Newly appointed Minister for Youth, Families and Community Development Glenn Blakeney believes his son's brush with the law makes him better qualified for the job.

Speaking after news his son Jahmel will be extradited from the US to face attempted murder charges, Mr. Blakeney said the situation helps him understand what many families are facing.

"I think with the experience I've had not just with my son, who has allegedly committed offences against the law, but also I have a physically challenged son and a 90-year-old mother I think I'm well grounded with regards the challenges at this time," he said.

"I hope to make a difference in reaching into the psyche of the dysfunctional element of our community which is causing havoc with the gun violence which is very concerning to everyone. With that in mind it will prepare me to redouble my efforts."

His 28-year-old son stands accused, along with a second man, of shooting and injuring Shaki Minors and his pregnant girlfriend Renee Kuchler as they left Southside Cinema late last November 13.

Blakeney Jr. fled the Island while on Police bail and was charged in his absence, but his extradition back to Bermuda was granted by a judge on Monday [see separate story].

Mr. Blakeney Sr. declined to talk in detail about the case as it is sub judice and he did not have full information yesterday.

However, he said: "My son is his own man. Unfortunately there are young men that are making terrible choices in varying degrees in a Country that is one of the best countries in the world and it's only a few that are causing havoc. So I plan to focus on identifying priorities that will impact in a positive way to help our Country."

Reflecting further on his own family situation, he added: "It will give me sensitivity not just to the seriousness but to the commitment that's needed to help make a difference. It's touching everyone's family. Yes, I may have particular personal circumstances that are very close to these challenges that a number of people in our Country have, but we all have our crosses to bear.

"It should not stop us making the effort to address what's of high priority in dealing with anti-social activity."