Workers are financially better off than previously because of government policies that puts more cash in their pockets, according to the Premier.

David Burt made the claim at the Bermuda Industrial Union’s 40th Annual Labour Day Banquet at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club last night, ahead of Monday’s march. Addressing an audience of more than 300 union representatives and workers at the black tie event, Mr Burt insisted that the ruling party remained true to its labour roots.

The Premier said: “The Bermuda Progressive Labour Party is, and always will be, a party committed to supporting workers and protecting the dignity of our seniors.

“We are a party that remains true to our core ideals. Now you may hear comments or read comments from uninformed persons who will say otherwise — those who wish that this Progressive Labour Party will forget its commitment to labour and the workers.

“Why? Because it would make its life easier if we didn’t. But I can assure you that we remain as committed as ever. We will continue to stand arm in arm with the Bermuda Industrial Union and the Bermuda Trade Union Congress and all of the trade unions to fight and improve the rights and standards for Bermuda’s workers.

“And so that is why, with the support of our trade union partners, we introduced the first minimum wage in this island’s history.

“That is why we continue to increase pensions to keep up with the rate of inflation. And that is why, over the last seven years, we achieved historic reductions in payroll taxes for Bermudian workers when the former government raised taxes on workers to the highest level in history.

“When we took office, workers earning $48,000 a year were paying $2,300 a year in payroll taxes. Today, they pay just $240. That is a 90 per cent reduction more money that stays in the pockets of hard-working Bermudians.

“As this Minister of Finance balances this country’s budget, this Progressive Labour Party government will invest in those persons who deliver our public services to ensure that their negotiated wage increases catch up to inflation and ensure that we invest in our workers.”

Mr Burt’s speech was frequently interrupted by applause and cheers from the audience. Many PLP MPs attended the event, although no One Bermuda Alliance politicians appeared to be present.

Mr Burt concluded his speech with assurances that his party will always champion the rights and welfare of the less well-off.

To another ringing round of applause, he said: “The Progressive Labour Party will always stand with labour.

“Some may try to mislead or divide us, but as you heard the message, make no mistake, our commitment to the workers of Bermuda is unrelenting because it is not just who we represent, it is who we are.”