#Kingston, December 5, 2023 – Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Hon. Franklin Witter, is commending the National Irrigation Commission (NIC) Limited for its invaluable contribution to agricultural productivity and food security in Jamaica.

Mr. Witter, who was addressing the agency’s 36^th anniversary luncheon and long service awards ceremony on November 28 at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston, said this significant milestone not only marks a journey of dedication and resilience, but also stands as a testament of the critical role of irrigation in the advancement of the agricultural sector.

He said that consistent and reliable irrigation service is critical to safe and abundant food supply.

“NIC is the standard bearer of the Ministry. It is heartening to see that the NIC operations are aligned seamlessly with the Ministry’s New FACE of Food initiative, which focuses on food security, agri-business, climate smart initiatives, and export expansion,” he noted.

Mr. Witter pledged the Ministry’s continued support and investment in the agency in the ongoing quest to safeguard the country’s food security.

“We must harness the power of modern technology …the NIC must be at the forefront of innovation and research. We need to invest in cutting-edge technologies and methodologies that optimize our irrigation systems and optimize our agricultural production,” he said.

Chief Executive Officer of the NIC, Joseph Gyles, in his remarks at the ceremony, said the NIC will be expanding its irrigation districts, increasing these from 16 to 19.

He noted that presently, the Commission produces over 60-million-cubic metres of water on an annual basis.

“As we navigate the future, we embrace automation and digitization and have accepted that if we are to survive in this global world sustainability must remain at the core of our operational ethos,” he said.

The NIC is mandated to manage, operate, maintain and expand existing irrigation schemes and systems established by the Government of Jamaica or by any department or agency, as well as to fix and collect the rates or charges for the use of such water systems.

The NIC maintains an island-wide presence through six district offices located in key irrigation areas.

Contact: Rochelle Williams

Release: JIS

#TurksandCaicos, December 5, 2023 – FortisTCI is closely monitoring the impact of external shocks on market fuel prices, which continue to cause increases in the fuel factor rate and result in higher electricity bills. Higher global demand for fuel along with production cuts by leading oil producing countries have caused an increase in market prices, according to J.P. Morgan. While it is difficult to forecast far in advance precisely how prices will change, new projections from our fuel supplier indicate that fuel prices will continue to rise over the next several weeks. As a result, the fuel factor rate on November’s electricity bills increased by up to 10% across some service territories.

The fuel factor rate on customer electricity bills changes with average market fuel prices. Prior to this upswing in prices, fuel factor rates were more stable this year, falling nearly 40% across most service territories between February and September. This downward trend was contrasted by high energy demand during the summer as outside temperatures reached record-breaking levels.

The fuel factor rate on electricity bills is charged for every kilowatt hour of electricity used. When the fuel factor rate increases and a customer’s energy consumption increases, their electricity bill will be higher. Similarly, if both decrease, their electricity bill will be lower. If one increases but the other decreases, this will have a more balancing effect. If the customer consumes the same kilowatt hours of electricity, but their electricity bill has increased, the fuel factor rate has likely risen.

FortisTCI understands the challenges associated with higher electricity bills and is committed to diversifying how energy is produced and supporting customers during this time. The Company continues to advocate for suitably tailored, holistic utility sector regulatory reform, and continues to integrate alternative energy sources to the grid through roof-top solar systems and solar-powered microgrids with battery energy storage technology. These projects help to increase the amount of renewable energy on the grid, reduce the impact of global fuel price shocks on local energy costs over time, and lower carbon emissions.

Changes in the fuel factor rate can be tracked by comparing electricity bills. Notices regarding these changes are also issued monthly via email, social media, and other mainstream channels. Customers can also view their daily energy usage data via the Company’s free customer portal at www.myftcionline.com.

#NASSAU, Bahamas (December 4, 2023) – The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation is proud to announce a historic achievement in tourism, with the country welcoming a record-breaking eight million annual visitors this year. This remarkable success stands as a testament to the unified efforts, strategic planning, and visionary initiatives championed not only by the Ministry of Tourism but strengthened by the invaluable support of key stakeholders like the Nassau/Paradise Island Promotion, The Bahamas Out Islands Promotion Board and The Bahamas Hotel & Tourism Association.

The Hon. I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism shared his optimism, stating, “The Bahamas has long been a sought-after destination, and reaching eight million visitors is a milestone that reflects the collective dedication of our tourism professionals nationwide. Our success lies not just in our islands’ allure but in the strategic endeavours we have embraced. As we celebrate this achievement, we are equally focused on shaping a future that ensures sustained year-over-year growth and enhances the visitor experience.”

Sales and marketing strategies have been instrumental in positioning The Bahamas as a premier travel destination. The Ministry of Tourism reached global audiences through targeted campaigns utilizing digital marketing, social media, and strategic partnerships. These efforts, combined with creative and impactful advertising initiatives, showcased the diverse attractions and unique experiences that continue to make The Bahamas a must-visit destination.

The government’s commitment to ensuring a seamless and welcoming travel environment has fostered positive relations with industry partners. Innovative cruise strategies, accompanied by increased airlift, have significantly contributed to the surge in visitor numbers. Also collaborations with major cruise lines, the development of new cruise ports, and the introduction of new shore excursions have enhanced the overall travel experience.

Latia Duncombe, Director General of Tourism, remarked, “This historic milestone in visitor arrivals is a clear indicator of the unique charm and richness of our 16-island destination. Our unwavering dedication to offering diverse, authentic experiences underlines our strategy for Brand Bahamas. We ensure every traveler’s journey is not just a visit, but an unforgettable, enriching experience that beckons a return to our beautiful shores.”

Crucially, the support and collaboration of tourism stakeholders, promotion boards and hotel partners have played a vital role in this success. DPM Cooper underscored the importance of this collaboration, stating, “Our partners have been instrumental in achieving this milestone. Their continued collaboration is key to our sustained success, and together, we will shape the future of Bahamian tourism and the Bahamian economy.”

As The Bahamas celebrates this unprecedented achievement, the Ministry of Tourism looks ahead, developing future strategies to ensure sustained growth in visitor arrivals and a continued positive trajectory for the tourism industry.

Release:  Bahamas Ministry of Tourism