current housing shortage were "inadequate'' for those who needed help most.

Coreen Tucker, spokesperson of the National Tenants and Future Homeowners Association (NTFHA), said the recent plans laid out by Government and the Bermuda Housing Corporation (BHC) did little to help those most affected by the crisis -- blue-collar workers.

BHC recently eased its lending policies to allow 90 percent mortgages with a ten percent down payment supported by the Corporation for first-time home buyers. This policy will cover 20-year mortgages of up to $350,000.

And the Step-Up mortgage plan, which targets Bermudians between the ages of 21 and 35, ensures lower payments when young residents begin their careers and graduates the level of monthly mortgage to more standard payments once they advance in their careers.

But Ms Tucker stated: "The problem that I have with the Step-Up Mortgage plan is that the Bermudians who really need housing support won't get it through this kind of opportunity.'' "The 54 houses at Southside are only a dent into what is really needed -- and there's still the problem of affordability,'' she added.

"The housing crisis is most severe for people who need a three-bedroom place but can only afford to pay about $1,000 per month in rent.'' "And the people who most need to feel that they own a piece of the rock are, for example, the ones in the hospitality industry.'' "Ask the average nurse or housekeeper what sort of salary she's making -- and whether she plans to move up in her career.'' "In that sort of situation, the worker is more likely to have more bills and responsibilities at 40 years old than at 20 -- and won't be making much more money.'' GOVERNMENT GVT