Premier Craig Cannonier delivered the opening address at the consultation workshop on A National Strategy for the Development of Statistics (NSDS) at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute.The objective of the workshop held yesterday is to introduce a National Strategy for the Development of Statistics (NSDS), or a “strategic planning tool that can help Bermuda coordinate a national effort toward sound policy-making and greater effectiveness in the delivery of public services and programmes”.The theme was ‘Sustainable Development and Progress through Statistical Collaboration’.Said Mr Cannonier: “Sound statistical data is an indispensable tool to helping government clarify what’s going on and shape solutions for a better Bermuda.“This is very fitting given the broad challenges we face and the goals we’ve set for the Island.”Since the One Bermuda Alliance came into office last December he said Bermuda’s need to “recover, rebuild and restore the promise of Bermuda for sustainable growth and shared prosperity” was the main objective.“Our progress toward these goals will be less problematic if we have access to sound data. The work you are embarked on is vital to getting Bermuda back on its feet.“A National Statistical System will help Bermuda achieve its goals by providing us with more information to make evidence-based policies and decisions.“One thing I particularly like about this initiative is the fact that every Bermudian can play a part,” said the Premier.“The 2015 Census will be one such opportunity, with every Bermudian providing information that will anchor planning and policy-making for years to come.Public support for this undertaking is critical.”A National Statistical Strategy enhance the development and delivery of effective Government services, increase accountability and cost effectives in his view.He also said it will improve “national collaboration and evidence-based policies and decision making”.“The second reason we support your work is that it will help all governments going forward. That is something that gives real meaning to the work — helping to build a strong future is what we need to be about,” said Mr Cannonier.“This workshop will move the development of this strategy forward, and so I look forward to hearing of your progress in the days ahead.“These are exciting times. The stakes could not be higher for Bermuda. Your work can make a significant difference in how this great island goes forward.”He commended Director of Statistics Valerie Robinson-James and her team for introducing this initiative.“I am encouraged by what I see, by the spirit of collaboration in the room, by the commitment to the Island’s future,” he said.