New measures removing job inequities, prisoners paying some of their earnings to victims, and laws to stop extortionate price increases for staple goods are all part of Premier Paula Cox's plan for Bermuda.

As the Premier prepares to set out her vision in her first Throne Speech today, a document has been shared laying out her intentions to improve life for families and seniors, promote fairness in the workplace, increase Government transparency and help local businesses.

According to "A National Plan Under Cox Leadership", which was given to Progressive Labour Party delegates at last Thursday's election, Ms Cox's ideas include:

• an action plan to redress inequities in jobs and opportunities;

l an Equal Pay Act to "enshrine equality of treatment";

• extending the Exempted Tax Certificate;

• considering expanding Economic Empowerment Zones;

• considering a Monopolies Commission;

• providing incentives to encourage small businesses;

• a review of pensions — meaning some people could access them early;

• considering legislation so prisoners can pay for their own upkeep, as well as to a victim compensation fund;

• introducing legislation to regulate unreasonable price increases for staple goods;

• a job centre for the unemployed;

• protection for whistle-blowers in the public and private sector;

• efforts to "constructively advance" municipality reform.

Many of Ms Cox's more significant proposals focus on business, family, workplace and law and order concerns.

She also addresses education — giving incentives to retired master teachers to return to the classroom, increasing history in the curriculum and giving professional development opportunities to principals and educators.

A green policy will be set up, assessing Government's use of energy, water and transport; providing incentives for energy efficiency; and launching a tree-planting campaign.

On national security, she says a dedicated border force will be created; in health, more cost-effective ways to get quality prescription drugs will be sought; and a community development plan sets up a national community service day of celebration "for those who do good".

For the full document, see this story on The Royal Gazette's website www.theroyalgazette.com.

The Premier has said today's Throne Speech, which will be read by Governor Sir Richard Gozney, will reflect the "needs of the people" and be inclusive of all Bermuda's residents.

Throughout the course of today, she will also expand on the roles of the new Ministries she introduced in a major shake-up this week, with many of the details having been ironed out over the past few days.

Yesterday, it was revealed municipalities, West End Development Company and Bermuda Land Development Company fall under Works Minister Derrick Burgess' responsibilities; labour and training is in Kim Wilson's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry; National Security Minister David Burch retains Bermuda Housing Corporation; sports is with Glenn Blakeney's Youth, Families and Community Development Ministry.

Meanwhile it was confirmed Director of Communication and Information Beverle Lottimore will serve as Ms Cox's press secretary as part of her DCI responsibilities.