BERMUDA — Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009 — [Bermuda Wired]: OPPOSITION M.P. Charlie Swan has blasted the Government for what he says is its failure to act quickly to shelter the homeless and cut “wasteful” spending.

In a United Bermuda Party media statement, Mr. Swan claims that growing numbers of homeless people in Bermuda are being turned away each night from the Salvation Army shelters.

He continues: “(This) reflects the Government’s failure to meet anticipated community needs and the real price of its wasteful spending.

*Photo credit: ubp.bm web site

“The Government must move with speed to meet the needs of the growing numbers of displaced Bermudians.

“This should include any funding support to bolster the operations of the Salvation Army’s shelter operations.”

But last week, Head of the Salvation Army Bermuda division, Major Doug Lewis, told the Hamilton Rotary Club that Government has consistently supported his organization through nearly a million dollars in grants each year, with the rest of the funds needed raised through donations and appeals.

Continuing his diatribe on the ruling PLP Government, neophyte politician Mr. Swan adds: “In addition we expect the Government to get off its butt to fulfill its commitment – now five years old and counting – to build a night shelter for 200 people.”

“News of a growing homeless population – pegged at between 250 and 300 people – is not surprising given the numbers prior to the economic downturn and ensuing business contractions.”