Bahamas News
BAHAMAS: DPM Turnquest: A Strong Effective Government Partner is Important for Sustainable Growth
#Nassau, July 9, 2019 – Bahamas – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. K. Peter Turnquest explained that this Government Administration believes that having a strong and effective partner in government is an important ingredient to sustainable growth and development.
DPM Turnquest was the keynote speaker at the inaugural CFAL BudgetPass 2019/20 Conference held at Baha Mar, Monday, July 8, 2019, under the theme “Striking the Right Balance.”
He said the 2019/20 Budget is unlike any budget before in three major ways:
· This is the first budget to adhere to legally mandated fiscal targets set by the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2018
· This is the first budget to fully adopt the new Chart of Accounts (COA) and to be compliant with internationally recognised Government Finance Statistics (GFS) Standards
· This is the first budget that required ministries to take a new approach to budget planning, highlighting our transition to programme budgeting in the public sector
“This represents a deliberate move towards a more modern form of budgeting and public sector accountancy that sets the right foundation for sustainability in all of our endeavours.
“As we continue to usher these changes in, they will have a profound impact on the management of taxpayer money now and in the future, and therefore increase the likelihood of long-term fiscal stability, a stronger economy and socio- economic transformation.”
He noted that the the business community will play an important role in keeping the government on track, particularly through its representation on the Fiscal Responsibility Council.
The DPM explained that this independent civil society body is established by the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) to foster budgetary discipline, and to promote the government’s adherence to sound fiscal decisions that take into account the economic impact they will have on the economy. “We expect the Council to be vibrant and active in playing its role.
“As it relates to fiscal targets, the FRA binds the government to a strategic plan to meet core fiscal goals. These include: Achieving a sustainable level of debt of no more than 50 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) over the medium term, and a target fiscal balance that does not exceed 0.5 per cent of GDP by 2020/21 and beyond.”
DPM Turnquest said that he does not think the full weight of this law has fully registered with the Bahamian people, but it should be known, it has the power to ensure the government strikes the right balance with its priorities and policies, while handling taxpayers’ hard-earned money in a responsible and transparent way.
“In keeping with our obligations, the deficit projected for this budget year will in fact end up being the lowest deficit this country has seen in 10 years, with its corresponding ratio marking the lowest deficit to GDP ratio this country has seen in almost two decades.”
He said, “Our deficit has been on a downward trajectory since this Administration took office, and as we continue to meet our fiscal goals we will undoubtedly have more resources to devote to other areas of economic and social reform that will have an indelible impact on the lives of our people.”
By Llonella Gilbert
Release: 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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