An MP is to step down from his junior minister’s role to become the chairman of the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation.Jamahl Simmons, who replaces Neville Grant, pledged to use the position to encourage entrepreneurs and help create jobs for Bermudians.Mr Simmons had assisted David Burt, the Premier, with communications since he was removed as Minister without Portfolio in a Cabinet shuffle in June.He said: “To address the system of inequality and expand opportunities in Bermuda, it is essential that we not only break down the institutional impediments and red tape towards entrepreneurship, but we must also cultivate and encourage the spirit of entrepreneurship within Bermudians.“The worst is yet to come, economically, but that’s why we need the BEDC now more than ever to create jobs and opportunities for Bermudians. “I gladly take on this challenge and look forward to once again working with the hard-working team at the BEDC.”Mr Simmons earlier had responsibility for the BEDC when he was the Minister of Tourism and Economic Development.The Government credited him with spearheading moves to expand access to capital, develop incentives for new entrepreneurs and develop co-operative economics. Mr Burt said: “As we have successfully navigated the Covid-19 pandemic, we must now focus on successfully navigating the tough economic times ahead. “As a government, we have long believed that entrepreneurship is key, to not only creating new opportunities for Bermudians, and have worked to break down the barriers and red tape that have, for many years, restricted entrepreneurship to a select, often privileged few. With the economic challenges ahead, we need strong leadership focused on delivering for Bermudians.”• On occasion The Royal Gazette may decide to not allow comments on a story that we deem might inflame sensitivities or discontinue them when the discourse is lowered by commenters to unacceptable standards. As we are legally liable for any slanderous or defamatory comments made on our website, this move is for our protection as well as that of our readers.