Premier Ewart Brown joined Hotel Owners Committee chairman James King for a meeting to discuss new ways for the hospitality industry to cope with the global economic crisis.

Finance Minister Paula Cox, Labour Minister David Burch and representatives from most of Bermuda's major hotels, were also present for the session at Cabinet.

According to a brief press release from the Premier's press secretary Glenn Jones, hoteliers shared their perspectives on the state of the industry for the 2009 season, while the Ministry of Tourism and Transport outlined its plan for the upcoming season.

Mr. Jones would not say what perspectives the hoteliers outlined, or what the Ministry's plan was.

The press release said both sides put forward representatives to form smaller committee groups to work on new strategies.

Mr. Jones would not say how many committees were formed, who they are and what their time frame is in which to report back.

The press release contained this statement jointly attributed to Dr. Brown and Dr. King: "Clearly the best way forward in these economically difficult times is for us to pool our resources and work as a cohesive unit for the benefit of this nationally important industry.

"We expect a solid plan in that regard to be prepared in the immediate future."

Asked for more details about what was discussed at the meeting, Mr. Jones replied: "I or someone from BHA can get back to you on this when the process is complete."

The Royal Gazette's A Right To Know: Giving People Power campaign is calling for freedom of information legislation which would give people the right to get answers to questions from public officials about matters which affect them.