A FINANCIAL appeal from the Progressive Labour Party to St. George's businesses for donations towards a family fun day to celebrate Premier Jennifer Smith's 30 years of political service received a muted response from those contacted yesterday.

Many of the firms and individuals who spoke with the Mid-Ocean News would only do so on condition of anonymity, as they feared their businesses might suffer if their names were attached. None of those contacted said they would be making a donation to the day's events.

"If you put (our) name on this we'll never see any business but I think they have got a lot of gall," said one storekeeper. "They're not spending enough money on the town as it is, they're not doing anything for us and yet they've come asking us for money.

"I'm not the owner, but I can tell you they won't (be receiving a penny from us). I think they're just trying to buy votes.

"They want us to pay for their party and then they'll take all the credit for it. All it's going to be is a big party. A big party to attract the young votes."

Edward Saunders, chairman of the St. George's branch of the Progressive Labour Party, said he was unaware that anyone had been offended by the request.

"Not one of them has come back to me with an negative reaction or comment," he said. "I don't think there is anything to fear in Bermuda of (speaking out) against anyone. The United Bermuda Party (made requests for donations) for many years and nothing was said. "

When asked whether he thought it odd that such a request had been sent to businesses that might not ally themselves with the PLP's political views, Mr. Saunders said he did not.

"I don't see what the problem is. It is a PLP function but they have the right to say 'yea' or 'nay'. They shouldn't have fear of any reprisal. It doesn't make sense, if you can't afford to give a donation, don't. Only asking for a donation to put on a function for the community. If they don't want to contribute, they don't want to."

Mr. Saunders said he did not know how much or if any donations had been received towards the event as the letter that was circulated asked donors to respond to the branch treasurer. Through the letter, companies were invited to make cheques directly payable to the PLP St. George's branch.

"The PLP St. George's branch plans to celebrate (the Premier's) 30 years of service to St. George's by hosting a number of activities," Mr. Saunders wrote in the letter sent to businesses. "To this end, this letter comes to solicit your financial support by way of a donation to this celebration which will take the form of a free family fun day at Tobacco Bay Beach, Saturday, June 8 beginning at 12 noon.

"We are hoping to offer families fun activities for children, as well as free food and drink for the day. To this end, your support will be greatly appreciated and publicly credited."

Opposition Senator Kim Swan described the letter as a form of pre-election solicitation.

"It just appears that, as we're drawing near to an election, that probably falls under the category of campaign soliciting to the extent that people who give sufficient support, the people writing the cheques will be (treated) accordingly.

"I know political parties do look to the businesses and individuals for support but it seems the closer it gets to an election the more it appears that takes place."

Most, although not all, were offended by the nature of the solicitation.

Said Nicky Brown, owner of San Giorgio Ristorante: "I will not be donating anything, I'm not in favour of either political party at this particular point in time, but I was not offended by it at all.

"I wasn't totally surprised to receive it, I get solicitation letters all the time from all different kinds of people asking for one thing or another. It's up to the individual to choose who they want to support."

A second businessman, who wished to remain anonymous, agreed that the solicitation was far from unusual.

"I think it's just what one reads into it. I'm probably getting two or three requests a day for charity or political sponsorship and I'm not even entitled to vote.

"They all come, at one time or another, for charity in one shape or form. I actually wouldn't mind (donating). I have previously given to the United Bermuda Party and to the Progressive Labour Party. I'd do anything to serve the public, that's what I'm here for.

"In the past, as I said, I have assisted both parties when they come asking for the good of the community so I wouldn't hesitiate to do something in this particular case. It's something that's not just for the party as a whole, but for the individuals in the community.

"I think (Jennifer Smith) has contributed tremendously to the island and has always had the interest of the people at heart. Regardless of recent confrontations, I still think she has a great personality."

Others disagreed.

"I threw it away," said a shop owner. "I wanted nothing to do with it. To go to the businesses asking for financial support is ridiculous. We have enough trouble in St. George's with them taking the cruise ship away and now they're asking us for money. I can't believe it."

Said another: "It's a very unusual practice."

A third resident and store owner said that at the very least, the St. George's branch should have looked to its members for support instead of mailing a general letter.

"I think they should be asking the people in the party for money. (The Premier) doesn't care at all about St. George's, even though it's her constituency, as has been evidenced by her lack of concern for the recent goings on - the crimes, the police station, etc.

"And as someone who voted for her, I certainly won't be voting for her again. Her actions speak louder than words and as she doesn't say anything, she speaks very loudly."

Added another: "I got piece of paper, looked at it and threw it away. I certainly won't be contributing."