By Robin Tucker, OBA candidate for Constituency 7, Hamilton South
I have been reading with interest the articles about Savvy Entertainment and, in particular the so-called apology from Premier David Burt.
Why do I say so-called? Well, it appeared to be an apology but with so many caveats that it, effectively, was a non-apology.
First of all, Premier Burt seemed to seek sympathy – he’s been working so hard doing the people’s work. With respect, someone with the title ‘Premier’, should be working hard and I congratulate him for doing so.
He then seems to set about blaming everyone but himself.
First, he blamed a media outlet for writing the story. Then he seems to say it was the OBA’s fault for restoring a beautiful building to its former glory.
The Premier tries to justify giving $800,000 on the basis that there was a Bermudian partner.
We were told the Bermuda Police Service was helping in the investigation into this missing money only for the BPS to say, ‘no’, we are not.
And then the Premier blames civil servants for releasing the money even though it was money that was approved by his Cabinet.
Nelson Mandela said, ‘It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership.’
It seems our Premier has done the opposite. He has put others in front of him when there is danger and frequently puts himself first when there is something to celebrate.
Lastly, the Premier said, ‘the Government doesn’t give funds to foreigners to “build their dreams”.’ It seems that in this case, that was exactly what this money was for.