The Progressive Labour Party has opened the door to a national debate ahead of the General Election on February 18.

In a statement released last night, the PLP proposed a format featuring representatives from the three main political parties as well as the independents, and invited the establish media houses to organise and sponsor it.

A spokesman said: “The recommended format reflects the reality of today’s political environment. The multi-person debate format is done in Jamaica and is common in university-level debates such as the World Universities Debating Championships.”

The development comes after weeks of behind-the-scenes negotiating featuring The Royal Gazette, Bermuda Broadcasting Corporation, Bernews and Bermuda Youth Connect, the activist group, which reminded that it had invited all political parties to participate in a national leaders debate on January 14.

A BYC spokeswoman said that after sending the invitation for a debate to the parties, it extended an invite to the independents to include one representative.

She added: “We are pleased that all parties have expressed interest.

“We look forward to drafting debate terms in a format that benefits the Bermudian electorate and youth first.”

With a view to shaping how this debate is framed, the PLP spokesman added: “Today’s reality is very different from previous elections — the community wants to hear a variety of voices speaking to the future of our country and our people.

“In the debate, we seek to highlight how we’ve worked to build a fairer Bermuda during these difficult times for the world.”

The spokesman listed the PLP’s achievements including raising seniors pensions, increasing childcare and building or renovating more than 70 affordable housing units.

He said: “We will discuss our achievable plans for the future which include a seniors daycare centre, a primary-care visit under HIP, a specialist visit under FutureCare and less expensive essential goods through a government-backed co-op.”

Dexter Smith, Editor of The Royal Gazette, said: “A national debate on the issues has been long sought-after over the past three election cycles. We embrace the PLP’s willingness to be a part of it on this occasion.”

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