Bahamas News
BAHAMAS: Minister Dames says Ant-Terrorism Bill 2018 needed to update 14-year-old Act
#Nassau, June 28, 2018 – Bahamas – During his Communication in the House of Assembly on the Anti-Terrorism Bill 2018, on June 27, 2018, 
Minister of National Security the Hon. Marvin Dames said that the existing legislation – the Anti-Terrorism Act, 2004 — was not comprehensive enough to meet the “ever-evolving changes of terrorism” and its associated activities within the 21st century.
“Now, almost 15 years later, we are enacting new legislation, guided by the Model Legislation for the region where there exists uniformity between all countries as it relates to their Anti-Terrorism legislations,” Minister Dames said. We are cognizant of the fact that we are a part of the global environment and, as such, our fight for humanity as demonstrated in this proposed legislation remains steadfast.”
Without a doubt, Minister Dames noted, September 11, 2001 reminded all of the horrors and devastating impact caused by terrorism, which, he said, “seeks to threaten humanity, as we know it”.
“This Anti-Terrorism Bill, 2018 being debated today is a comprehensive, contemporary, and necessary piece of legislative framework to counter all forms of terrorist activity including the targeting of all assets, financial and otherwise that are related to terrorist activity,” he said.
“Just barely a year ago when we came to office, this Government was determined to move swiftly to protect our citizens, our sovereignty and strengthen our financial sector,” he added. “This Bill once enacted, will signify a milestone for our Government and continue to demonstrate our strong commitment to realising the aforesaid goals and to meeting our international obligations.”
Minister Dames pointed out that the Anti-Terrorism Bill, 2018, was for “an Act to Criminalise Terrorism; the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction; the Financing of Terrorism; to Provide for the Detection, Prevention, Prosecution, Conviction and Punishment of such activities; and the Confiscation, Forfeiture and Seizure of Assets of those involved in such activities for related matters.”
He added that the Bill strongly reinforced the fact that those in The Bahamas will not subject their nation or its citizens to any form of terrorism.
“This Bill is formulated to strengthen The Bahamas’ resolve in the detection of terrorist activity; the subduing of terrorist acts; the prevention of our financial resources being used to commit terrorist acts or finance terrorist acts; the safeguarding of our resources from being used as weapons of mass destruction, while simultaneously making us compliant with the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on Terrorism, CARICOM’s coordinated approach to countering terrorism and other international responsibilities as a nation,” Minister Dames stated.
“We fully realise that we are not a country unto ourselves and as a global player we must be compliant in every aspect,” he added. “While several sections of the existing 2004 Act remain unchanged, the majority of the new Bill comprises new sections in order that we remain compliant and consistent with collective counter-terrorism policies agreed and coordinated by the international community to safeguard our citizens and institutions within our nation and for future generations.”
By: Eric Rose (BIS)
Photo Caption: Minister of National Security the Hon. Marvin Dames speaks, on June 27, 2018, during his Communication in the House of Assembly on the Anti-Terrorism Bill 2018.
(BIS Photo/Eric Rose)
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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