According to the Premier, it will include cost-of living measures “designed to lift every Bermudian”
Premier David Burt has announced that the Progressive Labour Party (PLP) will unveil its election platform on February 6, featuring measures to help Bermudians address challenges stemming from the cost-of-living crisis.
Speaking at a press conference this afternoon at his party’s headquarters, the Reginald A. Burrows Building, Premier Burt said: “While the root causes of these prices are global, the solutions we put forward are local, tailored to the needs of Bermudian families.”
Careful not to reveal too much of the party’s platform, he spelled out a few proposed initiatives that the next PLP Government would implement, including:
- Taking further action to address rising food costs by fostering competition and exploring new ways to deliver affordable options directly to Bermudians, even if it involves supplying the items themselves
- Reducing energy taxes by an additional 20% in the next Budget, bringing the total reduction of government taxes on energy to 80%—a “significant reduction” that will be reflected on energy bills
- Establishing a senior day care facility that will provide meals and activities, supporting the “sandwiched generation”
- Introducing a free primary care visit for all HIP insurance holders and a specialist visit for those on FutureCare
Premier Burt described these agenda items as examples of “putting money into spaces where it can reduce the burden on persons.”
He added, “These measures will build on our progress and reflect our commitment because we believe in being clear in our plans and sharing what we’ve done and what we will do to continue building a fairer Bermuda for all.”
Premier Burt was joined by party colleague and sitting MP for Constituency 7, Hamilton South, Anthony Richardson.
Mr Richardson highlighted the PLP’s record of investing in Bermuda’s residents, citing policies such as the Unemployment Benefit during the Covid-19 pandemic, reduced duty on essential food items, frozen petrol prices at the pumps, and a freeze on the government’s portion of health insurance fees.
He noted that these measures were deliberate decisions to support Bermudians during difficult times, but emphasised that there is still more work to be done.
Further new initiatives designed to address the cost-of-living challenges will be revealed in the party’s platform on February 6.
“We will not shy away from them. Together, we can ensure Bermuda is a place of opportunity, equity, and security for all,” Mr Richardson said.
For the full news conference, click the link below.
