UPDATED WITH SLIDESHOW: In Premier Paula Cox’s first Throne Speech today Government outlined a raft of changes and pledged a new “needs-driven culture of accountability” within the Civil Service.

Governor Richard Gozney read the eight-page Throne Speech at 11 a.m. on the Cabinet building grounds.

Strengthening Government’s financial oversight and creating a more lean Civil Service were stressed throughout the speech, and changes within the Ministry of Education and Bermuda’s immigration policies were also pledged. A new gang task force was promised and more power will be given to the Education Board.

Some of the highlights of today’s speech included:

l The need to “restrain growth” when it comes to Government spending and save $150 million within the first year;

l Expand Economic Empowerment Zones to include areas in St. George’s and Somerset;

l Government is considering the formation of a second Police Support Unit and a gang task force

l A High Risk Adolescent Intervention Team will be created for Bermuda’s troubled youth;

l Government will review and update the Civil Service to “maximise the potential and output of the public sector”;

l Master principals will be introduced in the Ministry of Education to “model effective instructional leadership” and more power will be given to the Board of Education;

l Government will embark on a wholesale overhaul of the Bermuda Immigration and Protection Act 1956, guided by a need for continuity, protection and fairness;

l Government has extended its tax exemption agreement for international companies until 2035.

Sir Richard said: “Like other Throne Speeches, today’s address will lay out the Government’s strategy for the next 12 months. There, however, the similarities between what will be said here today and what has been said in the past will end, because unlike Throne Speeches delivered in the past, today’s has been influenced by two unique, contemporary factors: context and culture.

“Context refers to the post-recessionary climate, a new norm in which even the most resilient economies are being severely tested. Culture reflects the aspirations of Government’s new leadership team, aspirations that will bring about change not only in what actions are carried out but in how these actions are executed.”

He continued: “You have already heard the Government consistently reject the notion of business as usual. It has made clear that, as a new administration, the only acceptable response to the current post recessionary global economic realignment, which is characterised by slower growth and greater volatility, is to ensure that disciplined and effective financial management is applied across all Government ministries.”

For the full story read tomorrow's Royal Gazette.