last night's Progressive Labour Party rally.

Amid concerns over mounting crime, drugs, foreign workers, and taxe reviews, one voice emerged loud and clear to spark the 100-strong crowd gathered at Elliott School for an Opposition show of force in Devonshire.

Trumpeting news of British Prime Minister John Major's crushing defeat the unidentified speaker couldn't help but speculate that such a wave of change might soon wash over Bermuda as well.

"Politically, socially; we all sing in the same choir together,'' he said.

"It's time for a PLP government. Bermuda, it's time for a change.'' The rally is the first in a series presenting party candidates, shadow ministers, policies and concerns of the youth and working people of Bermuda.

The meeting was also a chance for the PLP to light its own fireworks in the run-up to May 6's by-elections in Devonshire South and Paget East.

Party candidates Dennis Farias and Craig Walls took centre stage with Opposition Leader Jennifer Smith to field questions from the floor and stake out their political ground.

Committed to the PLP since the early 1970s, Mr. Fairas said concern for the state of Bermuda's fishery and environment continue to lead him back to politics.

"I'm not a politician, I'm just a fisherman'' he said, before claiming the moral high ground from his United Bermuda Party Devonshire South opponent Michael Dunkley.

"While Michael Dunkley may be seen as a rich man who is more interested in himself than in Bermuda, we suspect Devonshire South might vote for the local candidate,'' Mr. Farias quoted from a recent Royal Gazette editorial.

"What does that tell you,'' he added to applause, "when the system says that about a representative of the system.'' Paget East candidate Craig Walls told the audience he's joined the race because of concern over Bermuda's youth and future.

"I'm here because I'm more concerned about the cure.'' Rising crime, drugs, and violence he said, are only the effects of a much deeper cause.