The skyrocketing cost of the new Dockyard pier left Premier Ewart Brown lamenting Government isn't the "most efficient model" as the project hit controversy in November.

A Royal Gazette investigation revealed the price of the scheme — aimed at bolstering Bermuda's struggling tourism industry — had leapt from $35 million to $60 million, 70 percent over budget.

Almost $17 million of the increase was a result of hundreds of changes to the plans for the facility, with a fast ferry dock added as well as security measures to comply with post-9/11 standards.

The terminal building was initially intended to be a simple single-storey building, but ended up doubling in price to $3.9 million for something Correia Construction boss Dennis Correia described as "the Taj Mahal".

And in what one local contractor dubbed an unusual move, Government paid Correia an interest-free mobilisation loan of nearly $9 million up front — 23 percent of the entire original contract price.

An e-mail from Mr. Correia to project co-workers Norwalk Marine International shortly before work began said: "No international issues, I can get the work permits, ton of money to be made.

"Wanna have some of it? Price the tubs good and send the right guys and we can sit back and watch under a palm tree."

Our investigation was triggered when Government released figures showing measures to protect animals at nearby Dolphin Quest had gone up by $3.7 million. We were given access to financial records of both Correia and Norwalk.

Shadow Transport Minister Michael Dunkley was quick to brand the soaring costs an "abomination" and claim a total disregard had been shown for taxpayers' money, while Bermuda Democratic Alliance MP Donte Hunt raised concerns over the methodology in awarding the contract to Correia.

Government initially announced plans to construct Dockyard's second cruise ship pier in early 2007, to accommodate the larger post-Panamax vessels, with work starting in September of that year.

By early 2008, the United Bermuda Party was questioning how the budget had gone up to $50 million, but Government provided no explanation.

An explanation did come from the Premier and Transport Minister at a press conference immediately after The Royal Gazette's investigation was published.

"I do not condone or enjoy projects going from a predicted low cost to a high cost," said Dr. Brown, who appeared to lay the blame at the foot of his own administration. Anyone who has ever built anything knows that with changes come costs. For example, 'I don't want this door here, I want it over there, I don't want this thruster (wall) here, I want it over there.'

"I am not proud that we couldn't do a better job of getting closer to what the end project could be, but that's part of Government and of Bermuda. We are not the most efficient model. I'm not going to stand here and make excuses for that."

The Premier said moves were underway to increase Government efficiency. There was better news later in the month as the Queen marked Bermuda's 400th anniversary with her fourth trip to the Island. Thousands of people lined the streets throughout the three-day Royal Visit, 56 years since the Queen first visited Bermuda shortly after her coronation.

British newspapers seized on the occasion to report on the Island's strained relationship with the UK in the light of the Uighurs affair, with The Times and the BBC both pointing to Dr. Brown's desire for Independence.

Dr. Brown ended the month by saying the overwhelmingly positive reception for the Queen was not a deliberate snub of his wishes to break ties with the UK.