The Bermuda Bar welcomed its newest member yesterday as Mark Cecil Neale was formally Called to the Bar during a ceremony in the Supreme Court.

Mr Neale, who was named a Solicitor in the Supreme Court of England and Wales in 2005, came to Bermuda to work as a policy analyst for the Ministry of Economy and Labour.

Gabrielle Cann, the Director of Labour, said that in addition to his work in Britain, Mr Neale had served as a Crown counsel for the Ascension Island Government, where he assisted with legal reform in the remote territory.

Ms Cann said that he had already made meaningful contributions to policy and legislation, helping to improve delivery of public service.

“As his colleague, I can testify to his insight, sound judgment and collaborative spirit,” Ms Cann added.

“Beyond technical expertise, he has shown humility, integrity and determination to ensure that the law serves people fairly and effectively.”

Mr Neale told the court that he looked forward to working with the Ministry of Economy and Labour as he had worked with other authorities internationally.

Asked by Puisne Judge Alan Richards about his time on Ascension Island, Mr Neale said the jurisdiction was quite different from Bermuda given its population of less than 1,000 people.

“It was an exciting point in my career,” he said. “It’s a beautiful island — but Bermuda is far more sophisticated.”