Bermudians struggling to find work should look to the traditional industries that have serviced the Island for decades for employment, according to Michael Dunkley.

The Premier said there had been a gradual departure from the hospitality and farming sectors, but insisted both could provide opportunities to those willing to diversify.

Mr Dunkley also acknowledged that more could be done to develop community gardens on the Island, enabling residents to become more self-sufficient.

“We have seen people starting to get away from traditional businesses, and farming is one of those areas,” he said.

“A lot of the labour in farming in Bermuda is non-Bermudian, but having said that it is also the case in the US. There are obviously some positive and negative effects of this.

“As Bermudians look for opportunities I would urge them to go back and look at these traditional businesses.

“If you are out of work look at hotels, restaurants and the farming industry, work your way up, and when other opportunities come, grasp those opportunities.”

Recent grocery statistics released by the Bermuda Government reveal that the price of food and produce has risen steadily throughout the past decade.

Meanwhile, farmers and supermarket bosses maintain that most prices are subject to global forces beyond their control.

Mr Dunkley said: “We can do more for agriculture, and the Government and the community can work together on this. Farming is tough work, but good work, and we are willing to work with farmers as much as we can.

“We know they would like more concessions. They do get some support but everyone would like more support.

“I would like to see families and the community get more involved in farming. There is land available and there are community gardens.

“It does not have to be large areas of land and we would be more than willing to work with others to get more community gardens.”