residents and resources.

The Bermuda Regiment is keen to expand its operations and join forces with other agencies to provide back-up for policing the waters, marine pollution and fisheries operations.

And the ultimate aim is to have a full-time crew on duty, in addition to a more powerful, long-range vessel to enable Bermuda to police its offshore waters.

Talks have already taken place with Police, Marine and Ports, Customs and Agriculture and Fisheries, to plan how the boat troop could be trained and deployed.

Regiment Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Patrick Outerbridge said: "We do not have a coastguard, the US aren't here and I think we must build up our naval capabilities.

"Most of the Caribbean islands have their own force that work with the US. Up to now we have relied upon the US Coastguard and Navy, I think we are on our own and we have to start looking after ourselves.'' At present there are 25 crew on four Rigid Raider Craft -- similar to a Boston Whaler -- who operate on a part-time basis for normal army duties and environmental work.

But it is hoped that the capacity can be doubled and a full-time section added.

In addition, Lt. Col. Outerbridge would like to see a larger, fast craft that could expand their range to cover offshore waters, with overnight capability -- with the ability to assist with search and rescue and crime pursuits.

"Down the road we would like a bigger, faster craft that can cover distance in a short span of time.

"And there could be a full-time detachment, that is the way we should be going.'' But the Commanding Officer ruled out aerial support for the crew, believing a cutter craft would be more cost effective.

The expense of a helicopter or light aircraft would be prohibitive for a small Island, especially when it may only be used a handful of times a year.

The Regiment's boat troop has some of the best qualified soldiers and officers believe their skills are under-used.

Many soldiers have indicated they would like to be part of a revamped amphibious section, and some qualifed marine operators would be keen to join it on a full-time basis.

With increased numbers of pleasure craft on the water, and a busy tourist season, Marine Police have to deal with many incidents, but could be assisted by specially trained Regiment crews.

"The Government are supportive of joint training and hopefully will be in favour of expanding the boat troop,'' Lt. Col. Outerbridge said.