reconciliation, social reconstruction and an economic rebirth as Bermuda heads towards a new century.

And she said every resource available must be used to ensure the country's survival as a prosperous and peaceful Island.

Ms Cox said: "We have to engage together in a national crusade for excellence in education. A crusade to ensure our children are equipped to deal with the information age and to take advantage of access to employment opportunities.'' And she asked all Bermudians to take personal responsibility "by reaching out to others less fortunate.'' Ms Cox was speaking at a meeting of Hamilton Lions in the city yesterday afternoon.

She said Bermuda was at a turning point in its history and the community had to rise to the challenge. She added: "We live in a time of change. To the fearful, change is threatening because they worry that things may get worse.

To the hopeful, change is encouraging because they feel things may get better.

"To those who have confidence in themselves, change is a stimulus because they know they can make a difference.'' Ms Cox said among the critical issues facing the Island was the ailing tourism industry.

She added a sense of alienation and frustration among those who feel they have no stake in Bermuda must also be combatted, while reassuring the large expatriate community they they can have a future on the Island.

She said: "As long as there is a genuine need for them to be here and they are prepared to do what is necessary to respect the culture and people of Bermuda, then they too are more than welcome in Bermuda.'' She added educating the young to take advantage of opportunities in a hi-tech world was vital.

Ms Cox said: "We must begin at the beginning and prepare our children for technological survival and maximum economic self-sufficiency. Unemployment, drugs, crime AIDS, welfare, single-parent families -- these all tell us that the Bermudian family is under siege. In the past, families had a special place of reverence in the Bermuda tapestry.'' Ms Cox added: "As a community we are very good at talking. We set up committees. We retain the services of consultants.

"We give the illusion by smoke and mirrors that something is being done. It is in taking action, however, that we fall down.'' And she warned: "There needs to be a shift in focus so that we commit ourselves not just to being go-getters, but go-givers.'' Paula Cox