Bermuda Public Service Union boss Armell Thomas this afternoon slammed Government for increasing payroll tax by two percent claiming it will be difficult on workers and businesses.

Mr. Thomas, BPSU President, also questioned the status of an unemployment fund set up years ago.

He said: “The Union is an advocate for saving jobs, promoting jobs, and it is concerned that employers will be discouraged and forced to close business because of the added tax.

“Why couldn’t consideration be given to funding for an unemployment fund, whereby there could be a cap on funding for those who are unemployed but must show efforts to find a job within a certain time frame?”

Mr. Thomas also said he wants to see a plan from Government on how they will “stimulate the economy”.

* See full story in tomorrow’s Royal Gazette.