Government has spent over $2.5 million on housing and security for its leaders and last night was accused of being “out of touch” with the electorate.

On Friday, Minister of Works and Engineering, Dennis Lister, in a written response to parliamentary questions, revealed the latest renovations of ‘Clifton’, which was to be the Premier’s residence, was $1,700,114.

And because Premier Ewart Brown has decided to stay in his home rather than move to ‘Clifton’, security for his private residence was estimated at $82,975.

Last night, Shadow Minister of Works and Engineering Jon Brunson said $2.5 million was calculated from the number of renovations and moves different PLP leaders had made while in office. He said: “The admission by the Progressive Labour Party that more than $1.7 million was spent to renovate and upgrade Clifton, and $82,975 has been spent on security at Dr. Ewart Brown’s private residence, is further evidence that the leadership of the PLP is out of touch with the priorities of the Bermudian people.

“First, The Laurels was renovated at a cost in excess of $1 million so that Jennifer Smith could reside there in comfort. Then Alex Scott decided not to live at The Laurels, so more than $1.7 million was spent to renovate Clifton for his benefit.

“And, more recently, Dr. Brown decided not to live at Clifton, so money was spent on works at his private residence.

“The United Bermuda Party believes that it is unconscionable that more than $2.5 million has been spent on housing and security for PLP leaders while the PLP has ignored the affordable housing needs of Bermudians.”

At the time of going to press, Senator Burch and Mr. Lister were unavailable for comment.

However, Glenn Jones, Press Secretary, said: “At this point the $82,000 for the security enhancements at the Premier’s house is an estimate. It could be more or it could be less. These security enhancements were called for by the Bermuda Police Service and the Premier has said if the Government wishes to remove them after he’s Premier, they will not be met by any resistance.”

And on the topic of Clifton, Mr. Jones said it will not be sitting idle and will be rented out, therefore generating revenue.

Mr. Lister, who was also asked in a parliamentary question to explain where the money was spent for the housing and security revealed that for Clifton:

“*Construction cost, including air-conditioning system and basic fitted fixtures $1,346,763.

“*Furniture and furnishings, $205,123.

“*Other appliances and fixtures, $14,457.

“*Consultant fees and MWE time $133,771.”

And the estimated $82,975 for security covered: “Installation of railings and guard rails along portions of the West and East boundary walls where indicated by the Bermuda Police Service.

“Provision of a security monitoring and alarm system. Locating of portable security hut and associated facilities for use by the police security detail. And any necessary civil works associated with the above.”

Last year it was revealed $1,582,753 of renovations had been done on Clifton after then Premier Alex Scott said it would be used by all Premiers. However, Premier Brown chose to remain in his private residence, rather than move into Clifton, and therefore security needs to be added to his house. Mr. Brunson added: “The PLP has failed Bermuda by breaking promise after promise about addressing the affordable housing needs of this community - but after 10 years in power, only succeeding in delivering housing upgrades for the comfort and convenience of its political leaders.”