to Hi-Span Construction which was one of only four firms that submitted bids, the Works Ministry confirmed yesterday.

The terminal, set for the southern tip of Ordnance Island, must be built by May 6, 1994 to accommodate the new St. George's-only liner Royal Majesty .

"It's a tight schedule,'' a Works and Engineering spokesman conceded.

"The project is also a large one and involves specialty marine work.'' Fully funded by Government, the project is expected to cost about $900,000, he said.

It came under fire from St. George's Mayor the Wor. Henry Hayward who said during a town meeting last month that the money would be better spent on something else, such as making St. George's more attractive.

But he recognised that international customs rules which Bermuda abided by required the new terminal to be built.

"It's all systems go,'' Town manager Ms Margaret Emmott said, noting Hi-Span had already started clearing the area and moving its trucks in.

At a Press conference to unveil the plans, Works Minister the Hon. Leonard Gibbons said the building could also be used for other functions such as exhibitions.

It will be traditional in design, with a Bermuda roof, shutters and painted a pastel colour.

A security fence will run along the dock. It will stand 24 feet at its highest point and be wheelchair accessible. And it will feature a customs area and interview rooms.

Warning over pension plan He said Government would meet with employers to discuss the proposal. The national scheme formed part of the United Bermuda Party's October 5 election campaign platform.

And Premier the Hon. Sir John Swan vowed it would be in place by next February.

Yesterday, however, Mr. Wade urged Government not to rush the proposal.

He pointed out employers were already hit by other taxes.

"I'm just worried about the way the recession is still affecting some employers. These companies are struggling. I'm sure people would rather have a job than a pension.

"The whole scheme has to be thought through very carefully so employers can meet their commitments.''