Premier Michael Dunkley has told seniors that their needs are of ‘paramount concern’.

Mr Dunkley was addressing close to 500 seniors at the annual Seniors’ Awards Ceremony at the Fairmont Southampton yesterday.

The luncheon coincided with the UN International Day of the Older Persons and saw 55 individuals recognised for their contributions to Bermuda.

Awards were presented to centenarians, special couples and seniors who were nominated by local clubs.

Premier Dunkley said: “Our seniors should feel assured that their needs are a paramount concern for us.

“For our part, we remain committed to ensuring that all of you benefit from the critical services you need to make your lives comfortable and fulfilling.

“It is the absolute least we can do because each of you in your own special way have played such an important role in building the Bermuda we have today.

“So today, we are proud to come together to pay homage to you. You are the foundation and lifeblood of this community … you are our wisdom and our conscience … and today Bermuda is a better place because of your sacrifice and dedication.”

The ceremony was also attended by Minister of Community, Culture and Sports, Wayne Scott, Opposition Leader, Marc Bean, Zane DeSilva and the Bishop of Bermuda, the Right Reverend Nicholas Dill.

Minister Scott added: “It is an honour to pay tribute to and salute our esteemed elders.

“We recognise and value our seniors as the cornerstone of our society; and today we paused to say, thank you.

“This Government understands the sacrifices they have made and continue to make to help their families and their communities.

“We thank them for enriching our lives and today we were pleased to applaud their contributions.”