Minister without Portfolio Michael Weeks called the eighth annual Bermudian Student Dinner a success, with more than 100 students taking part.

Speaking to the House of Assembly on Friday, Mr Weeks said that he took part in both the annual dinner and the 5th Annual International Parliamentary Governance Seminar in London, Brussels and Cardiff.

He said he met with around 40 other delegates from around the world to get a better understanding of the principles and structures of governance in parliamentary democracies.

“This seminar was a thorough and totally fulfilling experience,” Mr Weeks said.

“As I am sure other members of the House can attest, the International Parliamentary Governance Seminar provides an invaluable opportunity for parliamentarians such as me to learn so much more about our role as the people's representatives.

“I pledge to use the knowledge that I have gained and contacts that I have made to be the very best representative that I can for our Government, the people of Bermuda and in service of this Honorable House.”

While in London, he attended the 8th Annual Bermudian Student Dinner, held for Bermudian students in London, intended to give students an opportunity to ask important questions to the Government.

The 121 students attending were shown a pre-recorded message from Premier Paula Cox, who encouraged the students to continue their hard work.

Speaking at the House of Assembly on Friday, Mr Weeks said: “The importance that this Government is placing on education was reinforced.

“We stressed how important it is for our students to acquire the skill sets demanded of modern business so that they can bring back the intellectual potency that will thrust our country into an even brighter future.”

Another major topic of discussion at the dinner was the outbreak of violent crime in Bermuda.

“It is impossible to speak to a captive Bermudian audience of young people without mentioning violence and anti-social behaviours that are currently affecting our beloved Island home,” Mr Weeks said.

“While I do not have the answer to why some of our young people have turned to violence, I acknowledge, as reported by Professor Ronald Mincy, that some of them may be angry and frustrated by an education system in transition, that some may be angry and frustrated that their career choices did not match the economic opportunities available in Bermuda.

“In this vein, I challenged our students to ensure that their career choices are such that permit them to earn a living and to drive Bermuda's economy.”