In June 2007, The Hon. K. H. Randolph Horton JP MP tabled a Motion in this Honourable House which read, and I quote:
“That this Honourable House takes note of the Report entitled ‘Review of Public Education in Bermuda.’ by David Hopkins dated May 2007.

That this Honourable House appoints a Joint Select Committee, to consider and review the recommendations as stated in the ‘Review of Public Education in Bermuda’ Report by David Hopkins.”

Mr. Speaker:
It is to the Honourable Member’s credit that this significant step was taken. The Honourable Member who speaks for Education recognizes that improving public education in Bermuda must include a non-partisan effort. It is not solely the remit of the Government. It is not solely the remit of the Opposition.

Mr. Speaker:
Improving the educational opportunities for our young people is Bermuda’s responsibility; and we are all stakeholders.

The public and Members of this Honourable House will be aware that work has already begun with respect to restructuring our public education system. Action groups which fall under each of the objectives have been diligently setting about planning for improvement. Plans for improvement have been shared with key stakeholders via group meetings. The Ministry of Education has launched PRISM, a televised programme which shares information on the reform. Next week, the Honourable Member who speaks for Education will hold a series of Town Hall Meetings to provide members of the public the opportunity to share their views on what is needed to make public education the first choice in this country.

Mr. Speaker:
Allow me a moment to be frank. There may be some who think that because the Committee has not been struck, there is a lack of will to follow through. Nothing is further from the truth. The Motion I referenced was made in June. Shortly thereafter the House stood down for the summer. Immediately upon reconvening in November, the House stood down again, in anticipation of the last historic General Election. This Honourable House reconvened again in February 2008 to present and debate the people’s budget and then stood down again. Today, Mr. Speaker, we have returned to this Honourable House; ready, able and prepared to continue doing the peoples’ business. And in this regard, the Honourable Member who speaks for Education remains resolute in his commitment to do his best for the children and the people of Bermuda.

Mr. Speaker:
My purpose this morning is to advise that the membership of the Joint Select Committee will be announced by the Government, as soon the Motion has been approved by this Honourable House; hopefully, within the next two weeks. I am pleased, Mr. Speaker, that in the spirit of inclusiveness the leadership of the party which sits opposite has been consulted, and is in full agreement with this plan. While parties may not see eye-to-eye on every matter, this is a national imperative - one for which we must put aside party lines, and work together in honesty and in truth for the benefit of all of Bermuda’s students. We must create a firm educational foundation upon which the future prosperity of Bermuda can be built.

We must get it right. Failure is not an option.

Mr. Speaker:
In summary, I reiterate that this Government will make good on its Motion to create a Joint Parliamentary Committee to allow for Members from both sides of this Honourable House and both sides of the Upper House to come together to discuss how – collectively – we can take the education system in this country to new heights.

Thank you

Statement
By
Hon. Elvin James, J.P., M.P.
Acting Minister of Education

9th May, 2008