Bahamas News
Prime Minister Anticipates “Excellent Year” for Grand Bahama
#Bahamas, February 12, 2018 – Grand Bahama – “I believe that this year will be a good and excellent year for Grand Bahama.”
The Prime Minister’s sentiments came during the official opening of Pirate’s Cove Zipline & Water Park, located at Taino Beach, on Saturday afternoon. Prime Minister, Dr. the Hon. Hubert Minnis gave the keynote address, following a list of other speakers at the event, including Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon. K. Peter Turnquest, and Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Travis Robinson.
Although various aspects of the Pirate’s Cove adventure theme park had been opened and operational for some time, Saturday’s opening was for the introduction of the Zipline Adventure, the first of its kind in The Bahamas.
Prime Minister Minnis noted that one of the unique aspects of the Pirate’s Cove Zipline & Water Park was the fact that it was carried out by Bahamians. This, he said, proves that Bahamians are more than capable of owning their economy.
“My government seeks to encourage more of these Bahamian business ventures, particularly in Grand Bahama,” added the Prime Minister. “It’s important to note that this is an achievement for the entire island of Grand Bahama. It strongly suggests that investment confidence is improving.
“I have been advised that the investment into this project totals some $1.4 million into the economy of Grand Bahama. I am pleased that Pirate’s Cove presently employs 30 persons directly, and they are all Bahamians. They also have an additional 30 persons who are indirectly employed by this entity.”
The Prime Minister noted that the results of the recent labor force survey by the Department of Statistics for Grand Bahama indicates some progress. He said that in Grand Bahama, there was a slight decrease in the unemployment rate from 12.4 percent to 12.1 percent.
“There are still too many unemployed, but the rate is trending in the right direction,” said Prime Minister Minnis.
“It should be noted that there was a significant increase in employed persons in Grand Bahama. The number of persons employed in May 2017 in Grand Bahama was 26,160 and that number increased to 27,240 in November 2017. “We still need more jobs.”
Prime Minister Minnis reiterated his commitment to the Second City, noting that Grand Bahama has been a major focus of his government, and he vowed that they will continue to work towards its complete restoration. The Prime Minister said he would continue to have a personal interest in Grand Bahama to ensure that the economy of the island is revived. He said he also has the same passion for the other islands, as well as the inner city of New Providence.
Referring to his most recent National Address, Prime Minister Minnis affirmed his announcement of all first time businesses being exempt from business license fees. He also affirmed that all businesses with a gross of less than 100,000 dollars are exempt from business license fees.
“I have been travelling to Grand Bahama for a very long time and I know that the Port loves Grand Bahamians just as much,” said Minister Minnis, jokingly taking a jab at GBPA president, Ian Rolle, who was also at Saturday’s opening.
“Therefore I am certain that the Port will match the Government. Just as I said to the Minister of Finance recently, I will say to the Port… ‘don’t make me out to be a liar.’”
The Prime Minister said that the Zipline Park was something great for Grand Bahama and he wished it total success. He reminded his audience of the Government’s ongoing transactions to get the Grand Lucayan hotel sold and re-opened. He also spoke of the Government’s negotiation with Bahamas Paradise for the return of the Grand Celebration and the introduction of a new vessel, which will bring additional stopover visitors and new opportunities for Grand Bahama in April.
“We have also negotiated an airlift agreement with Sunwing and now have the return of Vacation Express,” added Prime Minister Minnis. “It has been announced that a total of eight non-stop flights departing from various U.S. cities will begin their flight schedules to Grand Bahama this year.
By: Andrew Coakley
Photo Captions:
Header: Prime Minister of The Bahamas, Dr. the Hon. Hubert Minnis (second left) was keynote speaker at the official opening of Pirate’s Cove Zipline & Water Park at Taino Beach in Grand Bahama on Saturday, February 3, 2018. Also on hand for the event were Minister of State for Grand Bahama in the Office of the Prime Minister, Senator Kwasi Thompson (second right); Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Works, Iram Lewis (right); and Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Travis Robinson.
First insert: It was a long way up to the spot where two ribbons were waiting to be cut by the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister to officially open Pirate’s Cove Zipline & Water Park at Taino Beach on Saturday, February 3, 2018. Prime Minister Minnis was the keynote speaker at the event.
Second insert: Wife of the Prime Minister, Mrs. Patricia Minnis was one of the first brave persons to try out the Zipline at Pirate’s Cove Zipline & Water Park, during opening ceremonies on Saturday, February 3, 2018. Mrs. Minnis successfully zipped on the 30-ft. line and she set the stage for others to try. Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon. Peter Turnquest followed, choosing to take the 50-ft. line, where he waved to the crowd as he zipped by.
BIS Photos/Lisa Davis
Bahamas News
Get your laugh on, March On, family drama by Gea Pierre, debut this weekend in Turks and Caicos
This is the sixth edition of the relays and the fourth time that The Bahamas has hosted the event, which actually made its debut in The Bahamas in 2014.
President, World Athletics, Sabastian Coe said after three very successful editions from 2014 to 2017, the World Athletics Relays has quickly become one of the World Athletics vibrant competitions, developing a culture of fun and innovation that gives it a unique flavour.
He thanked the Bahamas Government, the local World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 committee and the Bahamian people for agreeing to host the relays. However, his main thanks were to the “world’s best sprinters” travelling from all the continents to compete in preparation for the road to Paris, France, in two months’ time.
During the opening ceremony, the athletes were given words of advice from Carl Lewis, one of only four Olympic athletes to have won nine Olympic gold medals, who is widely recognized as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
He said, “Keep it simple, do not try to do anything extra. Do what your coaches said. Leave on time, leave on time, leave on time.”
The athletes and crowds were treated to the sounds and sights of Junkanoo at the end of the opening ceremony. The Junkanoo performers stuck around for the two days of competitions, playing for the sprinters as they competed on the track.
Teams competed in the Women’s and men’s 4x100m, and the women’s men’s and mixed 4x400m. A total of 14 teams at the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 automatically qualified for places at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Both days of competition were important, as day two offered another chance for qualifications for those teams unsuccessful on day one.
Bahamians were made proud as the country set a new national record during the mixed 4x400m relays thanks to the efforts of 16-year-old Shania Adderley, a student of Tabernacle Baptist Academy.
The team came first in their heat on Sunday evening after not being able to gain a spot for the Paris Olympics on the first day of competition.
Other sprinters on the team included Alonzo Russell, as well as Olympic champions Steven Gardiner and Shaunae Miller-Uibo.
NASSAU, The Bahamas – During his remarks at the Opening Ceremony for the World Athletics Relays 2024, on May 4, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis welcomed the special guests, athletes, officials, and “all lovers of athletics from around the world” to the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium here in the “vibrant heart” of Nassau, Bahamas.
“This weekend, the world’s finest athletes gather on our shores to embark on a journey that is not only about speed and strength but also about dreams and determination,” Prime Minister Davis said. “From the serene beauty of our islands to the historic grandeur of Paris, this event marks a crucial path to the Olympic Games in Paris 2024.”
He added: “Here in The Bahamas, we are no strangers to world-class athletics or the warmth and exuberance that such international gatherings bring. It is a distinct honor to once again welcome the World Athletics Relays back to our islands. This event holds a special place in our hearts, symbolizing a bridge between nations brought together by the universal language of sport.”
Prime Minister Davis noted that that year’s theme, “Paradise to Paris,” captured the essence of that journey.
“It is here, amidst the splendor of our sun-kissed beaches and the rhythmic sway of our palms that the chase towards Olympic glory begins anew,” he stated. “We are thrilled to offer a backdrop of unparalleled beauty, where every sprint, every baton pass, and every victory lap is set against the picture-perfect canvas of our islands.”
He added: “To our athletes, I say this: as you stand on the precipice of your dreams, ready to catapult yourself into the annals of history, know that you are part of a legacy of excellence and determination. This weekend, you are not only competitors but also ambassadors of your countries and the spirit of sport. We are especially proud of Team Bahamas, who carry the weight of their performance and the hopes and pride of our nation. You embody the spirit of The Bahamian people, and we are behind you every step of the way.”
Prime Minister said that to the international visitors, he extended “the warmest Bahamian welcome”.
“Over the next few days, as you revel in the thrill of competition, take a moment to bask in the beauty of our island,” he stated. “Discover why we proudly say, “It’s Better in The Bahamas.” Whether it’s the hospitality of our people, the tranquility of our waters, or the rhythm of our culture, you are in for an experience that captures the heart and rejuvenates the soul.”
“Let us celebrate the unity and friendship that sports foster, cheering every athlete and savoring the spectacle of human potential at its best,” Prime Minister Davis added. “I hope the races are swift, the results are inspiring, and the memories are lasting.
“Welcome to The Bahamas, the paradise where champions chase their dreams to Paris. As your host, it is my immense pleasure to declare the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 2024 officially open. Let the games begin.”
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