Opposition MPs have welcomed Government's proposed national service scheme, but some have questioned how it will be funded.

Charlie Swan, Shadow Minister for Youth, Sport, Recreation, Housing and National Training, said: "We have no real issue with this, but the details need to be fleshed out.

"The first thing that jumps out is they are looking to create another Government department, with a director, administrative assistants and staff, so there's a cost involved.

"Given the current climate, how would this be funded? Particularly as we've got some serious financial issues in this country at the moment."

UBP MP Mr. Swan added: "And if people can opt out of the Regiment after a year, this raises the question of how will the Regiment then fulfill its own needs?

"Also, once people are 24 they are in jobs and careers, and some have families, so I think this needs to be thought through more.

"We believe they should start in high school instead."

Bermuda Democratic Alliance MP Mark Pettingill said last night: "We support the concept of the plan announced by the Premier and believe that it will enhance the charitable nature of most Bermudians.

"Obviously there are many, many people who do volunteer work without the need for incentives or recognition. I would hope that over time incentives would not be required.

"Donating time is perhaps one of the most important things someone can do for their community. If the plan ultimately decreases the gang mentality then perfect. Let's hope it does.

"The Alliance will look at the plan carefully and if necessary, provide suggestions for enhancements and suggestions. This plan is certainly a start."

Government first announced its national service concept in November's Throne Speech.

Premier Ewart Brown said the scheme would require "post-secondary" young adults to mentor schoolchildren via tutoring, sports clubs, community groups, volunteerism and other organisations.

He said the idea was for young people to give back to the community, and that the programme would complement the Bermuda Regiment, rather than take away conscription.

In the House of Assembly on Friday, Dr. Brown then unveiled more details of the scheme.

He said the programme was designed for Bermudians aged 24 to 30, with a commitment needed of 16 hours a month for two years.

Men conscripted into the Regiment would be able to transfer into the new programme after a year's service.

The scheme would be voluntary, but incentives such as free public transportation, low interest bank loans and reduced TCD fees would help to attract participants. The aim was to create responsible citizens, said the Premier.

"The national service programme shall be aimed at nurturing an individual's skills and interests in a manner that is beneficial to Bermuda and its people," he said.

"This is consistent with both developing career goals and further assisting in communities after the period of service is complete."

He added the public and private sector would be encouraged to allow participants one hour a month during work time to complete the service.

This could include: tutoring core subjects in the education system; giving professional advice about money management, civil rights or nutrition; coaching youngsters or taking part in sports programmes; and volunteering in youth or senior agencies/organisations.

Since details of the scheme were announced, The Royal Gazette's Facebook page has attracted a diversity of views on the subject.

Jamel Hartman Hardtman said: "This program (SIC) is MANDATORY... for people that are conscripted to the Bermuda Regiment... It says that if they don't want to go to the Regiment they can volunteer.... so basically they are still being forced!!!"

Samantha Scott said: "My only comment would be that they are starting this too late. Make it part of the high school programme and encourage the participants to carry it on into adult life."

Nicole Mitchell said: "This certainly doesn't fix the underlying problems. So we will now have a bunch more big brother/big sisters, which for sure will help some troubled kids out there have a better support system, but we aren't doing anything to fix education, gang violence and crime or lack of affordable housing."

But Ronald Gordon said: "No one has a better idea of how to improve the situation in Bermuda, yet when the Government takes action, all you hear are complaints, complaints, complaints. Forced accountability is better than no accountability; and a program to address Bermuda's degradation is better than no program."