The tsunami false alarm which spread panic across the West End of Bermuda came after a “lack of adherence to protocols”, Public Safety Minister David Burch has stated.

Minister Burch has been investigating why rumours of a tidal wave sparked a chaotic evacuation of Dockyard and Somerset residents on December 9 — even though weathermen later said there had been nothing to worry about.

The Minister yesterday said he believed “standing operating procedures” had not been followed as the incident unfolded. He said he had read Police Commissioner George Jackson’s initial review into what happened, which was presented to his department earlier this month.

However, he said a true analysis could only be gained from a further “full and robust” report by the Emergency Measures Organisation (EMO).

His statement reads: “I have reviewed the initial report of the events of Saturday, December 9, 2006. Notwithstanding the contents of this report, I am of the view that there was a systematic failure of systems and a lack of adherence to existing policies and protocols.

“That said, I am also of the view that a full, in-depth analytical time-based report to give a clearer picture of this incident is required and would best be served by a full and robust assessment by the Emergency Measures Organisation (scheduled for early January).

“A full statement will be given following those deliberations.”

Efforts to contact Mr. Burch to find out whether he was satisfied with Mr. Jackson’s review proved unsuccessful yesterday.

A Ministry spokesman has previously stated the report would be shared with the EMO before being released to the public.

On December 9, Police evacuated people after receiving a flurry of calls from worried members of the public about large waves breaking on the northern reef line.

According to sources who spoke to The Royal Gazette, Bermuda Police Service launched the operation without first making checks with Bermuda Weather Service, who could have told them the dramatic horizon was simply the result of previously stormy weather and an exceptionally clear day.