The public is reminded that permission must be sought from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour to conduct certain events on the Territory’s beaches.

Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr. Ronald Smith-Berkeley, explained that the requirement for permission is in keeping with the ministry’s mandate to effectively manage and administer the natural resources of the Territory in a manner that ensures long-term sustainability.

 Mr. Smith-Berkeley said, “Beaches are our most valuable asset and are a shared public resource. The ministry has a responsibility to ensure that use of the beach does not negatively impact the beach itself or unduly affect the user experience of others.”

Requests for permission must be in writing, addressed to the Permanent Secretary and must include a detailed description of the activity or use for which permission is sought.

The uses include but are not limited to any commercial activity; any recreational uses that may generate large gatherings, loud music or other disturbances;  placement of any temporary structures, equipment or devices on the land or in the sea; and lighting of bonfires.

The ministry reserves the right to refuse permission for activities that it deems detrimental to the beach, poses undue burden on beach users or that conflict with any existing policies or the overriding public interest. The ministry also reserves the right to stop any existing activity or use that is being carried out without permission.