Bermuda Industrial Union President Chris Furbert is in the running for the seat in Warwick South Central after Premier Ewart Brown steps down in October.

Mr. Furbert joins Progressive Labour Party members including Senators Kim Wilson, Marc Bean and David Burch and Party Chairman Anthony Santucci who are also looking to fill the gap Dr. Brown will leave.

Warwick resident Mr. Furbert could not be reached yesterday for comment, but confirmed his interest in a letter to the constituents.

He said: "I believe I can represent your interest in Warwick South Central as I have long been associated with the Warwick community.

"I lived in Warwick on Spice Hill for many years and most recently I have moved back to Warwick after constructing my own home in the Warwick Park area.

"I am currently the sitting President of the Pembroke Hamilton Club and have been a member for some 47 years."

Mr. Furbert said his position within BIU gave him an opportunity to look after people's interests. He said this was something he always enjoyed doing.

Since March 2006, he said he had seen workers of the Hamilton Corporation join with the union. He also resolved the long standing dispute with Government over the firing of Proactive Management Systems and was instrumental in persuading Government to release a very large debt allegedly owed by BIU.

He said: "Clearly, as President of the BIU, my engagement in all labour disputes has played an influential role in employee–employer relationships.

"At all times, I am mindful of the impact of the uncertainty that labour unrest can have on the community especially during these economically challenging times. Balance is important and it is always my concern that the population can be sure in knowing that all avenues will be explored to avoid disruption of any services to the community.

"As an experienced, successful and loyal trade unionist, I believe that the BIU's motto "United We Stand, Divided We Fall' bodes well for the Progressive Labour Party as well.

"As a worker in my country, now a trade union leader, I believe that the political arena could only benefit from me being selected to represent Constituency #26," he said.

If chosen Mr. Furbert pledged to look after the welfare of people in the community. He added: "I will continue to advance the interest of a community that I hold very dear to my heart."