if Bermuda is to get on top of the myriad problems it faces, Progressive Labour Party leader Jennifer Smith said yesterday.

And providing greater opportunities in education and employment will increase everyone's prosperity.

Ms Smith was speaking to members of the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce's International Companies Division at the Princess Hotel.

"For equally long in Bermuda we have denied talk of the divisions and prejudice which prevent this place from being a paradise for everyone who lives here,'' she said.

"It was not too long ago that we finally accepted that racism was a part of this society.

"For equally as long, we have tolerated inequality of opportunity that has limited the achievement of all of our people and stunted our progress as a democratic country.

"Bermuda must become a place where we work together to meet our responsibilities, where people's differences are respected so that we can live together in harmony, a place where hard work is rewarded fairly and equitably.'' Ms Smith said increased demands will be placed on both Bermuda's natural and physical resources as the 21st Century approaches.

However, she pointed out that the Island also faced a broad range of social and economic problems such as the decline in the tourism industry, the economy, joblessness, unevenly applied immigration policies, drug abuse, violence and alienation.

Ms Smith said a PLP Government would focus on employment, education and family support programmes to counter these negative trends.

Furthermore, she said her party would also focus on creating a safe and clean environment, equal educational opportunities, a well trained work force and healthy citizens.

Ms Smith said that many Bermudians who would like to be in managerial jobs in the international business sector, find that they cannot aspire to these jobs because they lack the required skills.

"Bermudians need both the chance and the capacity to participate in the economy,'' she added. "We must ensure that they receive this chance with innovative practical programmes targeted at preparing the future work force and re-tooling the displaced adult worker.'' Ms Smith said the community has a duty to prepare all its people whatever their race or political persuasion for the new century and the opportunities it will offer.

Consequently, she said the PLP believed that society must find a way to put computers in more homes and to educate parents so they can participate and help with their children's education.

BUSINESS BUC