Police Commissioner Michael DeSilva has praised the “amazing” job of his staff in helping the Island through Hurricane Gonzalo.

He said he had “never been more proud to be a police officer” thanks to the dedication and hard work shown by the Bermuda Police Service before, during and after the storm — and in dealing with Tropical Storm Fay last weekend.

“I have been extremely impressed by the performance of our police officers and staff,” Mr DeSilva said.

“We have all been working long, hard hours in less than ideal conditions. But the mood has remained positive throughout and spirits have been high.

“We knew at the start this would be a bit of a trudge, but our staff have been extremely patient as we coped with all the logistical issues presented by the two weather systems.

“This may sound nostalgic, but the past week brought about feelings of the ‘old days’ when we just worked until the work was done.

“That’s how it has been in the response to Fay and Gonzalo. Not just by the police, but by all our EMO [Emergency Measures Organisation] partners and the whole of the community.

“Long, sleepless shifts have not been given a second thought and workers are out getting the job done with all possible speed and amazing results.

“Personally, I have never been more proud to be a police officer and it has been a privilege to lead such a dedicated group of men and women in this important national response.”