Bahamas News

Prime Minister Philip Davis – Resolution on a Select Committee on Immigration

Published

1 year ago

February 21, 2023

Deandrea Hamilton

Resolution on a Select Committee on Immigration

HON. PHILIP DAVIS QC, MP PRIME MINISTER & MINISTER OF FINANCE
COMMONWEALTH OF THE BAHAMAS

February 20, 2023

Madam Speaker,

As I believe everyone in this House is aware, the security situation in Haiti continues to deteriorate, and as misery and fear rise there, the effects are felt here, with more and more Haitians fleeing the instability. From the opening days of our administration, we have worked to build a comprehensive national strategy to manage this crisis, takinga number of diplomatic, legal and law enforcement steps that together have built a strong foundation for action and change, as I described yesterday in an address to the nation.

On the diplomatic front, we have strengthened relationships with regional partners and international friends, because the problem of illegal migration is one that, by definition, crosses borders, and so we must be prepared to work across borders for solutions. As Chair of CARICOM, it was my distinct honour to preside over last week’s meetings, at which we worked together to lay the groundwork for Haitian-led solutions to strengthen their
National Police and pave the way for safe and free elections. I have been in extensive contact with Prime Minister Trudeau of Canada, and we are gratified that Canada will be amplifying their efforts, including with a naval presence off of Haiti’s coast.

As we take steps at home to strengthen our capacity to protect our borders, we are strengthening our partnerships with neighbouring countries like the US, Cuba, the Turks and Caicos Islands, and Haiti for enhanced cooperation and intelligence sharing. We will also increase border protection operations with key partners like the US Coast
Guard.

I have been very clear, in our extensive dealings with the United States, the United Nations, and others, however, that The Bahamas is in no position to bear any additional burdens. We are a compassionate people, but we have a great many very serious challenges, and limited resources with which to address those challenges. (By the way, I never miss an opportunity to remind our international friends that a very significant portion of our nation’s debt comes from the Category 4 and 5 hurricanes of the last decade – hurricanes that arrive with greater frequency and more intensity because of the carbon emissions of other countries).

On the legal and law enforcement front – we have worked aggressively and systematically to take the surveillance and other steps necessary to successfully appeal a Supreme Court injunction that stood in the way of action
on the shantytowns. Now we are in a position to see real change, finally, on this issue.

The police, defence, and immigration officers are working together now, on Operation Secure, to make sure the laws of our land are enforced. We appreciate the Opposition’s interest in these issues. If you oppose Operation Secure or any of our efforts to uphold and defend our laws, we believe you have many opportunities to say so. If you have good ideas and solutions to propose, to add to our efforts, those of course are most welcome, and will be given all due consideration; there is nothing to stop you from PROPOSING along with all the OPPOSING you like to do.

We urge you to stick to the facts at all times. For example, this fact: over the course of one year, we have repatriated more individuals than in any other year in our country’s history. And in 2023 alone, 1,024 persons have already been repatriated – meaning we’re on track to break the record we set last year. Only one sloop has landed on an inhabited island in The Bahamas since September 2021.

That is undeniable progress, Madam Speaker.

The records make it clear that we have taken appropriate action. And while we secure our borders, we are also addressing the shantytown issue and repatriating the undocumented migrants already here in record numbers. This is the data, and these are the facts, and no amount of theatrical rhetoric and grandstanding can change them.

Madam Speaker,

We are a nation of laws and will continue to enforce those laws responsibly and humanely. It was only a week and a half ago, Madam Speaker, that the Supreme Court lifted their injunction. Immediately following, we launched Operation Secure, a joint security operation between the Royal Bahamas Police Force, The Defence Force, and the Department of Immigration, to address security and migration-related issues in unregulated and unlawful communities. The operation is focused on identifying irregular migrants, documented migrants, and Bahamians living in these communities and addressing their status in a comprehensive and coordinated manner.

Madam Speaker,

Our priority is decisive action based on the laws of our land. Undocumented migrants will continue to be processed and repatriated. Documented migrants living in unregulated communities must relocate at their employer’s expense or face repatriation. Any Bahamian citizens found to be living in these communities will be required to relocate. Any landowner or business that is flouting our immigration laws will be held accountable.

Madam Speaker,

We will be working closely with the business community to ensure that everyone is aware of their legal obligations and that they are held accountable for any illegal activities. There will be no excuses. Any business breaking our laws will face the consequences, including prosecution and potentially losing their business license.

Madam Speaker,

As a nation, we must come together to find sustainable solutions. Our government is committed to taking action, and we will not be slowed down by those who seek to politicise this issue. Our priority is the safety and well-being of our citizens. I also want to take a moment to say that everything we do, we do to protect our citizens and our country. But we do not act with malice or hate.

To the contrary:

As a Christian nation, we must always enforce our laws as humanely as possible, in the recognition that all of God’s children deserve dignity.

Madam Speaker,

We are taking decisive and comprehensive action to address the issue of irregular migrants and shantytowns. The Bahamian people will see for themselves that we are working to protect our communities and our country. Everyone who is prepared to stand together to protect the sovereignty and security of our great nation is invited to do so. Let us have a minimum of theatrics, and a maximum of cooperation.

Bahamas News

Freeport Business Expo to connect Grand Bahama businesses and entrepreneurs to expert resources

Published

1 day ago

April 27, 2024

Deandrea Hamilton

Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited

April 29, 2024 – Freeport, The Bahamas – In line with its mission to create a stronger, more connected Freeport economy, the Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA) is pleased to share details of the upcoming Freeport Business Expo: Tourism Edition, taking place on Thursday, May 2, 2024 at the Grand Lucayan Convention Center in Grand Bahama.

“As the GBPA continues its work to attract investors to Freeport, we offer this showcase of local and international businesses offering services and opportunities to potential and existing licensees,” stated Ian Rolle, GBPA President. “This Expo will not only connect unique international service providers with Bahamian entrepreneurs aiming to introduce new tourist attractions, but also bring together financing institutions to support Bahamian-owned start-ups and existing businesses in the industry.”

The emphasis on tourism at the 2024 Expo ensures that those in tourism-focused businesses are certain to benefit. The event will offer opportunities to meet potential business partners, gain insight on financial opportunities, engage with leaders in workshops and one-on-one sessions, and get answers on starting a Freeport business and obtaining a GBPA license.

“We regularly host community business expos,” said Glendia Sweeting, Manager of Quality Assurance and Special Projects. “But we recognize the significant benefit of an expo focused on enhancing tourism business offerings through connecting international service providers and Bahamian entrepreneurs. We have more than thirty local and national exhibitors taking part on May 2^nd, along with several international service providers.”

Multiple investment projects currently in progress and planned in the city of Freeport is creating anticipation for existing and potential entrepreneurs and this expo is geared towards preparing them for these opportunities. “Grand Bahama is going to experience a significant growth spurt in the next one to three years. I would strongly encourage everybody who wants to get involved in business to look at Grand Bahama as one of the top choices, especially over the next three years,” said Mr. Rolle.

The Expo opens on Wednesday, May 1^st with a welcome reception from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A full day of learning and networking opportunities follows on Thursday, May 2^nd. GBPA’s partners in the Freeport Business Expo include:

Grand Bahama Island Promotion Board
Ministry for Grand Bahama
Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce
Ministry of Tourism
Bahamas Immigration
Bahamas Customs
Five Star Shipping Company
Viva Wyndham Fortuna
Bahamas Air
Grand Lucayan Hotel

Registration for access to the Expo’s exhibitors is free, and all-access passes are available for purchase. Event details and registration information may be found at freeportbusinessexpo.com.

Bahamas News

Pacesetting Cohort of Eleuthera Residents Graduate from Leading Light Programme

Published

2 days ago

April 26, 2024

Shanieka

Office of University Relations

22^nd April 2024

Eleuthera, THE BAHAMAS – A pioneering cohort of 43 Eleuthera residents graduated from the University of The Bahamas’ (UB’s) free Leading Light Programme, sponsored by Disney Cruise Line (DCL) on Friday 19^th April, 2024.

The programme, launched in February 2024 and delivered through UB’s Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning (CeLEARN), offers a series of courses to ensure Eleuthera has a proficient workforce capable of delivering unparalleled hospitality leadership as the island experiences a sharp growth in tourism arrivals. The graduation ceremony was held at the Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce Business Hub in Rock Sound, Eleuthera.

The courses focused on tourism and hospitality skills, leadership development and effective communication. They were taught by UB faculty and included guest lecturers such as former Director General of Tourism, Minister of Tourism and Secretary General of the Caribbean Tourism Organization Vincent Vanderpool Wallace and veteran hospitality professor Dr. Lincoln Marshall.

“This programme represents the mission-driven collaboration and skills-building that University of The Bahamas is committed to fostering, supported by an important industry partner like Disney Cruise Line,” noted UB President (Acting) Janyne Hodder. “Given the importance of the tourism industry to our nation, we know how vital it is that we continually equip our workforce with diverse expertise to uphold our reputation for excellence in hospitality. We are grateful for this collaboration with Disney Cruise Line which has facilitated programme delivery in Eleuthera, enabling UB to broaden access to much sought-after professional development.”

As training and skills development programming grows across the island of Eleuthera, the Leading Light Programme experience was tailored to be free of charge, accessible and conclude with participants earning a UB certification that signals the high standard of education for which the University is recognized. Students came from all walks of life and traveled from as far away as Hatchet Bay in the North, and Bannerman Town in the South to Rock Sound for classes. Programme participants also received a stipend to defray the cost of commuting and other personal expenses.

Nora Smith, a manager at the picturesque Jack’s Bay Club, yearned to increase her skills.

“I would recommend this programme to anyone because The Bahamas is known as a tourism destination. Taking this course in tourism and hospitality, can help me to go far in dealing with tourists daily in my workplace,” she said.

Graduate Javonne Richards appreciated the comprehensive curriculum and the ease of access to the courses that were offered.

“This programme not only fills a gap in our Eleuthera education offerings, but also equips participants with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in dynamic work environments,” he noted.

Director General of Tourism Mrs. Latia Duncombe, who delivered the keynote address at the graduation ceremony, shared three essential qualities for successful tourism professionals: energy, creativity and a welcoming personality.

“Your fresh perspectives and innovative ideas are invaluable to creating unique, unforgettable customer experiences,” said Mrs. Duncombe. “While technology such as Artificial Intelligence, also have a role to play, human interaction remains essential.”

Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs and Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera the Honourable Clay Sweeting commended the partnership that is supporting community growth.

“I am proud of every Eleutheran who came from near and far to take advantage of this opportunity,” said Minister Sweeting. “As Eleuthera’s economy continues to grow, especially in Central and South Eleuthera, I encourage more corporate partners to invest in the local community in innovative ways, like the University of The Bahamas and Disney Cruise Line have, so that we can continue to strengthen our local communities.”

Two additional cohorts will be offered this year, increasing the pipeline of Eleutherans who are optimally skilled as hospitality and tourism ambassadors. Registration for the summer programme will open on May 17 and the second cycle of courses begins June 17, 2024. Fall programme dates are September 23 through November 29, 2024. To learn more about the Leading Light Programme and how to enroll, please email atynes@eleutherahambercommerce.com.

Bahamas News

Royal Caribbean to open Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island in 2025

Published

2 days ago

April 26, 2024

Shanieka

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 24, 2024

By LINDSAY THOMPSON

Bahamas Information Services

NASSAU, The Bahamas – The Government entered into a Heads of Agreement with Royal Caribbean International, followed by a Ground Breaking Ceremony for the construction of Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island, at an estimated $165 million.

The agreement was signed on Monday, April 22, 2024 during a press conference at the Office of the Prime Minister.

According to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper, the project will further enhance the tourism product, on the heels of an estimated 9 million visitor arrivals.

He deemed it “an eventful day” with a reliable partner in RCI of more than 50 years with The Bahamas, and the continued confidence that investors have in the tourism product and economy.

He said it is a partnership with “excellence experiences” as he delighted in the fact that there will be more for the 25,000 cruise ship guests in port.

Also on hand for the activities to seal the agreement were Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis; Minister of Health and Wellness, the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville; Minister of Energy and Transport, the Hon. JoBeth Coleby-Davis; Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Senator the Hon. Ryan Pinder; Director of Investments Phylicia Woods-Hanna; executives of Royal Caribbean International and Royal Caribbean Group, and other officials.

“With the signing of this Heads of Agreement for the development of the Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island, we embark on a $165 million project to further enhance the vitality of our tourism product,” the prime minister said.

Spearheaded by RBC Paradise Island Ltd. and PDI Paradise Ltd., subsidiaries of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., the project will galvanize entertainment and recreational offerings for Bahamians and visitors alike.

The master plan for the Royal Beach Club includes pools, cabanas, and Bahamian boutiques, offering an unparalleled on-shore experience for visitors.

“This development will prove to be a monumental step forward for Bahamian inclusion in major tourism projects that will serve as a model for others to emulate,” the prime minister said.

The prime minister then underscored the importance of what the project would mean for Bahamians in the broader scope of things.

An estimated 200 jobs will be created for Bahamians. However, an opportunity is being provided for shared ownership in this development.

It is anticipated that PDI Paradise Ltd. will hold at least 51% of the shares in the Royal Beach Club, with the remaining 49 % shares being allocated to the National Investment Fund for the benefit of Bahamians.

“Through this partnership, we will provide new employment and economic opportunities for this nation. Local businesses will see their share of opportunities as well. There will be Bahamian boutiques creating avenues for small business ownership,” the prime minister said.

The project will also encompass a joint venture with a Bahamian-owned entity for the operation of a water taxi business; it will provide transportation options for guests of the Royal Beach Club, as well as other attractions in Nassau Harbour – enhancing accessibility while creating additional avenues for economic growth within the community.

“Ultimately, this project will largely be run by Bahamians, owned by the Bahamian people, and supported by Bahamian businesses.

“When we talk about the need to ensure that major tourism projects are primarily for the benefit of the Bahamian people, these are the kinds of opportunities that we are talking about,” the prime minister said.

He observed that the Royal Beach Club represents the latest successful chapter in the story of Paradise Island’s growth as a tourism mecca. Initial negotiations for the project began under the previous administration. Royal Club Beach is expected to open in 2025.

“By signing today’s agreement, we add another world-class experience to our tourism offerings. And even more importantly, we take a bold step toward greater Bahamian empowerment in the tourism industry. This is our nation, and we must ensure that, first and foremost, our service industries serve us,” the prime minister said.

He concluded, “We are more optimistic than ever before about our economic prospects with tourism leading the way as our number one industry that continues to grow at a record-breaking pace.

At the ground breaking site just west of the Atlantis Resort, officials tilled the soil, marking the beginning of the construction process.

Jason Liberty, president, and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group said that events regarding the agreement “symbolize partnership, momentum, and continued economic development for so many Bahamian entrepreneurs and the entire community.

“We are grateful to our partners for their support, especially the Bahamian government, who stand with us here today in celebration of what is to come.”