Marico Thomas, President of the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce, has responded to Premier David Burt’s remarks following the Chamber’s recent housing presentation, saying “if there was concern or misunderstanding around the Chamber’s contribution, we welcome the opportunity to clarify our intent and methods,” with the Cabinet Office saying “Mr. Thomas’ overall commentary is disappointing.”
Chamber of Commerce Statement
Mr. Thomas said, “In public life, words carry weight, especially when they touch on credibility, collaboration, and how we solve problems together.
“Following the Chamber’s recent housing presentation, the Premier said, ‘Guesses on figures do not make facts. End of story.’ He also added, ‘Anyone can have views. Anyone can have their opinions.’
“Both are valid points in principle, but they raise important questions.
“If there was concern or misunderstanding around the Chamber’s contribution, we welcome the opportunity to clarify our intent and methods. This isn’t about defending pride, it’s about upholding the integrity of a process shaped by good faith, professional standards, and a shared commitment to solving real challenges.
“Our housing analysis used public data, primarily from government sources, and followed sound economic and actuarial methods. Where estimates were used, we disclosed them. Where data was missing, we said so. That’s not guesswork; it’s responsible analysis.
“Take actuaries, for example. Their job is to model uncertainty, quantify risk, and inform policy. That’s not opinion, it’s disciplined data analysis. Framing that kind of work as speculation risks sending the wrong message, not only to professionals and local institutions that rely on evidence-based approaches, but also to the broader public who deserve clear, credible information.
“In the absence of a clear statement from Cabinet leaders regarding the Chamber’s presentations, the public is left to interpret these remarks in a vacuum. That ambiguity can erode trust — not just in our work, but in the spirit of collaboration itself.
“Dismissive remarks, without explanation, can inadvertently undermine collaboration. It raises questions for the many public officers, ministries, and community partners who engage with our data as part of their own efforts to move the country forward.
“Let me be clear: I’m proud of the Chamber’s Economic Committee, an accomplished group who volunteer their time to help Bermuda better understand and address issues like housing. Their work is thoughtful, rigorous, and offered in the spirit of contribution, not criticism.
“One of Bermuda’s greatest strengths is its world-class model of collaboration between government, industry, and regulators. It’s a formula admired internationally, and rightly so. Our ask is simple: let’s apply the same standard of excellence here at home. Let’s ensure the level of consideration, engagement, and mutual respect we extend to the global stage is equally felt by those living and working right here in Bermuda.
“Bermuda works best when all sectors – public, private, and community – can engage with openness and respect. That’s the spirit we’ll keep showing up with. Because our aim isn’t to be right for the sake of it. Our aim is to help. And like many across this island, we’re doing the work not to win points, but to make progress.
“We continue to extend an open hand to Government, and invite ongoing collaboration so that together, we can bring clarity, action, and lasting solutions to the issues that matter most to the people of Bermuda.
“The Bermuda Chamber of Commerce represents the collective commercial interests of its members to provide networking opportunities within the business community; to act as a conduit between private and public sectors; and to create community awareness and facilitate training.”
Cabinet Office Statement
A Cabinet Office spokesperson said, “The Cabinet Office has been made aware of the President of the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce [BCC], Mr. Marico Thomas’ views and wishes to offer some points of clarity to avoid any confusion:
“The Premier was not speaking about or referencing the Chamber’s presentation. And it would be incorrect for Mr. Thomas to draw such a conclusion. Further, to make public comments based on an assumption is concerning.
“As it relates to the recent housing presentation, the public should be aware of the full story – Government Ministers and relevant technical officers were in attendance at last week’s presentation. In particular, the Deputy Premier and Minister of Housing and Municipalities Zane DeSilva, as well as the Chair of the Bermuda Housing Corporation were at the forum. Minister DeSilva spoke to the Chamber President and both agreed to discuss matters further.
“Mr. Thomas’ overall commentary is disappointing. The Government appreciates the role of the BCC, and has always sought to partner and collaborate with the Chamber and its membership. Furthermore, when the Premier and Cabinet Ministers have been asked to attend Chamber hosted forums or share insights regarding their relevant Ministries, in most instances, Government Ministers have graciously agreed.
“Because our Ministers know the value of ensuring that all stakeholders including the Chamber of Commerce are sufficiently updated about Government’s policies and initiatives. This is exemplified by the Budget Breakfast where the Premier was a panellist; Minister Owen Darrell’s recent meeting with the BCC President and new CEO Jennifer Woods; and Minister DeSilva attending last week’s housing presentation.
“Mr. Thomas’ criticisms of the Premier, Cabinet Ministers and the government are not rooted in fact. And to ensure transparency, it’s only right that the public should be fully made aware of the facts.”
