SIR John Swan has responded to Brit Insurance CEO Dane Douetil's comments with a call for all Bermudians to support the international business community through this economic downturn.

"Bermuda needs to realise that these companies need to have as much comfort here on the island as possible as they go through these international challenges," he said. "We must assist them as best we can; it's not business as usual."

He added that a commitment to nurture the insurance and reinsurance community does not mean compromising Bermuda's domestic agenda.

"As for the point Mr. Douetil made, a sense of stability does not mean giving up our agenda of reform on a domestic basis. We just need to reform in a way that doesn't throw out catch-all phrases suggesting it's a racist issue or a white / black issue or a poverty / wealth issue."

The former Premier added that supporting international business through a recession will benefit the island in the long-term.

"People remember you if you help them through hard time," he said. "Help international business get through a recession and they will help us get through it on a global scale. It's a two way thing, and it could be a win-win situation."

Sir John agreed with Shadow Finance Minister Bob Richards' assertion that international business people in Bermuda feel "discomfort", adding that the red tape surrounding work permits causes "unease".

"In terms of work permits and short versus long-term residency, these questions remain unanswered, particularly overseas," he said.

"This causes unease. We've made progress, but people outside looking to put business here will feel a level of discomfort."

Sir John, however, disagreed that Bermuda is politically unstable.

"Mr. Douetil is absolutely right that Bermuda is concerned; we all want stability. But compared to other jurisdictions, it's not as valid a point.

"However, it's a question of perception and interpretation. Global markets are shifting and Bermuda's international business is impacted by that. It is not because of Bermuda's instability. We are 3000 people per square mile. It's a one-town city with basically one industry, and it affects everyone."