Ten search-and-rescue operations were among the work of the Royal Bermuda Regiment Coastguard last month, the national security minister told MPs.

Michael Weeks said that in June alone, the unit also conducted 136 patrols, observed 2,804 vessels, issued 23 marine regulation tickets and made four arrests.

He told the House of Assembly on Friday: “This dedicated team of 14 full-time and 22 reserve soldiers is fully mobilised for robust summer operations, reinforcing weekend and holiday shifts to maximise visibility and enhance response capabilities during peak boating periods.”

Mr Weeks said that coastguard crews also partnered with police and customs officials in two joint operations and twice supported the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, “further underscoring their critical inter-agency collaboration”.

The minister provided a summer update on the RBR’s work, which also covered the potential junior non-commissioned officers cadre that ran at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina, a Junior Leaders camp for the regiment’s youth wing and the foundational training camp for new recruits this month.

On the island’s “maritime guardians”, Mr Weeks said: “In a significant advancement, the coastguard recently commissioned three state-of-the-art FLIR [forward-looking infrared] cameras, enhancing night-time fisheries and rescue operational capabilities.

“These high-resolution, heat-sensing cameras — valued at a combined total $172,000 — were funded by the UK's Maritime Coastguard Agency and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office’s Blue Belt Ocean Shield Project.”

The minister said that continuing challenges for the unit must also be recognised.

He explained: “The coastguard’s fleet of 11 vessels, primarily composed of ageing former police boats, restricts its operational efficiency due to limitations in endurance, sea state performance and crew protection.

“Addressing this remains an urgent priority, as does increasing the unit's capacity.

“Concerted efforts are under way to double the size of the coastguard unit, from 14 to 28 full-time soldiers.

“Achieving this expansion will provide sustainable operational coverage, alleviate over-reliance on reserve personnel and ensure continuous professional training.

“Additionally, the forthcoming coastguard station at the former St David's post office, projected for completion by mid-December, will significantly boost operational presence in the East End.

“This new facility will reduce response times for eastern search-and-rescue operations, enhance oversight of fishing activities, expedite customs procedures in St George's and strengthen emergency responses to aircraft incidents.”

Mr Weeks said: “I encourage all Bermudians, particularly our young people, to consider joining the Royal Bermuda Regiment.

“Service in the regiment promises not only the chance to develop exceptional leadership abilities and contribute meaningfully to our community, but also offers unmatched opportunities for personal adventure.

“Members experience tactical training, achieve peak physical fitness, sharpen their mental acuity and have the opportunity to travel and engage in unique, rewarding experiences.

“We look forward to welcoming new members to our proud tradition of service and excellence.”

Jarion Richardson, the One Bermuda Alliance leader, asked about the Government’s plan and timeline for replacing and modernising ageing.

He added: “Has the ministry explored cofunding vessel procurement models, leveraging our deep security connections to the US and the UK?”

Mr Weeks confirmed that such an approach was considered and added: “Those negotiations are still ongoing.”