Bahamas News
BAHAMAS: Ministry of Finance Recognizes Need to Modernize Mechanisms in Collection of Data
#Nassau, February 21, 2019 – Bahamas – The Ministry of Finance has recognized the need to modernize the mechanisms by which the Bahamas Government collects, stores and disseminates data, Deputy Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Athena Marche said at the Diagnosis of the National Statistical System (NSS) Workshop.
“This workshop is a key step in this effort and we hope that from it, we will be that much closer to the National Strategy for the Development of Statistics that establishes the National Statistical System that will in turn, provide timely, reliable data to decision makers across the country,” Ms. Marche said at the workshop held at SuperClubs Breezes, February 20, 2019.
“Doing so will ensure that we are using quantifiable evidence to select projects, develop human resource capacity and ultimately meet developmental goals. National Statistical Reform is a key step towards the modernization of the information infrastructure in The Commonwealth of The Bahamas.”
The Deputy Financial Secretary explained that the modernization agenda of the Ministry of Finance is driven by a host of factors both domestically and internationally.
She said it must be recognized that no modern government can function without reliable, relevant timely statistical information. Such data is needed to design and monitor development policies and strategies at a national level.
Ms. Marche noted that without such statistics, the government would essentially be operating without feedback into the effectiveness of its decision making or spending.
“Not only will the NSS change the way that government operates, it will provide a vehicle for the public to hold the government to greater accountability. National Statistics are an objective measure of government’s performance and as the democracy in The Bahamas matures, the government welcomes increased participation from all sectors of the public.”
She noted that it is difficult, if not impossible to overstate the role of statistics in national financial and developmental planning. Statistics describes the facets of the lives of every day Bahamians.
“Statistical information should be used to make decisions on a wide range of issues, including housing and land use planning; health care planning; the provision of educational facilities, national strategies for investment.
“By providing insight into these and other areas, the NSS will improve the Ministry of Finance’s ability to estimate expected revenue and expenditure across the public service and assist in identifying areas where spending should be increased or decreased.”
Ms. Marche added that consequentially, a comprehensive National Statistical System will improve the government’s ability to make evidence-based decisions about the allocation and management of scarce financial resources, which is the objective of the PFM/PMR Project.
She explained that the benefits of the development of a comprehensive and integrated NSS are not limited to government. The Ministry of Finance recognizes that there is a demand for greater accessibility to quality data about The Bahamas from every sector in the country.
“Quality national statistics will improve the ease of doing business by making it easier to conduct market research for example and by providing companies with the information resources that they need in order to make decisions about the future.”
The Deputy Financial Secretary said, “We intend to develop world class learning institutions, which will require national statistics for academia and research.”
By Llonella Gilbert
Release: BIS
Photo Captions:
Header: Deputy Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Athena Marche (right) speaks with participants at the Diagnosis of the National Statistical System Workshop held at SuperClubs Breezes, February 20, 2019.
Insert: Participants listen attentively at the Diagnosis of the National Statistical System Workshop held at SuperClubs Breezes, February 20, 2019.
(BIS Photo/Patrick Hanna)
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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