Michael Dunkley has pledged to bridge divisions as the dust settles on the contentious airport debate.

The Premier acknowledged he had seen “very impassioned debate from both sides of the aisle” as the Airport Development Concession Act and the Bermuda Airport Authority Act went through Parliament on Friday night.

“It was an incredibly long and spirited parliamentary session, and I appreciate all Members’ contribution,” he said in a statement.

“Government maintains that the airport redevelopment project will be significantly beneficial for the people of Bermuda.

“It will create hundreds of construction jobs, as well as long term employment opportunities; it will be a boost to our economy; and it will be a first class, modern facility which we can all be proud of. And I can assure that Bermuda and Bermudians will always be at the forefront of this development.

“So we are very satisfied at the passage of these two Bills. We now await the Senate debate and we will be following those proceedings very closely.”

Mr Dunkley praised finance minister Bob Richards for his “steady determination” in piloting the legislation through the House of Assembly.

“We recognise that there had been a lot of misinformation around the airport project and as we move forward we will continue to provide information to the public to quell concerns,” he added.

“As Premier I believe that what unites us far outweighs what divides us. So as we move ahead, Government’s attention and commitment will be focused on strengthening our engagement throughout the community to try and bridge our divisions.

“Ultimately and historically, as we have done so many times before, I am hopeful that as a people we can and will chart a way forward together, finding common ground solutions to ensure a successful future for our island.”