Mr. Speaker, I rise this morning to recognise International Customs day which was on the 26^th January 2022.

Mr. Speaker, the theme of this year’s International Customs Day was “Scaling up Customs Digital Transformation by embracing a Digital Culture and building a Data Echo System”. It was dedicated to the united efforts of Customs to respond to the coronavirus crisis and support people and businesses by strengthening the global supply chain, reinforcing collaboration, harnessing technology and putting “people” at the centre of the transformation process.

Mr. Speaker, the global supply chain is an important link for any business to be able to operate effectively. Covid-19 has severely challenged the supply chain. We had to look at ways of enhancing the way we do business as imports have increased three-fold as a result of people not traveling. The resilience of our officers from 2020 and into 2022 to be able to adapt and change quickly with the times is a true testament to the commitment we have as a Department. We are committed to helping with the recovery of the Island and continuing to strengthen our commitments to all importers while we transform into the new normal.

Mr. Speaker, unfortunately again this year, as a result of COVID-19, the normal slate of events for customs day was curtailed. Although our Annual Open House, Random Acts of Kindness, C.A. Smith Road Race, Staff Appreciation Celebration and the T.D. Robinson Golf Tournament did not go ahead as planned, we are hopeful that we can resume these events in 2023.

Mr. Speaker, as with tradition, officers did attended the church service on Sunday, January 23rd, 2022 at the St. Paul’s A.M.E. Church where officers who have passed were recognized on a “Role Call”.

Mr. Speaker, this year on Customs day we honored 28 Officers with Long Service Awards representing 15 years, 25 years, 30 years, 35 years and 40 years with a presentation of certificates and commemorative gifts. This equates to over 540 years of experience and shows that these officers chose Customs as a career and not just a job.

Mr. Speaker, I wish to recognise those Officers today and thank them for their service:

Mr. Speaker, the Customs Department continues to play an important role in the Bermuda economy and moreover has maintained their mission which is to promote compliance with Bermuda's customs laws through quality service and responsible enforcement. As 2021 was another challenging year, for not only the Customs Department, Bermuda and the entire world, it has forced all of us to maintain our business continuity by adapting and implementing safe and compliant ways of doing business. Our staff and officers are responsible for facilitating trade, assessing and collecting revenue and interdicting drugs and other contraband.

Mr. Speaker, in closing I would like to thank the Collector of Customs, Ms. Pearman, and her team for their service to Bermuda.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.