Senator Jeff Baron has noted an increased budget allocation for the Royal Bermuda Regiment as the service moves away from conscription.

The Junior Minister of National Security also said the ministry was looking to introduce a shared radio system for the island’s uniformed services, which could potentially be extended to other ministries and departments such as parks and public works.

Marc Daniels, the Opposition Senate Leader, questioned the cost of the electronic monitoring device programme, noting that in his experience as a defence lawyer, there have been cases where there have not been enough devices to meet the need.

He also said he was saddened that the Ministry of National Security received more than ministries such as education and tourism.

“We spend more money to protect each other than we do to educate each other,” he added.

Mr Daniels asked if there was any other ways to “trim the fat” in aspects such as annual overseas camps for the regiment.

Noting crime statistics, he asked if the Bermuda Government was doing enough to address crime, saying that more drugs were seized on the streets than at the port.

He also suggested that corruption could be a major issue, adding: “It can’t always just be ‘we missed it’.”

Mr Baron said that the suggestion of corruption was “unfounded”, but did not have enough time to respond during the debate period.

Senator Lynn Woolridge, meanwhile, presented the budget for the Ministry of Health, Seniors and Environment, stating that the results of the Steps survey were concerning and that the island must do better to prevent chronic illness.

She said the ministry was also working to raise awareness about ageing-related issues and make sure that seniors could remain safely in their homes for longer.

Meanwhile, hurricane repairs at Lefroy House are ongoing, she said, but the footprint of the property has shrunk.

Ms Woolridge also noted that HIP, Futurecare and the standard health insurance rates will not be increased.

PLP senator Renee Ming said many in the community would appreciate that HIP and Futurecare rates were not being increased given the economic climate.

However, she questioned the lack of performance measures included in the budget book for the Bermuda Health Council.

Independent senator Joan Dillas-Wright said she was happy to see the senior abuse register up and running, asking if the cases investigated by police were still outstanding.

She also asked if the Government would consider offering people who stayed home to care for elderly people a stipend, noting that such schemes were in place in other jurisdictions to help to keep seniors at home longer.