BERMUDA — Opposition Leader Ben Smith demanded a referendum on full CARICOM membership during a parliamentary session on June 25, 2026. He cited the government's failure to obtain legal or U.S. diplomatic assurances regarding the impact on Bermudians' travel privileges.

Smith stated that the Premier confirmed in the House of Assembly that the government had not received independent legal advice concerning the potential impact of full CARICOM membership on Bermuda's travel permissions and immigration privileges. The Premier also confirmed that discussions had not been held with the U.S. Government regarding these potential impacts. Smith said he had asked the Premier whether he obtained such advice or assurances from the U.S. government.

Smith characterized the government's promotion of full CARICOM membership as an "aggressive public propaganda campaign." He stated that the Premier acknowledged that work necessary to understand the implications of CARICOM membership for Bermudians had not yet been carried out and would be deferred to a future White Paper.

Smith stated that Bermudians benefit from U.S. pre-clearance at the airport and enjoy visa-free travel to the United States. "If the Government truly believes most Bermudians want full membership of CARICOM then let's allow Bermudians to decide," Smith said. He added, "Because of this, it is more important than ever for Bermudians to decide through a Referendum."