Former UBP leader Kim Swan has joined the Progressive Labour Party.

The announcement was made yesterday by PLP Leader Marc Bean.

Mr Bean said: “I am pleased to welcome Kim Swan to the PLP family and look forward to working with him as we seek to build a Bermuda that works for all Bermudians.

“Mr Swan has the experience and the passion for improving the condition of Bermudians that is needed at this critical point in our island’s history. He has a lot to offer, not just to the PLP but to Bermuda.”

The Opposition head told The Royal Gazette: “I’ve known of his interest for a little while, to be honest; I was just waiting for the appropriate time to let the public know.”

Mr Swan led the United Bermuda Party from 2008 to 2011 — making him the second UBP Leader to join the PLP, after Wayne Furbert crossed the floor in 2008.

Asked if the Opposition would put Mr Swan forward as a candidate in St George’s where he has traditionally run, Mr Bean said he didn’t wish to pre-empt the party’s own candidate selection process, which was a strictly internal affair. He called Mr Swan’s strengths “self explanatory”, adding: “Kim Swan has great energy and is prepared to serve the people of this country.”

Mr Bean said: “We can expect to hear more as we continue to articulate a vision for the country — it’s going to require fiscal responsibility combined with a social conscience.”

The response within the PLP had been “positive — the PLP has always been positive in that regard”.

“Our membership is very kind, and forgiving when forgiveness is required — in this case, not.”

Mr Swan served in the Senate from 1998 to 2007 becoming Opposition Senate Leader in 2001. He ran in four General Elections before winning the St Georges West seat in December 2007.

Mr Swan said: “Like many Bermudians, I am deeply concerned about the direction of our country and the growing marginalisation of Bermudians.

“Promises have been broken, Bermudians continue to lose jobs and many are losing hope in a Bermuda where Bermudians must come first. The country is heading in the wrong direction and I believe that I still have much to offer to get Bermuda back on track.”

Mr Swan added: “I am determined to work with the Leadership and membership of the PLP, in whatever capacity needed.

“Now is the time when I can provide experience and knowledge from my time in politics towards offering solutions and mentoring the next generation of Bermudian leaders within the Progressive Labour Party.

“I have seen the PLP evolve under Marc Bean and when I hear his vision, forthright approach and the passionate way in which he speaks for Bermudians, I know that I share his passion and want to help.”