A further major business organisation on the Island has added its congratulations to Premier Ewart Brown and the Progressive Labour Party in securing victory during last Tuesday's general election.

The Association of Bermuda International Companies also expressed hope that the divisiveness that arose during the seven-week election campaign will end.

"ABIC would like to congratulate Premier Brown, Deputy Premier (Paula) Cox and the entire PLP team in recognising another strong mandate from the electorate," said its chairman David Ezekiel.

"While elections are, by definition, divisive at all levels whilst the campaign is in progress, we would hope that we can now all work together with the Government to make Bermuda the best it can be.

"We are encouraged by the Premier's remarks about the need for inclusiveness in the time ahead."

To the defeated United Bermuda Party, which picked up 14 seats compared to the PLP's 22, Mr. Ezekiel said: "We would also congratulate Michael Dunkley and his UBP team for the energy they showed during this campaign, and for garnering sufficient widespread support to provide an effective opposition during this next term."

The message from ABIC follows similar congratulatory words from the Association of Bermuda Insurers and Reinsurers and the Bermuda International Business Association - reported yesterday - which also sought future co-operation with the new administration.

ABIC represents more than 140 companies on the Island. Chairman Mr. Ezekiel said the organisation "stands ready to continue our work with Government in representing our members, and in maintaining Bermuda's leading role as a premier business domicile."