Young claimed Government was not doing enough to help the plight of the homeless.

The Shadow Health and Social Services Minister said there was a housing crisis and a long waiting list for accommodation.

"Peace on earth and goodwill to all men is the saying at this time of year but it's not peaceful living in unsuitable or overcrowded housing and it doesn't bode goodwill to still have hundreds of people on the waiting list for housing, and over 100 on the emergency list after a promise to solve the housing crisis which was made prior to the election over two years ago,'' she said.

"It's anything but peaceful for these people at Christmas time, stresses are magnified, there are more celebrations, more drinking, tempers are on edge and families, particularly those with children suffer. They are disappointed in their Government who promised them housing.

"The Grinch has stolen their dreams and Santa Claus isn't coming. Instead of providing peace and goodwill to each other, Government should follow the Christian ethics that are highlighted at this time of year and provide peace and goodwill to those less fortunate than themselves.'' But Housing Minister Nelson Bascome said Mrs. Young was being sensationalist and he said she had never called him to highlight a single case which he should deal with.

Shadow Home Affairs Minister Michael Dunkley said the PLP had taken a sensationalist approach in attacking the former UBP government's housing policy.

He said: "It was sensationalist beyond any point we could expect.'' Mr.

Dunkley claimed the waiting list for Government housing had grown in the last two years but Mr. Bascome challenged him to provide the figures.

He urged Mr. Dunkley to call Bermuda Housing Corporation chairman Raymonde Dill and get the facts.

Mr. Dunkley hit back: "I challenge him (Mr. Bascome) to put the figures on the floor of the House. The emergency waiting list is longer than ever.'' Mr. Dunkley said he had written to Mr. Dill in early September but had yet to get a reply.

"I am still waiting,'' he said.

Nelson Bascome Kim Young