Cox hints at speech themes

Governor Sir Richard Gozney will this morning officially open Parliament with the Throne Speech.

Dressed in a white military-style uniform, a white pith helmet plumed with ostrich feathers and carrying a sword, the Queen’s representative in Bermuda will outline Government’s vision for the coming year.

New Premier Paula Cox will set out her Government blueprint for the issues to be tackled and legislation to be tabled.

Last year’s Throne Speech covered topics as diverse as bees, a recording studio, casinos and National Service.

But this year, Ms Cox — the island’s Finance Minister — is expected to take a more frugal approach.

Ms Cox told the Bermuda Sun: “As this is a new administration, this year’s Throne Speech will reflect the restructuring and operational processes (of Government). 

“Ultimately its alignment with the needs of the people will be seen in a phased roll-out of services over the coming months.

“This document is inclusive of all of Bermuda’s residents and signals our intent to deliver on our promises.”

Far-reaching

The Premier added: “Due to the recent changes in Ministers and Ministry configurations, the document will not set out the full legislative agenda as is the norm, however it still is a far-reaching Throne Speech that has our people and their best interests at its heart.”

Ms Cox said rather than specific initiatives, the speech will focus on “recurring themes that encompass timely implementation of service”.

She said: “Education reform that sows the seeds for the future; government transparency; justice and corrections; health; family support; border control and security; energy and green policies; business; and what will forever remain our most precious commodity, our seniors, will be employed throughout the work of this administration.”

Black Rod

Whatever changes the future may bring in politics, the traditions of the Throne Speech endure.

In Britain the Queen reads the speech, marking the State Opening of Parliament, while in Commonwealth countries it is carried out by Governors and Governor Generals.

In Bermuda — a British Overseas Territory — Sir Richard will read the speech sat in the 368-year-old Bermuda Cedar ‘Forster Chair’.

The Governor summons members of the Legislature to the Senate grounds via his messenger, the Black Rod.