Bermuda’s political leaders took time out to offer their Christmas wish list for Bermuda for the year ahead.

Premier Craig Cannonier said: “By far, Christmas is my favourite holiday.

“When I reflect on the past 12 months, I can say that it’s been a busy and challenging year, but also a rewarding one.

“In light of that, my Christmas wish would be for us to keep doing more of what we Bermudians do best — showing love, care and concern for others — truly being our brother’s keeper throughout this Christmas season and beyond.”

Home Affairs Minister Michael Fahy said: “My hope is that we begin to see a sustained positive turnaround in our economy, which will result in improved employment prospects for Bermudians.

“Also as we enter 2014, I hope that we show more support, respect and compassion for one another, particularly during these tough times, and by doing so, I believe this will help in making us a more unified people.”

Attorney General Mark Pettingill, summed up his list in one sentence. “Peace, health, good will, economic growth and jobs!”

His parliamentary counterpart, Opposition MP Kim Wilson said: “My Christmas wish is that we all take some time to set aside our differences and come together as a family and community to fully embrace and enjoy the reason for the season.”

Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Derrick Burgess cited a list topped by equal rights for workers.

“It is my hope that in the coming year 2014 all employees will be treated as equals in terms of their employment benefits and hiring practices and pay, and to eradicate the policy by some employers to still base the benefits and hiring practices on nationality, race and gender.

“I also extend my wishes that all have a prosperous and healthy new year,” he added.

Opposition MP Michael Weeks extended Christmas greetings to all of Bermuda.

“Take time this holiday season to reach down and help a neighbour; ensure that at least one person in need of a meal has one,” he said.

“This is the season of giving, so let’s not be so quick to receive but, give from the heart and good will come to you.

“Remember, in the merriment, not to drink and drive. But, in all that you do, enjoy family and friends this Christmas and have a prosperous new year! From my family to yours ... Happy Holidays!”

Opposition MP Rolfe Commissiong said: “My Christmas wish is for the economy to experience significant growth in the coming year in order to benefit the scores of Bermudians who are currently suffering through unemployment or even underemployment.

“As this Christmas has shown there are many households that are suffering and which are in need of a real break in the coming year. Let’s hope that this wish comes true.”

His colleague, Walton Brown said: “My Christmas wish is that we allow compassion and understanding to guide our thoughts and shape our actions.”

And Opposition MP Michael Scott said: “My political wish is the gift of jobs for the working men and women of Bermuda.”

Said Shadow Minister of Tourism Wayne Furbert: “We recognise the challenges that so many Bermudians are going through. No jobs, food shortage and limited resources. I pray that this Christmas we will consider our neighbours and ask ourselves this question, ‘what more can I do to help?’. Merry Christmas and may 2014 be the turn around that we all are looking for.”

In the Senate, Opposition Senator Diallo Rabain said: “My Christmas wish for Bermuda is peace, well-being and the continuance of the community love and outreach we are known for as we navigate the trying times we are faced with.

“In the spirit of giving I ask that we continue to look out for each other and be not afraid to extend a hand to your fellow Bermudians during these times. We are a resilient people and I am confident we will weather this storm as we always have weathered storms in the past,” said Sen Rabain.

“I am personally looking forward to some rest and relaxation over the Christmas season. If there was anything on my personal wish list I would want it would be a new laptop and to finish the renovations at my house. Have a safe and Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Opposition Senator Renee Ming said: “I would like to take this opportunity to wish all a very Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year.

“As we embark on the festive season let’s remember that many Bermudian families are facing unprecedented challenges from many angles.

“My prayer is that the new year will bring new hope and brighter days. Over the years, we have proven to be a resilient people. Together we can and will refocus, rejuvenate and rediscover the essence of what it means to be Bermudian. Love, peace and blessings from my family to yours.”

Opposition Senator Marc Daniels listed five Christmas wishes. Topping the list: “Find a genuine way to get those involved in the mayhem to put down the guns for good.”

Looking ahead to the New Year, he expressed the hope to “find a way to generate new industry so that locals can find greater work opportunities; make concessions with the energy sector and the wholesalers to reduce gas and food costs as much as possible to make it easier on Bermudians.

His last two wishes: “Ensure that all people on the island can eat food daily and to foster an environment where politicians actually work together, instead of saying it, to serve the people better.”

Jeff Baron, Junior Minister of National Security, said: “To capture and bottle, even for just one day, the joy and wonderment my son Jack feels during Christmas time, and give that joy to those who need a smile, warmth and love.”