Michael Dunkley has hailed 2014 as a year of “significant progress” in Bermuda’s quest to put the economy back on track.

While conceding that “plenty of work still needed to be done”, the Premier told The Royal Gazette that there was a raft of reasons to be positive about the Island’s prospects in 2015.

He maintained that the “2,000 jobs” pledge made by the One Bermuda Alliance when it came to power was still a realistic goal in light of recent hotel development announcements and the success of the America’s Cup bid. Mr Dunkley also said that the OBA had emerged from the political saga that resulted in the resignation of Craig Cannonier as Premier in May a “stronger and more unified” party.

“As we roll into 2015, we can look back and reflect on some significant foundations being developed,” he said.

“The America’s Cup announcement is huge and we have seen many positive signs of hotel development and the growth of business confidence in Bermuda.

“It is this progress that will create opportunity and jobs for Bermudians. We are moving in the right direction and there is a much brighter future than we might have expected at the beginning of 2013.

“There will be hiccups along the way, but 2015 is a very promising year for Bermuda.”

Mr Dunkley pointed to the recent passing of legislation to permit casino gaming as well as a series of hotel development announcements as proof of progress. But he said that his Government would not be satisfied until the proposals had been acted on.

“Gaming is not the be-all and end-all, but we need it to compete with the rest of the world.

“Bermudians are looking for more opportunity; they are not looking for announcements or photo opportunities. “We are already seeing work under way at Hamilton Princess and the old Pink Beach Club. There will be further updates on the progress of the Desarrollos project in St George’s as well as development in the West End.

“Ariel Sands is moving forward aggressively and Morgan’s Point is making progress.

“I am confident 2015 will see a brighter year for tourism as the Tourism Authority’s hard work and marketing initiatives begin to pay off.”

Mr Dunkley said three of the Government’s priorities for 2015 would be: enacting America’s Cup legislation, establishing gaming regulations and commission, and implementing the Public Access to Information (PATI) Act.

“We continue to operate against a backdrop of a Government that has spent more than it earns,” Mr Dunkley said. “But we have made great steps in this area and built stronger relationships with the unions.”

He added: “You live and learn; no one is perfect. We have taken a lot of time since we had those emergency party meetings in May to discuss the issues.

“But we now have a strong Parliamentary team and I have been really pleased with the development of individuals in the Senate as well as the House of Assembly.

“People have stepped up and that has been great to see.”