A new organisation aiming to give a voice to those unhappy with the way Bermuda is being run held its first event outside the Cabinet Office today.

Police estimated that about 70 people turned out to hear four speakers from Forum for Change, which is planning a series of similar “Speakers’ Corner” style meetings around the Island in the coming weeks.

The lunchtime crowd included protesters waving banners objecting to development at Southlands and the way the FutureCare health insurance plan for seniors has been rolled out.

They were joined by placard-carrying members of a group campaigning for Premier Ewart Brown to remain in office past his stated departure date of October 2010.

The first speaker, Marti Chiappa, said the forum did not represent, support or aspire to any political party or agenda.

“We have listened so many times to talk shows and have repeatedly heard the voices of helplessness and frustration, of those feeling marginalised and having no voice,” she said.

“Through decisions made by our leaders, we are sometimes left feeling disrespected, rejected and our opinions invalidated. Take heart, there are many who feel as you do and we are now ready to stand firm and help your voice to be heard.”

Topics covered in the speeches included the economy, education, environment and crime.

* Read tomorrow’s edition of The Royal Gazette for the full story.