And he urged all Bermudians to take part in "one of the most important discussions this country will ever have" ? so that any future decisions affecting the island's development will be "inclusive, sincere and sustained".

The draft sustainable development strategy and implementation plan, , has been compiled by the Sustainable Development Unit in conjunction with Government's Central Policy Unit after a year of research and consultation.

The document sets out "some of the major challenges and weaknesses which Bermuda must bear in mind and the strengths which Bermuda can draw upon".

The document lists potential areas of concern under five key themes, along with possible solutions, objectives and targets.

Building and maintaining an inclusive, strong economy.

Transforming governance and the public sector.

Protecting and enhancing our environment and natural resources.

Sustaining our communities.

Living within Bermuda's limits.

At a press conference yesterday, Mr. Scott said: "Over time and in time you are going to see Bermuda start to change for the better.

"I accept that all that we are doing is not right. I accept that Bermudians must re-think and we must as a Government review.

"We are going to be challenged ? and that 'we' is not the PLP Government but we as a country.

"This document is not the Government's proposed way forward, it is about all of Bermuda and our collective way forward.

"This is one of the more important undertakings that we have been involved with and that we have initiated because this is about today and what we do today impacts on how we live tomorrow. Sustainable development is about evaluating the decisions we make today with respect to and for our environment, our economy and our social services against their future impact on the Bermuda that our children will inherit. That is an awesome responsibility, a responsibility that must be inclusive, sincere and sustaining.

"Will Government be able to pull it off? I think we as a country can pull it off."

Mr. Scott pointed out that a series of public forums hosted by members of the Sustainable Development Roundtable will be held over the next three months in order for Government to get feedback on the document's proposals.

"Over the next three months we will be inviting the public to engage in an extensive consultation process designed to hear as many views as possible," the Premier said.

"I want to invite all of Bermuda to take the time to review the document and to submit their views."

Sustainable Development director Erica Smith backed the Premier's call for public input.

And she also pointed out that the draft document could be revised depending on any feedback provided at future public meetings.

"We believe we have captured the sentiment of the public," she said.

"But it's not about accepting what is contained in the document ? we want to see if there's a debate, we want to hear if there are conflicting viewpoints. At the end of the day we want to make sure that we, as the Government, are implementing what we consider to be the right plan for Bermuda based on a partnership approach."