Writing Contest has been extended until June 30.

The news came yesterday from BIBA's local marketing committee chairman Norris Ebbin.

He said: "We've decided to extend the deadline because high school and Bermuda College students who are eligible to enter have really been inundated with opportunities to participate in competitions of this sort.

"This seems to be the year Bermuda's young people are being targeted with offers to express themselves in writing on a wide variety of important issues.

"We wanted to make sure that we gave anyone who wanted to enter BIBA's competition every opportunity to do so.'' The theme of the contest is "International Business ... It's all about us''.

Mr. Ebbin said: "We've received some truly creative responses, not all of them positive. "While there is obviously an understanding of the economic value of this industry to the Island, some students have expressed their concern, often in quite blunt terms, about the effects international business might be having on Bermuda's infrastructure.

"The contest has highlighted some of the issues in the local community that the international business industry needs to address.'' Winning entries will be announced at the International Business Expo on Saturday, June 19.

Students who receive a prize will win $300 for themselves and $300 for their school. The school with the most qualified entries will receive an additional $600.