A Bermuda Regiment soldier has been forced to attend a two week army exercise in Jamaica -- even though a medical expert claims he is unfit to perform regimental duties.

Gilbert Amaral, 20, of St. Michael's Road, Paget, flew out with the Regiment on Friday night after being summoned by his commanding officer.

But an orthopaedic surgeon who has been treating Mr. Gilbert insisted that he will not be able to perform Regimental duties for the next three months. Dr.

Panagal Chelvam said: "Mr. Amaral is suffering from severe back pains for the past two months following heavy lifting. It seems to be due to significant soft tissue injury to parispinal muscles.

"He is being treated by NSAID and physiotherapy with laser and ultrasound message. He will be unfit to do any type of regimental activities and any heavy labour for the next three months at least.'' Mr. Amaral's mother, Alzira, was furious with the Regiment for making her son attend the camp.

"If you have problems with your back then you shouldn't even be flying,'' she said.

"He telephoned me and told me that he's responsible for running a small storeroom. He might not be doing anything too strenuous but he still shouldn't be out there is the first place.'' But Regiment Adjutant Capt. Edward Lamb said the soldier had a legal duty to attend the camp.

He said there were plenty of jobs that did not involve physical activity, such as carrying out administrative duties.

And he also said that Mr. Amaral's commanding officer was aware of his medical condition but would have made a final decision after interviewing him.

"If he can walk, he can attend a camp,'' Captain Lamb said.