David Burt pledged to work his hardest for “every single Bermudian in this country” as he was sworn in as Premier of Bermuda.

During the ceremony at Government House yesterday afternoon, attended by a healthy crowd of family members and party colleagues, Mr Burt delivered a unifying message in his first speech to the island as premier.

“Our aim is simple: to be a government for all of Bermuda, whether it be the haves or have-nots, whether it is Front Street or North Village,” he said.

The new government will be sworn in today, the new Premier told the media, so that it can start its work immediately.

On Tuesday evening, the Progressive Labour Party won a resounding General Election victory over the One Bermuda Alliance, by 24 seats to 12, with Mr Burt defeating Nick Kempe in Pembroke West Central by 639 votes to 326.

His support was evident during the swearing-in ceremony as the media room was packed to capacity with standing room only. And after he delivered his brief but emotional speech he received a rousing applause and standing ovation.

Mr Burt, a 38-year-old father of two, becomes Bermuda’s youngest premier. He thanked his family,

and became visibly emotional as he mentioned the recent death of his brother-in-law.

“It is without question so gratifying to see so many of you here today to support me as I represent you on this occasion,” he said.

“To the voters of this country, it is without question an awesome responsibility, one which we will not take lightly.

“Today, I take the oath of office as Premier of Bermuda. Tomorrow, we will swear in a government and get to work immediately.

“We will be a government that will put Bermudians first and make sure we work to advance the interests of every single Bermudian in this country.

“We will be a government that will govern with integrity and will work every day to improve the conditions for so many of us.

“Today the work begins. This is without question an honour but without question there is an incredible amount of work to be done.

“Know and understand that I will give everything I can, my team will give everything they can to live up to the trust that you have given us with the mandate that you delivered yesterday.”

Party sources say Mr Burt is keeping his cards close to his chest as he selects his Cabinet although, with the PLP now boasting 24 MPs, they noted he faces a juggling act keeping everyone happy.