Surveyors (pictured above) has been formed for the 25 Associates or Fellows of the Institution who are in the Island.

Chartered valuation surveyor Brian Madeiros stated: "It was felt that the creation of a local branch would not only assist to create synergy and harness the combined professional knowledge of our fellow chartered surveyors practising in Bermuda, but it would also assist to promote the property services which our members can offer the public.

"In addition, as we find ourselves operating in a global marketplace, our branch will be an excellent vehicle to facilitate discussions with our associated branches throughout the world, which will allow us to gain greater insight into global changes in market practices.'' Continuing education is important for practising members. As a result, regularly scheduled meetings will create an arena to discuss a variety of issues affecting the local marketplace.

The new branch intends to operate in conjunction with other existing regulatory real estate bodies and organisations in Bermuda and will work to ensure the continued professional enhancement of the real estate, surveying and construction industries.

Mr. Madeiros pointed out: "Chartered surveyors are highly-trained professionals, expert in all aspects of land, property and construction.

"They understand property and the legislation governing it, the markets trading it, the services supporting it and the economics of building, buying, managing, maintaining and selling it.

"The formal training for a chartered surveyor lasts at least five years, and combines both theoretical knowledge and its practical application.''