Hayward helps out by stepping in to accept scroll
A stand-in minister accepted a replica of the Bermudian High Seas Legacy Declaration after it was marched from City Hall to the Government Administration Building yesterday afternoon.
The giant parchment, signed by more than 220 people, was due to be presented to Jaché Adams, the Minister of Public Works and Environment, but he failed to show up despite claims the handover was arranged weeks ago.
Instead it was eventually accepted by Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, who was passing through the grounds of Session House in Parliament Street.
Wayne Furbert, the Hamilton West MP, happened to be outside the administration building and spoke with Noelle Young, the co-ordinator and founder of Sargasso Sea Advisory Council, who organised the event.
During their discussions Mr Furbert spotted Mr Hayward and called him over. He was pleased to deputise.
Ms Young said: “I won’t lie, I am disappointed [Mr Adams is not here]. We have been talking with his office for a month … we were planning it for over a month.
“I hope Mr Adams is safe and well. I am grateful Mr Hayward was here and stepped in like a gentleman.”
Ms Young spent three days gathering painted hand prints and signatures on the parchment from members of the public outside City Hall then fixed up the Walk With Us event.
“This was exactly what it was meant to be; this was not a protest but a walk of support,” she said.
Asked if she was given an explanation as to Mr Adams absence she replied: “He is either at the golf tournament [the Butterfield Bermuda Championship] or abroad.”
Mr Hayward told the supporters upon receiving the scroll: “I accept the declaration and I will be sure to pass it on.”
He later said to The Royal Gazette: “We as a Government are committed to ensure that there is sustained development [for future generations] and ensure Bermuda has a place in the decisions that affect our seas.
“I accepted the scroll on behalf of the minister Mr Adams and was happy to do so.”
The Government was contacted to ask why Mr Adams was unable to collect the scroll.
You must be Registered or to post comment or to vote.
