Responding to yesterday’s immigration reform protest at Sessions House, the Premier has called the Bermuda Government’s proposed legislation “a step for the long-term economic health of the Bermudian people”.The rally of 1,500 people saw MPs prevented from entering the House of Assembly by a human blockade, forcing the Government to cancel the scheduled session.Michael Dunkley said that the One Bermuda Alliance had met with protest leaders to offer concessions to the “Pathways to Status” initiative, but that they had been turned down.He said: “We believe we put reasonable proposals on the table to break the impasse but our opposites could not get support from their respective stakeholders.“At this point, I can only say that we will continue to work through this challenge to bring about a satisfactory conclusion.”While the conflict continues, Mr Dunkley urged all parties to exercise “patience, tolerance and respect” for one another.He identified three key purposes for the Bermuda Immigration and Protection Amendment Act.He said: “First, it will end unjust regulations that have divided families and left in limbo people who were born here or came at a very young age.“Second, it will extend membership in our community to people and families who have been living and working with us for decades — people who have been vetted, approved and renewed by succeeding governments for continued residency and employment.“They are people we know personally — neighbours, fellow workers and relatives — who have proved their commitment the island over time.“The third purpose of the Bill is to strengthen and protect Bermuda’s economic future.”Mr Dunkley explained that Bermuda needs more people to support its economic system, as the birth rate has dropped below the death rate, threatening health insurance and pension plans. He added: “It is a situation that must be turned around. Bermuda, in short, needs more people to support our economic system, and the “Pathways” programme will help us achieve that.“It will stabilise our ability to grow into the future, keeping people and families here to grow and invest in the island, and to pay into vital programmes that protect the social services that support all Bermudians.”Mr Dunkley insisted that the issue did not come down to diminishing birthrights, cultural identity or the power to vote — all criticisms which have been levelled at the OBA. “Rather, it is about making sure we work together effectively and inclusively to build a strong economy that can support the Bermudian people going forward,” he said. “Be assured that your Government will continue to reach out in an effort to find a solution that works for all Bermudians.”