Bahamas News
BAHAMAS: : Taxi drivers to get up to $40,000 monthly with new agreement
#GrandBahama, June 5, 2018 – Bahamas – Grand Bahama taxi drivers will have the opportunity to earn up to an additional $40,000 monthly 
based on an agreement between the Taxi Union and Bahamas Paradise Cruises, announced June 4, 2018.
Minister of State for Grand Bahama, in the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwasi Thompson described the day as “a significant one” for taxi drivers as well as Bahamas Paradise Cruises.
“Today is a significant day for our taxi drivers in Grand Bahama. Particularly those who operate from the Freeport Harbour. Taxis have continued to struggle for business in Grand Bahama for many years. It also cannot be denied that there continues to be inequality in the business that taxi drivers receive at the harbour.”
“To this end,” he continued, “we are very pleased that an agreement has been arrived at between the Taxi Union and Bahamas Paradise Cruises.”
Both parties came together with the hope of coming to an agreement amicable to all involved. According to the Minister, “While this does not resolve all of the issues the taxi drivers have, it does represent a significant step forward for taxi drivers.”
The taxi drivers will transport the overnight guests, and the tour buses will take the day passengers. As a result of the agreement, it is estimated that taxi drivers will receive up to $10,000 weekly, or $40,000 monthly with new business.
“What makes this business even more important is the taxis are able to build relationships with their passengers who are staying on the island overnight, and therefore, can arrange future trips which can result in a better experience for the guests and more economic activity for the driver.
“It is also worth mentioning, that in conjunction with the Ministry of Tourism, we negotiated an airlift agreement with Sunwing and now have the return of the Vacation Express.”
Eight non-stop flights from various US cities have already begun, with the first welcomed in Grand Bahama last week. These flights are also bringing additional business for taxi drivers. “While we are pleased for these developments, the government is also continuing negotiations with the Grand Lucayan.”
He said, “We agree with the developer Paul Winn, that although these negotiations are and continue to be very complex, we believe that we are at the end of this process. We look forward to the renovations and full opening of the Grand Lucayan very shortly.”
A Heads of Agreement is also expected with the Grand Palm Acquisitions Ltd., the former Ginn Project, in West Grand Bahama shortly and will allow for the development to proceed.
“Today, we are very pleased that we have arrived at an amicable arrangement with respect to providing more taxi business and providing more passengers for taxi drivers to be able to transport.” The Minister continued, “While we are pleased, we are not finished. We still have a whole lot more work to do, and so the government is dedicated to seeing that we complete this work here in Grand Bahama.”
President of the Grand Bahama Taxi Union, David Jones described the day as “significant” and added that “it is a step in the right direction.”
Also present during the press conference were: Harcourt Brown, Permanent Secretary, Office of the Prime Minister; along with representatives from the Road Traffic Department, Ministry of Tourism, Grand Celebration and the Taxi Union.
By: Robyn Adderley (BIS)
Photo Caption: An agreement between the Grand Bahama Taxi Union and Bahamas Paradise, was announced on Monday, June 4, 2018 by Minister of State for Grand Bahama in the Office of the Prime Minister, Senator the Hon. J. Kwasi Thompson during a press conference. The agreement enables taxi drivers at Freeport Harbour to transport overnight guests to their hotels, while tour buses will transport the day passengers. Shown from left are: Oneil Khosa, CEO, Bahamas Paradise Cruises; Minister Thompson; David Jones, president of the Taxi Union; and Harcourt Brown, Permanent Secretary, OPM.
(BIS Photo/Andrew Miller)
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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