Bahamas News
Bahamas DPM says monument will help residents remember the lives lost during Hurricane Dorian
#FREEPORT, Grand Bahama — July 15, 2020 Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Hon. Peter Turnquest said the pain caused by the loss of lives during Hurricane Dorian remains personal for him.
“Many who died were my friends,” said Minister Turnquest. “Some who are still missing, I know personally. I’ve visited and shared with those persons, in homes now shattered and destroyed. Monuments like this are erected to help ensure that we never forget what happened September 1st, 2019.”
The Minister’s remarks came on Tuesday, July 14, 2020, during the unveiling of a monument at the Sir Jack Hayward Bridge, which leads to East Grand Bahama, to serve as a memorial to the lives lost in East Grand Bahama during Hurricane Dorian in September of 2019.
“On behalf of the government, I commend the Grand Bahama Port Authority and its partners for this kind gesture,” said Minister Turnquest. “This occasion pays tribute to those who died as a result of Hurricane Dorian. It reminds us not only of the loss, but also of the tremendous effort and courage the surviving families and friends have had to bear, as they carry on and rebuild their lives and properties.
“We want them to know that they have not been forgotten. Also, their strength is symbolized by this monument. This monument will highlight our resilience and determined drive to carry on for those who did not make it. “
The Deputy Prime Minister noted that since the passing of the historic hurricane, the Government of the Bahamas has taken measures and steps and learned lessons from the experience to strengthen institutions in preparation for future storms, which the country must assume will come.
He noted that there has been the legislation of mandatory evacuations, hardening of the island’s sea defenses with the completion of the Smith’s Point Seawall and the Fishing Hole Causeway, with more such investments to come in the future in West and East Grand Bahama.
He added that building codes that help to protect people and property during storms are being drafted; NEMA has been strengthened in its leadership and management of disaster preparation and response; the Disaster Reconstruction Authority has been formed and is presently assisting Bahamians with rebuilding efforts.
“Shelters that have been damaged during Hurricane Dorian are being repaired and new ones identified,” said Minister Turnquest. “The Rand Memorial Hospital is being completed renovated and renewed to almost a new facility, with expanded bed capacity, in preparation for a new facility that will eventually be built as things return to normal.
“The government understands that there is no quick fix to do it right, but we understand the urgency.
“The unveiling of this monument cements the fact that our recovery demands a unified approach. We are in this together and we will get through this together.”
The Deputy Prime Minister urged the Grand Bahama Port Authority and its partners to redouble their efforts in the cleanup of Grand Bahama, noting that there are still a number of areas that remain filled with debris, which is hampering the rebuilding efforts. He said that the completion of the cleanup project will go a long way towards the recovery of the island of Grand Bahama.
The Deputy Prime Minister also pointed out the urgent need for a new airport in Grand Bahama. He noted that the temporary facility is adequate, but not ideal.
“Of course, we all have to do our part to restart the economy and assist residents to return and to start new businesses on the island,” said Minister Turnquest. “In this regard, I want to commend the Grand Bahama Port Authority on its RISE Program and for partnering with the Small Business Development Center to assist entrepreneurs throughout the length of this island.
“I want to thank the Port Authority for the humanitarian assistance to the residents on the island, through their Foundation.”
Minister Turnquest pointed out that the monument will not just represent the lives lost during Hurricane Dorian, but will also serve as a tribute to all of the frontline workers, First Responders and even private citizens who became heroes, having used jet skis, boats and other means to save the lives of many Grand Bahamians during Dorian.
“This Memorial is for you too, as we celebrate and remember your courageous acts of kindness. Yet, it is another forceful reminder that we are indeed a village and together we cannot and must not fear.
“While this Memorial is located here in Grand Bahama, let me say to the people in Abaco that it is difficult and near impossible not to link Abaco to this moment. The Grand Bahama and Abaco ties, particularly in East Grand Bahama are strong.
“This Monument celebrates your loved ones too.”
The Deputy prime Minister told those in attendance that there are plans to construct a Memorial park in East End (proper), to have a place where family members can go and reflect on the lives of those who were lost in the historic and terrible storm called Hurricane Dorian.
BIS Press Release by Andrew Coakley
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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