Public Safety Minister Randy Horton heaped praise upon the Police in the House of Assembly yesterday for their response to gang violence, but admitted the firearms amnesty had got off to a "slow" start.

Mr. Horton was also keen to express his delight at the pay settlement reached between Government and the Bermuda Police Association (BPA), a deal clinched on Thursday night after almost two years of wrangling.

"I am extremely pleased to confirm that the members of the BPA have now voted in support of the new collective bargaining agreement - that is good news indeed," he told the House in a ministerial statement.

"May I take this opportunity to thank BPA chairman Carl Neblett and the member of his team and Martin Law, co-ordinator of security services, and the member of the Government team, all of whom worked diligently and sometimes painstakingly towards the outcome that was agreed last evening.

"I reiterate my commendation and gratitude for the mutual respect that characterised the negotiations process."

The Minister then told the House that a newly-formed Police team had cracked down on violent criminals following the massive public disturbances at an Elephant Man concert at White Hill Field earlier this month.

"The Bermuda Police Service response was reasoned, immediate and deliberate," he continued.

"During the past five weeks, many offenders have appeared in court charged with a variety of offences involving violence. Eleven of those offenders are either now serving custodial sentences or have been remanded in custody by the courts.

"The investigative response has been swift, specific and targeted, including the deployment of armed officers where it has been justified.

"The people of Bermuda may be assured that the Bermuda Police Service remains steadfast in its commitment to bring offenders to justice and that it will maintain its vigorous pursuit of those responsible for violent offences.

"The people of Bermuda may also be assured that the Government stands ready to provide those resources that will assist the Police Service in the fulfilment of its mandate to create a safer and better Bermuda."

But Mr. Horton was less positive in respect to the firearms amnesty, which is now in its 14th day.

"Whilst responses have been slow, they have been sure," he conceded.

"We again call upon those in possession of firearms or other kinds of prohibited weapons to turn them in at a Police Station during the amnesty period."

A rocket launcher and a semi-automatic handgun, along with more than 50 bullets, are among the more than 20 items handed in so far.

He finished by praising the Police rank and file, and thanking them for "their hard work as they protect the residents of the Island".

Mr. Horton's comments echoed those of Police Commissioner Jonathan Smith who had hailed the success of post-White Hill Field operations in The Royal Gazette earlier in the week, as he explained that a special Police team were targeting gang leaders.