students who would normally be looking for a summer job to upgrade their computer systems, develop websites and ready them for more online browsing and shopping. Bermudian students are brilliant and very adept at the technology of today and ready for that of tomorrow. This also will allow local companies to recognize and support local talent for future employment.
d0fa3e9f-5b9c-4fed-a671-7fb8ff9834a1	9	Economic Stimulation Post-COVID-19	The decriminalization and legalization of recreational along with medicinal marijuana. Could create new jobs and business opportunities for local workers + entrepreneurs as well as boost and diversify our tourism industry.
e48847a7-437c-4668-8dbe-02f75788ad14	9	Stronger consumer laws needed	Bermuda needs to enact a law that gives consumers more protections. In particular, we need rights that protect people from some of the shady business practices of the car dealerships. People, like myself, have been treated like second-class citizens by the Bermuda car dealerships when it comes to replacing or giving refunds for faulty new cars. Dealerships should have the right to attempt to repair a fault, however, as I have experienced myself, they are subjecting people to long drawn-out processes (18 months in my situation) , and can have as many attempts to repair a faulty vehicle (5 times in my situation...without success). And, after they have taken people through this long and inconvenient process, consumers have absolutely no say in determining what fair compensation should look like. We are totally at their mercy. Some consumers, like myself, have been required to sign open-ended non-disclosure agreements (essentially a gag order not to speak about the situation whatsoever) in order to receive compensation. This absolutely WRONG!  In 2015, the UK government, legislated the Consumer Rights Act 2015  ( https://www.autotrader.co.uk/content/advice/how-does-the-consumer-rights-act-protect-you-when-you-buy-a-car ) , which replaced their Sales Of Goods Act. These new laws strengthen the rights of consumers have when making purchases in general but in particular includes a provision that protects the purchasers of faulty new or used cars. Many countries have had similar laws in place for many years. In the United Sates, they have what are called Lemon Laws  ( https://www.hg.org/lemon-law.html ) that protect the rights of car buyers. Australia does not have Lemon laws, but they have consumer grantee provisions in the Australian Consumer Law  ( https://www.qld.gov.au/law/laws-regulated-industries-and-accountability/queensland-laws-and-regulations/fair-trading-services-programs-and-resources/consultation-regulatory-reform/past-reviews-and-consultations/2015/lemon-laws )  that protect car buyers  Bermuda consumers are asking that similar laws be created as evidenced by the number of people that have signed this Petition  ( https://secure.avaaz.org/en/community_petitions/the_bermuda_government_better_protection_for_new_car_buyers/?fNNGwdb&fbogname=Mark%20P.&fbclid=IwAR0Su9Fy6_dG9nRH1c9xAy9yMPDDrfsL60XAgcRKRKspMzC6EvzNz8G7-fE ) . So I am asking that the Bermuda government do something similar in order to bring the rights of Bermuda's consumers into this 21st Century.
3e221ad8-72db-40ff-89aa-a12f062eebc9	9	Consolidate in a modern manner and train/re-train staff	As has been said before, there is duplicity in Government and a reluctance to consolidate functions such as payments, online forms, etc.  One example of duplicity is the gov.bm website.  It is one of the most cumbersome behemoths that is out there and makes for very hard reading. Additionally, almost every department appears to have a 'subsite' with less than informative links, there are simply to many and they all have a preview that wastes space on the page OR you have to click four links to get to what you are looking for! As some departments refuse to adopt an online presence that also allows for upload of secure documents for things such as payments, we will have issues post-COVID19 and the govt needs as much revenue as possible.  If you use the 'coronavirus' pages as an example, as a reader, I get annoyed very quickly when navigating the pages trying to find up to date information.  The public is referred to this website day in and day out and  I challenge any government official to try to explain over the phone how to navigate to find anything. Additionally, notices for those 'who do not have access to the internet' are posted on the (you guessed it) the internet!!  If you can read the post online, perhaps yo have access to the internet?  This same ethos seems to run rampant through many departments whereby you are almost compelled to call someone in order to find something that is on a website somewhere.  All of this is said to illustrate that it appears that the methodology used to design/update the website is the same as how some government and civil service departments operate now.  Take a look at the 'gov.uk' website for its simplicity - there aren't tons of images to load on a page with pictures of each minister, etc.  Take into consideration the amount of data that people who now have less income to be wasting on wasted uploads (relate that to those with limited data plans).  The UK 'gov.uk' site uses simple text, user friendly links, links that actually make sense and don't question your intelligence and a there is complete lack of jargon.......  Then you have the 'gov.bm' website - the complete opposite.  Take a look forward to redesign (pronounced 'simplify') the website and at the same time seriously consider not wasting the public's time with more useless surveys of 'What should we do'; useless in the sense that just like some of the reporters at the COVID press conferences who ask the same questions expecting a different answer - don't do the same thing and make the necessary changes to stimulate the economy along with the number of agri-business ideas, forward thinking ideas such as local distillery, etc.  We cannot use the same methodology and idea base that we used last year and will have to take a real look at how we do business going forward. There is a large number of unemployed persons repatriated to Bermuda recently as well and all the ideas will need to incorporate them as the burden on the system is already great and we will need to see a higher percentage of Bermudians employed in coming months.  Lastly, the last event such as this was World War Two. We will have to be prepared to sacrifice at that level of global constraint in order to survive and put all of our modern experience behind that backdrop.  Compare for yourself:  https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus  https://www.gov.bm/coronavirus
934e0534-e4e4-4388-b541-9a059bfea46a	9	Church = Essential	CHURCH IS ESSENTIAL. We have been deprived of our spiritual needs for too long. It is time for us to physically celebrate the Word of God in communion and be in the presence of God, which feeds and nourishes the spiritual soul. Nothing else can satisfy the soul, the spiritual being. Zoom church has been a great accommodation during this time of crisis and shelter in place, but it is simply not the same. The death of the soul is 100 times worse than physical death itself and we have been deprived of this necessity. We have been far too long without it. I believe our churches are big enough to follow and respect social distancing regulations and any other recommendation or law made by the government. The churches can be open to those who would like to participate again in person but those who wish to stay home, those who are vulnerable, have the option to do as they wish as well. In places such as St. Lucia, and even Italy, which at one point in time was the epicenter of the virus, churches have reopened. If the hair salons and retail stores can open with regulations regarding the safety of the public, so can the churches.
7be265be-9f06-4706-9964-120337d4ffa6	9	Tourism and Travel	Good morning Govt! I’m wondering, can consideration be made to have direct flights between The Caribbean and Bermuda? What is the likelihood of that. We need to open our doors to “like” countries and build each other’s trade in Tourism. It is a different way of doing business and I’m sure we would like to open the borders. There are many pros and some cons, I just think that people are going to be very skeptical about traveling to and through the USA for now. Plus we need to explore other horizons...
1b37e422-edc8-4848-97cf-1d60a070c58b	9	Strategies for Reactivating Bermuda's Events and Meetings	Planning Factory Bermuda has been collaborating with a global network of event professionals so we can share alternative protocols for events and meetings in Bermuda, affecting both local and international visiting groups.  HOW DO WE GET BACK TO EVENTS AND MEETINGS?
895b3040-7e7c-4896-b539-045594cc5434	9	St George’s Marina	Love the Super Yacht iniative By the Department of Tourism and BTA.  2 in St George’s Harbour right now.  Can this now be the time with public and private funding (no sell out) to construct the St George’s marina that has been on the ‘back burner’ for so long.  These vessel owners and crews will boost the local economy, provide jobs for Bermudians, boost the old town of St George in conjunction with the St Regis hotel development who, themselves, have a large marine following and in addition the sight of these beautiful vessels in Bermuda’s waters will themselves be an incredible advertising platform for Bermuda.  Bermudian patriot  Thank you to the Premier and Government of Bermuda for your impressive handling of the Covid-19 pandemic.  We look forward to a new and exciting Bermuda for all of us and our guest workers.
5f7fbf71-5a9a-4f0a-bd28-659d9f326901	9	New Idea for Economic Recovery	3 words: Video Game Development.  The most substantial ideas which have come out in the last five years are: Fintech Development (pending due to the 3 banks not willing to accept the risk), and Decriminalization of Cannabis (still a long way away from Commercialization of Marijuana). Other than a few organic soaps and masks being sold there has been little to no innovation on the island to introduce any new products or services. We can fix that.  Video Game Development allows employees to work safely from home during Covid 19 and beyond. Anyone who is unemployed or underemployed can start work today. It involves not only programmers, but artists, creative writers, and actors, as well as the typical project managers, finance and marketing experts.  Video games are sold globally, not just in Bermuda. This means we can start earning foreign capital in something other than Reinsurance, Tourism or Onions. Students today are learning how to build games, but have nowhere to use those skills in Bermuda. What we need is to help them work together and apply those skills to start selling games internationally.  Am I suggesting opening a new Ministry of Game Development? No (but it does have a nice ring to it).  Should the Government spend millions on this idea? No, they have enough difficulties balancing the budget under the circumstances.  Will this idea make millions overnight? Possibly, but most likely no. Building the next successful game takes skill, luck and a lot of patience.  Will this benefit Bermuda's economy in both the short and long term? Absolutely.
1f049678-0c27-4777-b2f7-a49e06eee01a	9	Numerous Ideas	1. Stimulus tax on everybody  Sharing the load based on your ability to pay.  The more you make the more you contribute.  Stimulus Contribution Tax (SCT)  2. SCT on Board of Governors pay  3. SCT on certain luxury food items. (Stop the sugar tax)  4. Travel Tax...additional $100 Tax. Can apply for refund or exemption when using a travel agency. Students travelling and travel related to graduations and medical travel.  Corporate travelers can pay for a year and get 2 months free.  Pay a year fee once and everytime you travel in that year, you dont have to pay.  5. Reduction in BELCO Bill's.  6. Cellphone SCT... higher tier. Basic service no tax but you will get a charge if you have a higher tier.  7. TCD License...pay an extra $100 per year to license a vehicle for up to 5 years. Example. If you want to not have to go to TCD for two years...you have to pay your license fee for two years plus the extra SCT for each year.  No increase in fuel  8. MP reduction in pay  9. Ministers reduction in pay  10. Drug Money Amnesty.  Those who have large sums of money stash in "community banks" can turn that money in at a 50% tax. They keep 50% and Government gets 50%. From sale of Marijuana  11. Marijuana industry...Government owned and run.  Local grown weed cost less  Imported weed cost more  12. Train locals out of work for jobs. Also how to keep a job.  13. Those parents having children must attend workshops throughout the pregnancy and for the 1st year of the child's life. Online workshop during the first 2 years. They get a reduction in cost on baby items...Pampers for the 1st year.  14. Fish Selling Industry. Licensed fisherman bring their goods to one of three places to sell their stock. Bermudians would then buy their fish from these three places. SCT tax applied to the sale of the items  15. Early retirement for those 55 and above.  16. Retired persons to work at retirement salary. 3 hour max work day  17. Students meeting a set standard in high school can get a 10% reduction in Bermuda College fees.  18. If salary reduction for Government workers is an option. Reduce the take home impact by waving Government matching of Superannuation and whatever else Government matches. A 2 year period.  19. Buy local. Keep your receipts and submit them to get the $100 SCT on your TCD license waved. Based on how much you spent in Bermuda.  20. Shop on your day and you will not get the SCT applied to your total. Shop outside of your day, you will get the SCT applied to your grocery bill.  21. Apply the same breakdown for grocery shopping to laundry use. Honour system  22. Corporate donations to charities. Companies can apply for a reduction in SCT applied to their business.  23. Change for Change  Bermuda day and Cup Match  Bermudians and visitors are encouraged to drop their change in the change mobile. This will encourage people to pick up that penny and contribute it. This will also get young people to be a part and contribute.  24. Young people doing good projects can submit them for waving of the travel SCT or TCD SCT. This will encourage young people to do good and they can get recognised for it.  25. Yearly Premier Award. Individuals submit nominees for the award and why. All sectors of the community. This is a way to honour those who work hard on a daily basis for this community. The awarded are announced over social media and will receive a certificate from the Premier. No elaborate banquet...just the recognition. Honourees will receive a SCT waiver for something...Travel or TCD
ab8dd886-2830-4ca0-b04b-ae13166fa2fc	9	Remove Divisiveness & Promote Inclusiveness	We've been through a particularity divisive, painful and destructive time over the past 30+ years due to political and personal agendas being played out by some. If Bermuda is going to survive at all, let alone thrive, moving forward we have to expose and denounce these divisions and move forward as one collective society. No plan, pursuit or invention will work unless this is done, period!  If we come out of this with the continued prejudicial stereotyping, dog whistling, political/personal divisiveness and race baiting to perpetuate an ongoing agenda of Us vs. Them then there is no point in devising any other plan than to plan of living elsewhere.  Bring our community together and move forward united with investment in sustainable local fisheries, farming, eco tourism, international sports, music and arts expansion, and community programs that help support each other given the hard times expected globally post pandemic.
8cbc77e5-8345-44f0-87ac-e33775c84348	9	We need more people.	Many are focusing on the short term recovery, and rightly so, we need to get the people here out and into the economy again. With everyone unable to connect any other way, we need to facilitate online commerce, making it easier for people to transact locally. But ultimately, with all the local online shopping and "staycations" we are just circulating the same 2¢ and the Bermuda bank account isn’t getting any larger.  I liked the idea of a digital ID that Minister Caines had touched on a couple of years ago. If supported by local banks, this would make it easier and safer for people to do business P2P and P2B, open new accounts, pay online or from their mobile device. It would eliminate the mountains of paperwork created by KYC regulations and could also be links to driver licenses and passports. Being able to check out of a store with a NFC device would make transactions faster and simpler, as would being able to pay another person. There are many technologies out there that provide this functionality, but it may take Government spearheading this initiative to gain local bank support.  In the mean time, many retail businesses are setting up online storefronts to adjust to the situation, which is great, along with that comes payment, facilitation and delivery challenges. Perhaps delivery vehicles could get license relief if drivers gain certain qualifications. Perhaps discounted licence if they use electric vehicles for delivery.  Something Government may want to ensure is in place is some assistance for customer grievances for online purchasing, in addition to policies to protect vendors from unreasonable complaints.  In essence, anything that will help retail or service providers do business digitally.  This alone will not bring back the economy. Along with many other smaller initiatives, it could help to create opportunities.  There are some harsh realities staring down this government, and one is the shrinking population size. Our power costs in total do not fluctuate much from supporting 65K people to 60K people, so if there are 5K less people, those left take on the burden of the balance that was fulfilled by those that left. Similarly, other instances where the infrastructure needs to be in place to supply services to the population. Those of us left will see inflated costs. This also a similar situation with Government’s debt. There is a smaller population contribution to the government’s coffers, which will necessitate an increase in taxes to cover the shortfall.  So with things like power and taxes increasing for the individual, because there are less people now contributing, the rational solution would be to get more people contributing.  How do we do that? Well, the best solution, and simplest, unfortunately is unpalatable to many. We need more people here. I understand there is concern about people taking jobs away from Bermudians, however, these are not necessarily the people we need. We need people who consume products and services, so folks who have made or are making more than enough money to live here and buy expensive retail and food items with higher margins, hire locals for construction, consulting and other services.  We had a lot of these folks once, when IB was booming here, unfortunately we did not look at how we could keep them here when situations changed. I am sure we have done this with our many committees set up to provide these same recommendations, but bring the heads of the IB and large local businesses together and find out what they need to bring people here and keep them here. People are a resource, and we once had a great thing going, but that seems to have been squandered for the time being.  Sure there are folks who will always feel they missed an opportunity to be the CEO of a fortune 500 company, but we need to bring money back to the island so we are not passing the same buck around to each other.  There are a couple alternatives to this unpopular train of thought, but they are likely going to be received lukewarmly as well. First, we have a whole bunch of folks here who have lived, worked and are still working here some have attained status, some just PRCs and some are stateless. This number is dwindling as those with PRCs feel they have no more future or opportunity here. With them they take their spending potential. They are already here, working living, spending. They are not taking jobs from Bermudians, they are already working and have permission from the Government to do so. Then there are the Stateless. Here, and have always been here, but have none of the rights as their friends and relatives who happened to be born in the right place at the right time. I would suggest we bring these people into the fold. Show them they are appreciated and there is a future and opportunity here for them. Give them status or provide some pathway to status that then in turn would encourage them to grow deeper roots and provide opportunities to other here.  If the previous two ideas were not liked, then this one will really go over well. Still focusing on getting more people here, specifically people with capital and spending power. We seem to have come into ownership of a half-built facility with no plans on how to get it to pay for itself. Perhaps, there is an opportunity here. There are still folks out there with a good sum of money looking to retire. I know, it is madness to think about retiring here. How an we make that palatable?  This property could be completed(if we can get the money) and zoned and sold as a retirement community where someone could buy a unit, and receive residency here. I am not a lawyer and there may be some legal implications here, tax avoidance and such, so this one is iffy, but if we could sell each unit at a price that would in total cover the cost with some profit for each unit, then at least that is that white elephant taken care of. They would have to be finished properly to warrant the tidy sum and it would need to be designed for retirees, with access to all the facilities that well-off retired folk like to have available. To make it more appealing they could receive the same benefits as seniors do here, and perhaps we can work with the insurance companies to create a plan for them through the corporation running the property. So essentially we are selling PRCs for a small fortune and they get a free waterfront townhouse out of it.  We could also provide PRC for people who buy very expensive homes, but they cannot work. That idea might need some fleshing out though. But it doesn’t hurt to think about how we can capitalise on that potential revenue.  Here in Bermuda we have potentially one of the nicest places in the world to live, even today with the tarnish, there is still a shine underneath. The majority are still friendly, it is still relatively safe and it is in a great spot in the middle of the Atlantic where we can get to both continents relatively easily, barring any global pandemics, then we are safe, surrounded by a giant moat.  Unfortunately, we produce nothing, have nothing to sell and our tourism business cannot pay for our debt alone. IB is shrinking as an industry for various reasons. But we still need the money. Now, we talked about selling in the last idea, well, this will likely be the least popular of my ideas, but probably one of the most lucrative. It won’t require us to pay anything, finish building deserted hotels or sacrifice Bermudian jobs. But it could bring in millions. It has been suggested before and has been done with varying degrees of success in other jurisdictions. We just need to look at what worked and what didn’t for them and tailor a solution for us.  You probably have guessed that the next suggestion is selling citizenship. Now before you throw eggs, hear me out. In other countries, people can buy property over a certain amount and have a pathway to status, or they can set up a business that employs a minimum number of people, in addition to paying the government a good deal of money and have a pathway to status. So logic would dictate that these folks would have a few pennies to rub together, they are just the people we are looking for! If we can entice them.  I am not saying throw open the gates and let every billionaire in, but let’s look at it and find the right price, the right set of circumstances and perhaps limit it annually based on the current population targets. Some sort of lottery or auction or waiting list. If it was say $1mil for status, and limited to 20 people in a year, that is $20mil straight to the Govt’s bottom line, and then they have to purchase houses, cars, furniture, food, gas, electricity, etc. They pay land tax, insurance, and have their houses renovated, cleaned and painted. So there is much greater potential than that initial $1mil. I am sure the Government would be keen to have that income right now.  Many of those ideas cost us nothing, other than conflicting with the narrative that foreigners are a burden and remove opportunity. Well the loss of guest workers has clearly had an adverse effect on the economy, even before the pandemic, and now with tourism scuppered for the foreseeable future, perhaps my fellow Bermudians would be receptive to more unorthodox ideas. If you think about it, if we welcome new folks into our island family to live and grow and invest and multiply, just as we have in the past to those from the islands, UK, Azores, etc, in a few generations their progeny would be as Bermudian as the rest of us. I believe it has to be thought out, we have to be selective and find the best match for us as an island community.  Finally, I just want to touch on the pink elephant in the corner. The government’s payroll. I am not an accountant, but it is clear it is unsustainable to employ over a 5th of the working population and have the rest foot the bill. I don’t want to see a whole whack of fellow Bermudians suddenly unemployed like we have seen this past month in the private sector. That doesn’t help the situation at all. But the Civil Service as a whole should reduce its size significantly. Now if that means consolidating departments or spinning off branches into the private sector that could flourish, training folks to take things to the next level in the private sector and being very focused on efficiency in hiring and team building. There are a lot of clever people on this island, I am sure there must be a way we can reduce the size of the Civil Service as painlessly as possible. Attrition alone won’t be enough as the economy continues its downward trend.  People also have to be honest. Some in the Civil Service (just like in the private sector) are not the best performers. There should be accountability and standards to be met as the taxpayer pays a premium for this service. Those who do not meet the standard should be assisted out of the civil service into a training programme, or placement programme that gets them on a path more in line with their skill set. We have to stop promoting people who cannot perform to get them out of the way(because we cannot let them go). We have to stop hiring and promoting friends and family unless they are suitably qualified and meet the high standards we should expect. People need to take pride in their work and perform to the best of their ability. The government cannot do this alone. It is going to take everyone playing a part tot he best of their ability and recognising when their abilities are not quite enough. And we really need to look at unnecessary consultants and ministers. These positions should not be used as a reward for party faithful or friends and family, by any party.  The good news is, if we implemented the aforementioned ideas, there should be much more opportunity in the private sector. There is nothing new here really, that has not been put forth by the Sage Report or Bermuda First, we need to put politics aside and get on with what will get us moving in an upward direction.  We cannot keep setting up committees to figure out "comprehensive immigration reform", at some point we are going to have to do something and unfortunately you cannot make all the pope happy all the time. But if the numbers reflect growth, and people are back to work, I bet there will be a lot more happy people than there are today.  TLDR;  * Do what it takes to make retail easier and more efficient - pushing local digital storefronts, strategies and IDs. * We need more people to pay the costs of the government and power. * Get PRCs and Stateless pathways to status right away. * turn Caroline Bay into a retirement community for the well-off foreigner complete with a PRC. * Citizenship lottery/purchase for job makers and well-off. * Reduce the size and cost of the civil service and government.
095ac9d5-9af1-45e1-b10c-a91da0276694	10	Sell crumbling properties	There are a number of houses across the island falling apart. Wedco is sitting on acres of crumbling former apartment buildings. Bermuda housing corporation is sitting on Grand Atlantic and millions of dollars worth of properties. There should be a program to begin selling crumbling properties owned by government to Bermudians and as well ones over a certain price to overseas investors with their investment tied to granting PRC status. Also, there should be a scheme where privately owned properties can be connected with potential bidders as it is difficult to find information on owners in many cases. This can provide stamp duty and jobs in construction. This can attract inwards investment as well
96b5c14b-7ac0-41e7-97f9-6934101c1ae8	10	Curfew for phase 3	In my opinion I think the curfew should still take place for phase 3 but a feasible time should be 6:00 am to 12:00 am (midnight).  I  believe midnight will be a good time because 10 pm is too early for the summer and phase 4 should go back as normal. :)
8a7e652b-3b8f-4b85-a2a0-a74eeca3e247	10	2nd hand vehicles.	As vehicles are so expensive to buy when new in Bermuda, there is a significant 2nd hand car and scooter market.  This is also enhanced by the transient nature of a proportion of the population, who, at the expiry of work permits, regularly leave the Island. In my view, it would be a good idea to allow the formulation of companies that buy and sell pre owned vehicles to those elements of the population unable/unwilling to purchase brand new vehicles. the new companies would be able to buy from members of the public, at perhaps a lower price than available on emoo, but without the hassle for the seller of having to sell privately. The new company would then take on a warranty obligation, together with the logistics of liaison with insurance companies and TCD, similar to the way that car dealerships currently do in the brand new market, and then sell on to members of the public. Buying via emoo, when spending $000’s is risky for those without mechanical know how. It would give peace of mind to purchasers, profitability to dealers and ensure vehicles were mechanically roadworthy.  New car dealerships could even offer a trade in of an old car when the owner wishes to trade up and buy new.
2c7b5ab9-13bc-49ca-9277-039660ba3239	10	Help stimulate local economy	I believe bringing back gaming machines  into social clubs, bars,, and restsurants can help stimulate the industry that has not been doing well for the past few years.  All the machines can be regulated as to be certain the owners give the customer a fair chance of winning. This can be enforced by hiring gaming officers. Also,  the owner will need to apply for a license yearly. The licenses fees can be based on how many machines in the establishments.  There also can b a cap on how many machines allowed in any establisment.  These fees will generate revenue for Government.  Keep in mind no longer can we say people will spend all their money. (The naysayers) persons can easily and readily game and sports bet on their phones, tablets etc. Bermudians also travel by cruise ship and frequently travel to Vegas where gaming is openly available.  Secondly  this Government needs to attract other countries especially with their own airlines to fly to Bermuda.  For an example Asia, middle East and the carribean.  We should not only rely on the Americam dollar.  There are Air China , Emeriates and Air Jamaica to name a few.  Thanks  Philip Bailey Jr.
b120ad72-2998-4f00-b8f0-a64519bf5151	10	Economic stimulation For Bermuda through Eco tourism and a new Marine Park.	Economic Stimulation for Bermuda through eco tourism and a new Marine Park/turtle sanctuary.  While sharing the beauty of Bermuda with our VRBO (vacation rental guests) one of the most cherished experiences for them is witnessing wild sea turtles up close in our crystal clear waters. We live on Long Bay next to Cambridge Beaches Hotel.  My suggestion would be to utilise this beautiful natural and free resource by creating a Nature Park, incorporating Mangrove Bay, Kings Point, Somerset Long Bay to Daniels Head and perhaps beyond to Wreck Hill.  Focus tourism towards eco friendly/oceanic experiences and heavily feature the Marine Park and Bermuda Turtle Sanctuary.  The new Bermuda Coastguard HQ is now conveniently located on Watford Island where the running of the Sea Park could be coordinated. Boating traffic would be controlled within the park at speeds TBD. Mooring balls could be installed around the perimeters of the park to discourage anchoring. Exemptions could be granted for tour guides and commercial fishermen.  Somerset Village could capitalise on being the destination/entrance to the eco park. Several under utilised or moth balled vacation properties are within a short distance of Somerset Village and/or adjacent to the coast line of the prospective Sea Park. These include Daniels Head (currently vacant) and Willowbank.  There is also ample scope to develop bistros, cafes, and other tourist related commerce such as bicycle/kayak rentals and eco tours within the village infrastructure.  This would also enhance the experience and drive traffic to the local Vacation rental market.  A little further a field is the now defunct Lantana property and the as yet, undeveloped Morgans Point which is currently in a state of flux. These properties could be linked to the Somerset village hub and Sea Park via use of the railway trail. Its flat and perfect for cycling. A new pedestrian/cycle bridge could be reinstalled at Somerset Bridge.  Looking a little further afield in terms of timing and distance, there are multiple properties under the WEDCO portfolio which have been vacant for many years. WEDCO is actively looking to put them to use.  The Bermuda Turtle Project who’s mandate is to “promote the conservation of marine turtles through research and education” in conjunction with The Sea Turtle Conservancy could be brought on board to help direct affairs; as could the Internationally renowned Bermuda Institute of Oceanic Sciences.  In closing, as we look towards the New Normal in Bermuda post Covid19, its worth baring in mind that todays Tourists are now more environmentally conscious and want to help conserve fragile environments for future generations.
394acd55-2003-4358-b273-7dd798510912	10	Health Insurance Preiums for next few months	As no one is going to Drs, Dentists, Opticians, Physio etc.. for at least 4 weeks probably longer - Health Insurance companies and making a killing.  Anyway of have a month or 2 of reduced health insurance premium biils from Colonial, Argus, BFM... Have done some rough estimates as they will make a fortune for a month averaging $900 per person, seems a little unfair they profit massively?
be89747f-271b-442c-b53f-e8da0e90380a	10	Second car	In my line of business (Rental mini cars and sales) i have seen a massive interest in having the option of owning a mini car as a second vehicle if it can be had on the same assessment number. This would be a brand new revenue stream for govt. with a special license fee attached.  Persons taking advantage of this would be open to be charged a premium price for this privilege based on our experience.  So the proposal is to allow a second car on the same assessment number as long as the car is electric and as long as it is a micro car.  This proposal also creates a new business model which would lead to a small  increase in employment.  We have already submitted this proposal in writing on numerous occasions and have met with the Transportation Minister in a similar regard.
bf06b5e7-89c5-48ef-90e7-192c88f4682c	10	Local Food Supply	Because Bermuda is so dependent on imported agricultural foods, we seem to be at a serious disadvantage should outside sources, shipping, etc. have to be restricted for one reason or another. Would it be possible for the Bermuda Government to set up a serious teaching/training facility to enable residents, children, etc. to learn to grow our own food.  I believe that the need to pay tuition would be acceptable, and that the response/support for such a programme would be solid.
d4cf7614-a0f9-4814-8ba1-4a3ef1b576c2	10	National Recycling plan	Bermuda should consider making a national recycle plan which would implement a full scale recycling plant in Bermuda for all materials (glass, paper, tin, plastics etc.)  This can also be instituted within the education system and allow our students to learn about how Bermuda can benefit from recycling these materials and applying them locally.  This will also allow for increased job security as well as reducing refuse on-island.
d58b3eeb-452a-43a0-99ca-bb6d343ca802	10	The Bermuda National Sea Kayak Trail - a new low-impact eco-tourism initiative	Look at a map of Bermuda, and then imagine just the coastline of the main islands and the hundreds of smaller islands dotted around them. Bermuda might be only 21 square miles but it has a staggering 180 miles of beautiful coastline teeming with coral reefs, dolphins, whales, giant sea turtles, interesting rock formations, beautiful vistas, beaches, national parks and sunsets... From the ocean, the hustle and bustle and over-development of Bermuda fades away into the peace and beauty of our waters and coastline.  Sea kayaking is a very popular activity with many devoted participants looking for the next adventure holiday of a lifetime. With very minimal investment in very basic infrastructure, and some well targetted marketing, Bermuda could catapault itself onto the bucket list of thousands of sea kayakers around the world.  This would be a low impact addition to our tourism model. The daily spend per visitor might be equivalent to a cruise ship visitor or somebody who comes to stay with family in Bermuda. It is also tailor made for social distancing. The economic activity it could generate would include:  * Hiring out kayaks and other equipment to visitors for multi-day expeditions; * Kayak tour leaders to lead less confident visitors on their adventures; * Provisions, meals, souvenirs, taxi rides, etc.; * Concierge services for kayakers travelling with minimal baggage and supplies. * Permits (see below). It would also have an indirect benefit in that kayakers would spread photos and videos of their adventures in Bermuda online, inspiring other people to visit.  What infrastructure would it require?  Again, this involves looking at Bermuda from the outside in. A "trail" would have to be developed, which would essentially be a suggested route around Bermuda's coastline, taking in as many of the sights as possible.  Wild camping sites would have to be designated, which could be in national parks or on private land adjacent to the coast. There could be a scheme where kayakers would buy a camping permit, with the proceeds shared among the Parks Department and private landowners who participate by allowing kayakers to use their land.  Thought could be given to stand pipes for fresh water at convenient points, although this may not be essential, as adventure tourists would be able to figure this out if not provided for them.  There could be a printed or online guide to the trail, showing the locations of things like public docks, public toilet and shower facilities, and shops and food establishments that are easily accessible from the coastline.
20f91371-bff4-4d84-bb0d-89b63d2954a9	10	Sell government land to low income persons	Sell government owned land that is either no longer in use or vacant land. This land should be sold to Bermudians for affordable housing/land purchases or to be used as small farm land or other small business.  This will gain the government a small but good Start and help the people of Bermuda at the same time. If used for farming this will cut down on the countries reliance on imports of fruits and vegetables during a pandemic or shortage overseas.
fcb97d71-ab53-4962-9354-c45dde86c430	10	Hospitality training	I believe that we need to re-educate the island that to provide service is not the same as being a servant.  During this quiet time without visitors, it is an opportune time to really train Bermudians how to be world-class waiters, bar tenders, etc.   Waiting tables in a high end restaurant requires that you understand different dishes and how they are prepared, have a basic understanding of wines and pairings, etc.  This does not come without training.  If work force development could put together a certification for these hospitality jobs Bermudians could be ready to fill those positions when we re-open to tourists.
600a2512-d0e2-4069-8516-1e7b155e1cef	10	Pay for Participation: Double you Government Subsidy by Improving Bermudaa	Currently, the Government, I believe, provides a subsidy for those who were working and are now 'not working'.  This aids in one respect, some personal financial relief, but does not help with improving the Islands situation or help those who do NOT want to be paid to do nothing... there is no carrot and way too much mental or financial stick due to the circumstances .. the payments are not progressive or productive in many sense of well being.  My idea is that Departments of Government create 'carrots' for 'pay'... I believe some people who are unemployed now would like to have some fulfillment for the payments they receive... and associated could receive more if committed... Bermuda has a whole lot of able bodied people sitting around inside doing nothing productive... we need to help them and society be productive.  Subsidy payments should be increased for those willing to do work... Government projects... out doors of course... that improve things.  Departments would devise these projects... such as road side cleaning... shoreline trash collection... invasive species removal from parks and nature reserves... painting buildings... mowing lawns...: activities that are active... outdoors and stimulating... if we don't improve our Island ourselves... and this gives us some opportunity... no one else is going to do it for us.   And society can NOT afford to pay people to do nothing... and many people would prefer to do something and contribute than have no options...  Directors of Departments could devise these projects... start small... 9 people per group... kitted out with protection and simple tools... like bags... hand saws... etc.  And go course gloves and masks... go through parks and pick up trash.... cut out invasive seedlings or saplings along beaches... do something worthwhile.  Maybe that will improve our future... reward participants with incentives...
c63bcf1e-8428-416e-a0d9-df0a94650d7a	10	Naval Bases	Court the US/UK/Canada to return to the island for military operations and space administration.  The land left behind has been poorly utilised since they have left and the influx of people during the time was great exposure for Bermuda.
a972bdb8-2e37-4fbb-ba75-5b5fec028613	10	Vacation rentals	It may be possible to have limited tourists here this year if we can assure the public of their safety by keeping them away from the local population as much as possible. For example, I have 2 vacation rentals that are on the water and separated from neighbours by a public road. It seems possible that a family could come and enjoy the property and beaches, make use of the kayaks as long as they keep their distance from everyone. All groceries can be delivered as well as any catered food.  The hosts can also help with deliveries or anything else that may be necessary to keep the guests happy and safe. Perhaps the Govt can come up with some cleaning protocols in between guests and perhaps some assistance, monetary or otherwise, in providing the necessary cleaning products or methods to clean a property while keeping the cleaners safe. For example perhaps only Covid certified cleaners are allowed to clean these accommodations.  If there is a sizeable additional expense associated with that, then some financial assistance in that area would be helpful. Even if we started with just a trickle of tourists, the social media attention it would get would be great exposure. But we can’t over do it! Those are my thoughts on how some vacation rentals units may be a viable way to get some tourists here.
70ea6a12-b3b8-44f0-91ff-9232ab694ef6	10	Develop the railway trails	Can we look into developing the railway trails as a safe commute for people on pedal bikes, walkers, wheelchairs, and joggers?  Could we pave it and light it so that our health-conscious citizens and tourist have a safe path to travel along and ride their e-bikes without having to come into contact with cars, trucks, and motorcycles? Cities all over the world have safe walking and riding paths for their citizens. We can line the path with solar-powered lights so people can see. Pave a few spots so it's safe for people in wheelchairs. Put up signs in spots to say what's interesting about the plants, animals, people, and history of the area. connect the island from end to end in a path we can traverse on foot
fcd4da51-8805-41cb-81a2-aeb807becc11	10	Regular Hotel Memberships?	Would hotels consider opening their properties similar to the member clubs on island for use of pools/gyms/spa? The hotels around the island have pools and basic gyms which do not have monthly/annual family membership offerings available but could be convenient to those who do not want to go into town or may not golf/play tennis. This could encourage locals to use hospitality facilities through the use of gyms, purchasing food/beverage at pools and restaurants which would help hotel and staff providing revenue when they may not have tourists this year.
d24bd25a-a4d3-48dc-87f4-d0325788366a	10	Summer 2020	What I would like to suggest is that the tourism department and govt work with hotels and different Bermudian establishments ie restaurants, things to do, etc and do a staycation blitz for Bermudians to spend their vacation here and spend our dollars here.  Of course we want tourists to come in also but I think it will be a slow recovery for that this summer.
d72aaa58-5107-43fb-882b-fcc86e0523d7	10	Cost reduction of civil service	Re introduce furloughs for civil service , quangos and arms length bodies such as Wedco BCAA BTA BDA etc   equivalent to 20% for those earning $130k and above 10% for those below.  ask exempt companies to donate more laptops for public schools.  re open take outs /restaurants for delivery /curbside pick up social distanced in person pick up.  add groceries stores workers as essential person who need testing! They interact with the public every day .
bdc2acfe-7af4-4c52-bcde-d543534fb042	10	Legalize Marijuana	Time to legalize marijuana and taxes it.
dff2a2cd-f819-4b6b-a0b5-cc25255e8f00	10	A Crisis in Hong Kong: A New IB Pillar in Bermuda	[Written 24-May-20]  TLDR; Build a Second Pillar of International Business in Bermuda by providing economic refugee status to Hong Kong business owners in Finance, Insurance, Trading and Logistics who relocate their headquarters to Bermuda to escape the ongoing constitutional crisis with Beijing.  1997 was a turning point: the United Kingdom finally decided to relinquish control of Hong Kong to China, but only under a specific set of rules and a 50 year timeline. Until 2047 Hong Kong was to be self-determined with its own systems of capitalism, currency, legal, legislative, human rights and other freedoms experienced in the Western democracies.  This is all about to change.  For over a year now news from around the world has picked up a constant stream of protests, and sometimes violent incidents between protesters and Beijing-backed police forces. More recently we've also seen pro-Beijing politicians use physical force to successfully take over democratic committee's in the legislative council. The Chinese Communist Party's intent is clear: Hong Kong is being forced to convert to communist state control nearly three decades early.  Whether you agree or disagree with the Chinese economic model it is clear the One Country, Two Systems solution is on its way out, and not in the favour of Hong Kong's free market or its citizens who are used to the freedoms, trading status and wealth that came with it. Follow any media outlet and you'll also see political and trade tensions rising between the Western world (particularly the US) and China on a weekly basis - this is likely to get worse before it gets better and I believe Hong Kong will become a proxy.  [News Update 27-May-20: "The U.S. has certified that Hong Kong is no longer politically autonomous from China, a move that could have far-reaching consequences on the special trading status the former British colony has with the U.S., Secretary of State Michael Pompeo said."]  What we do know is that Hong Kong pre-2019 had the second highest economic freedom score after Singapore (another city-state Bermuda has considered modeling after), along with one of the most prosperous international business sectors in the world. Total GDP in the $400 Billion range.  Bermuda, in contrast, is in a dire economic state with an even worse outlook thanks to a decade of decline and now the COVID-19 situation. A $4+ Billion total public & private debt is starting to hurt. What we need is an injection of outside capital not just in the short term, but in the medium and long term to improve economic sustainability. We need another Pillar of International Business.  Why is Hong Kong such a great option and what are the similarities?  * A few of the main industries that support Hong Kong's economy are: Finance, Insurance, Trading & Logistics - extremely complimentary to Bermuda's current IB infrastructure. * Many of Bermuda's (re)insurers and law firms already have branches in Hong Kong, making the outreach and transition much more effective. We also have a history of re-domiciling companies from Hong Kong, starting in a similar period of uncertainty - Jardine Matheson was one of the first. This would also be a great way to grow our existing access to the massive East Asian markets and funds, where we're only now scratching the surface. * Many Hong Kong companies are already listed on Bermuda's BSX. * Those businesses who cannot operate under the future state-controlled CCP model will need to make contingency plans: many will be seeking options with a one-foot-out-the-door strategy in the short term. Bermuda is a perfect place for this headquarters reorganization, or simply a second office close to North America and Europe. * The businesses being attracted will be exempt, and as with other exempt industries can be mandated to have a 20%+ Bermudian workforce. They will also be renting offices, apartments; buying houses, groceries, air conditioning etc. * Hong Kong operates primarily under English Common Law (Bermuda does as well). * Citizens of Hong Kong speak English (46% overall, but most in the international business arena), and the majority have been through some of the world's best educations systems. Bermuda could use a more diverse personal connection to Asian economies and this would certainly help. * Cayman has already taken so much of our Asian legal business (majority which used to be ours) and have laid a foundation to increase their share - Bermuda needs to do the same. * 315,000 Hong Kong citizens are already British National (Overseas) passport holders, and all of them were British Citizens as early as 1997. * The UK is rumoured to be planning a similar offer. [Update 29-May-20: the UK is now formally considering offer extendable 12 month live/work visas and pathway to citizenship for up to 3 million HK residents] * This is a great way to offer a moral and Human Rights-positive option for people who are arguably entering a time of personal and economic oppression. They will need the worlds support to continue their lives in a self-directed, pro-freedom and democratic system. Hong Kong's economy is vast and Bermuda would only need to attract a very small number to start seeing the benefits.  Finally: it's a way out of our downward spiral. We don't have to give up full citizenship (12-month extendable permits / PRC if they relocate / invest / immediately hire Bermudians), it will increase our foreign capital trade, it will bring more jobs to Bermudians and it will vastly increase the tax revenue, local spend and transactions within Bermuda by having these people and companies here.  If this sounds like a good idea, we should also encourage local businesses to drive this growth by providing similar opportunities to the people who already live and work here, along with their overseas colleagues who will grow our existing IB industry at the same time.  UPDATE (27-May-20): - Here goes their autonomy/trade status:  "US Says Hong Kong Autonomy is Gone"  https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-05-27/pompeo-finds-hong-kong-is-no-longer-autonomous-from-china  ( https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-05-27/pompeo-finds-hong-kong-is-no-longer-autonomous-from-china )   UPDATE (1-Jun-20): US considers welcoming Hong Kong people, entrepreneurs.  https://www.reuters.com/article/us-hongkong-protests-usa-pompeo/pompeo-says-u-s-considering-welcoming-hong-kong-people-entrepreneurs-idUSKBN23837A  ( https://www.reuters.com/article/us-hongkong-protests-usa-pompeo/pompeo-says-u-s-considering-welcoming-hong-kong-people-entrepreneurs-idUSKBN23837A )   UPDATE (2-Jun-20): The UK has asked Australia, New Zealand, United States and Canada to consider offering residency to Hong Kong citizens to ease a major flight.  https://www.smh.com.au/world/europe/uk-may-ask-australia-to-give-residency-to-fleeing-british-hong-kong-residents-20200603-p54yws.html  ( https://www.smh.com.au/world/europe/uk-may-ask-australia-to-give-residency-to-fleeing-british-hong-kong-residents-20200603-p54yws.html )
b066df59-a9ee-4022-b980-ddcef3ab1bc9	10	Immigration	All Bermudians be given the opportunity to work in their industry without being exploited. There are far too many migrant workers here many have no clue what they are doing. Example when an electrical project starts Bermudians need to be given 1st opportunity, these projects should be sourced out to small local businesses before any migrant worker comes on island (currently company A can have majority of the projects and continue to hire guest workers while other companies have no work for their staff) Also these companies have used the excuse that Bermudians are not qualified for far too long (a lie) only to allow their friends in. Companies have used unjustified hours, wages and intimidation to discourage Bermudians. Otherwise an independent team needs to vet the process as the current model at the department does not work. Bermudians First. I will encourage the Government to bring all the local tradesmen together to discuss this further. Also I have many other recommendations for a later time.
79ff03a9-370e-4623-9c35-3afa210f3056	10	No need for job Stipulations  all deserves a chance to business success	Businesses and homes  must have a safety net if they fall in a delinquent down slope of any reason.This slavery way of business needs to stop.
3aa7d3cf-a372-44f1-a004-a17dcc571c47	10	time to reduce government overreach	This is the perfect time for the government to start de-regulating and reducing the size of the government. Areas to start would be the modernization of the  road traffic act, impose fines instead of mandatory court appearance, allow business to buy vehicles as needed without having to beg the gov't for permission. allow people to purchase vehicles that they want, i.e pickup trucks, etc..  allow for 2nd vehicles (perhaps 2nd vehicle has to be an A class or electric).  legalize and tax marijuana and subsequent spin off businesses for a new income stream.  Allow the promised casinos to be built.  Start infrastructure projects to make island safer. sidewalks down major roadways would be a good example of this.  Modernize and gut the Planning department, or increase staffing to streamline the process to remove the current delays.
bd72b612-6cab-4f8a-8b9f-77e9de17568d	10	Public Works: Turn Marsh Folly into a Central Park (finally!)	TLDR: With plans underway to take horticultural waste elsewhere, Public Works should take on a scalable conversion of Marsh Folly into a public park to stimulate otherwise lost construction jobs, leaving a low-income area with significantly improved property values, Bermuda with a large recreational park (unbroken cycle and running lanes like Central Park), and a preventative healthcare initiative that gets more people outside.  Turning Marsh Folly into a park is a long-held dream for many over the past century. However, the stars are aligning in Bermuda to finally make it happen for the benefit of us all, and in particular the benefit of those neighborhood surrounding it.  Healthcare reform and waste infrastructure redevelopment are two initiatives the Bermuda Government are already undertaking. Alongside this is a challenging cost of living and wealth disparity. The following cover the general situation:  Healthcare:  * Bermuda is in a health crisis which is evident in cost of healthcare, overuse of services, health statistics and lack of preventative care (by individuals and society). * It is sometime difficult and dangerous to exercise on our tight public roadways, and there aren't many alternatives. * The Government needs to be seen making progress for the people towards a more sustainable healthcare future. Waste Infrastructure:  * There is movement towards re-development of Tynes Bay into a more comprehensive and modern waste-to-energy plant, including the ability to take the volume of horticultural waste currently going to Marsh Folly. * The dumping of horticultural waste at Marsh Folly is also a significant detriment to the water lens and ecology of this valley leading all the way to Mills Creek. As we all know - it also catches fire now and then! Wealth Disparity  * Most homeowners in Bermuda are feeling financial pressure in the current economy – a significant number of whom are located in a single area North of Hamilton. Public Works Economic Stimulation Projects:  * The Bermuda Government needs to find beneficial labour-based construction projects to spend on to keep the economy going. Scalability is key. What do these have to do with each other?  Finally turn Marsh Folly into a public central park.  Why now and what will this do?  * Government is tackling healthcare costs, but preventative care through the promotion of exercise, getting outdoors and using open space is of equal importance. The Government need to be seen promoting better health and providing means to make it happen. No greater and simpler way to do so than creating a public park with exercise lanes (running, cycling) and workout stations. * Note that there is no other place in Bermuda that has the potential to hold formal exercise routes away from congested and dangerous public roads – this should get support across the Island. * Tynes Bay is already going to be converted to allow horticultural waste (plant waste), but could be accelerated through the use of a drying machine (allow it to start converting next year instead of a few years from now). * Turning a waste dump into a public park in the middle of many lower-income neighborhoods and homeowners will immediately start raising the value of property and rentals in the area, and thus the wealth of North Hamilton, St. Monica’s and more. * A Public Works project like this is also scalable: need to stimulate more? Create a longer paved running route. Need to scale back? Don't build that extra bathroom - at least now you have a fantastic park and green space. This would also just make Bermuda a better place.
e8f3211d-83e9-4dba-8b6e-f29b6a7578c7	10	Encourage/Support Growth in BDA's Agricultural Sector!	This idea offers three broad recommendations:  1 - If not done as yet, create a working group to develop wide-ranging policies and tangible support for stimulating growth in Bermuda's Agricultural sector, which for presentation purposes will include residential/community urban agriculture and homesteading as well as commercial industry.  2 - Review, revise and where applicable, implement policies identified in the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)'s Crop Strategy 2016 - 2021.  3 - Increase Public Access to areas and resources that support island-wide community gardening / foraging.  WHAT GOOD WILL THIS DO?  At least seven things:  1 - Increase food security: gives citizens the skills and resources needed to grow/ produce more of their own food locally and reduce over-dependence on global food supply, which is firmly trending towards increased costs over the next 30 years.  2 - Create more jobs: individuals at all age levels, physical abilities and skill sets are able to access jobs needed in the local agricultural sector (which statistically is aging out due to the lack of sufficient young emerging farmers). Not enough space in Bermuda? Not true anymore. Modern innovations in urban agriculture have identified and significantly expanded available growing possibilities, opening up previously untapped and unthought-of spaces for growing food. Additionally, emerging research in forest waste product technologies  could create jobs and sector growth by attracting specialists and highly skilled professionals, as well as potentially result in innovative new products to market.  3 - Create cost savings: Citizens growing more of their own food reduce grocery costs and household expenditure. Improved health arising from healthy and nutritious local/homegrown foods reduce healthcare costs.  4 - Improve community health: increased physical fitness and healthy food choices arising from home gardening results in improved physical and mental health at all levels.  5 - Enhance Quality Of Life for seniors: Gardening and homesteading seniors pass on valuable skills and memories to the young, while improving their health and sense of worth, as well as contribute to their own economic stability. Land-owning seniors can employ, lease or rent out their yards or properties (even derelict lands) to young enterprising farmers, in exchange for cash, landscape management / site security services and/or fresh produce. Even end-of-life seniors can plant community "food heritage" trees which can continue to feed families for generations.  6- Create emergency food reserves: Numerous local forage plants offer solutions now, but are unknown and underutilized for their potential to assist feeding programs in times of national emergency. Careful research, planning, land trusts and culinary innovation would greatly assist families and individuals to find food in conditions of financial/ disaster-related hardship.  7 - Strengthen communities: Families in community garden settings often work together and help each other address shared needs. This improves natural surveillance which can lead to reduction in crime and anti-social behaviour in the community.  In short, growing our local agricultural sector could result in a wide variety of short, medium and long-term socio-economic benefits.  All views welcome.
ed387eb6-ce7f-47cd-a9e5-36902615bc79	10	Facilitating E-gov.bm	More emphasis needs to be placed on the ease and simplicity of collection of revenue with the current global conditions associated with  COVID19.  There seems to be a huge reluctance to develop a simple interface that can capture all government payments.  Currently, some government departments can accept online payments with ease but many have differing sites/interfaces.  The E1 system could be better utilised to facilitate this concept as it currently seems to do a decent enough job to manage all of the external vendors and their associated payments.  Every Bermudian should at least have a Social Insurance number that could easily be used as an identifier for tax purposes for instance.  This in turn could be a booster for persons who have been avoiding payroll tax, social insurance payments, etc.  It is ironic now that some individuals and businesses are now in need of financial support of the government in these times and are now forced to register but have been penalised for failing to abide by the law which represents a huge loss in revenue for the government.  Going forward, a better regulatory system needs to be in place as our economy needs all the help it can get.  Lastly, a conversion to an 'e-system' of billing and notifications needs to be implemented.  Sending mail via post for demands (such as registering for pension benefits at 65, outstanding payroll tax or fees for having a well at your house) need to be digitized.  There is a huge demand on electricity for photocopying documents, many of which arent readily available online. Secondary to the latter, the demand on  consumables (paper, copier toner, staples, service charges) is great. There is a resul possibility for budgetary savings by eliminating something as seemingly straightforward as an application - many of which are single sided!  Place the onus on technology and rely on the fact that all age groups are generally technically able to use an e-system or have access to even a funky member to assist. Gone are the days when the ageing population was not as savvy in the area of technology.  The overall intent would be to streamline the current efficiency of government and allow for easier demands/collections and thereby releasing some of the line item costs that would be reduced significantly.
78a5f528-5a11-4888-8816-287701388523	10	Immigration	Please consider that as proven by this current pandemic, we cannot rely on tourism. I hope you will look to opening up immigration to bring in more business and more people to boost our economy. Economy was flagging anyway prior to this. One of the reasons for this was our immigration policy that dissuades non Bermudians from coming to our shores.  I have to commend this government for how they’ve handled everything during this pandemic and want you to know that you have probably swayed my vote, but only if you continue to do the right thing for ALL of the people at Bermuda, not just the current PLP voters.
051f4703-f1e3-48c1-9b47-66cbdb0853fd	10	Additional ideas	* Initiate body-temperature monitoring and disinfection steps that have supplemented government efforts in public spaces. * Now more that ever you need to diversify the local economy outside of Reinsurance companies, develop local manufacturing companies, expand technology, perhaps market to technology hubs.
1f613cdf-581a-4d8d-92aa-80e742deaa6b	10	Initial Phase / Longer Term	We need to plan for economic collapse.  Longer term, but if we ask landlords to allow their lawns to be used for food growing production, this should help us a little.  Local groups could band together to start this off for people who cannot till the soil.
ddf363df-9352-4b9d-a400-76472204901e	10	Bermuda for Bermudians in Tourism	It is time for us to promote Bermuda in the Tourism industry showing the real pictures of Bermudians to entice tourists to come here so that they know what Bermuda is all about.  In the Tourism industry we need to make sure we hire Bermudians to promote Bermuda.  Non Bermudians can not be passionate about Bermuda if they have not lived here and do not understand our culture.  Now is the time to show how safe Bermuda is (most of the violence is Bermudian's against Bermudians unfortunately). How we have handled the COVID pandemic, hopefully how vigorous and successfully our testing is on arrival to our island.  This is the time for Bermuda to shine.  I saw a commercial from Barbados and it was awesome promoting Barbados and its people. We need to be doing the similar thing.
50443b60-6e3b-4f1d-92e6-4d0ab575437e	10	Bermuda as a wellness retreat	How about the Hotels with a Spa and restaurants work with BTA and put on packages where people fly in..  Get tested.. have to stay on the property and get a wellness package for each day with special diet, Spa treatments, group wellness sessions and various workouts from Yoga to gyms..  This keeps the guest isolated from the general public, promotes Bermuda as a destination, gives the hospitality industry a boost and helps get a few sectors working.  I understand this will not help the retail sector but serves as a small part in our recovery.
8722fc09-6f30-4082-9bd9-773da16f92f2	10	Charge airlines to fly in Bermuda airspace: Overflight fees	Numerous planes fly over and near Bermuda as they head to other destinations. Other countries charge airlines to fly over their countries. This will require little investment from the island.  Also, if we are not doing so yet, look into providing air traffic control services to them. For a fee.
3b78acde-844e-437c-aeb0-2e6de5dcf6ca	10	Handling debt and insolvency	Bermuda is due to face a major crisis of insolvency, at both corporate and individual levels.  Currently, our insolvency laws are not fit for purpose. If this is not fixed urgently, the negative impacts of insolvency will amplify with much greater effect than is necessary, causing calamity to ripple throughout the economy.  The costs charged by a liquidator to handle an insolvency in Bermuda are incredible, and they get paid out as they work in priority to all other creditors, who normally have to wait an extended period before they receive anything. This inhibits incentives to resolve matters or keep costs to a minimum. In 2012, the Whites grocery stores were wound up by the courts and a private liquidator appointed.According to the Royal Gazette  ( http://mobile.royalgazette.com/local-business/article/20160617/ex-whites-staff-to-get-liquidation-payout&template=mobileart ) , it took until 2016 for redundant employees to start to receive "some" of the funds they were owed. This is despite the fact that employees are supposed to have priority over all other creditors.  Part of the problem is that Bermuda's insolvency sector is geared up for international business, and so is very high cost. This makes it a poor fit for handling local insolvencies in what is effectively, a very small town.  There are a few things that need to be considered urgently.  1) massively beefing up the resources of the office of the Official Receiver to handle local insolvencies in-house, rather than referring out to top-dollar international firms. Recruit local lawyers, accountants and administrators to staff the department. Notify the court that the official receiver should be appointed wherever possible as it is being given appropriate resources to handle local matters.  2) change insolvency rules so that employees have priority over liquidators’ fees in recovery of sums owed to them, and emphasise that employees are to be paid out at the earliest opportunity. We can’t have more fiascos where low paid employees are made redundant and have to wait years to receive a fraction of what they are owed, due to delays in the insolvency process.  3) urgently reform personal bankruptcy rules. At present, if you are declared bankrupt it lasts for up to 15 years. This puts a millstone around people’s necks and will drag down recovery for years and waste people’s economic lives. One year is standard in many jurisdictions (e.g. the UK), with exceptions for people dishonestly trying to cheat creditors.
77466dc1-675a-45df-a817-b13102cbc11b	10	Real Estate and Bermuda lifestyle	In times of stress people seek sanctuary. Currently in the U.K. millions of pounds are being spent by people from cities who are seeking refuge and places of safety and security by buying homes in attractive rural locations.(  As Bermuda has fared well during the pandemic and as we continue to market the island as a beautiful sanctuary and safe place to be I feel we are well placed to market our struggling real estate market. These are drastic times, and we need drastic measures.  Open up the market to everyone. For now. Not forever. But for right now, open it up. Allow Bermudians to sell their homes to anyone. Allow them to realise their equity. There can be one caveat. That the property must be offered to Bermudians first. If no Bermudians want to buy it after say 2 months then it can go onto the open market. If it’s bought on the open market then when that person wishes to sell it on then it to has to be offered to Bermudians first. Again, if Bermudians don’t want it then it can go into the open market. It could provide Bermudians large sums of money to use as they wish. No Bermudians loose out as it will always be open to them first. It can be stopped at any time. People who come have no right to work but could set us a new business if permission is given as per the usual rules.  They will spend here. They will allow Bermudians  access to their equity.  If people can buy freely they will be more inclined to start a business if they have invested in property here. If they buy, they would have residential certificates that allow them to live and not work, but can start a business. They must sell to a local  first.  I think the first people who buy will be people already here on permits. But it would develop into visitors from overseas. It can be retired once there’s enough uptake.  Should another pandemic come, we can again close down our borders and again ride it out. Market our island as a safe, beautiful sanctuary to live and invest in property. It’s time to be bold. You have a product that should be treated as the previous resource it is. We have all the attributes. We just need some stimulus and we need it right now. . Rather than take us down new and untested avenues, instead take what we have, what we know we’re blessed with and  market that. Thank you for listening. My back ground is in design (fashion designer for couture houses in London) ) and have gone in to design and develop luxuary homes in the U.K.  I live here in Bermuda and am currently developing a property here to try the market.
e252d8f4-8445-4382-9265-46ee17469d01	10	urgent action to cushion the pandemic’s health and economic consequences,	The crisis highlights the need for urgent action to cushion the pandemic’s health and economic consequences, protect vulnerable populations, and set the stage for a lasting recovery.  With the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Government has taken an all hands on deck approach that encourages Bermudians of all walks of life to do their part to help Bermuda emerge safely into the post COVID-19 world. When it comes to the economy, there will need to be a major recovery effort to get Bermudians back to work, business reopened and our economy growing. We want to know what you think needs to happen to get our economy moving again after COVID-19.  As COVID-19 sweeps the globe, countries around the world face an economic crisis that some say could be worse than the Great Depression. Our already fragile economy will need all hands on deck to insure that we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic in a position where we can grow our economy, employ Bermudians and create opportunities for entrepreneurs. The new economic normal will be challenging but within challenges come opportunities. complete Digitally learn  ( https://digitallylearn.com/ ) with your help, your ideas and your vision for the economic revival of our economy, we can work together to protect and grow our economy.
05cebeba-75d9-483f-aa61-2f7722c8a36a	10	Close Front St. traffic from 5pm Thurs. - Sun. Dining in the Street from 6pm.	Stimulate restaurant business.
268501f7-f797-44e3-a402-0f47359d0b05	10	Repurpose old airport for airline staff overnight accommodations	To use the existing structure, or the land its sitting on, to create overnight accommodations for pilots and stewardess. It can also have satellite offices for government departments that have to frequent the east end. This would create jobs and repurpose the structure, make it very convenient for traveling airline staff, give bermudian food owners opportunities to expand their footprint if there were opportunity to stock their goods at the facility, and depending on the amount of offices built, maybe rent to visiting executives who may stay or may need to work closer to the airport. The last potential idea to it is for any visitors who have cancelled flights. The airline carrier can use this facility for convenient overnight accommodation until next day reachesuled flight.
e9a32157-ca28-4c56-8469-6fda58bf4d7e	10	Staycations	As we probably will not be able to travel for a while, I suggest the BTA, Bermuda Chamber of Commerce and the Government partner to promote "Bermuda Staycations". Many of us would of had saved for or planned for an overseas vacation this year so why not promote staycations with special hotel room rates, guest houses rates, all inclusives, dinner and show, shopping discount coupons, discount for Twizzy's, discount for rentals including boats, etc, etc, etc.  I propose this on the premise that the discounts be more than what is normally offered as Bermudian/Locals rate, but lucrative to the hotels, businesses, stores, etc. A vacation in Bermuda targeted at essential workers and those who were still paid during the shelter in place.
aab953b4-2957-48f9-9cc4-90d57bf963e3	10	Disaster Fund	Gov't should implement a disaster fund that everyone pays into in the form of a tax. It should be used to pay back the loan used for the Covid-19 pandemic as well as any future adverse occurences.
540b3828-8557-4508-8747-b22006e4e682	10	Stimulate the residential housing market	* first $750k exempt from stamp duty * work with banks to reduce mortgage interest rates and stimulate competition * reduce estate agent fees and split them 50:50 between buyer and seller * waive first year’s land tax * 0% import duties on residential construction projects for 2 years * low interest loan for installation of green energy residential projects * approve Greenlight to give loans for solar panel projects * fast track residential planning applications * encourage construction suppliers such as Gotham’s/SAL/Bermuda Lumber etc to offer larger discounts for residential projects.
30eb926c-dde0-4806-9dc1-fbf0cc1ccdf7	10	Food security - increase local food production	The pandemic has highlighted that just because major events like this occur infrequently, that doesn't mean that we should not plan for them. As we move into a world increasingly affected by climate change and instability, there are various risks that could impact on Bermuda's food imports.  80% of our fresh produce is currently imported. Every item of fresh food we can grow locally represents dollars staying in our economy, and helps to make us secure against shortages in the event of supply disruption. It also creates local jobs at a time when we are facing mass unemployment. Local food is also typically more nutritious than imports, and farming / gardening is a healthy outdoor activity for people to engage in.  Bermuda has 738 acres of land zoned for agricultural use. Only half of this is farmed productively. We should consider ways to radically increase the acreage of productive land - both land zoned for agriculture, and also incentives for people to turn their gardens into vegetable gardens.
770ae409-f1a6-428b-ae6c-5222d8ca46f0	10	Short Term Cruise Boost	The US cruise industry is shut down at least until the end of September. This is due to a no sail order issued by the CDC preventing cruises from embarking out of US ports. My idea is to coordinate with the cruise lines that regularly come to Bermuda to see if their cruise passengers would be willing to embark from Bermuda instead for the time being.  The logistics around mitigating the COVID risk would be immense, and the challenge of that volume of testing would certainly push our capabilities. However, the benefit to the tourism economy would be substantial as well. Cruisers would arrive over the 2 to 3 days before the ship leaves and could either go directly to the ship or stay locally at hotels until embarkation day. This would increase traffic through the airport, and give taxis, minibuses, restaurants and the like a much needed boost.  The logistics around what supplies and fuel the cruise ships would need to take on in port would also potentially be immense, but represent another opportunity for our shippers to rise to the challenge as well and boost their business.  At the very least, it is worth considering. But time is limited as this opportunity will likely only last until the no sail order is lifted.
d96b2f47-3989-4fd2-84c2-325dcd4c446f	10	How to GREATLY Boost Winter Visitors to Bermuda - Snowbirds!	This idea will boost Bermuda’s upcoming fall/winter visitor numbers – and possibly for many years to come. It will require no new funding – just a slight re-focus for Tourism marketing dollars.  The Snowbird traveler?  Snowbird: US retirees who can afford to travel/migrate south during the cold winter months.  I have been visiting the Yuma Regional Medical Center (hospitals) in Yuma, AZ for the last 2 years. Yuma is a city of 100,000 – but during the winter months of November to April the city population doubles to 200,000 for that 5-6 month period.  Bermuda is perfectly situated to market to, and compete with Florida to attract Northeast snowbirds - if we provide the right environment and incentives. We have empty hotels and guest houses during the winter months, and our Airbnb market has dried up.  When I visit Yuma during these winter months I either have to wait until after 7:30pm to go for dinner, or eat in the hotel. The reason is because all of the restaurants and bars in Yuma have queues of "snowbirds" outside waiting to be seated – every single night of the week!  Snowbirds stay for 3-4 months on average, and the boost to the whole economy of Yuma is unbelievable.  For example, every year the Medical Center / Hospital has to double their staff by importing temporary doctors, nurses, assistants, etc., during those months. The hospital thrives on the new income derived from their snowbirds.  You will see in the attached report the very positive impact on Yuma’s tax revenues.  Bermuda could easily fill up our hotels, guest houses and rental apartments from November to March every year! We create a Bermuda community of snowbirds.  Remember our thriving college weeks of the 1970’ & 80’s – well those same individuals are now our snowbird targets!