people in Bermuda.

Maria Berta Machado has come to Bermuda as the new Portuguese vice-consul, appointed by the Portuguese Government.

It is hoped she will become involved in local Portuguese community matters and in particular the issue of greater security for long-term residents.

The previous Portuguese consul left Bermuda in December 1994 and Mrs. Machado will serve on the Island at the official offices on Parliament Street.

Mrs. Machado, who is from the Azores, said she was looking forward to her new appointment.

"I came from an island so I am really excited about being in Bermuda,'' she said.

Mrs. Machado will help deal with any problems that the Portuguese have, such as employment and their rights, documentation and passports.

"I also expect to improve relations between Bermuda and Portugal and at the same time help the Portuguese people that are in Bermuda. I have just arrived so I am not sure what they need but I will do my best to help them.

"I have worked in two other consulates and here it is a small consulate and most people are from the Azores so I decided it would be a good experience for me to be in charge.'' Anna Faria, chairwoman of the Portuguese Bermuda Organisation, said she hoped Mrs. Machado would get involved in local matters as well as those involving the Portuguese Government in Bermuda.

"Usually people in this sort of position are responsible for issues relating to the Portuguese Government,'' said Miss Faria.

"But if she is here as a visible person for the Portuguese society it is natural that we would want her to be looking at what is happening here.

"One on-going concern is the question of long-term residency and security for people who have been working here for 20 or 30 years.'' Mrs. Faria added: "I hope she will mingle with the Portuguese community and hear their concerns. I plan to meet her as soon as she is settled in.'' WELCOME PARTY -- The new Portuguese vice-consul Maria Berta Machado was given a bouquet of flowers when she arrived in Bermuda. To her right is Fatima Carvalho, secretary to the Portuguese consul and Antonio Pacheco, president of the Vasco Da Gama Club.