Burgess will not be sanctioned for House kitchen clash

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Speaker Stanley Lowe yesterday announced no sanctions will be taken against Progressive Labour Party MP Derrick Burgess following his altercation with Estates Minister Michael Scott.

In a statement to the House of Assembly, Mr Lowe expressed concern about the incident which prompted Mr Burgess’ resignation as Transport Minister on Wednesday night.

He said an investigation has been carried out into the clash, which took place in the House’s kitchen and Atrium area, but opted not to pursue further sanctions because of Mr Burgess’ resignation.

“I undeniably regret the altercation that occurred in the precincts of the House on May 25,” said the Speaker.

“We can conclude that a verbal altercation did take place between the two members. The headline in the print media and public utterances reflected negatively on the House.”

Such matters are sometimes referred to the Committee of Standing Orders and Privileges for further investigation and report, said Mr Lowe.

But he continued: “Given the recent resignation by former Minister, the Honourable DV Burgess, JP, MP, I believe no further sanctions should be taken.

“Members are reminded that at all times they are to conduct themselves in a manner in order to maintain and uphold the public’s trust and confidence in the integrity of Parliament.”

Eyewitnesses say National Security Minister Wayne Perinchief had to separate Mr Burgess and Mr Scott when they came to blows during an afternoon House sitting.

Mr Burgess, who was replaced as Transport Minister by Walter Roban on Thursday, was in the Lower House as a backbencher yesterday, for the first time since 2006.

He appeared in cheerful mood, at one point having a relaxed chat with a woman in the public gallery and, later in Church Street, waving and hailing apparent toots and comments of support from members of the public.

Meanwhile United Bermuda Party MP Charlie Swan, who called for Mr Burgess to be sacked over the LED lights scandal last year, said his resignation was better late than never.

“I would say he’s done the honourable thing and the right thing,” said Mr Swan.

“We are here for the people who elected us to put Bermuda first. With this particular Minister, things have caught up with him. One must not only do the right thing, but be seen to do the right thing.”

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