A Millennium Committee has been established to spearhead the Island's celebrations of the 21st Century, the Community and Cultural Affairs Minister announced yesterday.

Sen. Yvette Swan said Government had invited 19 individuals to organise events and research strategies to raise money for the celebrations.

And the public was urged to get involved in the effort.

"I'm extremely pleased to be involved with helping the community celebrate such an important part of history,'' Sen. Swan said. "I would like to urge everyone to get involved.'' Possible millennium events include a permanent exhibition depicting the history of Bermuda and an invitation to artists to express the past and new era through music, literature or art.

Noting that several private organisations had already planned millennial celebrations, Sen. Swan said Government did not intend to overshadow their festivities.

And she explained that Government will not cram its festivities into New Year's Eve 1999, preferring to spread them throughout the year.

"This would retain the vast importance of our entry into the new millennium,'' Sen. Swan said. "And it will also facilitate planning and ensure maximum focus by the general public.'' The Millennium Committee, chaired by John Bluck, includes representatives from the major religious denominations, the Corporation of Hamilton and all other sectors of the community.