Political fireworks are expected to explode in our Parliament soon, as debate begins on various highly controversial recommendations contained in the SAGE Commission report to Government, aimed at seeking ways to improve efficiency in running the island, to cut operational cost.

There is little doubt that there are shock waves reverberating throughout our communities, over a wide range of suggestions including outsourcing a number of services currently under Government control. That touched a nerve with many people, because it had the appearance of throwing many lives under the bus, with the single objective of cutting operational cost, even if it meant many people would have to be expandable.

Most Bermudians are well aware that there is no magic wand to correct economic problems that were years in the making. However they are also aware that in tackling the situation, some hard truths must be faced, or we will all slide down that road of denial deeply locked in a sea of divisiveness, politically and racially.

In other words out of control anger, for whatever reason, will cause even further damage to our social infrastructure, and our already weak economy. The Government of the day, must keep a sharp eye on public sentiment regarding the Sage report, because not to do so, would push them into the situation which saw the last Government ousted after 14 years at the helm. Remember it is always the people who take the brunt when things go wrong.

It should also be pointed out that the people have every right to be angry over any initiative they feel is likely to create hardship and uncertainty. That should be expected in any democracy.

What is deeply troubling to most people who want real progress, is that when anger slips out control, there is a tendency to ignite negative impulses from some, who would rather destroy rather than build.

Every free society is confronted with that from time to time. Hopefully there were lessons for both political parties from the recent Lambe Foggo clinic dispute. To avoid confusion and misconceptions fuelled by anger, careful study of details is necessary before going public with sensitive matters.

It is the Governments responsibility to protect the interest of all Bermudians who desire a prosperous and safe island to raise families and to live out the Bermudian dream in an atmosphere of growth.

This is a tough call, but the One Bermuda Alliance Government, must convince the electorate that no matter what recommendations are submitted by Sage, or any other group, how it will effect the people will be fully considered, before anything is even considered for implementation.

The Opposition Progressive Labour Party, is clearly in attack mode especially after being ushered from the leadership role just about a year ago. Most know the pain of defeat has not totally healed.

Although most people want a robust Opposition to keep Government on their toes, there is little appetite for a new level of nasty political clashes on issues where cooperation might prove more productive.

Parliamentarians on both sides, should take advantage of the festive season, to clear their heads and focus on how to move Bermuda forward, without anyone being thrown under the bus in the process.

This will be a major challenge in the new year, but if we allow anger over this or that policy to overheat in the public domain, we could create an atmosphere of tension that could hinder growth in tourism and our international business links.

Our young people, many fresh out of college are watching things closely, because they need hope and encouragement in helping to rebuild a better Bermuda. There are numerous problems to solve, and that demands cooler heads collectively working toward doing the right thing for the people of Bermuda.

We have many angry people on both sides of the political divide, and that will always be the case.

However this is a time to throw uncontrolled anger under the bus, and allow common sense and logic to have front seats. Depending on how words are used, they can be encouraging or discouraging. Lets hope our parliamentarians keep this in mind during crucial debate over the sage report. The people must be the highest priority.