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Life-long Sandys resident Donald Hassell says his neighbours deserve a conscientious MP who listens to their concerns.

“I recently talked to a 77-year old-man who last had a visit from a politician in 1972,” he says. “Not surprisingly, he had formed the opinion that politicians are interested in votes, not people. I want to change that perception of politicians. I want to serve the people.

“Some members of the present government seem to value status above service. They forget that the tax dollars belong to the people”

Donald would like to see those dollars used to improve health care services for seniors, and to stamp out the drug dens in Sandys. “I will work to provide free prescription drugs and eyeglasses for seniors and a well-funded medical clinic in Somerset that will serve their needs as well as the needs of the wider community.

“I will promote a pro-active approach to dealing with drug-related crime in Bermuda.”

Donald attended Somerset Primary and Northlands Secondary before attending the Bermuda Hotel and Catering College at Prospect. He believes that young people need a helping hand in order to find their way. He had a mentor in Wilfred Bean, who gave him a restaurant job while in his teens and encouraged him to attend the hotel training school.

“That helping hand from Wilfred was invaluable to me,” Donald says. “I will work to see that this community has more technical courses and work experience programmes with student apprentices working and learning within the business community. Education is key – it provides our young people with the knowledge and skills to earn a living.”

Did you know…

Donald was working as a chef at the Henry VIII restaurant at the age of 15. His early experience in the restaurant business served him well – he has for many years been the owner/operator of the popular Country Squire restaurant in Somerset.

A Plan for Sandys North Central

* Improving the quality of life for seniors by providing free prescription drugs and eyeglasses, and free preventive and basic health care at Somerset medical clinic.

* Providing opportunities for our young people by promoting technical education in the school system and encouraging businesses to take on students as apprentices.

* Working with Bermuda Police Service to eliminate known drug houses in Sandys and to increase patrols throughout the parish.

* Upgrading the facilities at Long Bay Beach by providing proper restrooms and changing facilities.

* Listening to the concerns of residents, and ensuring that those concerns are given an effective voice in Parliament.

* Installing speed bumps on the main road through Somerset Village to slow traffic and enhance pedestrian safety.