Chamber on JetGate: ‘It’s time to move on’

The Bermuda Chamber of Commerce is hopeful the JetGate saga is over and done with, as moving past the scandal is in “the best interests of the country”.

Kendaree Burgess, the chamber’s executive director, said through a statement: “Over the past few months the Bermudian political landscape has concerned many. Today hopefully marks the end of it. The Chamber believes that we must move forward in the best interests of the country as a whole. 

“We will continue to work with the government to ensure that Bermuda and the economy move in a positive direction.”

She added, “Political uncertainty rarely benefits a country and Bermuda is no different. Our focus should be on getting the engine that is Bermuda back up and running, the quicker we can do this, the better we as a country will be — economically and otherwise.” 

One prominent businessman thinks JetGate will have no effect on the country’s ability to attract business and investment. He says the handling of the matter shows Bermuda has a mature political environment.

“I think the fact that it was dealt with so constructively is a good thing,” said Robert Pires, chairman and CEO of Bermuda Investment Advisory Services. “If anything, this makes the Bermuda government look much more mature. 

“I think that’s what is called accountability. It’s very, very constructive both on Mr (Craig) Cannonier’s part and on the OBA’s part.”

He added, “It’s time to move on and get this sick ailing economy back on track.”