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National Address on Hurricane Irma

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#Bahamas, September 6, 2017 – Nassau

Dr. the Hon. Hubert Minnis
Prime Minister
Commonwealth of The Bahamas

7:00 p.m., Tuesday, 5 September, 2017

Office of the Prime Minister
Cecil Wallace-Whitfield Center

Nassau, The Bahamas

Fellow Citizens and Residents:  Good evening.
I report to you this evening that we are facing one of the potentially severest natural disasters in the modern history of The Bahamas.  Hurricane Irma may be one of the strongest hurricanes ever recorded!  On its current path, Hurricane Irma, which is currently a dangerous Category Five storm, with sustained winds of approximately 185 mph, poses a dire threat to Mayaguana, Inagua, Crooked Island, Acklins, Long Cay and Ragged Island.

The wind speed, rain and expected storm surge make this a potentially catastrophic hurricane.  Accordingly, we must act quickly to protect lives, with a particular emphasis on the residents of the southern Bahamas, who are at the greatest risk.  I note that Irma may also bring severe weather to the Central Bahamas.  Leave has been suspended for members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force.

Because of the potentially catastrophic effect and the potential loss of life resulting from Hurricane Irma, and after consultation with Cabinet colleagues, the National Emergency Management Agency and the Met Office — the Government has taken the decision to institute an emergency evacuation to New Providence for the residents of MICAL and Ragged Island.

The emergency evacuation will be begin early tomorrow morning and will be conducted by aircraft.  To underscore the threat posed by Hurricane Irma, I note that this is the largest such evacuation in the history of the country.  We are advising in the strongest possible terms that the residents of MICAL and Ragged Island comply with the evacuation from their respective islands.

Let me be very clear: Those who refuse to evacuate, place themselves in potentially great danger from this monster hurricane, including from dangerously strong and high storm surges, which is one of the greatest threats from a hurricane.  Emergency personnel and assistance will be unavailable during the immediate impact of the hurricane for those in MICAL and Ragged Island who do not evacuate.  Furthermore, rescue and recovery may take an extended period of time for those who did not evacuate.

Let me again make the strongest plea possible to the residents of MICAL and Ragged Island to evacuate their respective areas.    Do not put your life and those of your loved ones at unnecessary risk.  Do not be foolish and try to brave out this monster storm. The price you may pay for not evacuating is your life or serious physical harm.  With Hurricane Katrina in the United States and Hurricane Matthew last year, there were those who refused to evacuate.    As a result some people lost their lives in the U.S. Here at home, many lived through terror as their homes flooded and they feared for their lives and that of their loved ones, because they refused to evacuate.

As I stated at the NEMA press conference yesterday:  “Life is precious.  We must make every effort to preserve and protect life, including the elderly, the indigent and other vulnerable individuals.”

The evacuation from the Southern Bahamas will be completed by tomorrow evening.  Those who agree to evacuate should secure and bring identification with them, including passports, NIB cards and voters cards, as well as medication, clothing and toiletries adequate for several days.
We are asking those who agree to evacuate, to contact family members, friends and church fellowships to accommodate them during their stay in New Providence.  For those who do not have such accommodations, the Kendal Isaacs National Gymnasium will be used as a major shelter for those evacuated from MICAL and Ragged Island.

The Roman Catholic Archdiocese has also generously agreed to the use of Loyola Hall on Gladstone Road as a major shelter.  These centers will be adequately staffed by various personnel, and will be secured by the Royal Bahamas Police Force.   Elective and non-emergency surgeries at the Princess Margaret Hospital will be cancelled to ensure that there is the necessary medical personnel to help staff various shelters.   The impending evacuation is part of the Government’s disaster preparedness and management plan.    We are working to ensure that the evacuations are completed as efficiently and as orderly as possible given the circumstances at hand and the possibility of the hurricane taking a different path than currently forecast.

We are receiving constant updates on the location and the potential impact of Hurricane Irma.  We are also closely monitoring Tropical Storm Jose, which may develop into a hurricane by Friday.   As I stated yesterday:

“Bahamians and residents throughout the country need to monitor the location and proximity of Irma to the island or cay on which they live …  “Maritime traffic, fishermen and boaters should take all necessary precautions as Hurricane Irma approaches The Bahamas.”

Given the dynamic nature of a hurricane, all Bahamians, throughout our archipelago, should closely monitor the track of Hurricane Irma.
Fellow Bahamians and Residents:  This is a time for national unity.    In this spirit, I have briefed the Leader of the Opposition on Hurricane Irma.
I have also invited the Leader of the Opposition to join me at the Office of the Prime Minister during the preparation for Hurricane Irma, and to offer his advice as the country faces the threat posed by this monster hurricane, including during the rescue and recovery stages after the storm passes.

Before I close, let me extend the prayers, best wishes and solidarity of the Bahamian people to our neighbours and Caricom partners in the Northern Caribbean who will shortly feel the impact of Hurricane Irma.   In the days ahead, I will call on the goodwill and generosity of Bahamians, at home and abroad, and residents, to offer whatever they can in terms of volunteerism, monetary and other resources to help those affected by Hurricane Irma.   I make a special plea to the media to offer full and informed coverage to keep Bahamians and residents abreast of the impact of the hurricane.

I note once again that “Bahamians and residents should avoid relying on sources of information which may be questionable or unreliable, especially potentially fake information circulated through social media.”

Please do not resend social media posts, which appear false or questionable.    Let us avoid as much gossip and panic as possible.  I again thank the many departments, agencies, public officials, churches, NGOs and civil society partners involved in preparing for Hurricane Irma.  Let us continue to move forward with resolve and courage.   May God continue to guide and strengthen us with the spirit of resilience and community in the hours, days and months ahead, as we work together in the spirit of love and unity.

Thank you and good evening.

Press Release: Hon. Hubert Minnis

 

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Health Officials Re-launch Vaccination Outreach Programme against Measles

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By LINDSAY THOMPSON
Bahamas Information Services
 



NASSAU, The Bahamas –– Due to measles outbreaks in countries in close proximity to The Bahamas, the Ministry of Health and Wellness is taking no chances and officially re-launched its Community Vaccination Outreach Programme, to keep the public aware of the contagious disease.

A press conference was held on Wednesday, April 23 2025 at the Ministry on Meeting Street, during which health officials also discussed the immunization and vaccination status locally.

Present were the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville, Minister of Health and Wellness; Dr. Philip Swann, Acting Director, Department of Public Health; Dr. Jillian Bartlett, Senior Medical Officer; Nurse Gina Ferguson-Rose, National Immunization Coordinator; and Dr. Eldonna Boisson, PAHO/WHO Representative for The Bahamas, and Turks and Caicos Islands.

The update coincided with observance of Vaccination Week in The Americas, April 26 to May 3, 2025 under the theme ‘Your Decision Makes a Difference. Immunization for All.’                                                                                                                                                             According to the Centre for Disease Control, the United States confirmed over 800 cases of measles this year, including a death in Texas, and cases in Florida, Maryland, New York, New Jersey, and Washington. This is compared to 248 cases for the entire year, 2024. In Canada during the first two months of 2025, there were 227 measles cases, with many requiring hospitalizations. Compared to 146 for the whole of last year.  Last week, Belize reported two cases.

“Which is one of the reasons the Department of Public health is having this press conference to alert parents of the danger and the need to ensure your child is immunized,” said Dr. Darville.

He noted that many of the confirmed measles cases in the US are in states that have direct flights to The Bahamas, which can result in possible imported cases.

“Secondly, the country’s current Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) immunization rates are just under 85 percent which makes us very vulnerable as a nation,” he said.

Dr. Darville said he was pleased to report that “there are no reported cases of measles in the country and the Department of Public Health along with our partner PAHO, is launching a community based door-to-door programme to promote public awareness and education programmes about measles, mumps and rubella, and to immunized those children that may have been missed.”

He reminded the public that measles is a highly contagious disease and the rapid spread is of great concern to public health.  And, he reaffirmed that immunizations are free at the public clinics, urging parents and guardians to review their children’s immunization records.  If they have any concerns, contact the team at the newly reopened Baillou Hill Road Community Clinic or the EPI center at 341-1741 or 341-1766.

“Remember these vaccines have been around for decades. They are safe, effective and are provided free of charge at all public health facilities,” said Dr. Darville.

Dr. Swann reinforced the message that the measles vaccine is a vital tool in protecting public health. It prevents measles, a highly contagious disease that can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death, especially in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems.

“By achieving high vaccination rates, communities benefit from herd immunity, which helps shield those who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical conditions. The vaccine has played a key role in drastically reducing measles cases worldwide, contributing to efforts toward the potential elimination of the disease. Promoting widespread access to the vaccine is essential to safeguarding lives and preventing outbreaks,” he said.

He added, “We believe that combining these strategies can boost vaccination rates and help protect entire communities through herd immunity.”

Dr Swann advised the public that the Department of Public Health is re-launching its community programme. The first wave will be the teams of nurses and nurse extenders who will be wearing Vaccination Week in the Americas t-shirts. And, they would be in communities this week with a blitz being planned for the communities served by the Baillou hill Road and Fleming Street clinics this coming weekend.

Dr. Eldonna Boisson, PAHO/WHO Representative for The Bahamas, and Turks and Caicos Islands also stressed the importance of being vaccinated.

“The problem for us is that our vaccination coverage is dangerously low. What this means is that if a case of measles comes into The Bahamas, we are at a very high risk of that case spreading the diseases to the Bahamian population, particularly children.

“We run a very real risk of having a measles outbreak, which needless to say will also severely affect tourism.

“So, what can we do? The answer is simple. Ensure that we are vaccinated with two doses of the MMR vaccine. This will protect the children and prevent spread of this potentially very severe disease,” she said.

(BIS Photos/Mark Ford)

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Bahamian Archivist Antoinette Seymour Preserves Cultural Heritage with New Book “Been to Cat Island”

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The Bahamas, April 25, 2025 – Bahamian archivist and international chess legend Antoinette Seymour has undertaken the significant endeavor of archiving the rich cultural history of the Bahamas’ major islands. In her recent publication, “Been to Cat Island”, the first title in the “Been to Bahamas” series published by Inspire Publishing (Bahamas) 2024, Seymour passionately explores this vital task.

For many, the prospect of documenting the complexities of island history could seem daunting. However, Ms. Seymour, inspired by the strategic teachings of her late father, renowned chess master Warren Seymour, embraces the challenge. “Archivists preserve and safeguard culture, history, heritage, identity, legacy, and memory,” she asserts, referencing a 1996 UNESCO publication that states, “The loss of archives is as serious as the loss of memory in a human being.”

“Throughout my life, I have heard fascinating stories about Cat Island and from Cat Islanders—stories that deserve safeguarding,” Ms. Seymour emphasizes. “If these narratives are not preserved, they will tragically vanish.”

In “Been to Cat Island,” readers can explore the unique identity of Cat Island through Seymour’s passionate lens. Discover the origins of icons like Sir Sidney Poitier, encounter delightful anecdotes such as pigs feasting on lobster, and revel in the island’s rolling hills, pristine beaches, and vibrant heritage. This book is not merely a historical account; it is an intimate portrayal of resilience, culture, and connection.

While holding a critical archival position at her alma mater, the University of Windsor in Ontario, Canada, Ms. Seymour remains devoted to her Bahamian roots. She aims to ensure that current and future generations of Bahamians cherish our nation’s rich history. When not archiving, Ms. Seymour travels throughout the island and shares her expertise in chess with children across The Bahamas. She is a proud mother of two and a grandmother of one.

“Been to Cat Island” is available now at Chapter One bookstore, Logos Bookstore, Cia Monet, select museums in The Bahamas and bookstores in Canada, and on Amazon.com in both paperback and eBook formats.

 

 

For media inquiries, please contact:

Antoinette Seymour

Author Email: antoinetteseymour@yahoo.com

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Bahamas Shifts Stance on SpaceX Flights After Debris Discovery

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Deandrea Hamilton

Editor

 

 

The Bahamas, April 25, 2025 – The Bahamas has adopted a more cautious stance on spaceflight activity within its territory following the unexpected fallout from a recent SpaceX launch.

Deputy Prime Minister I. Chester Cooper, speaking at a national briefing on April 15, announced that no further Falcon 9 rocket landings will be permitted in The Bahamas until SpaceX completes a full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

This decision follows the discovery of debris from a SpaceX Starship test flight in Bahamian waters, which Cooper emphasized occurred without prior Bahamian involvement or consent.

“The Bahamas was not involved in any way with the planning of that rocket’s flight, but we were impacted by it,” he said.

Cooper highlighted the success of a previous Falcon 9 booster landing, which was coordinated with Bahamian authorities and drew scores of space tourism enthusiasts to Exuma and Eleuthera.

The Falcon 9, known for its reusability and high safety record, has completed more than 400 successful landings. However, the recent March 6 launch of the more powerful and experimental Starship—intended for re-entry over the Indian Ocean—ended in a midair breakup visible from multiple countries, including The Bahamas.

The resulting debris field raised environmental and legal concerns.

According to Cooper, the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection (DEPP) is leading the response, ensuring the recovery and removal of all debris at SpaceX’s expense. “None of it will remain in our country, and The Bahamas will incur no cost,” he confirmed.

The incident has triggered broader scrutiny of aerospace activities near Bahamian territory. Cooper revealed that additional debris linked to three other aerospace companies has also been found in national waters.

The Office of the Attorney General and DEPP are investigating these findings to determine responsibility and ensure compliance with international treaties.

While acknowledging the promise of the commercial space industry, Cooper stressed the need for stringent oversight. “Maximizing the opportunities and minimizing the risks will require a comprehensive strategy, including diplomatic agreements, regulatory enforcement, scientific partnerships, and legal reforms,” he stated.

The Bahamas remains committed to protecting its sovereignty, safety, and environment as it navigates its role in the emerging era of global space exploration.

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