Premier: 'We Will Use The Full Scope of Our Resources to Protect Bermuda’s Residents' From COVID-19

Premier David Burt met with Government officials on Monday to “ensure that Bermuda is committing the full force of its resources to safeguard Bermuda from COVID-19 and also is prepared for the eventuality of an outbreak”.

In a statement released after those talks Mr Burt said: “We want members of the public to know that we are taking this threat extremely seriously.

“The protection of the health of our people is of the utmost importance and I want to reassure the public that we will use the full scope of our resources to protect Bermuda’s residents.”

A spokesperson added: “Topics discussed included the acquisition of additional personal protective equipment for front-line personnel and residents, the quarantining and handling of infectious individuals, travel restrictions, improving signage at the airport for arriving travelers, increased public communications regarding COVID-19, the procurement of tests for COVID-19 and the improvement of local testing equipment.

“Premier Burt also ran through various possible scenarios with those in attendance to ensure plans were securely in place to handle any eventuality.

“The meeting had several positive, tangible outcomes which included the movement of individuals into the Ministry of Health from elsewhere in Government to provide additional manpower, a commitment to daily information-sharing with the public and the decision to procure additional protective resources for our community.:

Also present at the meeting was Health Minister Kim Wilson, National Security Minister Wayne Caines, Bermuda’s Chief Medical Officer Dr Cheryl Peek-Ball, Permanent Secretary Collin Anderson, Chief Strategy Officer Jennifer Attride-Stirling, Secretary to the Cabinet Marc Telemaque, National Disaster Coordinator Steve Cosham and others.

Dr Peek-Ball reminded members of the public that they can help prevent the spread of diseases like the common cold and flu by taking the following actions: