A positive appraisal of the Emergency Measures Organisation (EMO) during last month’s Tropical Storm Fay was not shared by Opposition MPs, who suggested the fierce storm had caught Bermuda unprepared.

Michael Dunkley, the Premier who also serves as the Minister for National Security, faced criticism from the Progressive Labour Party over communication technology, as well as the EMO’s meeting, which took place only after Fay passed on October 12.

PLP MP Walter Roban asked repeatedly why an EMO text messaging service to keep residents informed of emergencies had not been used until after the storm.

“The preparations that were made with cellphone providers were at a different level than that,” Mr Dunkley said. “I know the Members want to try and make a meal out of this subject. When it was used as a test run last year, there were concerns about how quickly the message went out. We’re going to make sure it gets out more quickly.”

He said he would explain the arrangement in better detail once it had been signed with the requisite companies.

Safety and security were always a concern, Mr Dunkley said, adding, “No one can predict the weather. It changed very quickly.”

A hurricane watch was given late on Saturday, October 11, but the storm surged dramatically in strength during the early hours of Sunday, with peak winds between 7am and 8am.

During questioning, Mr Dunkley acknowledged the broadcasting experience brought to the House by Opposition MP Glenn Blakeney, who said that several locations across the Island received poor or no reception for the emergency radio station during Fay.

“That’s something we are looking into,” Mr Dunkley replied.

Mr Blakeney asked why specialised equipment that could have sent out emergency broadcast radio over all radio stations had not been used.

“I am aware of the challenges,” Mr Dunkley said. “I’m not aware of the technical issues involved. This issue has been going on for several years.

“This House and the people of Bermuda have my commitment. We will fix it.”