December 18, 2001

Dear Sir,

For his recent disgraceful harangue in the House of Assembly against fellow MP David Dodwell and The Reefs, David Allen did not even get a reprimand. His damaging senseless venom must have been one of the worst examples of its kind in the almost 500 years existence of the Bermuda Parliament.

You can imagine how the employees of The Reefs must have reacted. They deserve better from the Minister of Tourism, whom they try their best to assist in promoting Bermuda. Many have been employed at The Reefs for decades. Mr. Dodwell acknowledges their sustained record of long, exemplary and much appreciated service by guests. There is a large framed tribute to the Hotel's lobby, featuring individual names with pictures and years of service. Bermuda needs The Reefs. Those who work here need their jobs more than ever.

Who would want Mr. Allen as a role model? He need look no farther than himself when he reads of bad sportsmanship and worse on our football and cricket fields.

As Minister of Tourism, David Allen's track record is dismal. When first elected, he was going to turn the ailing tourism around in six months. He has, but entirely in the wrong direction.

Premier Smith seems to be one of the few who thinks Mr. Allen should continue as tourism minister. When (rather than, if) he is removed from office, I think his exit should be different. The Bermuda Regiment's Corps of Drums could be invited to drum him out of the Ministry with gusto.

T.C. AITCHISON

Pembroke