hailed it as an example to the rest of the world.

The Hon. Sir John Swan said Bermuda was a pace-setter in dealing with its trash. "This incinerator tells us what we are capable of doing,'' he told VIPs at the grand opening. "This is one of the most important projects Bermuda has ever undertaken.'' But it was another comment which raised the biggest cheer. After pulling the cord to unveil the plaque, Sir John quipped: "At least someone will remember me now -- even if it's for garbage!'' Scores of people turned out for yesterday's ceremony, including MPs, senators, civil servants, and engineers.

They heard Works Ministry permanent secretary Mr. Stanley Oliver give a wealth of technical detail about the scheme.

Works Minister the Hon. Leonard Gibbons then applauded the efforts of businesses and individuals behind the project. They included companies from Switzerland and Denmark -- Von Roll Ltd. and E.Pihl and Son A.S -- sub-contractors, suppliers, his Ministry's staff and consultants. Mr. Gibbons said the project gained international recognition through a prestigious award.

Chief Engineer Mr. David Arden received the British Institution of Civil Engineers, Civil Engineering Manger of the Year 1994 Award.

"At this time, I should like to acknowledge the presence of Mr. Ingraham Bill, the vice president of the Institution of Civil Engineers in London where Mr. David Arden was questioned in depth on the project by a six-man panel and was selected -- on an international level -- 1994 Civil Engineering Manager of the Year.

"Well done Dave and again congratulations to the Works and Engineering team, especially Mr. Steve Hunt, the resident engineer.'' Mr. Gibbons also paid tribute to the Premier. He said the "state-of-the-art'' incinerator would not have been built without Sir John. Mr. Gibbons believed many Governments from small Islands would visit Bermuda to see how it dealt with garbage.

After the speeches, Sir John, Mr. Gibbons, and other VIPs were taken on a guided tour of the incinerator.

WE DID IT! -- Shaking hands after the grand opening of the Tynes Bay incinerator are, from left, Government's Chief Engineer Mr. David J. Arden, the Premier the Hon. Sir John Swan, and Works Minister the Hon. Leonard Gibbons.