A new online Citizens’ Forum was launched yesterday.

The government platform was set up to canvass public views on its proposed policies,

Lovitta Foggo, government reform minister, said: “One of the fundamental aims of this government is to ensure that the people of Bermuda have their say on the matters that affect them.

“It’s been said that a healthy, functioning democracy is one that provides its people with an opportunity to freely voice their opinion, and one that holds elected officials accountable for delivering on their promises.”

Ms Foggo said that previous governments had brought forward legislation in some cases that had not been subject to proper consultation with the public.

She added: “So, it was the goal of this government to create a mechanism whereby the people of Bermuda could have their say in matters of importance to them.

“Stakeholder consultation is an invaluable component not only in ensuring a strong democracy but in the policy development process.

Ms Foggo added: “Input from the wider community is critical for an accurate assessment of the feasibility of policy proposals and will help identify which aspects of a policy will be most strongly supported or opposed.

“Public feedback is a necessary part of the process and may lead to the refinement of policy options.

“This government is committed to good governance and good government.

“The introduction of the Citizens Forum is a tangible example of good government — one that is applying best practice to public policy development.”

Ms Foggo said using the site would be “simple and easy” and when people access the page they will see a list of proposed policies and an explanation.

Users will have to create an account using an e-mail address or linking the page to their Facebook or Google profile before they can see full details of policies and offer comment.

Ms Foggo said: “With the launch of the Bermuda Government’s Citizens Forum we have delivered on our promise to produce a digital tool to engage our community so that they have a role in shaping our democracy.”

The forum can be found at www.gov.bm.