Bahamas News

“Blueprint for Change” Speech from the Throne delivered by The Governor General

Published

4 years ago

October 8, 2021

#TheBahamas, October 8, 2021 – Governor General His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Cornelius A. Smith read the ‘Speech from the Throne’ at the Opening of the New Parliament, October 6, 2021 at Baha Mar. The Speech communicated the “Blueprint for Change” of the Progressive Liberal Party Government, which upheld commitment to good governance, established on the principles of Transparency, Integrity & Accountability.

The overall objective, the Speech conveyed, is a “partnership with the Bahamian people to bring about a healthier, wealthier, and wiser society,” towards ‘a New Day.’

The Governor General in delivering the Speech from the Throne stated that a priority of the new government is, in light of the weaknesses in the healthcare system that were exposed by COVID-19: the introduction of legislation and policies to address future major health risks and avoid the need for Emergency Orders. Also important is investment in healthcare infrastructure throughout The Bahamas that ensures that Family Island clinics are properly equipped, inclusive of the capacity for telemedicine; building of new hospitals in New Providence and Grand Bahama through public-private partnerships; prioritization of public health and wellness initiatives; and aggressive movement to introduce catastrophic healthcare insurance to make healthcare more affordable, and to address the mental health issues of the country.

Also a priority — despite the weak economic outlook, the government will amend the VAT Act to lower the rate of VAT across the board to 10%.

With respect to economic initiatives, the Governor General pointed out that there will be:

Focus on issues that will rescue, restore, and strengthen the economy
Pursuit of strategies to address infrastructural needs of the country
Measures to stabilize public finances and increase public revenue
Implementation of a Debt Management Plan to address the historic debt burden and deficit
Amendment of ‘The Procurement Act’ to strengthen provisions for Bahamian participation in Government Procurement at all levels
Amendment of ‘The Fiscal Responsibility Act’ to strengthen the independence of the Fiscal Responsibility Council
Amendment of ‘The Public Financial Management Act ’to ensure full compliance with all existing legislation
Amendment of the ‘Commercial Enterprises Act’ to ensure that when jobs are being filled, Bahamians receive the highest priority
Introduction of measures to encourage renewable energy industries in solar, wind, wave and ocean thermal energy
Recommitment of The Bahamas to a minimum reliance on renewable energy by thirty percent by 2030
Introduction of a ‘Merchant Shipping Bill’ to bring the jurisdiction in line with its international obligations, contemporary practices, and to enhance competitive edge in the global maritime industry
Promotion of Grand Bahama to harness the power of the maritime industry

There will be growth of the cultural and creative economy; a re-launch of “Sports in Paradise” for major international sports federations and leagues.

Also, a commitment to: Achieving greater food security and reducing reliance on imports as a matter of priority; introduction of a regulatory framework for the Cannabis Industry; legislation to facilitate a comprehensive programme of digitization for the country; restructuring of the Bahamas Investment Authority to streamline application processes and develop a new marketing strategy; consultation with key stakeholders to appropriately amend legislation to provide increased tax incentives and concessions for domestic investors; transformation of approval processes and launch of BahamasInvest to retain competiveness and mobilise local and international investors to grow the economy; a return of Tourism to pre-COVID levels by harnessing existing markets; development of an investment portfolio for the Family Islands to promote an investor-friendly environment with a focus on an investment portfolio for specialised industries; infrastructural upgrades throughout all of the Islands of The Bahamas in an effort to create investment portfolios; expansion of the provision of potable water and implementation of a national strategy for the management of water as a natural resource; introduction of a new and progressive Building Code to increase resilience in the face of Climate Change; and advancement of the airports in Exuma, Grand Bahama, and North Eleuthera and development of all major airports across The Bahamas through Public Private Partnerships.

With respect to improvement of social assistance programmes, the Speech declared that the government will collaborate with the private sector and non-governmental organisations to implement immediate relief measures for Abaco, Grand Bahama and Ragged Island.

Through partnerships with Social Services, Urban Renewal and Civil Society, including the churches, the government will work to ensure that every Bahamian has life skills, food to eat, clean water and a roof over their heads.

The government will increase the pension for Senior Citizens; increase the benefits for persons with disabilities and ensure that the provisions of the Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities) Act are fully implemented and enforced. It will introduce legislation for the protection of consumers and increase the minimum wage phasing in a livable wage.

In addition there will be re-introduction of the RISE programme “which provided substantial benefits to many families”; relief to mortgage and rent payers to prevent an increase in and reduce homelessness; legislation to provide for the establishment of an Urban Renewal Authority to improve the quality of life of residents throughout The Bahamas; creation of a national ‘Second-Chance’ jobs programme that allows those who have served prison time to enter the job market; and the expungement of records of those young people convicted of minor offences related to the use of marijuana, so that they may more easily re-join the formal, productive economy.

On crime, the Governor General stated from the Speech:

“My Government is fully committed to ensuring that the citizens of The Bahamas feel safe and secure and will address Crime and its associated social ills by adopting a holistic and multifaceted approach.

“My Government will continue to strengthen the Royal Bahamas Police Force to battle crime and preserve the peace; and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force to better defend our territorial sovereignty.

“My Government will transform The Bahamas Department of Correctional Services into a rehabilitative institution in alignment with its mandate.”

The government, said the Governor General, “after the broadest consultation with stakeholders, will seek to reform the electoral process in The Bahamas.”

Referring to economic issues he detailed, from the Speech that the government will amend the Hotels Encouragement Act to provide better incentives for Bahamian-owned and joint venture boutique hotels and related tourism offerings; introduce legislation to create tax incentives for small and medium-sized enterprises owned by Bahamians; re-establish harmonious tripartite relations between Labour, Employers, and the Government; ensure that all labour issues are addressed as a matter of priority; advance the overall effectiveness of the Public Service through the expansion of training programs to assist in proper skill set placement customer service and revenue enhancement, also by implementing digitization to provide efficiency in clearing backlogs within the Ministry and Public Service Commission. In handling the accumulation of pending matters, the government will create room for new matters to be addressed immediately and consistently.

The government considers housing to be a basic right, and as such through programmes and policies it will increase access to affordable homes. New subdivisions will be developed using public-private partnerships; the government will return to building houses for Bahamians.

To ensure that the natural resources of The Bahamas benefit the people of The Bahamas, the government will strengthen legislation that established a Sovereign Wealth Fund and proposes that all of its non-financial assets be held in this fund for the benefit of generations of Bahamians. It will provide the legal, fiscal and regulatory framework with the creation of the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment. The government will also secure Carbon Credit payments for the country’s natural resources.

On the subject of education, the Governor General reported that the government strongly reaffirms that universal and equitable access to quality education is key to national development and to the fulfilment of each person’s potentiality. As such, it is fully committed to support every young person in overcoming obstacles to digital learning, and to restore in-person lessons as soon as it is safe and practicable with health guidance. Programmes will be established for monitoring and assisting high school dropouts so that immediate action is taken to ensure they continue to contribute to society as productive citizens, and measures will be introduced to expand the curriculum offering and incorporate educational models that build character, promote self-esteem and foster good citizenship for a deeper understanding and appreciation of our history. The gap in access to education caused by COVID19 prevention protocols must be closed with a comprehensive remediation programme to ensure that no child is left behind.

Magnet Schools and specialty institutes for science, technology, engineering, the visual and performing arts, mathematics, financial literacy and entrepreneurship will be created.

The Governor General relayed that “My Government will amend the Education Act to provide for universal preprimary education for three- and four-year olds, consolidate the National Accreditation and Equivalency Council of The Bahamas (NAECOB) and the Preschool and Day Care Council, and specify home-schooling modalities.”

He also stated: “The good health and well-being of our youth is of prime concern to my Government. My Government will invest in their development, encourage and support their participation in national life, and provide and promote opportunities for their future.

“My Government will create national programmes that tackle new threats to the well-being of young people, including issues of mental health, lack of self-confidence and identity, excessive social media consumption, and national identity and unity.

“My Government will create a National ‘First-Job’ programme that allows young people between the age of 16–25 to gain a one-year Government subsidised placement in a field of national priority, including the new economies and trade.

“My Government will launch the Community Youth Service, and offer stipends for young Bahamians, to provide service to NGOs and community groups. This can build a vital bridge between school and the job market.

“My Government will establish a National Youth Guard in order for young people to receive technical training enabling them to serve in a Disaster Response Corps.”

“Madame President and Honourable Senators, Madame Speaker and Members of the Honourable House of Assembly: capitalize on the ongoing successes of the industrial sector on Grand Bahama and use the investment arm of the Ministry for Grand Bahama to create a one stop shop to attract new local and direct foreign investment by way of duty free concessions across the entire island.

“Family Island Affairs and Local Government are priorities for my Government.

“My Government will develop strategic plans for each island.

“My Government will work towards the finalisation of a Local Government Act for New Providence.

“My Government will empower Local Government with revenue-raising powers and share jurisdiction over local affairs and community management and development.

“My Government will increase the budget for Local Government Councils during our five-year term.”

“Madame President and Honourable Senators, Madame Speaker and Members of the Honourable House of Assembly: My Government will not tolerate corruption and is committed to introducing effective anticorruption legislation.

“My Government will govern for the many, not for the few, and promote the best interests of Bahamians and The Bahamas.

“My Government will increase accountability and transparency.

“My Government will fully implement the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act. Measures will be introduced to amend the rules of the House of Assembly to enable fixed sessions of parliament.”

The Speech continued that the government will pursue a foreign policy that promotes and upholds the founding principles of democracy, human rights, and non-interference; strengthen engagement with the international community, becoming more strategic and deliberative in participation in regional and international organisations. In collaboration with neighbouring countries, the government will work to strengthen maritime borders, and seek regional solutions to common issues such as migration.

The government will deepen relations with bilateral and international partners and bring focused attention to the promotion of trade and investment, and the provision of technical assistance.

It will expand its reach in the global community by opening Consulates and Embassies, including the appointment of Honorary Consuls and Non-Resident Envoys in key areas of the world to ensure that national interests are promoted and protected.

“Madame President and Honourable Senators, Madame Speaker and Members of the Honourable House of Assembly: These are the policies and plans upon which my Government will legislate in order to bring about a New Day in The Bahamas.

“We look forward to working in partnership with the Bahamian people to bring about a healthier, wealthier and wiser society.

“I pray that the blessings of Almighty God may rest upon your counsels.”

Photo Caption: The Governor General His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Cornelius A. Smith delivers the Speech from the Throne, October 6, 2021 at Baha Mar convention centre. Also pictured are, from left Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investment and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper; and Minister of Foreign Affairs the Hon. Fred Mitchell.

Wives of Cabinet Ministers are in the audience. (BIS Photos/Letisha Henderson)

Bahamas News

Walker Confirmed as U.S. Ambassador to The Bahamas: A Partner in America’s Extended Family

Published

3 weeks ago

October 14, 2025

Deandrea Hamilton

By Deandrea Hamilton | Magnetic Media

The United States and The Bahamas share more than proximity — they share a bond of history, trade, and culture that Washington’s newest diplomat calls “part of America’s extended community.”

Now, for the first time in 14 years, the U.S. Embassy in Nassau will again be led by a Senate-confirmed ambassador. Herschel Walker, the Heisman-winning football legend turned entrepreneur, has been confirmed by the U.S. Senate as America’s official envoy to The Bahamas.

Walker, who will oversee one of the Caribbean’s most strategically positioned U.S. missions, told senators during his confirmation hearing that The Bahamas will play a key role in upcoming U.S. 250th Independence celebrations. “The Bahamian people,” he said, “will be included in this milestone year, because our stories are intertwined — through family, trade, and friendship.”

While his nomination was unconventional, his priorities are anything but vague. Walker vowed to counter growing Chinese influence in the Caribbean, calling Beijing’s investments in Bahamian deep-water ports “a direct threat to U.S. national security.” He pledged to work closely with Bahamian authorities to ensure American interests remain the region’s cornerstone.

“There’s a rise in drug smuggling in The Bahamas, and this is a real danger to the United States,” Walker said, referring to the Operation Bahamas, Turks and Caicos (OPBAT) partnership. He promised to strengthen intelligence sharing, joint patrols, and law enforcement coordination to disrupt trafficking routes that have grown increasingly sophisticated.

But Walker also emphasized opportunity over fear — signaling that his ambassadorship will not only focus on security, but on strengthening The Bahamas as a gateway for U.S. investment, trade, and tourism.

“I will advise the American business community of the vast investment opportunities that exist in The Bahamas,” he said. “And I will make sure the Bahamian government maintains an environment where U.S. companies can invest confidently — because America must prove it is still great as an investor.”

For a small island nation sitting less than 50 miles off the coast of Florida, this renewed diplomatic attention carries weight. Since 2011, the post of U.S. ambassador had remained vacant — a gap that many observers say weakened direct ties, delayed joint security initiatives, and allowed other powers to move in.

Walker’s confirmation — approved 51 to 47 — ends that silence. And with it comes the expectation that this former Olympian and business owner will translate his discipline, charisma, and resilience into diplomatic results.

Critics question his lack of foreign policy experience, but Walker counters with confidence: “Throughout my life, people have underestimated me. I’ve always proved them wrong — by outworking everyone.”

As he prepares to take up residence in Nassau, Walker says his mission is simple: rebuild trust, deepen cooperation, and remind both nations that their futures are tied not just by geography — but by shared purpose, mutual respect, and the enduring ties of community.

Angle by Deandrea Hamilton. Built with ChatGPT (AI). Magnetic Media — CAPTURING LIFE.

Bahamas News

PAY STANDOFF: Prime Minister Cancels Talks as Unions Warn of More Protests

Published

3 weeks ago

October 13, 2025

Deandrea Hamilton

By Deandrea Hamilton | Magnetic Media

Monday, October 13, 2025 — Nassau, The Bahamas – What began as a calm holiday meeting has spiraled into a full-blown standoff between The Bahamas Government and two of the country’s most powerful public sector unions — the Bahamas Union of Teachers (BUT) and the Bahamas Public Services Union (BPSU) — after the Prime Minister abruptly cancelled follow-up talks set for Tuesday, blaming public comments made by union leaders.

The announcement of the cancelled meeting came late Monday, just hours after a tense sit-down at the Office of the Prime Minister, held on National Heroes Day, where both BUT President Belinda Wilson and BPSU President Kimsley Ferguson accused the government of dragging its feet on salary increases and retroactive pay owed to thousands of public officers.

Wilson, never one to mince words, said the Prime Minister’s “technical officers” — the very people responsible for executing his instructions — were failing to carry out his directives regarding payment timelines.

“The Prime Minister’s issue,” Wilson said, “is that he has persons working for him who are not following his instructions. If those officers would follow through on what he told them to do, we wouldn’t be here today.”

Wilson added that the BUT and other unions are demanding retroactive pay dating back to September 2024, and that all increases be applied and paid by the October payday, not December as previously stated by the Prime Minister.

“Senior civil servants already received their retroactive pay — thousands of dollars — backdated to September of last year,” Wilson charged. “We’re saying the small man deserves the same. This isn’t a gift. It’s money already earned.”

Her comments came after the government publicly insisted that the salary adjustments would be implemented by December 2025, just ahead of Christmas — a timeline unions flatly reject as too slow.

Ferguson: ‘No More Excuses’

Following Wilson, BPSU President Kimsley Ferguson delivered a fiery statement of his own, telling reporters the unions would no longer tolerate delays or mixed messages from the Davis administration.

“The Prime Minister was receptive — but we’re not accepting excuses,” Ferguson said. “If the Prime Minister’s having a memory lapse, we have the Hansard from Parliament to remind him exactly what he promised public officers.”

Ferguson went further, warning that if Tuesday’s meeting failed to produce results, unions would “visit the House of Assembly” and intensify their campaign for immediate payment.

“Public servants, ready yourselves,” he declared. “We are prepared to stand together — all across The Bahamas — until our needs are met.”

Now, with the Prime Minister cancelling tomorrow’s talks altogether, that threat appears closer to becoming reality.

Government Bungles Response

Observers say the administration’s handling of the matter has been confused and contradictory, with conflicting statements on payment timelines and poor communication fueling frustration among teachers, nurses, and general public officers.

The government has maintained that the funds are allocated and will be disbursed before year’s end, but unionists insist they’ve heard it all before — and this time they want results, not promises.

The Prime Minister’s decision to cancel the meeting, rather than clarify or de-escalate tensions, has drawn sharp criticism across social media and among rank-and-file civil servants who see the move as punitive and dismissive.

Slowdown and the Threat of Another Mass Protest

Across several ministries, departments, and schools, reports are already surfacing of a go-slow in the public service, as workers express solidarity with the unions’ demands.

Many believe another mass demonstration is imminent, similar to the one staged last week Tuesday when thousands of workers gathered outside the House of Assembly on Bay Street as Parliament reopened after summer recess.

That protest brought parts of downtown Nassau to a standstill as union members sang, marched, and even sat in the street — a powerful show of defiance that now threatens to repeat itself unless the government moves quickly to resolve the impasse.

A Political Flashpoint

What began as a straightforward salary dispute has now evolved into a test of credibility and competence for the Davis administration. With a restless public sector, rising inflation, and unions unified across professions, the government risks not only another protest — but a full-blown industrial crisis heading into the year’s end.

For now, the unions are standing firm: they want retroactive pay from September 2024 and full salary adjustments by this October. Anything less, they warn, could push the country’s workforce from a slowdown into open confrontation.

Angle by Deandrea Hamilton. Built with ChatGPT (AI). Magnetic Media — CAPTURING LIFE.

Bahamas News

Nassau Cruise Port Marks Sixth Anniversary with Exciting New Additions for Visitors and The community

Published

4 weeks ago

October 8, 2025

Deandrea Hamilton

[Nassau, Bahamas, October 8, 2025] Nassau Cruise Port (NCP) proudly celebrates its sixth corporate anniversary by unveiling a series of transformative additions that further enhance the guest and community experience. The anniversary comes at a pivotal moment in the growth of the port, with the opening of a new swimming pool, an expanded marina, and a state-of-the-art ferry terminal that will support transfers to the Royal Beach Club, which is currently under construction on Paradise Island.

Since its $300 million redevelopment, Nassau Cruise Port – the largest transit cruise port in the world – has welcomed millions of visitors and become one of the most vibrant cruise destinations in the world. This anniversary not only reflects its commitment to delivering world-class facilities, but also its dedication to creating meaningful connections between visitors and the Bahamian community.

“This milestone represents much more than the passage of time,” said Mike Maura, Jr., CEO and Director of Nassau Cruise Port. “It reflects our promise to continually elevate the guest experience, contribute to the local economy, and provide opportunities for Bahamians. During our first year (2019) of operating the Nassau Cruise Port, Nassau welcomed approximately. 3.85 million cruise guests, and 2025 will see well over 6 million cruise visitors visit Nassau. Our focus on driving cruise tourism and the $350 million investment in our downtown waterfront is a testament to our vision of making Nassau a premier cruise and leisure destination.”

The new pool offers a refreshing retreat for visitors enjoying Nassau’s waterfront, while the expanded marina will accommodate additional yachts, boosting tourism and local commerce. The ferry terminal expansion enhances passenger flow and supports convenient, seamless transfers to the Royal Beach Club, strengthening Nassau’s position as a hub for Caribbean cruising and leisure.

As part of its anniversary celebrations, NCP will host a series of internal and external activities to celebrate its team and to highlight its ongoing investments in the Bahamian economy, including job creation, local vendor opportunities, and cultural showcases at the port.