The national security minister visited Hamilton Docks as part of his pledge to support Bermuda’s critical services.

Michael Weeks said that the docks were crucial for meeting the island’s demands, supplying about 35,000 containers every year.

He added: “When Bermuda experiences a hurricane, getting the cargo docks up and running quickly is vital, not just for everyday goods, but also for hurricane supplies and repair materials to arrive here as quickly as possible.”

Mr Weeks said: “We all see the effects on the shelves of the supermarkets when a container ship is out of service for several weeks.

“We have also seen the effects of world events on available goods, with manufacturers changing product lines and sizes.

“The Hamilton Docks operation works with the shipping lines that supply Bermuda and the truckers that take the goods from the docks to the shops and the shelves.”

Mr Weeks met Warren Jones, the chief executive officer of Polaris Holding Company and Stevedoring Services, for the tour.

He was accompanied by Steve Cosham, the Government’s natural disaster co-ordinator, and Dean Rubaine, the planner for critical national infrastructure within the disaster risk reduction management team.

Mr Weeks said that it was essential for him to know the requirements of the island’s critical infrastructure as chairman of the Emergency Measures Organisation.

He added: "Knowing how the EMO can work in partnership with these organisations is equally essential so that they be up and running as quickly as possible to minimise the disruption to the public."