Premier Michael Dunkley

Bermuda, May 20, CMC — Michael Dunkley was sworn in as Premier of Bermuda during a ceremony at Government House on Tuesday less than 24 hours after 51-year-old Craig Cannonier announced his resignation as a result of the so-called “Jetgate” controversy.

Dunkley, the National Security Minister, swore the oath of office before Governor George Fergusson with fellow One Bermuda Alliance (OBA) parliamentarians and family members on hand to lend their support.: “I am humbled by the responsibility I have now been given. Let me first, however, thank former Premier Craig Cannonier. We worked together first in opposition and as his deputy I was grateful for the opportunity he gave to me to serve in cabinet.

“I always enjoyed his support as a minister and it cannot be forgotten that he led our party to a significant election victory,” Dunkley said.

Cannonier’s 17 months as premier were the shortest in Bermuda’s history, coming after the OBA ended 14 years of Progressive Labour Party (PLP) rule in the December 2012 general election.
The OBA inherited a ballooning national debt of US$1.4 billion in the midst of a recession which has now stretched to five years.

Dunkley said the foundation for Bermuda’s economic recovery had been set since the election by a “hard-working team of men and women”.