Today, Finance Minister Paula Cox announced that the PLP Government is extending relief to local businesses during these tough economic times. Minister Cox announced:

Government is very much aware that the current state of the global and local economy is a major topic of discussion that stretches from the board rooms of our financial partners to the kitchen tables of our citizens.

However, from the very onset of these worrying financial times, this Government through the Ministry of Finance promised that it would do all that it can to ensure and preserve the strength and stability of Bermuda’s economy.

We continue to uphold that promise.

As such, we will waive the fee for businesses to operate on Sundays. Minister Cox:

This means that those businesses that apply – or have applied – to operate on a Sunday or other public holiday during this period will not be charged a license fee to do so. Ministry of Finance is intent on cutting the ‘red tape’ that has hampered shopping on Sundays and public holidays and will conclude a full review of the relevant legislation prior to next year’s National Budget.

Again… businesses will not be charged a fee to operate on Sundays.

The PLP Government also presented the Chamber of Commerce with a $20,000 check to promote the Buy Bermuda Campaign to encourage consumers to buy local. Minister Cox:

I have here a cheque for the sum of $20,000 that I wish to present to Ms. Kristi Grayston of the Chamber of Commerce to assist with the Buy Bermuda Campaign.

These funds will go towards the Chamber’s efforts to promote and champion the cause Bermudian retailers, restaurants and other entities which need all of our support to remain successful as we navigate through this holiday season and beyond.

Minister Cox concluded:

Ladies and gentlemen, today’s announcements are a reaffirmation of this Government’s commitment and support to the business environment and to our Island community as a whole.

But Government cannot do it alone.

It will take the dedication of each and every resident. So in my final words, I wish to encourage every one to go out and support your neighborhood businesses.

Go out and Buy Bermuda! Do it not just during this holiday season, but do it for the months to come.

Together, we can help Bermuda weather this international economic storm.