November 26th, 2013

Dear Sir,

It seems that the solution to the problem of $300 million of deficit year over year, is to simply talk it to death. Let’s defer the inevitable by filibusters of never ending questions and second guessing at every mention of cuts to stave off the tough choices. The remedy for patient is so bitter that kicking the can down the road and wishing disaster away appears to be the desired solution to avoid default by continued inaction.

Grow the economy we opine at every opportunity to speak publicly and this of course would be great! When initiatives are presented we shoot them down and complain something must be done by others. This country is in serious trouble and refusing to make drastic changes that will be punitive and punishing for some but hopefully will save us all. Optimism should never be discouraged but needs to be applied pragmatically in realistic amounts.

Jobs that can no longer be funded due to insufficient cash in the government account is the new reality in a country that enjoyed unparalleled prosperity for many years is over.

Mortgages, rents, education will become unwelcome casualties in this bumpy road to recovery. Unfair we will shout and it most certainly is, no doubt about it. Bermuda has the seismic shock of having to deal with the realities like other countries who had to drink from the poison chalice to avoid default.

I do not wish to be the harbinger of doom and gloom but if we refuse to see the epic proportions of our financial conundrums we face certain melt down. The medicine of achieving a balanced budget and paying off our debt is not optional or philosophical but intensely real!

The arguments advanced by politicians, trade unions, and commentators of every stripe will be heard. At the end of the day the govern must act decisively and courageously for the salvation of us all. They cannot afford the luxury of popularity or considerations of the outcome of the next general election and without apology and resolve to do what they are convinced is right for the survival of us all! Winning elections are most satisfying but leadership that comes to the wicket for sake of country and citizens without political benefit is true greatness. It is my hope and prayer that the One Bermuda Alliance will ascend to that lofty perch.

The result we all desire is that this marvellous little island will emerge successfully for us presently and for generations to come.

Wayne B Scott