Premier defends use of free jet

Premier Craig Cannonier today attempted to defuse a row over the acceptance of private jet travel from a group of potential investors in the US.

Mr Cannonier told the House of Assembly that the unnamed man, who he said had extensive experience in the gaming industry, had contacted him several months ago.

He said “I invited this gentleman and his team to come to Bermuda and meet with the Government, but he stated that it would be very difficult to get them all to Bermuda and that he would prefer if a Government delegation could come to a meeting at his office.

“I made it clear that, as this was his invitation, the cost of this meeting should be fully borne by him.”

He added: “I do recognise that accepting the invitation to visit the investor group can be viewed in the negative.

“I appreciate these concerns. As always, we have Bermuda’s best interest at heart and we will continue with the important business of restoring jobs and generating opportunities for the people of Bermuda.”

Mr Cannonier said the potential investor, “a wealthy individual from Maryland”, arranged for a private jet to bring him, Tourism Minister Shawn Crockwell, and Attorney General Mark Pettingill.

He added that the man “wanted to share with the Government his views regarding gaming’s potential to help revitalise our tourism industry and generate jobs for Bermudians.”

Mr Cannonier — who earlier, backed by Mr Pettingill, insisted there was no wrongdoing — added that the meeting was “very productive and informative.”

Mr Cannonier said: “Other questions were asked in relation to work permits, concessions, the Government’s relationship with the unions and other topics.

“This was our first contact with this group. They had not been identified as a possible partner for Bermuda and had never met or liaised with the Economic Development Committee.

“Throughout the meeting, the Attorney General made it clear to the group that any specific project they may be interested in would have to go out to tender. This was made abundantly clear and, I believe, it was clearly understood.”

Mr Cannonier added: “At no time were any bids made or formal negotiations discussed for any property. No legally binding contracts, guarantees or promises were made for any property or any other business in Bermuda.

“The meeting, which lasted several hours, amounted to an exchange of information.

“Subsequent to this meeting, this group has not made any application to this Government as it related to developments in Bermuda.”

The Bermuda Sun asked the Government PR office on Thursday for any guidance on Ministerial conduct and what rules, along the lines of the UK and US, existed.

They had not responded by this afternoon.