Premier Ewart Brown said today that Bermudians will come together to face the threat of Hurricane Igor.

Speaking at a press conference this afternoon to both local and international press, Dr. Brown said: “It has often been said that Bermuda is a blessed nation, one that has been spared the worst that the world has to offer. We have much to be thankful for.

“Today we have been forced to recognise that the ocean is not so vast and Bermuda not so unique as to be separated from the awesome power of nature. Today we stand on the eve of the arrival of one of the worst hurricanes to ever threaten our shores.

“Our country and our people have throughout our history, rarely faced the full fury of a storm of this magnitude and as a people we will continue to pray that once again we will be spared.

“Despite the issues that divide us, the ideologies that separate us and the many challenges we face, we know that when a threat arises, our people unite as one.

“Regardless of our differences, each of us will face the threat of Hurricane Igor together and we will overcome this challenge together as Bermudians.

“Your government is taking all necessary precautions and will execute all necessary action to minimise loss of life and damage to property.

“We will need you to assist us and your neighbours wherever possible. With your help we will guide Bermuda safely through the storm and overcome its aftermath.

“I would like to extend thanks to the Emergency Measures Organisation. They have been working around the clock since the threat of Igor arose and through their hard work and thorough preparation, we are confident that Bermuda is prepared for the worst even as we hope and pray for the best.

“I would like to thank the men and women of the Bermuda Police Service. While many of us will be with our families and protecting our property, you have made a tremendous sacrifice to keep Bermuda safe. We recognise the risks inherent with your job and reflect upon the loss of three courageous Officers during Hurricane Fabian seven years ago.

“We pray for your safety and for the safety of your families.

“To our soldiers in the Bermuda Regiment: many of you have been embodied and also find yourselves away from your homes and families during this time of crisis. We are thankful for your sacrifice and appreciate the invaluable role you will play in the hours and days to come.

“To the men and women of the Bermuda Fire Service: many of you have also been called away from your homes to serve your country. We thank you for your service.

“A special thanks to Ministers David Burch and Derrick Burgess whose teams have been working flat out to insure that we are as prepared as we can be.

“To the people of Bermuda, I urge you to take all necessary precautions and continue to monitor the updates that will be provided by the EMO and the emergency radio station at 100.1FM.

“Dr. Martin Luther King once said, “We must accept finite disappointment, but we must never lose infinite hope.”

“Regardless of the challenges, losses, inconveniences, disappointments and pain the next several days may hold, our people and our beloved island home will through God’s mercy and our work, endure.”

Dr. Brown, whose own home was severely damaged by Hurricane Fabian, said that he would be waiting out Igor at the Hamilton Fairmont Princess.