Royal Gazette Opinion Article by Kim Smith, Executive Director, BEST.

February 18, 2025

In a Bermuda Environmental Sustainability Taskforce op-ed last month, we highlighted the need for stronger enforcement by the Department of Planning, the weakness or absence of which has resulted in illegal development and disregard for land-zoning rules across the island.

Enforcement is critical to the success of the Bermuda Plan, which is Bermuda’s only “vision” document on how and where we should develop. Property owners and contractors must be held accountable when engaging in work that has not been approved by the planning department. If we are to maintain the integrity of our environment and culture, we must ensure that the law is respected and upheld across the board.

The weak enforcement is consistently attributed to a lack of staff and financial resources. A more serious problem that results from inadequate staffing, is an increasing disregard for the rules and laws. Where there aren’t enough staff, there will almost surely be a lack of oversight, accountability and consequences.

This issue extends beyond just the Department of Planning and, with the General Election upon us, this serves as a timely opportunity for reflection.

The importance of a fully staffed Civil Service

A fully staffed and well-managed Civil Service is essential for ensuring that laws are enforced fairly, resources are distributed equitably and public services run smoothly. Civil servants are the backbone of government operations, translating policy into action and providing the essential services that communities rely on. From law enforcement and public health to education and planning, these employees make democracy function.

Moreover, adequate staffing enables effective oversight and accountability. When government agencies are fully staffed, there are more opportunities for individuals to take responsibility, perform checks and balances, and ensure that citizens’ concerns are addressed. With such standards of practice, the Government can deliver services in a timely and equitable manner, which in turn strengthens public trust.

Read more here: https://www.royalgazette.com/opinion-writer/opinion/article/20250218/hidden-risks-of-an-understaffed-civil-service/