Premier Paula Cox promised big savings, a new group to tackle gang violence and a drive to help struggling businesses across the Island, in her debut Throne Speech yesterday.

Repeating her pledge to make savings of at least $150 million in her first year as Premier, Ms Cox said her Government would be "leaner, more efficient but without the padding sometimes relied upon for 'wants' as opposed to 'needs'".

Reading the speech on Cabinet grounds, Governor Sir Richard Gozney said: "We must live within our means and this Government will lead by example."

"Disciplined and effective" financial management will be applied across all Ministries, according to the speech, which declared Government is rejecting the notion of "business as usual".

Pointing to the new Procurement, Contracts and Project Management Office, the speech stated: "In addition to reduced spending, Ministries will be required to obtain the best value for money.

"Instead of an entitlement culture, a needs-driven culture of accountability is being proposed that will bring enhanced oversight and greater compliance in the area of public service delivery."

Ms Cox's speech said Government would also focus on the gang violence which has plagued Bermuda.

She said a new Gang Task Force, comprising groups thought to include Police, Government, Customs and the prisons, would share intelligence with the US Consulate.

"This coordinated effort will direct its resources to apprehending those responsible for gun crime and discouraging those at risk from joining that destructive lifestyle," said the speech.

The Economic Empowerment Zone in North East Hamilton will be extended, with similar initiatives set up in Sandys and struggling St. George's, while new enterprises will be encouraged through a Bermuda Economic Development Corporation.

In moves welcomed by international business, the tax protection regime is extended from 2016 to 2035 and the immigration law is to be overhauled to promote fairness; meanwhile pay disparity between the genders will be tackled through an Equal Pay Act.

Government transparency will be stepped up with greater funding for an independent legal counsel to the Auditor General and Ombudsman.

And the first major review of the Civil Service in a decade will be carried out, taking into account the growth of Government and introduction of policies such as FutureCare and child care.

Master principals will be introduced to schools, thought to be part of a mentoring process to improve teacher quality and strengthen leadership in public education.

Ms Cox also unveiled a string of environmental plans, including preserving coral reefs, cracking down on illegal dumping, evaluating the drinking water supply and targeting young people through an energy conservation campaign.

In healthcare, more affordable insurance options will be made available with a reform of the health insurance benefit on the way.

Ms Cox's speech began by saying Government is developing a national plan to streamline bureaucracy and invest in technology and green initiatives.

"From establishing a timetable to redress the inequality of access for persons with disabilities to promoting a merit-based Civil Service, with the emphasis on service. From the restoration of public confidence in Government to the reduction of tax anxiety," it stated.

"Like other Throne Speeches, today's address will lay out the Government's strategy for the next 12 months. There, however, the similarities between what will be said here today and what has been said in the past will end."

Ms Cox explained this year's speech is the first to come in a post-recession climate, and reflects a new culture of discipline and financial management.