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Passport discussions ‘must continue’ — Fahy

Home Affairs Minister Michael Fahy.

Bermuda will continue to push UK authorities for “clarity and completeness” on issues arising from passport printing, due to be taken over by the UK government in one year’s time.

Home Affairs Minister Michael Fahy today updated the Senate on immigration issues affecting the UK Overseas Territories (OT) — raised at the November 27 Joint Ministerial Council meeting in London.

“The main issue of the session was to focus on agreement on preferred options for passport repatriation and to identify short term solutions to meet the needs of OT citizens for urgent travel documents,” he said.

Sen Fahy told the Upper House there were “actions that remain outstanding” on turnaround time and service delivery for passports.

A session with Simon Dadd of the UK Home Office laid down parameters for setting immigration policy, Sen Fahy said, and the process by which OTs consult with the UK on changes to regulations.

Security and economic concerns topped the agenda, as well as the need for policies to meet commitments such as the European Convention on Human Rights.

Visas to the UK and changes to entry requirements were also discussed — plus the UK’s aim at developing a consistent policy for asylum seekers in the Territories.

Sen Fahy said it was “imperative” for the Island to be represented at future meetings of the council.