Bahamas News
Government, “committed to enhancing access to safe and secure dwellings, for all Bahamians, on all islands,” says Prime Minister Davis
By LINDSAY THOMPSON
Bahamas Information Services
NASSAU, The Bahamas – Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis said that his Government is laying the foundation for future success for Bahamians, through home ownership.
“We are building houses, but even more importantly, we are building communities. We are empowering families, and we are levelling the playing field to create a fairer Bahamas,” declared the prime minister.
He added, “I can only imagine the heights to which you all will soar as new homeowners. And make no mistake; our administration does not intend to stop here. We are committed to enhancing access to safe and secure dwellings, for all Bahamians, on all islands. We are building hundreds more homes across our archipelago.”
Sir Lynden Pindling Estates named after the ‘Father of the Nation’ was formerly known as Pinewood Gardens Phase II, and has provided affordable housing solutions to Bahamians for over four decades.
In 2000, Sir Lynden personally approved the name change, and due to declining health he participated in the name-change ceremony via telephone. The streets within the subdivision have been named in honour of his family, most notably his widow, Dame Marguerite Pindling.
A total of 15 families were presented keys to their homes; deemed a special moment by the prime minister.
“Today is the culmination of a dream for you, and for your government. My friends, through all the storms of life, there is nothing quite so comforting as a home. Our homes are where we decompress — where we come together with loved ones, where we explore our interests, and where we replenish our spirits,” he said.
The prime minister observed that it is a “heartbreaking reality” that in the wake of the COVID-19 Pandemic, many Bahamians were struggling to secure safe and affordable homes.
He reassured the new homeowners that the Government recognized this issue and is working hard behind the scenes to address it by expanding housing stock across the country.
“My friends, nothing makes me happier than helping Bahamians become first-time homeowners,” the prime minister said.
“Even as the cost of real estate rises throughout our nation, our government’s policies have brought homeownership within reach for more
“Reliable housing is key to human flourishing, and there is nothing more important to me than improving the lives of Bahamians.”
The prime minister said he took up the mantle from Sir Lynden – the first prime minister of an Independent Bahamas — to improve the lives of Bahamians. Hence, the Rent-to-Own key presentations took place on the eve of what would have been his 95th birthday.
“As we honour his legacy today, let us reflect on one of his most powerful messages: ‘With faith in God and faith in our country and people, we can rise to whatever height we aspire to’,” said Prime Minister Davis.
Among others participating in the ceremony were: the Hon. Keith Bell, Minister of Housing and Urban Renewal; the Hon. Lisa Rahming, Minister of State, Ministry of Housing and Urban Renewal; and Her Excellency Leslia Miller-Brice.
The Rent-to-Own concept is a housing agreement whereby a tenant signs a rental agreement that includes an option to purchase the property later, typically within a few years.
Minister Bell said the initiative would be expanded to the Family Islands. Recently, first-time homeowners received keys to homes in Renaissance and Pinecrest subdivisions.
(BIS Photos/Mark Ford)