The Bermuda Public Services Union has praised several “ambitious” government initiatives unveiled in last week’s Throne Speech.

But it also charged that the Government had failed to address key issues such as the cost of healthcare and pension reform.

In a statement today, the union welcomed proposals aimed at strengthening worker protections and supporting individuals with disabilities, including amendments to secure equal access to employment for people with disabilities, an increase in severance pay allowances from 26 to 32 weeks, and the removal payroll tax on redundancy pay.

Kevin Grant, the union’s general secretary, said the BPSU remained steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the overall benefits of all workers, but added that it had “some concerns in some key areas”.

Mr Grant said: “Rising healthcare costs significantly burden the Bermudian society, and the absence of universal healthcare only intensifies this issue.

“Health insurance premiums continue to escalate at an unsustainable rate, presenting serious challenges, particularly for Bermuda’s ageing population. The BPSU emphasises that urgent action is needed to stem the tide of rising healthcare costs and mitigate the negative impacts on citizens’ wellbeing.

“Additionally, the union highlights pension reform as another growing concern, given its critical importance for long-term economic security.”

The union, which represents public sector white collar workers, welcomed the Government’s plans to address pay disparities between the private and public sectors, saying that salaries needed to be “aligned”.

It also urged the Government to exercise caution when it pressed ahead with streamlining operations.

Mr Grant said: “The BPSU emphasises that these efforts must be balanced with considerations for job security and the necessary investment in training, resources and facilities.

“For public services to be delivered effectively, staff must be equipped and incentivised to meet the evolving demands of the community.”

The BPSU applauded plans to clarify accountability for senior constitutional roles, saying it was hoped the move will lead to greater transparency and integrity.

It also recognised the need for education reform, stressing the importance of collaborative commitment among all stakeholders.

Mr Grant said: “Given the profound impact education reform will have on future generations, buy-in from the entire community is essential to ensure success. The Government must ensure that the ethos of meaningful social dialogue is a key component during this reform.

“The BPSU reaffirms its readiness to participate in a collaborative, human-centred approach to these initiatives, advocating strongly for workers’ rights and ensuring that their voices are central in shaping Bermuda’s future.”