A recently concluded Global Research poll shows that 42% of residents lost income as a result of Covid-19, 27% had been laid off or had their hours reduced, and 8% lost their job.
A spokesperson said, “Poll respondents stated that the biggest issues facing Bermuda today were the economy [49%], unemployment [29%] and education [11%]. Respondents felt that improving the economy [39%], addressing unemployment/adding more jobs [19%] and improving education [13%] should be the top priorities of the newly elected PLP Government.
“When asked about Christmas spending this year, 63% stated that they plan to spend less this year, compared to 1% who stated that they plan to spend more, and 36% who plan to spend about the same as last year.
“Residents were also asked how they felt about travelling during the COVID-19 pandemic. Just over half of those polled [52%] felt that residents should not be allowed to travel outside of Bermuda for non-essential travel. Only 23% stated that they plan to travel in the next 6 months.
“There have been recent announcements about COVID-19 vaccines which may soon be available. Residents were asked if they would take an effective COVID-19 vaccine if it were available. 66% of residents would be willing to take it, compared to 34% who would be unwilling.
“15% would take the vaccine as soon as it was available, 28% would wait for 6 months to one year and 22% would wait for more than a year before taking it.
“Local research company, Global Research, which interviewed a representative sample of 405 residents in Bermuda, executed the poll in order to provide insight into current social issues facing Bermuda. Surveys were collected online and via telephone. All surveys and interviews were completed between November 13-19, 2020.
“The results were weighted to be representative of Bermuda’s population on the following factors: gender, age, and race. The margin of error for the study is +/- 4.9%.
Leslie Steede, Director of Research at Global Research commented on the poll: “COVID-19 has had a serious impact on Bermuda residents’ income and employment. Quite encouraging, two-thirds of residents would be willing to take an approved vaccine.
“Increased education and confidence on the vaccine, and how it can control the spread of the pandemic could help to further increase residents’ willingness to take an approved vaccine.”
The Global Research Social Issues Poll results follow below [PDF here]:
