The Leader of the Opposition said today Bermuda should honour its frontline workers as the island marked National Heroes Day over the long weekend.

Cole Simons of the One Bermuda Alliance added it was not difficult to identify people who deserved to be recognised this year.

Mr Simons said: “As we all made our way through the past twelve months of the coronavirus, there have been countless examples of Bermuda’s heroes who should all be thanked, applauded and congratulated.

“Certainly, there are the frontline workers, who without a second-thought, have literally put their lives on the line to tend to the victims of the pandemic. We offer you our heartfelt thanks.”

Mr Simons also praised the island’s retail and hospitality workers, Bermuda’s farmers, police officers, Royal Bermuda Regiment soldiers and delivery drivers.

He said: “I cannot forget to mention the parents who had to became teachers to their children, who not only had to work from home for their own jobs, but also had to ensure their children did not miss a beat – we applaud you.

“To the teachers who conducted their classes online, keeping track of all their students and assignments – you too are heroes. Thank you.

“To the children who were challenged to learn in new ways, while not having the interaction of their peers or teachers-we offer our congratulations.”

Mr Simons added: “Indeed, we offer our thanks, and we honour the entire Bermuda community, as you adhered to the pandemic protocols for well over a year and continue to do so.

“You have all been instrumental in making sure that Bermuda remains safe and a place we can be proud to call home.”