Speight's residency status still in doubt

The status of Bermuda Cricket Board CEO Neil Speight’s work permit was still in doubt last night.

Immigration Minister Colonel David Burch could not be reached to respond to allegations surrounding Speight’s application for permanent residency.

Application

Government sources say Mr. Burch refused to “sign off” on the application, which had been approved by a Cabinet Appeals Committee after an initial request for a Permanent Residency Certificate was rejected by immigration.

Yesterday, BCB president Reggie Pearman would not elaborate on what he deemed to be a “sensitive matter”.

He said: “Everything is up in the air right now so I’d rather not comment on it.”

A BCB source was also remaining tight-lipped but said they were hopeful things will go in Speight’s favour.

They added: “Everyone is of the opinion that this matter will work itself out.” A Government source said the initial application for permanent residency by Speight — a former commercial league cricketer who also serves on the International Cricket Council executive board — was “turned down” by immigration “months ago”.

A Cabinet Appeals Committee that included Culture Minister Neletha Butterfield later approved the application. It is alleged Minister Burch refused to sign it, which Government sources claim he is obligated to do.

Despite repeated attempts, Mr. Burch could not be contacted before press time last night to comment on the matter.

Speaking to members of the media at a press conference earlier this week, Mr. Burch said that the Ministry of Immigration have about a dozen cases in various stages of dispute.

Speight originally served as the BCB’s treasurer before he was controversially appointed to his current post as chief executive officer in 2003.

A number of BCB affiliates raised questions over his eligibility to sit on the board as a legitimate executive, which they argue is “unconstitutional”.

Bylaws

Prior to amendments to the BCB’s bylaws following Speight’s appointment to the rank of CEO, non-Bermudians were not allowed to serve as an executive officer of local cricket’s governing body.