2 November 2007 | Bermuda Sun

FRIDAY, NOV. 2: Free college education, new housing for families in need and new laws to protect seniors are among Government's legislative priorities for the coming year.

There will also be a new law to enhance treatment for the mentally ill and mandatory drug programmes for addicts in jail.

All these measures received high billing in the Throne Speech today.

The contents are broad-based and in line with the Government's stated vision, which is to create a "more prosperous Bermuda, one that includes all of the people of Bermuda and touches every aspect of their lives."

In housing, there will be a new push to encourage home ownership, with the Government providing "interest-free down payment loans for 500 qualified Bermudian families who have the ability to sustain a reasonable mortgage."

Renters living in Government homes will also have their rent set at no more than 25 per cent of their income, freeing up 10 per cent of their income to be saved towards future homeownership.

Three purpose-built facilities will be constructed at Southside for families who have been in emergency housing for long periods of time.

Education is being tackled based with the recent Education Review. The Throne Speech adds: "The Government will examine the existing curriculum and implement a school-based management and accountability programme comprising a comprehensive assessment and accountability system to include rigorous academic performance standards for students and annual performance standards for each school to measure student academic growth."

The Bermuda College Act will be amended to "change the admissions procedures to afford all Bermudians enrolled in an accredited programme an opportunity to study and acquire academic qualifications free of charge." MORE! »