Andrew Murdoch, the Governor, has met government officials to discuss measures to help stem violent crime in Bermuda.

The Governor’s Council came together on September 2 after discussions with David Burt, the Premier, to tackle internal security and policing issues, with a focus on gun violence.

Attendees included Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security; Kim Wilkerson, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice; Crystal Caesar, the Minister of Education; and Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors.

A Government House spokeswoman said the council was briefed by Darrin Simons, the Commissioner of Police, on operational matters; while Cindy Clarke, the Director of Public Prosecutions, spoke about the challenges bringing offenders to justice and legislative changes that might help.

“The Governor’s Council discussed the issues raised in detail and explored measures that could assist across all areas of law enforcement,” the spokeswoman said.

“The Premier reiterated his position that the necessary resources would be made available from government to keep the people of Bermuda safe and secure.”

Mr Simons, Ms Clarke and Lucinda Pearman, the Collector of Customs, were directed to explore new measures to respond to the challenges. The council stated that the status quo was not acceptable.

Some of the measures discussed were recruiting more police officers, improving investigative capacity, procurement of new equipment to enhance border security, identifying training opportunities and strengthening collaboration between police and customs.

Meanwhile, proposals from the DPP about legislative changes consistent with human rights protections would be developed “at pace” and put to the Government to consider.

The spokeswoman added: “The Governor, with the Premier’s full support, will convene another meeting of the Governor’s Council in mid-September, which will provide an opportunity to review progress of the matters discussed, before focusing on preventive measures aimed at tackling gun violence at its source.”