Measures to reduce cost-of-living challenges a recurrent theme in Throne Speech
The Convening of the Legislature officially got underway this morning.
Governor Andrew Murdoch, who delivered the Throne Speech, which sets out the Government’s legislative agenda for the year ahead, focused heavily on reducing the cost of living in Bermuda.
Premier David Burt, in a news release, said it’s not a repetition of the speech delivered in November. He said items such as enhancing FutureCare and HIP, capping pension fees, cutting red tape, expanding apprenticeships and training programmes, and ending homelessness, remain firmly on the Government’s agenda.
The formal proceedings were held on the Cabinet Office grounds in Hamilton. Last night, it was confirmed the government would announce that the Cost-of-Living Commission will gain the authority to examine the financial records of businesses involved in food supply and essential goods, ensuring fair pricing for consumers.
“For far too long business has profited at the expense of everyday Bermudians and the sunshine of public scrutiny cannot just apply to the Government, it must also apply to those on whom Bermudians rely to purchase the goods to sustain themselves,” said Governor Murdoch.
In addition, legislation will be amended to allow the formation of an education authority.
Governor Murdoch explained, “The legislation to implement an Education Authority will change how public education is funded, governed, and led.”
As the Corporate Income Tax is set to come into effect this year, Governor Murdoch said priorities will shift to public sector workers to restore wages relative to cost-of-living increases.
Governor Murdoch said the government will advance legislative amendments to the Acquisition of Land Act 1970 and the Bermuda Housing Act of 1980 to provide streamlined means to address vacant and derelict properties.
He said the government will find ways to return the vacant units to housing stock for Bermudians. Governor Murdoch also said the areas of Mary Victoria and Alexandra Road neighbourhoods had been given ‘band-aid’ treatment, and a more expansive revitalisation plan will be created.
On the local economy, the government reiterated its commitment to fostering an environment that supports entrepreneurs and the growth of their businesses.
Regarding tourism, the government will advance amendments to the Tourism Investment Act 2017 to include smaller guest houses as well as health and medical tourism sites.
On the health front, measures will be rolled out to facilitate the timely discharge of patients from the hospital – a chronic issue that has been exacerbated by Bermuda’s ageing population and a lack of space in nursing/care homes across the island. The government’s approach this legislative session will include transitioning patients who no longer require acute care to suitable alternative care settings, thus freeing up hospital beds and reducing wait times in the emergency room.
“The power to discharge may free up space in the hospital, but if persons have nowhere to go that will only increase stress on families,” acknowledged Governor Murdoch. “There are currently 4 care homes that are in various phases of development, and the Government is committed to expanding the interest-free loan scheme for home modifications for seniors and the disabled.”
A comprehensive review of the Mental Health Act of 1968 will also be carried out to modernise processes and provide greater protection for service users.
The legislature will also consider enforcing a ban on industrially produced trans fats, restrictions on vaping products, repeal of the sections of the Criminal Code from 1907 that address pregnancy termination, and a legislative review to ensure the rights of accessibility and opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Turning to law reform, legislators will look at increasing the age of criminal responsibility from 8 to 14, as well as other amendments to the Young Offenders Act of 1950.
Meanwhile, Governor Murdoch said consultation has begun on electoral and constitutional reforms, with a report to be introduced for consideration of the legislature. Discussions include reducing the number of seats in the House of Assembly, status and absentee voting for students or residents overseas.
“Electoral and Constitutional reforms should mirror the times in which we live, and the strength of systems is in their ability to adjust to meet the demands of the times,” he said.
To attract the next generation of leaders within the public service, the government will launch a scholarship scheme providing university tuition support in exchange for a five-year commitment to public service of public health care.
In keeping with the digitisation of government services, it was stated that the amount of government information that is open and accessible online will be expanded to reduce the burden of PATI requests on public officers.
Governor Murdoch concluded: “The importance of fairness, good governance and accountability are at the heart of
the Constitution. I therefore welcome the Government’s commitment to serve every Bermudian with fairness and accountability.”
The Speaker of the House is Dennis Lister II and Deputy Speaker is Lovitta Foggo.
Joan Dillas-Wright will return as President of the Senate.
You can read the full Speech from the Throne below.
