What Bermudians want for 1995
some of the Islands problems.
Several of which concern Bermuda's increasing drug problem, crime rate and the employment situation of Bermudians and foreigners.
A Royal Gazette reporter took to the streets to find out what Bermudians want or expect to see during the new year.
Fifty-four year-old Mr. Denny Richardson said he hoped Bermuda would wake up and face reality.
"The Country needs to put together a proper manpower planning programme so we don't have to go outside for people like a Police Commissioner or Deputy Commissioner,'' Mr. Richardson said.
He added: "Especially, since some of the more Bermudian senior Police officers could in fact do the job.'' Mr. Richardson also said that if the department had a problem dealing with violent crimes and other altercations "persons like Capt. Larry Burchall and Col. Eugene Raynor, who held top positions in armed forces for long periods of time and served during the riots certainly must have some talent that we could use.'' He added: "In fact, they should have been considered for such positions. The army should also be used for recruiting Policemen period.
Mr. Hurbie Santucci, 39, also agreed that Bermudians should come first in employment.
"In 1995 I'd like to see Bermudians take their right place in protests and picketing,'' Mr. Santucci said.
He added: "We need to fight for our rights instead of sitting down and complaining about things that we disagree with. We need to take some action and maybe Government will come to an agreement.'' Mr. Santucci also said he would like to see the drug rate go down and the black and white people come together.
And Mrs. Pat Zuill shared his sentiments saying she'd like to see more harmony amongst the black and white races.
Mr. Gilbert Rowling said he wanted to see less crime and more employment for Bermudians.
And he also stated that he would like Government to open a trade school.
Twenty-three year-old Mr. Zachary Nesbitt said this year he would like to see violence and crime eased which means that "the community must come together.
"I would also like to see sports, other than soccer and cricket, highlighted.'' Ms Sheila Thomas said she would like to see a break down on crime and the removal of guns.
And Ms Linda Down said: "In 1995 I would like to see a reduction in Government expenditure and a more concerted effort to promote tourism on an annual basis versus seasonal.
"We need to make an effort to make Bermuda a more happening place during the off seasons because we can't rely on the weather.'' Ms Down also said she would like Government to give retailers an equal chance to compete doing business in Bermuda.
Mr. Wesley Trott, 25, said he hoped 1995 brings stronger corrective measures to curve crime and that politicians get more hands-on involvement with the Island's youth.
Other Bermudians wanted to see changes occur in different areas.
Mr. Nathan Ming, 25, said patrolling of children was needed on buses and more parking in Hamilton should be made available.
Mrs. Beverley Richardson 32, said Government needed to take a better look at the education system.
And Mrs. Heidi Boyle said she'd like to see more traffic wardens along Reid Street and King street to deal with drivers who double park.
Other people wanted to see prices lowered on all merchandise.
Mr. Kacy Simons said: "People need to lower prices because that is why everyone goes away to shop.'' He added: "In 1995 I also hope to see an improvement in the quality of life for Bermudians. We are treated like the outsiders.'' Mrs. Susie Talbot said she would like to see more parents dealing with their children more strictly.
"Parents need to stop letting their 12 and 13 year-old children hang out in town at night,'' Mrs. Talbot added.
She also said she would like to see the homeless in Bermuda set up receiving some sort of help.
Mr. Robert Masters, 39, said he hoped 1995 brings better health for everyone and a resolution to Bermuda's drug problem.
"I think that that is the major issue that needs to be addressed this year,'' Mr. Masters said.
Mr. Nathan Ming Ms Beverley Richardson Mr. Denny Richardson Ms Shiela Thomas By Libby Francis