His Excellency The Governor, Mr. Andrew Murdoch, delivered the Speech from the Throne today on the lawn of the Cabinet Office, outlining the Bermuda Government’s ambitious legislative agenda for the upcoming parliamentary term. The address, set against the backdrop of increasing financial pressure on Bermudians, emphasized a commitment to alleviate economic burdens and improve various sectors, from healthcare to housing.
Rising costs have become a pressing concern for many residents, and the Government is poised to implement measures aimed at providing duty relief to the public. “We understand the financial strains our citizens are facing, and we are determined to ensure that relief is tangible,” stated Mr. Murdoch.
Among the key initiatives, the Government plans to strengthen laws that protect mortgage and loan recipients who are experiencing difficulties. A review of home insurance regulations is also on the agenda, aimed at enhancing consumer protections. Additionally, amendments are set to limit the expenses passed on to energy consumers, addressing a critical area of concern for households.
The complexities of modern family life, particularly for the “sandwich generation” — those raising children while caring for aging parents — will also receive attention. The Government aims to support Bermudians of all ages as they navigate these challenges.
Education reform continues to be a priority, with plans to amend the Education Act to better serve children with special needs and disabilities, as well as to increase access to further education for more Bermudians.
Tax reform is highlighted as a crucial component in tackling the cost of living and doing business in Bermuda. The Government is committed to fostering local businesses, supporting entrepreneurs, and attracting investment through the introduction of National Entrepreneurship and Digital Entrepreneurship strategies.
In a move to streamline regulations, the Government will introduce “innovation-friendly” legislation to cut red tape and encourage investment in the island. However, the introduction of marine protection measures will be paused until agreements are reached with stakeholders in the fishing industry.
Healthcare remains a focus, with the Government pledging to advance the journey towards Universal Health Care. This includes measures to free up hospital beds by discharging patients who no longer require acute care, while ensuring that affordable long-term community care is available for those in need.
The Government also plans to modernize mental health legislation, review the age of criminal responsibility, and create a compensation regime for the wrongly convicted, all while seeking to improve the legal aid system.
A consultative process regarding the reduction of MPs and overseas voting for Bermudians will be initiated, with an emphasis on maintaining the integrity of the electoral system. The Government will also address recommendations from the Commission of Inquiry on Historic Land Losses as legal disputes are resolved.
In a bid to attract talent to the public sector, a Public Service Scholarship Programme will be launched, providing university tuition support in exchange for a five-year commitment to public service. This initiative aims to bolster retention in technical roles where recruitment has been challenging.
The digitisation of government services will continue, enhancing access to online services and improving efficiency for the public. The Government is also prioritizing affordable housing, pledging to streamline the restoration of vacant properties and develop a master plan for key neighborhoods facing long-standing issues.
In a significant fiscal move, the establishment of a Sovereign Wealth Fund is proposed to manage proceeds from the newly introduced Corporate Income Tax, ensuring fair taxation while promoting economic growth and infrastructure improvements for future generations.
As the session unfolds, the Government’s comprehensive agenda aims to address the multifaceted challenges facing Bermuda, ensuring a resilient and prosperous future for all residents.
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