Efforts at brokering a dignified exodus of Jamaican illegal aliens from Bermuda are proving fruitful.

A joint committee of the West Indian and Jamaican Associations have been working with Bermuda and US Government officials in a bid to allow those who have overstayed their visit to the Island the opportunity to leave without being arrested or deported.

Such a move saves Government money, as the illegal aliens pay their own fare back home.

The Royal Gazette has learned that Labour and Immigration Minister Paula Cox has granted permission for 19 Jamaicans who have overstayed to leave on direct charter flights to Jamaica next month.

The Minister has also indicated to the Committee that the names of any additional people who would like to go, should be forwarded to her promptly.

Two direct charter flights to Jamaica will leave on December 16 and 21.

The charters offered by Meyer Travel and Sunshine Charters are $690 and $575 respectively.

US authorities have granted some leeway in illegal aliens trying to return home. However, they are not prepared to allow entry to the US of those who have overstayed in Bermuda for an extended period.

Alternatively, the most expensive option for Jamaicans trying to leave is to go through London, England.

Despite the $1,800 cost, it is understood that several illegal aliens actually used that route last week.

British Airways' local manager, Philip Troake, refused to comment on the matter saying the company have a policy of not discussing their passengers.

Meanwhile, Immigration Permanent Secretary, John Drinkwater refused to reveal just how many illegal aliens are on the Island. He did not deny that the department have ready access to such information through their computer records.

Focus on leaving Bermuda emerged as a result of a recent Immigration sting operation which resulted in 16 arrests and 6 Jamaicans formally charged in court.