Created: Aug 15, 2023 07:56 AM
55 Front Street on Monday
Vagrants on Front Street have been asked to go elsewhere, dramatically reducing the number of people loitering in the area near shops and restaurants.
One man claimed that possible legal consequences were mentioned for those who did not move along.
Neither the police nor government officials would confirm the account, but in recent days no one could be seen loitering in the high-traffic area between the Bird Cage and Burnaby Street, and no one could be observed with an open container of alcohol in the vicinity.
At the entryway of 55 Front Street, where a small number of people can regularly be found sitting or laying down for extended periods of time, no groups were gathered.
Police were making their rounds, but they would not say whether anyone had been asked to leave the area.
Asked about the situation, Dwayne Caines, the chief executive and secretary to the Corporation of Hamilton, said: “From the very beginning, it has been our principle not to criminalise homeless individuals.
“Homelessness is a complex issue that demands careful consideration and nuanced solutions.
“We are collaborating closely with the Bermuda Police Service to address the challenges associated with vagrancy and illegal drinking. Our efforts also involve addressing concerns raised by members of the public about aggressive panhandling, public drinking and the overall perception of the City being overwhelmed.
“Our partnership with the Bermuda Police Service extends to formulating enduring strategies to tackle the homeless challenge. Notably, local business owners are expressing their concerns about the impact on sales, highlighting the urgency for action.
“The City of Hamilton stands at ground zero for this pressing issue, where approximately 30 men and women find themselves in unfortunate situations and scenarios on any given day.
“While the challenges are substantial, I take solace in the fact that comprehensive plans are in motion to find lasting solutions.”
A man interviewed near Hamilton Bus Station said he believes that tourists appreciate meeting him when he is on Front Street, and insists that he was told to leave the area while minding his own business and not bothering anyone.
He added that those asked to leave Front Street are congregating near by.
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