Due to the recent surge in Covid-19 cases on the island, the Government says that “some public services are being affected.”
Head of the Public Service, Dr. Derrick Binns, said, “Bermuda is currently navigating a very rapid and serious outbreak of the coronavirus. And this is having a significant impact on staffing resources in both the public and private sector.”
A Government spokesperson said, “Dr. Binns noted that due to the increasing numbers of coronavirus cases resulting in hundreds of individuals in self-isolation or quarantine, coupled with the fact that schools have returned to remote learning requiring some parents to work remotely – some public services are being affected.
“In that regard, Dr. Binns is urging the public’s patience while the Government navigates this latest wave of community transmission of the Delta variant of the coronavirus.”
Dr. Binns said, “Our resources are being stretched and I want to thank all our public servants who are working around the clock to help maintain our service levels. Currently many Government Departments have instituted a mix of in office and remote working.
“And since the onset of Covid-19 many Government Departments implemented virtual and online services to allow them to continue to provide services to the public. During this current outbreak, where necessary, departments have reinstituted these protocols to assist the public.
“While our public servants will work tirelessly over the next few weeks to continue to prioritise client needs, we are asking for the public’s patience as there may be delays in turnaround times or interruptions of services due to the limited staff resources.”
The Government spokesperson said, “Dr. Binns noted some of the services that are experiencing some delays and/or interruptions in service. These include, but are not limited to:
- Public Transportation – as of late today [Sept 17], the bus service has been suspended until further notice.
- The Bermuda Post Office advised that deliveries in Hamilton , Paget and Warwick will be impacted. Parcel mail customers can continue to collect from the General Post Office [GPO] lower level Parcel Post Dept. Residents can visit www.bermudapost.bm to track-and-trace their parcels. For letter mail services, P.O. Box mail remains available for pick-up.
- Staff at the Department of Workforce Development are currently working remotely. During this time limited and delayed services to the public can be expected. The public can call 444-1877 for general inquiries.
- The Labour Relations Section is working remotely and the Section is not open to walk-ins.
- The Health Insurance Department [HID] notes that although the Health Insurance Department remains open, persons are encouraged to pay premiums via online banking or over the phone at 295-9210. There is also a drop box located on the ground floor of the Government Administration Building for submission of claims, enrolment applications, etc. [no cash payments]. Queries can be sent to hip@gov.bm. If individuals must visit the department, there are restrictions on the number of people allowed in the lobby at any given time.
“Should additional services become affected, the public will be updated with specific advisories accordingly.
“Lastly each of us has a role to play in stopping the spread of the coronavirus. Please follow Public Health guidelines, wear a mask, practice good hand hygiene, maintain physical distance and download the WeHealth Bermuda App.”
