Bahamas News
BAHAMAS: Government Set to Introduce Bus Pilot Project in Partnership with Public Transport Operators
#Bahamas, April 5, 2018 – Nassau – An area of concern that has plagued successive governments in the country has been the leasing of government licenses and franchises for taxis, tour buses, limousines and omnibuses by persons not engaged in the public transport sector.
Minister of Transport and Local Government, the Hon. Frankie Campbell said that some of these persons have no interest in being in the sector and have leased their licenses or franchises to third parties who require them to operate. Mr. Campbell was speaking in the House of Assembly during his contribution to the mid-year budget.
“This is a vexing problem, which has resulted in often astronomical fees being paid by persons who are leasing from franchises and license holder, and who often find themselves caught in a vicious cycle and at the mercy of unscrupulous individuals who often have no compunction about charging exorbitant fees for the continued use of the license or franchises,” said Mr. Campbell.
He said that the government intends to ‘address’ this issue. He said that during the period July-December 2017 and up to the current period, the Road Traffic department and the Ministry of Transport and Local Government have compiled the necessary records for addressing this issue in a ‘comprehensive fashion.’ He said that the Ministry will shortly be seeking the advice of the Cabinet with respect to ‘right sizing’ the public transport sector.
“These efforts are designed to establish an equitable, fair system for all Bahamians who have demonstrated a commitment to participate properly in the sector,” said the Minister.
Mr. Campbell said that in addition to the leasing of plates, another ‘vexing’ problem confronting the sector is the behavior of Omni bus (jitney) drivers – behaviors which are often dangerous and which diminish the quality of the experience of persons who choose to or have to take public transportation.
“Many persons have expressed concerns about the reckless behavior exhibited by some Omni or jitney operators in this regard, there have been any number of accidents and improper activities involving jitney operators and both the Road Traffic Department and the police are challenged in their capacity to regulate the driving habits of many of these drivers,” said Minister Campbell.
He said that while the development of a unified system has been ‘touted’ as the means of reforming the current busing system, bringing all stakeholders together has been a ‘challenge.’
“Bringing all stakeholders to the table to adopt an agreed way forward has been a challenge for a number of years, particularly as bus operators and owners are generally of the view that any change in the status quo will automatically greatly disadvantage them,” he said.
The Minister said that after negotiations and consultations, the Ministry is ‘poised’ to enter into an agreement with the Public Transport Representatives for the provision of bus services on a single revised route, for a period of six months. The pilot project initiative is being funded by a $500,000 grant from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
“Mr. Speaker, $350,000 of this funding was set aside for the engagement of a consulting transportation specialist, and a Canadian company was retained and provided services for the development of the Pilot, much of which were delivered during the six-month budgetary period now under review, allowing for the expenditure of the greater portion of this funding during the mid-term budgetary period,” said Minister Campbell.
He said this represented the first component of the project; and the second component, which provides for the general administration and supervision of the Pilot program, is slated to commence in a short while.
“It is intended that the implementation of the pilot will identify all issues which require correction before the unified system is considered for introduction on an island-wide basis throughout New Providence,” he said. “There will be a review of bus routes to ensure all areas are serviced.”
By: Betty Vedrine (BIS)
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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