Immigration Minister David Burch last night pledged not to jeopardise international business through his use of the controversial work permit term limits policy.

Sen. Burch said he had approved 95 percent of waivers to term limits for workers in eligible positions within the sector, and told bosses: "Ask and, within reason, you will get what you need."

The six-year work permit term limit has been under review after complaints that it was making the international business community feel unwelcome at a time Bermuda's economy can least afford to lose it.

Sen. Burch said in a statement last night: "The Government fully recognises and accepts the absolute importance of viable businesses for economic success and the continued employment of Bermudians.

"Within this is the complete acceptance that international business is the engine of our economy and the Government continues to do all it can to support this vital engine.

"The main point I would like to stress is that Bermuda is, most definitely, open for business.

"We want companies to know that they are welcome in Bermuda and that the establishment of new companies, together with the maintenance of our existing companies, is a priority for this Government.

"We do recognise that we will continue to need large numbers of guest workers. We know this, accept it and welcome these workers, because they help keep Bermudians employed and help to maintain our economy as a whole.

"We currently have a term limit policy and the reasons for its existence have been stated on a number of occasions.

"But I must stress that it is a policy and not law. As such I, as the Minister responsible, have considerable flexibility with the policy's application and I will not apply the policy in any way that will prejudice the successful operation of business in Bermuda."

Sen. Burch added that work permits for some people exempt from term limits would soon be increased beyond the current maximum of five years.

He said bosses of local companies should consult their member organisations to help put together their cases for waivers.

On his Ministry's relationship with key business groups, which has been questioned by critics, Sen. Burch said: "The relationship that has developed between the Minister's office and the Bermuda Employers Council, Bermuda Hotel Association, the Association of Bermuda International Companies and others has grown strong, to the extent that we continue to have open and very frank discussions, often leading to outcomes that are acceptable to all parties.

"This is how it should be — we are working through things and continue to do so. Our objectives are the same — keeping Bermuda business friendly, keeping the economy strong and keeping Bermudians working.

"We have been presented with some persuasive legal and factual information by the BEC, ABIC and BHA about the realities of the workplace, locally and globally, which has been very helpful. We will continue to review our policies in the light of such good information, produced by what I consider our partners in protecting Bermuda's future. The dialogue continues and we will listen and act accordingly.

"In 2009 the Government of Bermuda will redouble its efforts to support business and collectively work to maintain our status as a pristine financial jurisdiction."