Premier Michael Dunkley issued a rallying call to Bermudians last night urging everyone to work together to overcome the challenges faced by the Island.

During a televised speech, he detailed Government’s accomplishments since the OBA came to power in December 2012, but cautioned: “There is much more to do.”

Mr Dunkley hailed the America’s Cup and casino gaming legislation as initiatives that would stimulate the economy and rebuild tourism.

He also maintained that efforts to reduce Government spending were beginning to bear fruit.

“We are confident the recovery is taking hold, but we cannot do it alone,” said Mr Dunkley.

“So I appeal to you to think about what you can do to help your Island home. It could be mentoring a child, donating to a charity or helping people in need. Once you decide what you can do, then commit to doing it, commit to the life of the community, extend a helping hand wherever possible.

“Bermuda, we are a good people being tested in big ways. Let’s use this time to come together, to work together, exercising tolerance and respect.

“Let’s use these testing times as an opportunity to make Bermuda better, to make it more open, fair and inclusive.”

Mr Dunkley insisted that public service reform remained a priority, while he pointed to the new Public Access to Information Act as proof of Government’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

“By the end of this fiscal year we will have reduced Government’s annual deficit by approximately $110 million,” said Mr Dunkley.

“We will have moved the Current Account, before debt service payments, to a surplus position — the first time in more than seven years.

“The steps we’ve taken so far are steps to grow the economy — cutting red tape, passing legislation, adjusting regulations and reaching beyond our shores to create new channels of investment in Bermuda; investment that builds hotels, creates new businesses and sets the stage for making the America’s Cup in Bermuda one of the greatest sporting spectacles of all time.”

During the speech, which aired at 6.50pm, Mr Dunkley praised the work of the Bermuda Police Service and the Department of Corrections, and highlighted the success of projects including the anti-gang GREAT programme, as well as outreach and educational programmes in prison.

“With several hundred million dollars in projects lined up over the next three years I am very optimistic about our future,” he said. “These projects reflect rising confidence in Bermuda, confidence that translates into jobs, career and business opportunities for Bermudians.

“The America’s Cup will generate fantastic levels of activity and excitement, making Bermuda one of the hot spots on the planet when the racing gets under way.”

• For the full text of the Premier’s address, click on the PDF file under “Related Media”.