MPs last night passed a motion asking for forgiveness for the role the House of Assembly has played in race division.

The motion — put forward by independent MP Wayne Furbert — called for the House to recognise the impact race has on all facets of life on the Island.

In recognition of Bermuda's 400th anniversary, it stated: "We affirm our wholehearted commitment to the cause of reconciliation between all races; and that we ask for forgiveness for the role that this House has played in race division."

In a passionate speech to kick of a seven-hour debate beginning at 2 p.m., Mr. Furbert told the House of Assembly: "This is an historic occasion when for the first time this Parliament can debate and pass a motion to apologise for the indignation and degradation inflicted upon generations of blacks by successive Governments of Bermuda.

"There will be no gun salute tomorrow; neither will fireworks go off after this debate, but I believe this is a simple act that will open up the possibility of healing and mutual respect so keenly needed between the black and white community.

"I believe the time has come that we turn a new page in Bermuda's history, but it all starts here."

He continued: "Mr. Speaker, we apologise for the laws and policies of successive Parliaments that have caused grief on black families.

"We apologise for the hurt and lost opportunity that generations have had to bear, their descendants and for the families. We say we are sorry.

"We apologise for not giving black children the same educational opportunity in the past.

"We apologise for not allowing blacks to work in certain establishments, banks, hospitals, etc.

"We respectfully request that this apology be received in the spirit in which it is offered as part of the healing of the country.

"Some may say that an apology is mild and too little and too late. To this I do not agree.

"Some may say that an apology is nothing, unless followed up by action. To this I do agree.

"I accept that an apology cannot erase the dehumanisation and injustices caused by the past, but the admission and confession of the wrongdoings can speed up the racial healing and reconciliation."