Simmons On Cost Of Living, Energy & More

“I rise today to share the Government’s continued efforts to build a Bermuda that is fairer for all,” Junior Minister of Home Affairs, Youth, Social Development and Seniors; and National Security Senator Lindsay Simmons said in the Senate.

The Junior Minister’s full statement follows below:

Madam President,

I rise today to share the Government’s continued efforts to build a Bermuda that is fairer for all.

Let me begin with a truth we all feel: The cost of living in Bermuda is simply too high. From groceries to electricity, from essential goods to housing—families, seniors, and small businesses alike are feeling the constant strain.

This is not just an economic issue. It is a moral issue. It is about dignity, opportunity, and hope.

Our government has been clear: we are committed to tackling this challenge head-on. The Ministry of Home Affairs is now driving this effort with a singular focus – bringing down the cost of living. That includes the cost of food, energy, and essentials that no Bermudian should go without.

Madam President,

This drive towards change cannot be tackled by one Ministry alone – it will be a collaborative approach.

We expect that every business sector will want to participate – businesses, regulators, nonprofits, and consumers – we all need to get involved in order to bring real change – the goal is to ensure that everyone rows in the same direction.

Madam President,

The Opposition’s response to the Throne Speech speaks of “weathering the storm.” But storms don’t just happen. They are often born of decades of systemic inequities—of supply chains, markets, and regulatory systems that have long prioritized profit over people.

And let us be honest, Madam President: Many of the economic foundations we inherited were never built to shelter all of us. They were designed to protect privilege—not to promote fairness. What we are building is fundamentally different. Our architecture demands that we are building people-first foundations.

Madam President,

The Ministry of Home Affairs will act across four key pillars to stabilize costs and build long-term resilience:

1. Making Essential Goods More Affordable
2. Stabilizing Energy Prices C Advancing Clean Energy
3. Strengthening Consumer Protections
4. Modernizing Regulatory Oversight

Let me walk briefly through each.

Essential Goods

We cannot allow duty relief to benefit companies without benefiting consumers. We’ve already removed duties on many essential items—but too often those savings do not make it to the register.

That’s why we pledge to:

Expand the list of essential items eligible for tax relief and introduce fair pricing oversight. Additionally, we anticipate launching a digital price tracker so consumers can compare costs across retailers and support food co-ops, community gardening, and vendor-friendly policies to increase local access and affordability.

A Fairer Energy Future for All

Madam President, the second pillar refers that in 2019, Bermuda established its Integrated Resource Plan – a national blueprint for energy reform. This means that we are now moving boldly toward:

• Reducing fossil fuel dependency;
• Stabilizing electricity costs;
• Promoting community solar and conservation education;
• Expanding renewable energy infrastructure;

Additionally, Madam President, we are amending the Electricity Act 2016 to limit recoverable expenses and improve transparency. Providers will be held accountable for efficiency—because that’s what we all deserve.

For too long, consumers have operated without enough protection. So, we will expand the powers of the Regulatory Authority to monitor pricing and competition. This involves amendments to certain legislation to enshrine consumer rights. An educational component will be added to promote financial education programmes designed to empower people to make informed decisions.

Madam President, we reject the idea that regulation is a barrier to progress. First, regulation is how we build guardrails that protect the vulnerable, encourage competition, and promote innovation.

Regulation should not stifle growth – it should shape a marketplace that serves the many, not the few.

As a reminder Madam President, under this Government and the leadership of the Progressive Labour Party, we have:

1. Increased pensions for our seniors
2. Introduced Bermuda’s first minimum wage
3. Expanded the childcare allowance
4. Reduced taxes for 86% of working Bermudians
5. Built over 70 affordable homes

But we are not finished. We are just getting started.

Our actions Madam President are not just about amending or creating Policy. It is about focusing on the people who we represent and serve. This is about restoring trust, rebuilding fairness, and ensuring that Bermuda is not just a place where we live—but a place where we all can thrive.

Madam President,

This Government remains unwavering in our commitment to build a Bermuda that is fairer, more just, and more stable for every citizen.

And so, I close with the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.:

“Everyone can be great, because everyone can serve.”

“This country will not be a good place for any of us to live in unless we make it a good place for all of us to live in.” “I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver”.

Let’s keep marching.

Thank you, Madam President.

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