OBA leader says “the island cannot afford any further lack of action”
Jarion Richardson, Leader of the One Bermuda Alliance, gave the below speech at his party’s headquarters this afternoon following the Government’s Speech from the Throne.
“Today’s Throne Speech lacked substance and doesn’t address the most important needs of the country.
The island just experienced an election like this island has ever seen.
The Progressive Labour Party did not gain the majority of the peoples’ vote, but yet it won the election. This, is in fact, sobering, and I would hope that the party is reflecting deeply on what this ‘victory’ actually means.
The One Bermuda Alliance, and other non-PLP candidates garnered more votes combined than that of the PLP alone. This cannot be ignored.
Another thing that can’t be ignored is that the people of Bermuda were calling for hope. They are desirous of a better Bermuda, not just for themselves, but for all residents on the island, regardless of background.
The PLP has not delivered that and this Throne Speech clearly demonstrates that there will be more of the same.
While I can appreciate that a Throne Speech was delivered just a few months ago, the only glimmers of hope were the initiatives which reflected our platform that was released in September 2024: Addressing the Landlord Tennant Act, reducing red tape for businesses and increasing efficiency. These are very similar to the OBA.
This speech lacked depth.
This was an opportunity for the Government to repeal the ineffective Sugar Tax, yet no mention of it being repealed. There was no mention of how the island is going to tackle food security. The bloc grant for the Bermuda Hospitals Board, although inefficient, will still remain in place. Where is any mention of the youth? Again the PLP is sending a resounding message that their voices don’t matter.
Education reform…just last week an announcement was made that there will an adjustment to the implementation of signature schools, yet today it has been said that an Education Authority will implemented.
The reform should be paused. The powers that be should listen to the parents and the teachers…and an independent education authority should be implemented.
The Government has been silent on the topic of domestic violence. The domestic violence court was due to be introduced in January this year…yet nothing. There is still no safe house on the island, despite its absence over the last few years. How are victims to truly feel safe when it feels like their needs are being ignored.
The PLP has said it will address building homes for Bermudians by assessing private buildings—but why not look at the Government’s inventory of buildings that are not in use.
Today, charity HOME reported that over 1100 people on the island experiencing homelessness so drastic action is required. We urge the Government to finding a solution a priority.
And quite frankly, the island cannot afford any further lack of action.”
