Provisions) Act 1995.

Education Minister the Hon. Dr. Clarence Terceira introduced the bill which he said moved the effective date for the next evaluation from July 1, 1995 to July 1, 1996.

Dr. Terceira said the legislation would also take any objections made during the current year and they would all be considered during a six month period that began on April 1, 1996.

Additionally, the Minister noted there had been no tax increases during this period but any additions or improvements made to a home would also be factored in.

Dr. Terceira said once the changes were made and became law on July 1, 1996 this would carry until the year 2001.

He stressed this was not the result of any error by Government but it was necessary because of there was a period of short staffing at Land Valuation office.

Shadow Environment Minister the Rev. Trevor Woolridge said it was important to advise the public more clearly where they stand because the Minister of Finance had eliminated the discount previously given.

Rev. Woolridge questioned why the delay was necessary and he said he hoped the Minister of Finance would react with some sensitivity when he dealt with any tax increases in the next budget.

He advised Bermudians to take advantage of the extended objection period and look carefully at the Annual Rental Values. If there was an reason to object, he said, they can use the time to seek advice.

"We in the PLP are opposed to the discount being removed and we hope the Finance Ministry will consider the effect of this error on the public.'' Government backbencher Mrs. Ann Cartwright DeCouto , said the reason for the bill "was as clear as mud''.

And she wanted to know why the draft list that has been on display in Post Offices was no longer useful.

Mrs. Cartwright DeCouto said the five percent discount given for prompt payment should not have been offered and did not make sense.

Opposition Leader Mr. Frederick Wade said he agreed with the thrust of Mrs.

Cartwright DeCouto's speech.

He said he looked at the draft list and noticed that some values had doubled or tripled.

Mr. Wade said he wanted to know what formula was used to get some ARVs as high as they are now.

"I am concerned for homeowners who are getting this increase,'' he said.

"What has changed to make this happen.'' UBP Whip Mr. John Barritt said the delay was necessary to bring rental values up to date. He said it had not been done for five years and that is why the draft list was published so that objections could be lodged.

Mr. Barritt said the list had now been suspended so that the Minister of Finance could look at the current rates.

He said if the properties had been renovated this would also be factored in.

Mr. Barritt said it was important for Bermudians to ensure they were being treated fairly.

To do this he said they needed to look at similarly sized and situated homes and compare the ARVs.

Mr. Barritt suggested there be a wider distribution of the draft list in Post Offices and on computer disks.

The bill was then passed.