The United Bermuda Party unveiled its election platform today offering tax breaks for the poor, 500 new homes for affordable rent and financial support so any family can afford day care up to pre-school age.

Tax breaks will help build homes for sale priced at $350-450,000 while Government will work with financial institutions to make house financing easier.

There are measures to help the family including extending maternity leave and introducing paternity leave and adding another government-run affordable day care centre.

There is also a plan to determine the feasibility for a special education fund at birth to assist with educational costs later on while there is the promise of free bus and ferry services for all students and school breakfasts for children in need.

Basic health care will be available for poor seniors along with free prescription drugs and eye glasses while aggressive insurance reform will address gaps in coverage for pensioners and those approaching retirement.

Annual pension increases will be tied to inflation and those earning $42,000 or less will not be required to pay pay roll tax.

Launching the platform at a rally of the party faithful at lunchtime UBP leader Michael Dunkley said his party offered hope not hate.

“Our aim is to help people who find themselves caught in a Bermuda that leaves them the little room to breathe.”

But he also called on the country to unite and said every citizen must to their part to end the division.

“If you want an island of tolerance and respect, of rules and positive values, of decency and unity, then you, all of you have to be that change. You have to stand up for it and live by it.”

* See The Royal Gazette tomorrow for in-depth coverage.