Senators passed amendments allowing Customs duty relief to farmers, florists and sporting bodies on Wednesday.

While backing the amendments, the Opposition called the legislation ?ironic?, urging Government to consider similar duty relief for the retail sector in light of the demise of the Trimingham?s empire.

Senators also approved a 13.5 percent hike in health insurance premiums, though many expressed concern about the skyrocketing cost of health care.

Actuaries recommended insurance premiums be hiked by nearly 24 percent this year, however the Ministry of Finance made the ?tough decision? to set the increase at 13.5 percent, walking a tight line between the needs of Bermudians and of health care services.