The stage seems set for a potentially successful tourist season, which could benefit all Bermudians in some way. But much will depend on how well the Government, unions, employers and employees are willing to work closer together to keep our hospitality machine well oiled to produce success.

Most Bermudians are acutely aware that labour disputes will occur from time to time, and past experiences should be a lesson that work stoppages, as a form of protest, usually result in repercussions that are not easily healed.

This is not to say the right to protest by employees should not exist; that would be undemocratic. Employees deserve protection in the workplace, and unions were borne out of that need.

However, over the years, Bermuda has made strides in developing a better system to deal with labour disputes, and the Government and unions have raised the bar of co-operation as efforts continue to improve that relationship.

Most Bermudians are fully supportive of procedures that benefit all concerned in a labour dispute, but many have reservations about downing tools in mid-flight to make a statement, which puts everyone on board in jeopardy.

With entrepreneurs springing up throughout Bermuda to cash in on what could be a productive season, a co-operative spirit is the key in solving problems to keep the industry free from work interruptions.

In a sense, tourism involves every Bermudian, whether one is employed in the industry or not. Visitors are mainly from the United States, although many come from distant lands for an experience they hope to remember through their years. After all, Bermudians travel to other places for the same reason.

When a visitor has a good experience, it is far better than the most attractive advertisements talking about what Bermuda has to offer as a holiday destination. A satisfied guest will open the door for others.

We have the people and we have the tools for success in an industry that for years has put the island on the map as a resort with very special and unique features.

This is not to say there are not problems in our business and social infrastructure. Every country has its own set of challenges; Bermuda is no exception.

Bermuda has its share of political differences that are also common in democratic jurisdictions. Even under those circumstances, there are procedures in place to sort out disputes, even those having legal ramifications.

The bottom line is that as a people we must recognise that the ultimate goal is to create an environment that is beneficial and safe for all Bermudians and their families.

We also need better co-operation from our motorists, whose lack of regard on our roads is a seriously growing problem, despite pleas to ride and drive safely. Speeding seems to be an epidemic with modern-day behaviour patterns. Not all Bermudians engage in this reckless practice, but there are too many who do.

Summer is upon us, with the Bermuda Day fever very much in the air. I have witnessed a few riders who seem as though they are trying to reach that day before it gets here. You get the message.

As Bermudians, we all have a responsibility to help make the island safe, for not only our visitors, but our families, especially our children.

Let’s hope that the Government, the unions and all connected with our tourist industry will co-operate to make this a year of success.

Even in the face of any potential labour problems, the bargaining table should be fully used to keep our precious industry alive for the benefit of all. The ball is in our court.