Bahamas News
Bahamas Prime Minister: Govt planning for economic impact of COVID-19
#BLACK POINT, Exuma – March 12, 2020 — The Government is planning for the potential impact that the international outbreak of COVID-19 will have on the economy of The Bahamas, Prime Minister the Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minnis said during a community meeting with residents on Tuesday evening.
The Central Bank has indicated that The Bahamas should expect some negative economic fallout as a result of the spread of COVID-19, which has resulted in a global scale back in travel. However, officials are unsure exactly how the local economy will be impacted.
“I’ve asked the Minister of Finance to come up with various financial models to determine how best to respond to a decrease in revenue stream,” Prime Minister Minnis told the standing-room only audience. “We are being proactive and planning for what may come. We are taking the necessary precautions.”
Included in the Government’s COVID-19 plan will be contingencies to assist the poor and marginalized of the society, said the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister strongly encouraged residents not to panic and to follow the prevention steps to minimize the risk of COVID-19 being circulated by the Ministry of Health, including frequently and thoroughly washing hands, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing with your elbow or sleeve, and avoiding close contact with anyone showing symptoms.
As of Tuesday 10 March, there were no suspected, recorded or confirmed cases of COVID-19 in The Bahamas.
The Ministry of Health has put in place concrete steps to prepare and respond to the rapidly evolving COVID-19, including the establishment of a high level multi-sectoral task force, in-country testing for COVID-19, the enhancement of public health surveillance efforts and facilities, and training for healthcare providers.
Prime Minister Minnis told residents that health officials are expected to hold town meetings in various Family Islands as part of a public education campaign on COVID-19.
Tuesday’s community meeting is part of the Prime Minister’s continuing effort to maintain regular communication with Family Island communities on national issues.
This latest round of Family Island meetings will also focus on getting residents’ suggestions on community projects that they would like considered by the Central Government.
Prime Minister Minnis invited residents to identify and put forward their top five priorities for their community for consideration in the 2020/2021 national budget planning process.
“If you have any ideas please pass them on to the Local Administrator as soon as possible and no later than 30 March,” said the Prime Minister.
Because there are obviously limited funds and resources in the Budget, the Government will have to review ideas and proposals and decide which ones are priorities and can be funded at this time, especially given the financial constraints following Hurricane Dorian and the potential impact of COVID-19, Prime Minister Minnis explained.
“I think it’s important for me, as prime minister to hear from you and to speak to you directly about the needs in your community,” he said. “It is in keeping with the promise I made to you while on the campaign trail.”
During the question and answer period, the Prime Minister answered residents’ questions about the coronavirus, education and infrastructure projects, among other topics.
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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