The quest for independence

May 28, 2008

Dear Sir,

Once again we have been reminded by the Premier the quest for independence is unassailable, inescapable and on the top of the priority list. Unlike our 'double jeopardy laws' where one cannot be tried twice for the same offence, this controversial issue will never go away. In fact, the die was cast in the early sixties, when the PLP came into existence.

In a document produced about 50 years ago by the Smith's Parish Branch of the Progressive Labour Party they outlined "The bases of the PLP policy" "Full independence for Bermuda without which our country cannot flourish to its maximum since our hard-earned dollars are drained away to Great Britain etc." Interestingly we seem to have done quite well by not going in that direction. The paper goes on, "Aviation routes to and from Bermuda, upon which our tourist trade is now largely based, must be negotiated by Bermudians as full-fledged members of the air route conference, and not by others with Bermudians as mere "observers" with a voice, as is the case at the present. Goodness gracious our Premier has been credited with attracting numerous low fare carriers in the last several years. That doesn't sound like "observers" to us! Also within that document: "An independent Bermuda would be made attractive as a haven for international agencies and organizations somewhat in the manner as the Canton of Geneva, Switzerland." Obviously the reasons given back then for independence just don't cut it today as we have more than we can handle now. Ask any Bermudian who is looking for housing or driving on our deplorable road conditions . Do we need more in our small community?

Last year the naysayers against Independence had their day, when they collected thousands of signatures decrying autonomy from Great Britain. However, once again we will be put to the test, as Bermuda works through a Referendum for or against Independence, totally apart from a General Election. So what else will be put on the table to convince the populace total freedom is the only way to maturity? Bermudians will not tolerate a rash of gimmickry from the 'situation room' and if we are expected to vote with our instincts, many will wonder if we are going to end up in deep manure?

This community of ours can speculate what the fascinating speech actually means, recently given by the US Consul, Gregory Slayton? Have our Government leaders already privately discussed the very real problem of an Independent Bermuda and the need for a travel visa, every time a non citizen enters the States? Might we be able to obtain special status as an Independent Bermuda? If so, would this special status be untouchable by a change of US foreign policy with a change of their government?

Pondering these images of a 'unique Bermuda', we can further speculate that the UK might indeed allow this very well managed small country of almost seventy or so thousand people, the privilege of retaining the Right of Appeal to the Privy Council. Or in reality it will probably be given to the court of appeal in Caricom?

But of course, the extremely sensitive point for all Bermuda families; for children, grand children and great great children, etc. is the ability to study at UK and European universities. As the years pass, it will be vital for our young people to obtain the very best of education, if only to fill all the potential areas in our intricate economy. The ability to work in the EU countries is also something that should not be ignored.

In conclusion. The dream of independence might be the visualisation of utopia for some, but for others it could be a nightmare, much the same as ending a marriage, "It is like deciding to amputate a limb. You know there is immense pain in store."

Toppy and Saundra Cowen

Southampton