Bahamas News

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

Published

5 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

What 45 Shell Casings and New Murder Charges May Mean for Three Officers in the Azario Major Case

Published

5 days ago

July 16, 2026

Deandrea Hamilton

By Deandrea Hamilton | Editor

NASSAU, Bahamas (July 16, 2026) — The allegation is as shocking as it is consequential. Prosecutors now contend Azario Major was struck by additional gunfire after he was already dead. That conclusion has prompted the Director of Public Prosecutions to upgrade the case against three police officers from manslaughter to murder ahead of a judge-only trial.

According to court filings and the DPP’s review of the forensic evidence, prosecutors allege that additional rounds entered Major’s body after death, a finding they say fundamentally changed their assessment of the case and justified the more serious charge of murder.

Investigators recovered 45 spent shell casings at the scene of the Boxing Day 2021 fatal shooting of Azario Major, a striking piece of forensic evidence that has remained central to the case from its earliest days.

Major, 31, was fatally shot by police outside Woody’s Bar on Fire Trail Road on December 26, 2021. While police initially maintained the shooting was justified, the circumstances surrounding the incident were heavily scrutinized during a Coroner’s Court inquest, where jurors ultimately returned a verdict of homicide by manslaughter.

The officers later challenged that finding, but the Supreme Court upheld the Coroner’s Court ruling, paving the way for criminal proceedings. They were subsequently arraigned on manslaughter charges and pleaded not guilty.

The DPP’s decision to elevate the charges to murder significantly raises the legal stakes. Unlike manslaughter, which does not necessarily require proof of an intent to kill, a murder conviction requires prosecutors to establish the legal elements of the more serious offence beyond a reasonable doubt. The prosecution’s case is now expected to focus heavily on forensic evidence, ballistic analysis and the sequence of gunfire during the fatal encounter.

The case is also notable because it will proceed without a jury. Barring further delays, the trial is expected to open on September 14 before Justice Guillimina Archer-Minns in a judge-alone trial, where a single judge—not a jury—will decide the fate of the three accused officers.

The proceedings will determine not only whether the three officers are guilty or innocent of murder, but whether prosecutors’ extraordinary allegation—that Azario Major was struck by additional gunfire after he was already dead—can be proven in court.

Bahamas News

CARICOM Targets Affordability as Bahamas, TCI Continue to Feel the Pinch

Published

6 days ago

July 15, 2026

Deandrea Hamilton

By Deandrea Hamilton

Cheaper shipping. Lower energy costs. Better access to healthcare. Stronger consumer protections.

Those are among the measures CARICOM Heads of Government believe could finally begin reducing the stubbornly high cost of living for millions of people across the Caribbean.

Meeting in Saint Lucia, regional leaders agreed that making life more affordable must become one of the Community’s highest priorities. Their emerging strategy includes reducing freight costs through a regional ferry service, accelerating renewable energy projects to lessen dependence on imported fuel, expanding regional healthcare partnerships, strengthening consumer protection, and encouraging governments to adopt successful cost-of-living measures already being implemented across the Caribbean.

“Our discussions over the past four days were guided by one central objective – ensuring that CARICOM delivers results that people can see and feel in their everyday lives,” CARICOM Chairman and Saint Lucia Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre said.

Few places may welcome that relief more than The Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Although inflation has moderated in both countries from the sharp increases experienced following the pandemic, the cost of living remains stubbornly high. Families continue to complain about grocery bills that stretch household budgets, rising housing costs, expensive electricity, healthcare expenses and fuel prices that remain among the highest in the region.

Governments have responded.

In The Bahamas, successive reductions in Value Added Tax on selected goods and other targeted tax measures have sought to ease pressure on consumers. In the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Government this weekend opens applications for its $500 Cost of Living Relief Programme, acknowledging that many households continue to struggle despite the country’s economic success.

Yet affordability remains elusive.

The contradiction is difficult to ignore.

The Turks and Caicos Islands continues to post one of the region’s strongest tourism-driven economies, with robust investment, record visitor spending and sustained construction activity. The Bahamas has also strengthened its economic position, earning improved sovereign credit ratings as tourism, government revenues and fiscal performance continue to recover.

Yet those encouraging economic indicators have not translated into noticeably lower household expenses.

The reason is largely structural.

Both The Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands produce relatively little of what they consume. Food, fuel, medicines, vehicles, building materials and countless household essentials are imported. Both countries also record significant trade deficits, illustrating their dependence on overseas suppliers. Every increase in global shipping costs, fuel prices or supply chain disruptions is eventually reflected in supermarket prices, utility bills and the cost of everyday living.

That is why CARICOM’s agenda matters.

If regional leaders succeed in lowering freight costs through an inter-island ferry network, expanding renewable energy, improving regional cargo movement, strengthening consumer protections and making healthcare more accessible through cooperation, the benefits could extend far beyond government balance sheets.

For Bahamians and Turks and Caicos Islanders, success will not be measured by another tourism record or another credit rating upgrade. It will be measured at the supermarket checkout, on the monthly electricity bill, at the gas pump and in the simple ability to afford a better quality of life.

Africa

Bahamas’ Ghana Teacher Plan Draws Fire as Both Nations Face Shortages

Published

6 days ago

July 15, 2026

Deandrea Hamilton

By Deandrea Hamilton | Editor

NASSAU, Bahamas (July 14, 2026) — The Bahamas Government says it needs the 300 teachers being sourced from Ghana to help close a critical staffing gap, even as criticism mounts over unresolved employment matters reportedly affecting approximately 2,000 Bahamas Union of Teachers members and as Ghana itself struggles with a massive shortage in the profession.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Science and Technology Chester Cooper said the shortage has been worsened by retirements, expiring contracts and the expansion of specialized subjects, including special education, technology, financial literacy, digital literacy and entrepreneurship.

Cooper said the Government has established a multi-agency task force and is attempting to attract recently retired teachers, new graduates and educators who previously left the profession.

“In keeping with government policy, Bahamians will be given first priority to fill all vacancies,” Cooper said.

However, the optics surrounding the decision are sketchy at best, with the BUT pressing the Government to settle long-standing matters affecting its members while Ghana grapples with a teacher shortage estimated at no fewer than 50,000 educators.

Ghana’s Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, recently disclosed that the country needs between 50,000 and 90,000 additional teachers to adequately staff its schools.

UNICEF’s 2026 Teachers for All: Ghana report confirms that Ghana is not only experiencing an overall teacher shortage but also serious inequalities in how available teachers are distributed. It found that rural and underserved schools are particularly affected, while Ghana’s primary teacher workforce fell by more than 25 percent—from 131,094 in 2019–2020 to 93,818 in 2022–2023—as student enrolment increased.

The report stated:

“Not only is there a teacher shortage in Ghana, but inefficiencies also exist in the current distribution of available teachers.”

That finding raises questions about why a country with such a significant domestic deficit is prepared to facilitate the overseas recruitment of hundreds of educators.

Meanwhile, BUT President Belinda Wilson has argued that the Bahamian Government has substantial unfinished business with the teachers already serving in the public system.

According to Wilson, approximately 2,000 educators are awaiting the conclusion of salary negotiations, while hundreds reportedly have unresolved matters involving confirmations, salary reassessments, promotions, rental allowances, examination marking fees, disturbance allowances, hardship payments and coaching allowances.

The union has also complained that it was not properly consulted before the proposed recruitment became public and has demanded details about the qualifications, subjects, deployment locations and employment conditions being considered for the Ghanaian teachers.

The debate is also unfolding as the University of The Bahamas has produced approximately 219 education graduates over the past three years—76 in 2024, more than 60 in 2025 and 73 in 2026.

Cooper maintains that overseas recruitment is intended only to fill positions that cannot immediately be occupied by qualified Bahamians.

“For decades, we have benefitted from strategic international recruitment of educators from partner nations,” he said. “We emphasize that such recruitment is intended only to address vacancies that cannot be immediately filled by qualified Bahamians.”

Still, the questions remain: why are outstanding matters affecting thousands of Bahamian teachers unresolved, and why is The Bahamas sourcing educators from a country that acknowledges it is tens of thousands of teachers short itself?