Tourism Minister David Allen called for the public's help in fighting crime against tourists, attacks he described as a dagger at the heart of the country's economic life. He is concerned that recent events, in particular an attack on vacationers enjoying a carriage ride last week, could undo all the positive work done to boost US visitor numbers. The carriage incident followed an altercation between a tourist and a taxi driver at a nearby south shore beach, when it was alleged an American was threatened with a knife. Negative stories about tourist crimes travel across the Atlantic at the speed of light and are spread further by holidaymakers telling friends and relatives of their experiences. On an Island which has safety as a main selling point, the Minister said it was the responsibility of the public to help in solving crimes against visitors. Speaking to the House of Assembly late Friday, the Minister made a passionate plea for help in finding the culprit who snatched a bag from a couple riding in a horse and carriage at the Southampton Princess.

"I want to express my growing concern at the level of crime against visitors,'' he said. "There just seems to be a growing danger of violence and disregard for the tourism lifeblood of this community. "I want people to know what a dagger at the heart of the economy these kinds of acts are. "Each and every Bermudian should know this strikes against their livelihood.'' Mr. Allen warned that while Bermuda was not approaching the levels of crime seen in other destinations, it was vital to nip the issue in the bud. "We have to blow the whistle before we get to that extent. It will be a sad day if our hotels have to become virtually armed compounds.'' Back bench MP Dale Butler echoed the Minister's words, saying there should be no excuse for that kind of behaviour. He said it was a serious issue that needed to be addressed in every church and school on the Island. Shadow Home Affairs Minister Michael Dunkley applauded Mr. Allen. He said finally someone in the Government had "their eyes wide open'' on crime. He added that the incident would be known all over the world and could mean all the tourism promotion work was out the window.

And former Tourism Minister David Dodwell suggested that it was time that crimes against visitors carried more stringent punishment. Home Affairs Minister Paula Cox said one crime against a visitor was one too many. She said the Police had the Government's support in their fight against offenders.

CRIME CRM