MANIFESTO 20 02 Better than ever in The Bahamas
With God’s blessings, and in continuing partnership with the Bahamian people, we will continue to keep it better than ever for all in our Bahamaland. In choosing the government of our country for the next five years, the Bahamian people will be able to base their decision on performance rather than on mere promises.
-2- Table of Contents
“My Gratitude to the Bahamian People” Message From The Rt. Hon. Hubert A. Ingraham, Prime Minister, Leader of The Free National Movement ...... 6
“A Personal Pledge To You” Pledge from Tommy Turnquest, Leader Designate, The Free National Movement...... 8
Key Objectives ...... 10
The Economic Agenda ...... 11 The Way Things Were ...... 11 How Times Have Changed ...... 11 Better Than Ever Aspirations ...... 13 Globalisation And Free Trade...... 14 Growing Small Business ...... 14 Industrial Relations...... 17 Tourism...... 19 Financial Services ...... 21 E-Commerce ...... 22 Divestment ...... 24 Bahamasair and Nassau Flight Services ...... 25 Agriculture ...... 26 Fisheries...... 26 Consumer Protection ...... 27
Social Agenda ...... 28 Strengthening The Family...... 28
Government Partnership With Civil Society ...... 29
FNM Contributions In Education ...... 31
The Way Forward In Education ...... 34 In Early Childhood Education: ...... 34 In Public Schools in general: ...... 34 -3- Table of of Contents Contents Cont’d. cont’d.
For Teachers: ...... 35 In Curriculum Development:...... 36 For After School: ...... 36 A National Library System ...... 37 The College Of The Bahamas ...... 38 The Bahamas Technical And Vocational Institute ...... 39
Affordable Health Care For All ...... 40 Improvements In Health Care ...... 40 The Way Forward In Health Care ...... 43
Affordable Housing...... 45
Social Services That Empower ...... 47 Focus On Women ...... 47 Focus On Men ...... 48 Empowering The Disabled...... 49 Youth Development ...... 50
Security And Justice ...... 51 The Royal Bahamas Police Force ...... 54 The Royal Bahamas Defence Force ...... 55 The Judiciary ...... 57 Immigration ...... 58 Prison Reform ...... 60
The Power Of Sports...... 62
Establishing Permanent Cultural Institutions...... 63 Junkanoo...... 65
Improved Communities ...... 66 Management Of Crown Lands ...... 67
Developing Our Islands ...... 69
-4- Tableable of of Contents Contents Cont’d. cont’d.
Grand Bahama ...... 69 Family Islands ...... 71
Infrastructure Development ...... 73 Public Buildings ...... 73 Roads, Ports And Docks ...... 74 Civil Aviation And Airports ...... 75 Utilities ...... 77 Electricity ...... 77 Telecommunications...... 78 Water And Sewerage ...... 79 Broadcasting ...... 80 Cable Television Service ...... 81
Parks And Recreation ...... 82
Preserving Our Environment ...... 84
Disaster Preparedness...... 86
The Public Service ...... 87
Local Government ...... 88
Constitutional Reform...... 89
International Relations ...... 89
Standards In Public Life ...... 91 The Seven principles Of Public Life ...... 92 Standards Of Conduct For Ministers In The Government ...... 93
-5- My Gratitude to the Bahamian People
The Rt. Hon. Hubert A. Ingraham Prime Minister Leader of The Free National Movement
ew leaders have been as fortunate in because we have served our country, and the F politics as I have been. Bahamian people, conscientiously and well. It has been my great and good fortune to We put the people first in every decision have led a country that by size, population taken as Government. and living standards must be considered one I am confident that having subjected all of the foremost small states of the world. parties and their candidates to the most It has also been a special blessing for me intense scrutiny, the Bahamian people will to have been able to call into service, renew the mandate that they have given to Bahamians of the highest competence, the the FNM. finest character and the strongest passion for In choosing the government of our country our Bahamaland. for the next five years, the Bahamian people I owe a debt of gratitude to the members will be able to base their decision on of my Government whose support and performance rather than on mere promises. dedication to duty were invaluable in moving After twenty-five years in power, the PLP our nation forward from economic stagnation regime had transformed our nation into a and decline in 1992 to a position of economic fiefdom in which the “All For Me, Baby” soundness, stability and boundless promise philosophy had become their entrenched and today. principal instrument of governing. We are fortunate in having as fine a cadre Under the PLP rule, corruption came to of public servants as can be found anywhere. spawn a complacency which permitted drug Much of the credit for what worked for my trafficking to define a culture in our country, Administration, goes to them. making our nation a virtual pariah in the I am grateful to our public servants. international community. My enduring gratitude goes out to those The economy was in shambles, our members of the Free National Movement who country’s physical infrastructure was embraced me and took me into their hearts inadequate, tourism was in the dumps, when I became a member of the FNM. investment had all but dried up, joblessness It has been the destiny of the FNM to lead was at a record high and rising, public The Bahamas out of the twentieth century and services were collapsing, our education into the new millennium. system was failing our nation’s children, our It is a destiny that the FNM must continue young people were largely without reason for to carry. hope, and a spiraling crime rate made the I express this view, fully conscious that fear of crime pervasive in our country. the immediate prospects of the FNM, and By the start of the last decade of the indeed those of our opponents, will be twentieth century, the Bahamian people could determined by the Bahamian people when no longer endure life under the yoke of the they cast their votes on May 2. PLP. The FNM should be returned to office They had long decided that enough was
-6- enough and in 1992, it was their collective will of development and of growth in personal to entrust the future of our country and the prosperity. welfare of the population to the FNM. We have delivered on the pledges we We introduced effective social, fiscal and made to you in the election campaigns of economic reforms, new education policies, an 1992 and 1997. ethos of transparency and accountability in We have been good stewards. government affairs, effective enforcement of We have kept faith with the Bahamian our country’s laws, with an enhanced justice people. system to fight the scourge of crime and We have never betrayed your trust. drugs. We have treated the management of the We made it manifestly better for all in our public purse as a sacred trust, and we have Bahamaland. managed the affairs of our nation prudently, Based on our performance in our first and to the greater good of the greatest term, the Bahamian people, on March 14th number of our citizens. 1997, gave the FNM a new and strengthened We created 40,000 jobs, enhanced the mandate to lead our country into the 21st environment, deepened democracy, improved Century and to continue to make life better for health services, restored our national image all in our Bahamas. internationally, and empowered Bahamians of We unwaveringly continued the recon- modest means so that they could shape their struction of our economy, the transformation own destiny.
We introduced effective social, fiscal and economic reforms, new education policies, an ethos of transparency and accountability in government affairs, effective enforcement of our country’s laws, with an enhanced justice system to fight the scourge of crime and drugs. We made it manifestly better for all in our Bahamaland. of the society and the betterment of the lives We promised that better was to come, and of the Bahamian people, in our second term. we delivered. In our first two five-year terms in My faith in the Bahamian people remains government, the plans and pledges of the unshakable and my confidence and pride in Free National Movement were effectively our nation’s youth is immense, indeed immea- translated into decisions and policies that surable. have brought sustainable national growth, My undying gratitude goes to the Baha- low inflation, tens of thousands of new jobs, mian people, all of the Bahamian people, for individual prosperity, the assurance of a allowing me to serve you for so many years; brighter future for our young people, and and for the opportunity to crown that service other meaningful benefits to all in our by bringing government of the people and for Bahamaland. the people into the Bahamian sunshine, with Now, at the early dawn of the new century transparency and accountability as our watch- and the new millennium, we return to the words. Bahamian people for a renewal of the mandate for development of our nation and for the betterment of the lives of our citizens. On May 2nd 2002, the Bahamian people will have the opportunity to keep our nation Hubert A. Ingraham firmly on course for a second straight decade 2nd April, 2002
-7- A Personal Pledge To You
Tommy Turnquest Leader Designate, The Free National Movement
My Fellow Bahamians: in economic growth and development to full employment; to provide a world class educa- tion to our nation’s young children and ado- ugust 19th 1992 was the beginning of a lescents; to elevate the women of our nation; A decade of development that has touched to venerate our elders; to strengthen our and improved the lives of the Bahamian peo- nation’s families; to make it safer in our ple in every community in the Commonwealth homes and on our streets; to celebrate and of The Bahamas. promote the culture of our Bahamaland; and Under the inspired and inspiring leader- to encourage genuine inclusion, which leaves ship of our country’s second Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Hubert Alexander Ingraham, the FNM moved swiftly to right the wrongs that had for so long brought such At the threshold of a misery to the Bahamian people under the second straight decade of previous administration. At the threshold of a second straight dec- development, we have what ade of development, we have what it takes to it takes to transform The transform The Bahamas into a developed Bahamas into a developed country with a population with world-class education, skills and technology to compete in country with a population the services that will continue to drive the with world-class education, globalized economy in the 21st century. With a team combining experience in skills and technology to government, success in their professions and compete in the services that vocations, and young talent with fresh ideas, will continue to drive the the FNM is committed to continue to build on the enduring foundation of a better than ever globalized economy in the Bahamas that we have laid since 1992. 21st century. MANIFESTO 2002 sets out our vision and our strategies to take The Bahamas forward
-8- no one behind, as our nation surges forward. Movement brought to government in the These things, I pledge to you. decade of development that has made it MANIFESTO 2002 presents our plans for Better Than Ever in The Bahamas for all delivering our pledges to you. Bahamians. Our plans are practicable and we know where the funds for their implementation will A lot has been done. come from. There is a lot to do. The funds will come from a growing There is also a lot to lose. economy, with increased local and direct I urge your fullest participation as we con- foreign investment flows, and the manifestly tinue our work to take our nation forward in a sound and productive fiscal and monetary second straight decade of development under management that the Free National the stewardship of the Free National Movement. ...Manifesto 2002 sets out our vision and strategies to Let us secure what we have.
take The Bahamas forward in Let us build on our country’s economic growth and deve- successes, together. lopment to full employment; Let us move our nation forward together to increased prosperity to provide a world class for all. education to our nation’s youth; to elevate our women ; I ask you to re-elect the Free National Movement by voting for the FNM Candidate in to venerate our elders; to your constituency on the 2nd of May. strengthen our nation’s With God’s blessings, and in continuing partnership with the Bahamian people, we will families; to make it safer in continue to keep it better than ever for all in our homes and on our streets; our Bahamaland. to cele-brate and promote the culture of our Bahamaland... O.A.T. (Tommy) Turnquest
-9- Key Objectives
♦ To Build Strong National Character through Respect for All People
♦ To Foster and Support Cohesive Family Life
♦ To Promote Christian Love and Charity
♦ To Maximize Opportunities for All
♦ To Alleviate Poverty and Pursue Prosperity for All
♦ To Ensure Justice and Security for All
♦ To Nurture a Culture of Education
♦ To Ensure Accessible and Affordable Health Care for All
♦ To Protect and Conserve the Natural Environment
♦ To Ensure Optimum Family Island Development
♦ To Promote Bahamian Culture
♦ To Strengthen Democracy
♦ To Ensure The Bahamas Remains a Respected Voice in the International Community of Nations
-10- We commit to accelerating the expansion of Bahamian ownership of the economy.
The Economic Agenda
The Way Things Were How Times Have Changed
hen the FNM was elected to The Free National Movement moved W Government our country’s economy swiftly and systematically to implement was in total disarray. policies that would turn around the economy. There was no growth; unemployment was Such policies included the proper nearly 15%; household income was down; management of Government finances, a tourism was in decline; prices were rising; sound National Investment Policy, facilitation foreign reserves were low; the cost of of domestic business and privatisation of borrowing was high; the national debt was state-owned enterprises. The Free National rising at an alarming rate; and the Movement formulated clear and rational Government ran continuing high deficits. economic policies; restored credibility to our At that time, national and international country’s reputation through forthright, investors were reluctant to make significant straight and honest dealings. investments in our economy and despair existed throughout the land. Ownership by ♦ We reduced the role of the State as Bahamians of profitable businesses in the a competitor in business economy in those days was limited to a select enterprises. few, with the mass of ordinary citizens excluded. ♦ We transferred the ownership of Family Island economies suffered from Government-owned hotels to stagnation and neglect. Those were difficult private ownership. times for the Bahamian people. The Free National Movement answered the call to deliver the Bahamian people and ♦ We delivered an improved tourism our economy from the blight that the PLP had product with less reliance on the brought upon the land. Public Treasury.
-11- Tourism spending is up a half of a billion dollars-nearly 40%- from $1.3 billion in 1992 to $1.8 billion in 2001.
♦ We stimulated the investment of ♦ Household income is up by more more than $2 billion in the con- than 50%, from $22,000 to $34,000. struction and enhancement of the tourism plant and infrastructure and ♦ Tourism spending is up a half of a brought The Bahamas’ tourism billion dollars - nearly 40% - from sector back to a position of com- $1.3 billion in 1992 to $1.8 billion in 2001. petitiveness and profitability.
♦ Inflation declined from 5.6% in 1992 ♦ Through better management of to 1.6% in 2001 and remains low. resources and growth in the economy, we eliminated the deficit ♦ Foreign reserves, at more than between the Government’s current $370 million at the end of March expenditure and current revenue, a 2002, are almost twice as high as gain that will be temporarily they were at the end of March, reversed by the global economic 1992. fallout from the September 11th terrorist events. ♦ Interest rates on residential and business loans have decreased by ♦ We simplified Customs 25%, from 12% in 1992 to 9% in Administration; and we restored 2001. confidence in Government’s fiscal management. ♦ The rate of growth of the national debt has decreased; and, for the At the end of two terms of FNM Govern- first time in 23 years, an overall ment, The Bahamas now enjoys the benefits balanced budget was achieved in of a dramatic turnaround. Significant growth, fiscal year 2000/2001. reaching as high as 6% has been achieved in recent times. The creation of some 40,000 ♦ More than $4.3 billion in foreign new jobs has slashed unemployment in half investment has been injected into from nearly15% to less than 7%. Since 1992 the economy and Bahamians have Government revenue has doubled. invested many additional hundreds
-12- Interest rates on residential and business loans have decreased by Twenty-Five percent, from 12% in 1992 to 9% in 2001.
of millions of dollars as they in- services through new internationally creased their stake in the national compliant product development and economy. by exploiting the potential of agriculture, fisheries, manufacturing The tourism stock is renewed, ♦ and e-commerce. upgraded and revitalized.
♦ We commit to support industries ♦ Ordinary Bahamians now own more of the economy than at any time in with growth and international export the history of our nation. potential.
♦ Many Family Island economies are ♦ We commit to a “Balanced Budget” thriving and making a significant fiscal policy. contribution to the nation’s overall economic well-being. ♦ We commit to encourage and facilitate local and international The Bahamas is now the number ♦ investment in building The three ship registry in the world, a Bahamas. major container transshipment centre and a ship care and repair centre. ♦ We commit to maintaining the policy of no income tax. Now it is better than ever in The Bahamas ♦ We commit to maintaining the Better Than Ever Aspirations Government’s role in the economy as one of facilitator and regulator. Our economic agenda, going forward, reflects the expressed aspirations of the ♦ We commit to accelerating the Bahamian people. expansion of local ownership of the economy ♦ We commit to grow the economy by further expanding tourism, by ♦ We commit to the full empowerment aggressively launching financial of the Bahamian business -13- The FNM, in the new term, will continue to encourage increased transparency in economic and government systems.
community and all Bahamian ♦ Encourage businesses to expand professionals. and to take advantage of inter- national networks for their goods ♦ We commit to further simplifying and services. Government procedures for Bahamian and other entrepreneurs ♦ Form strategic international and especially for first time micro, partnerships with nations within the small and medium sized bus- Caribbean Community and the inesses. Association of Caribbean States.
Globalisation And Free Trade ♦ Negotiate membership in the World Trade Organization to create new he move to liberalize trade and to form markets for Bahamian products. T regional and hemispheric trade blocs, together with greater interconnectivity, ♦ Negotiate membership in the Free brought about by rapid technological advance, Trade Area of the Americas, taking has shrunk the globe, blurred national bound- full account of the special needs of aries and demanded increased productivity small developing economies, like The and efficiencies in all economic activities. Bahamas, and providing for adequate To succeed and prosper in this time for our economy to adjust to the international environment, The Bahamas must requirements and demands of the ensure that its people are well-educated and FTAA. trained in the use of modern information technology; and that its economic sectors, Growing Small Business open to international trade, are competitive.
Toward this end, the FNM, in the new Small business has demonstrated its term, will: value and importance to the strength and stability of the national economy by the ♦ Continue to encourage increased transparency in economic and significant number of new jobs created by government systems. independent entrepreneurs and cottage
-14- We commit to the full empowerment of the Bahamian business community and all Bahamian professionals.
industries. The Free National Movement is Cay, into a properly appointed committed to support the further expansion of food festival site, equipped with this sector and to assist in making the sector paved roads, demarcated parking even more profitable. areas, sidewalks, street lighting, Since 1992, the FNM has adopted access to all public utilities, public policies and put in place effective program- rest room facilities, a cultural per- mes and projects in support of small business formance stage and a permanent and independent entrepreneurs including: police presence.
♦ The re-establishment of the Potter’s ♦ Making the construction of a new Cay Causeway Market and its Craft Market a requirement of the upgrade including canopied, tiled Atlantis development on Paradise stalls and access to city water Island. supply. ♦ The Construction of a new Fish and ♦ The Hairbraiders’ Pavillion with Vegetable Vendors’ Market in access to rest room facilities at Freeport, Grand Bahama. Prince George Dock and the provision of training for Hair- ♦ Removing the requirement for braiders. appearances before the Licensing Authority for restaurant and liquor An orderly taxi call-up system at ♦ licences except where an objection Prince George Dock and the has been made and a hearing is installation of rest room facilities being held. for taxi-drivers.
♦ The amendment to the Tariff Act to ♦ An attractive covered Surrey Horse Station with access to rest room permit small businessmen and facilities for Surrey Drivers and with cottage industry to access customs water troughs for the horses. duty concessions on imported raw materials and equipment under Item ♦ The Down Home Fish Fry at Arawak 9 of the Act.
-15- A major container trans-shipment centre and an international ship care and repair centre.
♦ The establishment of a Small Bus- ♦ Further simplify the Government iness Government Loan Programme Small Business Loan Guarantee for targeted Family Island bus- Process to make it more attractive inesses in tourism, agriculture and fisheries. to financial institutions and to the advantage of small entrepreneurs. ♦ Dramatically reducing the practice of taxi and tour bus franchise ♦ Enact “Over-the-Hill Economic leasing and granting such fran- chises directly to hundreds of indi- Empowerment” legislation to viduals operating in the public trans- provide a comprehensive package portation sector under unregulated of incentives to encourage the private lease terms and conditions. economic growth and social advancement of the Over-the-Hill ♦ Granting of Long Leasing Crown Land to small businessmen communities. throughout The Bahamas thereby: ♦ Create a new Omnibus Business Creating wealth through land Licence Act to provide for a single ownership; licence to conduct all non-financial Granting security of tenure to services business in The Bahamas. businessmen with investment on public land; ♦ Establish a Business Facilitation Council to further streamline Making the land available as collateral for business loans to Government procedures. facilitate expansion. ♦ Increase support for Micro, Small The FNM, in the new term, will: and Medium Size Enterprises by creating a full-service facility to ♦ Extend the Family Island Development Act for a further 5- support such businesses in the year period early stages of their development.
-16- Grand Bahama is now the industrial capital of The Bahamas.
♦ Establish a Small and Medium Size Convention No 111, Elimination of Enterprises (SMSE) Facilitation Discrimination in Employment. Centre to serve as a one-stop Convention No 138, Minimum Age agency to assist with business of Admission to Employment. plans, funding, and follow-up.
Convention No 182, Elimination of ♦ Enact an SMSE Act to provide the Worst Forms of Child Labour. comprehensive support for small businesses. The Free National Movement Government has put in place a body of legislation con- Industrial Relations ducive to industrial peace and to sustainable development of a healthy business environ- ment in The Bahamas. The Free National Movement Government The Free National Movement has brought is committed to industrial stability and peace, fairness to Government’s relationship with high productivity from and just reward to the labour unions. worker. We have demonstrated our fundamental Among the measures introduced were beliefs and principles through the ratification Legislation to: of core International Labour Organization Make provision for increased job Conventions: ♦ security.
Convention No 87, Freedom of ♦ Provide protection for workers Association. against unfair dismissal.
Convention No 100, Equal Pay and ♦ Guarantee severance and sick Remuneration. leave pay.
Convention No 103, Maternity ♦ Establish a minimum wage for Protection. workers.
-17- The FNM, in the new term, will provide incentives and encouragement to private companies to offer profit sharing and stock options to their employees.
♦ Ensure the application of the equal ♦ Encourage and promote joint pay for equal work rule for male and training programmes for Safety female employees. Officers.
♦ Prohibit discrimination in the work ♦ Enhance the operation of the One place on the basis of gender, race, Stop Service Centre and the Labour or physical disability. Market Information Service among employers, trade unions and ♦ Govern health and safety in the work place. workers.
The FNM Government further: ♦ Put in place policies for workers’ education and training. ♦ Assisted a union in the operation of a day-care centre. ♦ Enhance and simplify protocols for trade union recognition. ♦ Introduced flexi-time in the work place. ♦ Institute a more effective mechanism for the settlement of The FNM, in the new term, will: labour disputes in essential and non-essential services. ♦ Strengthen the role of the Joint Tripartite Advisory Committee. ♦ Provide incentives and encour- ♦ Facilitate training for employees in agement to private companies to the work place, as a part of a offer profit sharing and stock comprehensive national skills options to their employees. training programme. ♦ Expand the system of appren- ♦ Maintain and further strengthen ticeship for Bahamian workers. Government’s labour relations through bipartite and tripartite ♦ Expand the labour market consultation. information system.
-18- The FNM Government rescued Bahamian tourism from the depths to which it had sunk by 1992.
♦ Further expand COB and BTVI thousands of new jobs directly in the hotel training facilities in the Family sector, and thousands more in businesses Islands. and enterprises servicing the tourism sector. These efforts led to a marked improve- ♦ Promote Information Technology ment in the standards of service in Bahamian Training and use among workers in hotel properties. both the private and public sectors. Prior to 1992, most major international hotel chains had abandoned The Bahamas. Today, having attracted Sun International, Marriott, Super Club Breezes, Sandals, Tourism Hutchinson Hotels (Our Lucaya), and Four Seasons to The Bahamas - each for the first time - our tourism industry is widely envied. he FNM Government rescued Bahamian The FNM is conscious that while our T tourism from the depths to which it had tourism is based on the pristine character of sunk by 1992. We put in place transparent our environment, our clean, clear waters, rules governing the investment approval white, sandy beaches and pure air, tourism, if process; and we removed the role of middle not properly monitored, could contribute to men who increased the cost of doing bus- the degradation of our environment. iness in The Bahamas. We encouraged and We are similarly conscious of the growing facilitated investment in our tourism sector demand for eco-tourism destinations and of and since 1992 more than $ 1.5 billion has the tremendous potential for the development been invested in the renewal, enhancement of eco-tourism resorts in our Family Islands. and expansion of The Bahamas Tourism Because we have large expanses of Plant. deserted beaches, rocky shoreline, wetlands, By effectively persuading major hotel blue holes, creeks and lakes rich with flora, operators to invest in training and retraining fauna and marine life, eco-tourism can of Bahamian staff, and by requiring hotel flourish, under proper management. developers and operators to maximise the use This will make The Bahamas a more of Bahamian skills and products in the con- widely preferred destination of choice for struction, renovation, decoration, manage- European tourism marketers and visitors who ment and operation of resorts in The Baha- are notably sensitive to environmental mas, the FNM Government generated concerns.
-19- The FNM, in the new term, will provide more Bahamian artists and artisans with quality outlets for their products.
The FNM further recognizes that in order creation of Bahamian-styled to improve the benefits of a successful outdoor restaurants and cultural tourism sector for the country and its people, presentations. Bahamian value added to the sector must be substantially increased through Bahamian ♦ Continue the upgrade of the City of ownership of tourism related businesses, Nassau. Extend the tourism resorts, and attractions, and in increased sector to encompass traditional production of collectibles crafted locally by residential and commercial areas of Bahamians using indigenous materials. New Providence, including Over- the-Hill locations. The FNM, in the new term, will: ♦ Require operators of resort chains ♦ Further develop programmes in The Bahamas to offer increased offered at the School of Hospitality overseas training opportunities for and Tourism Studies of the College Bahamian staff. of The Bahamas, so as to produce the quality trained staff required to ♦ Increase the promotion of Heritage operate all segments of the tourism Tourism. industry. ♦ Encourage the diversification of the ♦ Provide incentives for the pro- tourism product by fully embracing duction and marketing of a wider the Family Islands, particularly in range of quality souvenirs. the development of low-impact eco- tourism resorts, and in the deve- ♦ Provide more Bahamian artists and lopment of additional bone-fishing artisans with quality outlets for their lodges. products.
♦ Provide increased marketing Restore our national monuments ♦ support to owners and operators of and facilities and transform them small Bahamian-owned hotels and into visitor attractions. resorts.
♦ Continue the redevelopment of ♦ Continue to make Crown Land Down Town Bay Street with the available to qualified Bahamians, -20- The FNM, in the new term, will continue vigorous advocacy for a level playing field internationally in the provision of financial services.
on concessionary terms, for the overcame the challenges presented by inter- construction and operation of small national financial agencies including Financial resorts and other tourism facilities Action Task Force, the Financial Stability in the Family Islands. Forum and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. The FNM Government is satisfied that The Financial Services Bahamas fully meets the evolving standards and best practices required for the delivery of international financial services in the leading nternational Financial Services is the economies of the developed world. second most important sector of the Bah- I The FNM is committed to maintaining this amian economy, after tourism, and accounts position and thereby ensuring the continued for some of the most lucrative employment development and success of The Bahamas enjoyed by Bahamian professionals. The financial services sector. Bahamas is a mature financial services centre with a competitive regulatory framework and The FNM, in the new term, will: an enviable depth of talent represented by its resident experienced financial specialists: ♦ Maintain The Bahamas as a low tax bankers, accountants, lawyers, asset jurisdiction with no income, capital managers, and other financial professionals. gains, withholding or inheritance The FNM has updated the country’s taxes. financial services legislation to meet new demands in the market, enacted legislation to establish the Securities Industry and the ♦ Encourage the development of new development of Mutual Fund Administration; corporate and private investment products which meet the needs of facilitated the establishment of the Bahamas the international client community International Stock Exchange; met the while remaining fully compliant with standard required by the United States best international “Know Your Internal Revenue System to become a Customer” standards and practices. Qualified Jurisdiction for the purpose of the trade in US securities; successfully met and ♦ Accelerate the process of inte-
-21- The FNM, in the new term, will pursue the re- establishment of a Captive Insurance Industry in The Bahamas.
gration of regulatory and super- the Registrar General meets the visory functions of all Financial needs of a competitive financial Services Regulators with the ulti- services centre effciently. mate objective of the establishment of a single Financial Services ♦ Formulate a “Capital Market Commission. Development Plan” for the long-term development of The Bahamas’ ♦ Enact legislation to criminalise the securities industry. financing of international terrorism. ♦ Support the continuing existence, ♦ Continue to encourage the exchange growth and development of Bahamas of professional staff and the posting International Securities Exchange. of Bahamian professionals abroad so as to enhance their career develop- E-Commerce ment opportunities. Recognizing the increasingly important ♦ Continue vigorous advocacy for a role information technology and computers level playing field internationally in play in education, in business, and in the provision of financial services. government, the FNM, beginning in 1992, moved to ensure that The Bahamas would ♦ Pursue the re-establishment of a keep apace of developments in the Inform- Captive Insurance Industry in The ation Age. Bahamas. As a fundamental step, the deregulation of the telecommunications sector came with the ♦ Enact a new Insurance Act. establishment of the Public Utilities Com- ♦ Create an independent Insurance mission as the independent regulator of Commission responsible for the telecommunications in the country. regulation of the insurance industry. This has introduced competition in this market that is vital to the stimulation of growth ♦ Provide the necessary additional for an information-based economy. resources to ensure that the Office of The provision of data services has been
-22- The FNM has invested invested in a $10 million project to computerize the public education system using a satellite based Wide Area Network with Internet access.
fully liberalized since 1996 with the result that order to link all Government more than a dozen Internet Service Providers agencies with real time, on line already exist in the country, offering a range facilities. of services and products for access to the Internet. ♦ Established a Bahamas Govern- ment World Wide Website in order The FNM has: to give Bahamians and international persons 24 hour access to timely ♦ Removed all customs duties on information about The Bahamas computers in order to give the and the operations of the Bahamian public access to Government. computers. The FNM recognizes that computers and ♦ Invested in a $10 million project to the Internet are the way of the future, part- computerize the public education icularly in the areas of services-based system using a satellite based Wide business and commerce. It is now evident Area Network with Internet access. that consumers, businesses and Government will, in the future, increasingly interact with ♦ Increased the number of computers each other via computers and the Internet, in the public education system to giving rise to new opportunities for employ- over 3,000 with plans to add an ment, higher productivity, increased additional 3,000 over the next profitability and, hence, improved incomes. three years. The FNM is determined that The Bahamas and the Bahamian people maximize every ♦ Commenced training of public opportunity presented by technology to school teachers in the use of create more and better jobs and to generate computers and the integration of new and more prosperous businesses. computer-based learning in their classrooms. To this end, the FNM, in the new term, will: ♦ Begun the development of a government wide area network in ♦ Complete the computerization of
-23- The FNM, in the new term, will continue to explore the best options for the divestment of government-owned enterprises.
the government-operated school Divestment system.
♦ Enact enabling e-commerce The Free National Movement believes that legislation. the government ought not be in competition with the private sector in the provision of ♦ Re-vamp the regulatory framework services and, further, where a service pro- for intellectual property. vided by the government may be provided more efficiently to consumers by the private ♦ Expand training of the Bahamian sector, the FNM believes that such service workforce, beginning with school- should be contracted-out or privatised. aged children. The FNM further believes that, where a major publicly-owned corporation is priva- ♦ Expand the network of publicly tised, the Government ought to maintain a available Internet access through minority ownership position with Bahamian schools and public libraries. citizens given the opportunity to participate as owners in the privatised company. ♦ Encourage Bahamian businesses to upgrade their information systems and increasingly incorporate The FNM, in its new term, will: information technology into their daily business activities. ♦ Continue to explore the best options for the divestment of ♦ Promote The Bahamas inter- government-owned enterprises, nationally as an international centre including the production of water for e-commerce. and of electricity which could be more efficiently and effectively ♦ Continue development of the operated and managed by the Government website to enable private sector. transactional activity with government agencies on a phased ♦ Ensure that all divestment of state basis. enterprises results in the widest
-24- The FNM, in the new term, will seek a strategic Partner for Bahamasair.
possible Bahamian ownership and island service from Bahamasair and control of newly privatised grant licences for provision of inter- companies. island service to private sector operators. Bahamasair and
Nassau Flight Services ♦ Maximize the role of Bahamasair as a partner in the promotion and In its twenty-nine-year history, development of Tourism. Bahamasair, the National Flag Carrier, has never achieved commercial or financial viability and its current performance is clearly ♦ Seek a strategic Partner for unacceptable. It is acknowledged that much Bahamasair and Nassau Flight of the airline’s difficulty may be traced to Services which will bring advant- inadequate capitalisation from the beginning ages for the enhancement of the and throughout its operation, forcing the commercial viability of these company to rely on enormous levels of debt entities. financing, with consequent heavy debt servicing costs. ♦ Transform Bahamasair and Nassau It is also acknowledged that the archi- Flight Services into private sector pelagic character of the Commonwealth of majority-owned entities subject to The Bahamas, with its demand for the the commercial discipline of private provision of services to uneconomic routes enterprise, responsible to a Man- and the very short-leg structure of the airline’s agement and Board in which routes, have contributed heavily to Government involvement is Bahamasair’s unsatisfactory performance. confined to minority equity and Extremely conscious of the fact that Board membership. this situation cannot be permitted to continue, the FNM, in the new term, ♦ Retain an equity interest of not less will: than 25% in any such entity.
♦ Remove the monopoly on inter- ♦ Make shares in the new entities -25- The FNM, in the new term, will establish a Farmers’ Credit Programme to improve and facilitate access to credit, for small farmers.
available to employees and the system, fully equipped with Bahamian public. refrigeration, to facilitate the transportation of Bahamian-grown ♦ Take responsibility for outstanding produce. Bahamasair and Nassau Flight Services debt obligations. ♦ Promote the establishment of Farming Associations and Coopera- tives. ♦ Relate any government subsidy to Bahamasair directly to the service Establish a Farmers’ Credit provided by Bahamasair on ♦ Programme to improve and uneconomic routes. facilitate access to credit, parti- cularly for small and medium size Agriculture farmers.
The FNM Government has supported ♦ Establish a Hurricane and Disaster Bahamian agriculture and encouraged its Insurance Fund to assist farmers expansion. suffering loss as a result of natural disasters. The FNM, in the new term, will:
♦ Promote agriculture as a rewarding career choice for young Bahamians. Fisheries
Encourage expansion in the range ♦ Sustainable exploitation of the Fisheries of crops produced in The Bahamas sector of the Bahamian economy can con- through modern agricultural methods. tribute to a significant reduction in our food import bill The industry can be professionally ♦ Support the development of food developed as a strong export sector given the processing plants throughout The international demand for the shell and scale Bahamas. fish that abound in Bahamian waters. As a part of its programme to ensure the ♦ Expand the inter-island freight boat responsible management of our fisheries -26- The FNM, in the new term, will enact anti-trust legislation to guard against monopolies and other anticompetitive activities.
resources, the FNM Government established spiny lobster, conch, grouper, a network of marine reserves and conducted snappers and other marine a three year review on conch populations, resources. lobster harvesting and grouper aggregations. This review informed the current implement- ♦ Further expand the network of ation of a long term sustainable management Fisheries Officers and vessels to strategy for marine resources. monitor our marine resources Additionally, the FNM Government expanded its network of fisheries patrols to Consumer Protection Abaco, New Providence and North Andros. The Free National Movement believes that The FNM, in the new term, will: the Bahamian consumer ought to be safe- guarded against unscrupulous businesses ♦ Further expand the network of that offer faulty goods and services. marine reserves. To this end, the FNM, in the new term, ♦ Continue to protect grouper and will: other spawning aggregations. ♦ Enact comprehensive Con- ♦ Enact legislation for marine sumer Protection Legislation to mammal protection. provide for consumer credit protection on sales transactions and protection against faulty ♦ Revise and strengthen fisheries regulations in relation to sport- products. fishing and commercial fishing. ♦ Enact anti-trust legislation to guard against monopolies and other anti- ♦ Establish specific bag limits for migratory fish (king fish, dolphin, competitive activities. wahoo and tuna) caught by pleasure craft. ♦ Provide for sustained consumer education and for an effective ♦ Review the size and bag limits for consumer protection agency.
-27- The FNM, in the new term, will introduce Conflict Resolution Training as a core element in the Government-operated education curriculum.
Social Agenda
Strengthening The Family education and vocational training programmes ince 1992 the Free National Movement at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational S has transformed the lives of all Baha- Institute; introduced and expanded support mians. We have made it better in The Baha- programmes for teen-mothers; and expanded mas. We have revitalized and grown the counseling and outreach programmes aimed Bahamian economy, creating more than at rescuing “at-risk” youth in our communities, 40,000 new jobs reducing unemployment levels from nearly 15% in 1992 to less than The FNM, in the new term, will: 7% today; introduced early education and pre- school facilities in the government-operated ♦ Introduce Conflict Resolution school system in support of single parent and Training as a core element in the working parents families; significantly exp- Government-operated education anded the school lunch programme for child- curriculum. ren from low income families, and increased benefit and assistance payments to widows ♦ Expand support programmes to and orphans and to the disabled. individuals and families affected We have partnered with the church and with HIV/AIDS, including hospice with trade unions in establishing day-care care for the terminally ill. centres; constructed some 1,500 housing units in established communities and in new ♦ Expand support programmes and housing developments in the suburbs of New counselling services for victims of Providence and Grand Bahama; provided Physical and/or Emotional Spousal more than 1,200 residential lots, not including Abuse, and Sexual Abuse, including Crown Land Grants, to Bahamian families in incest and rape. New Providence, Grand Bahama, Abaco and Andros. ♦ Support additional Community and We have introduced child-care services Day-Care facilities for young for parents attending the expanded adult children.
-28- The FNM, in the next term, will expand funding and technical support for Church and Civic Groups operating Elderly and Child Care and Community Outreach Programmes...
♦ Support special care facilities for the For this reason, the FNM Government elderly. has been most supportive of Church-operated schools. The FNM Government more than Expand flexi-hours in the public ♦ doubled Grant-in-Aid Assistance to Church sector and encourage the intro- sponsored schools, increased the number of duction of flexi-hours in the private schools included in the programme and pro- sector so as to better meet the needs vided project-specific funding to a number of of parents of school age children. denominations. The FNM also recognizes and values the contributions made to the development of our Government Partnership communities by non-Governmental organ- With Civil Society nizations. Therefore, the FNM Government increased support to Civic Groups, Charities and non-governmental organisations involved The FNM Government has invited leading in community enhancement initiatives. members of the clergy to serve as Chair or Co-Chair of a number of consultative bodies The FNM, in the new term, will: appointed by the Government, including the National Youth Consultative Committee, and ♦ Develop Family Counselling the National Task Force on Education; and as Centres throughout The Bahamas members of the Public Service Commission in partnership with the Church. and the Police Service Commission; and as members of Statutory Boards, including ♦ Expand funding and technical Batelco, the National Insurance Board, the support for Church and Civic Hotel Corporation of The Bahamas and as Groups operating Elderly and Child members of the Board of Bahamasair and the Care and Community Outreach Bank of The Bahamas. Programmes, especially in densely The FNM is particularly appreciative of the populated urban areas. role which the Church has played in bringing quality education to the children of The ♦ Continue Government’s partnership Bahamas over the years. with the Church and provide in-
-29- A fundamental tenet of the Free National Movement is the right of every Bahamian to an education so that each individual might develop his or her full potential and be a productive, contributing member of our society.
creased support for Church-ope- ♦ The inadequate number of neigh rated schools so as to make them bourhood schools, particularly affordable to larger numbers of in the rapidly expanding suburbs of families. New Providence and Grand ♦ Expand support to civic groups. Bahama.
♦ Continue and strengthen ♦ The paucity of pre-school facilities. partnerships with established Charities. ♦ Over-crowded classrooms.
♦ Chronic shortages of teachers and Education And Training of teaching materials, particularly in the sciences and for technical and What The PLP Left vocational subjects.
fundamental tenet of the Free National ♦ The lack of professional recognition A Movement is the right of every Bahamian of teachers. to an education so that each individual might develop his or her full potential and be a pro- ♦ The inadequacy of the salaries paid ductive, contributing member of our society. to teachers. We were offended by the deplorable conditions that typified the Government- ♦ Deficient school library services. operated school system at the start of the 1990s: ♦ The lack of foreign language instruction at primary school level. ♦ Run-down buildings with inoperable science laboratories and rest room ♦ The absence of information facilities. technology in the school system.
♦ Pit-latrines in a number of Family Island Schools.
-30- The FNM Government systematically set about bringing Government- operated education up to acceptable standards.
FNM Contributions In Education
ecognizing education of the nation’s Campbell and Maurice Moore in R children as the key to the future, the Freeport, Grand Bahama; Abaco FNM Government systematically set about Central Primary in Abaco; and Simms bringing Government-operated education up Primary School in Long Island. to acceptable standards. ♦ Employed hundreds of additional Since 1992 the FNM Government has: teachers, particularly in the sciences, mathematics and vocational areas, ♦ Carried out widespread refurbish- resulting in improved ratios of teacher ment, upgrade and expansion of to students in the public school classrooms throughout The system; Bahamas. ♦ Established a policy to systematically ♦ Redeveloped and expanded two reduce class sizes at the primary inner city primary schools in New school level with a view to achieving Providence - Woodcock and Albury maximum class sizes of 25 students Sayles - converting them into state- in grades 1 through 3, and of 30 of-the-art, new primary schools. students in grades 4 through 6.
♦ Converted the abandoned campus of the old Technical Institute into the ♦ Introduced Spanish as a second new campus for the C.C.Sweeting language beginning at the primary Senior High School. school level.
♦ Constructed seven new primary ♦ Constructed the Early Child Care schools: Gerald Cash, Cleveland Education Centre on East Street Eneas, Garvin Tynes, and Sadie South, and put in place pre-schools Curtis in New Providence; Hugh for four-year-olds at the former
-31- Since 1992 the FNM Government has brought about improvements in national exam results, particularly in reading, writing and mathematics.
Willard Patton Primary School on zation programme which will, when Augusta Street and at Gerald Cash, completed, link all government Garvin Tynes, Cleveland Eneas, operated schools to the Ministry of and Sadie Curtis Primary Schools in Education, to each other and to the New Providence; at Hugh Campbell Internet and Maurice Moore Primary Schools in Freeport; at Abaco ♦ Built a new high school in New Central Primary in Marsh Harbour, Providence. and at Simms Primary School in Long Island. ♦ A second new high school is nearing completion in New Providence. ♦ Brought back separate junior and senior high schools. ♦ Built two new high schools in Grand Bahama. ♦ Developed Reading Centres in Kemp Road, Flamingo Gardens, Jubilee ♦ Upgraded technical and vocational Gardens and Elizabeth Estates. instruction.
♦ Upgraded and improved school and ♦ Expanded the course offerings at community libraries and constructed Bahamas Technical and Vocational new public libraries in new town Institute and upgraded instruction centres at Elizabeth Estates, East and tuition materials. Street South and Carmichael Road. ♦ Increased the school leaving age from 14 to 16 years. ♦ Required all 12th grade students to complete a minimum number of ♦ Brought about improvements in hours of community service prior to national exam results, particularly in graduation. reading, writing and mathematics.
♦ Started a $10 million computeri- ♦ Introduced the Family Island -32- The FNM Government put in place a $100 million Government-Guaran- teed Student Loan Programme making tertiary level education acces- sible for more than 2,000 high school graduates...
scholarship and living-stipend ♦ Integrated The Bahamas Hotel programme to enable students from Training College into the College of remote parts of the country, without The Bahamas as the School of easy access to a high school Hospitality and Tourism Studies. education, to move to the island of their choice in order to attend high ♦ Established a faculty of law at the school. College of The Bahamas in collaboration with the University of the West Indies. ♦ Introduced a $100 million Govern- ment-Guaranteed Student Loan ♦ Established the Eugene Dupuch Programme making tertiary level School of Law in collaboration with education accessible for more the Caribbean Council on Legal than 2,000 high school graduates at Education. institutions in The Bahamas and abroad. ♦ Created a career path for teachers.
♦ Introduced School Boards for all ♦ Substantially increased the salaries Government-operated primary and of Teachers. high schools in New Providence and Grand Bahama. ♦ Established a Teaching Service Commission. ♦ Granted autonomy to the College of The Bahamas and constructed a ♦ Developed a five-year Strategic new administrative block. Plan for Education.
-33- The FNM, in the new term, will,Implement the five year Strategic Plan for Education.
The Way Forward In Education
aving set the stage for 21st century compensated in accordance with H standards in education an FNM Govern- their qualifications and experience. ment, in the new term, will: ♦ Provide continuing education and ♦ Implement the five year Strategic training opportunities for teachers in Plan for Education. their areas of expertise and in the application of computer and ♦ Continue to place emphasis on information technologies to those improved numeracy and literacy skills fields. among all students. In Early Childhood Education: ♦ Move to provide pre-school education for all children entering the ♦ Establish a nationwide Early Child government-operated school system. Care Learning Programme, including home schooling initiatives, and pri- ♦ Increase security and safety of the vately operated but regulated pre- premises of all government-operated schools. schools. ♦ Introduce legislation to regulate pre- ♦ Ensure the continued adequate schools. supply of necessary tuition equipment and supplies at all government- In Public Schools in general: operated schools. ♦ Continue the modernization of ♦ Ensure that all public school teach- government-operated schools. ers are properly qualified. ♦ Complete the computerization of the ♦ Ensure that all teachers are public school system.
-34- The FNM, in the new term, will move to pre-school education for all children entering the government-operated school system.
♦ Introduce advanced training in ♦ Expand instruction of foreign computers, including utilisation languages in the Government-oper- of information available via the ated school system with continued Internet, computer programming, emphasis on Spanish as a second and Website development and language. design, for teachers and pupils in government-operated schools. ♦ Accelerate the design, development and publishing of indigenous works ♦ Expand the functions of School by Bahamian teachers and students Boards to include security manage- ment and janitorial services, pro- for use in the public education vision and management of school system. supplies and management of school facilities. For Teachers:
♦ Re-emphasize career opportunities ♦ Further review the salary scales of and provide education and training in teachers as a part of the review being agriculture, fisheries, marine science conducted for other public officers. and eco-tourism in all public secondary schools. ♦ Continue to improve the status of teachers. ♦ Ensure that the Magnet School System provides senior students with ♦ Populate and service the Teaching even more options for pursuing their Service Commission. interest in subjects such as Inform- ation Technology, the Arts, Hotel and ♦ Provide increased funding for Catering, Business and Computer professional training. Studies, Mathematics and Science, and Construction Trades. ♦ Upgrade tuition materials, including
-35- The FNM, in the new term, will Initiate a Public Library System anchored by a fully integrated Computer Network supported by an Internet platform.
text books, available to teachers in the Constitution of The Bahamas. the classroom. For After School: ♦ Improve teachers’ computer skills. ♦ Place renewed emphasis on Parent- ♦ Refine and expand the Career Path Teacher Associations. for teachers.
♦ Create a career track for Guidance ♦ Promote the full involvement of Counsellors. parents, churches and communities in the delivery of education within the In Curriculum Development: government-operated school system.
♦ Establish a system for continuing ♦ Introduce a National After School review of the curriculum to ensure Programme, focusing on academic that it remains consistent with the and extra-curricular activities. needs of a 21st Century Bahamas.
Develop a Goal-Setting Programme ♦ Continue to place strong emphasis ♦ within the curriculum on student for high school students, together achievement in Mathematics, with a tracking system to determine Science, Reading and Writing. the extent to which young people are pursuing their stated goals after ♦ Make “Critical Thinking”, “Character graduation. Education”, and “Family Life Edu- cation” fundamental components ♦ Develop a Personal Career Guidance of the education curriculum. Profile for each student entering senior high school. ♦ Include information technology, tourism studies and financial services studies in the mainstream curriculum. ♦ Create more cohesion and synergy between existing entrepreneurial ♦ Strengthen instruction in Civics and training programmes.
-36- The FNM, in the new term, will establish the National Library in a renovated Collins House.
A National Library System The FNM, in the new term will:
♦ Establish the National Library in a renovated Collins House. he Free National Movement believes that good reading skills are fundamental to a T ♦ Initiate a Public Library System good education and to success in the work anchored by a fully integrated place, hence the emphasis placed on reading Computer Network supported by an and literacy. Internet platform. The FNM is similarly convinced that good, modern libraries in our schools and in our ♦ Provide a line item in the National Budget for Public Libraries and communities can play an important role in increase funding for Public Libraries. improving national reading and literacy skills and serve as an important reservoir of ♦ Grant $5 million towards the information. development of the library at the At the click of a mouse - libraries linked to College of The Bahamas. the Internet, expand the wealth of infor- mation available on the widest range of ♦ Improve collections in Community Libraries so that they are better able subjects. to support community research and The Free National Movement also information needs. recognizes the importance of the development of a strong National Reference Library. ♦ Link all national literacy programmes The FNM has constructed three new lib- to the work of Public Libraries. raries, the first purpose-built public libraries in the country in nearly forty years; upgraded ♦ Provide a career path for librarians libraries in the government-operated school and improve their pay-scales. system; established reading and home work ♦ Provide a National Website for all centres in a number of densely populated public libraries. neighbourhoods in New Providence and launched and promoted the “Let’s Read Bah- ♦ Promote Library Science as a career amas” national literacy campaign throughout choice and supported by Government the country; scholarships.
-37- The FNM, in the new term, will increase scholarship funding for qualified Bahamian students to enter the College.
The College Of The Bahamas
he College of The Bahamas is the vinced that the College can play an even T premier tertiary level learning institution greater role in our Society. in the country. The Free National Movement recognized that this institution’s development The FNM, in the new term, will: could best be achieved, to the benefit of the Bahamian people, through its removal from ♦ Utilize the research expertise at the the public service bureaucracy. To that end, College to inform the development of national policies. in 1995, the FNM Government granted the College academic freedom, autonomy over its ♦ Utilize the College’s capability for expenditure and freedom to generate and research and development. retain revenues for its various initiatives. Since that time, the College has benefit- ♦ Increase scholarship funding for ted from its amalgamation with The Bahamas qualified Bahamian students wishing Hotel Training College, which is now the to enter the College so that funding School of Hospitality and Tourism Training. is not a barrier to tertiary education. Further, a law faculty has been establish- ♦ Construct a new Natural Sciences ed at the College, a new administrative block Building and a new Teacher has been constructed and plans are in train Education Building. for further expansion, to include a science building and a teacher education building. ♦ Construct new dorms for Family The Free National Movement is con- Island students.
-38- The FNM, in the new term, will link BTVI to the College of The Bahamas to permit students to earn credits toward matriculation at tertiary institutions.
The Bahamas Technical And Vocational Institute
he Free National Movement understands vocational studies of high schools T that technical and vocational education to ensure that students leaving high and skills development are critically important school may attend BTVI and build and necessary as we seek to prepare ade- on their training and advance to quate numbers of individuals to meet the industry certification. demands for special skills in our growing and increasingly technological economy. ♦ Link BTVI to the College of The This realization played an important part Bahamas to permit students to earn in the upgrade of technical and vocational credits toward matriculation at education available at the high school level in tertiary institutions. the government-operated school system. It similarly influenced the decision to spend ♦ Recruit additional instructors over $5 million in the upgrade of The Bah- qualified to provide technical skills amas Technical and Vocational Institute training at internationally accept- providing state-of-the-art equipment and labs able standards. for that facility. For many already in the labour pool, ♦ Invest in additional high tech advanced career training and retraining en- equipment and facilities for to sures that skills are kept current with develop- ensure world class training for its ing technologies in these “high-tech” times. students. As such, the Free National Movement regards the work of the Bahamas Technical and Voc- ♦ Convert BTVI into an autonomous ational Institute as critical to the national Institute with a Board comprising development prospects of The Bahamas in representatives of the public and the 21st Century. private sectors to guide the further development of the institution. The FNM, in the new term, will:
♦ Link BTVI and the technical and -39- Infant Mortality has been reduced by a full 50% from 24 per thousand in 1992 to 12 per thousand in 2001.
Affordable Health Care For All
he Free National Movement subscribes to care baby units for sick new-borns T the internationally accepted dictum that at the Princess Margaret Hospital. health is a right. Prior to assuming office in 1992, the Free National Movement undertook ♦ Establishing programmes for to provide the necessary resources to correct certificate training in neonatal the many inadequacies in the health care resuscitation and post resuscitation system. These inadequacies and the solutions proposed by the FNM were outlined and assigning highly trained in MANIFESTO ‘92 and MANIFESTO II, midwives at the Public Health including plans to devolve the administration Community Clinics. of medical care away from the public service bureaucracy, upgrade administration, facilities ♦ Providing quality maternity and and services of each of the three government- family planning services at all owned public hospitals; and expand the public clinics and hospitals. health programmes so as to make primary health care available to all. ♦ Contracting air ambulance services Improvements In Health Care with modern emergency medical equipment and appropriately trained The Free National Movement is proud of staff to transport high-risk new- its record in health care delivery. Since 1992, borns from the Family Islands to the following important improvements have Princess Margaret Hospital. taken place in the public health system. Infant Mortality has been reduced by a full ♦ Reducing childhood pneumonia and 50% from 24 per thousand in 1992 to 12 per thousand in 2001, by: meningitis by providing new vaccines and raising the national ♦ Provision of new state-of-the-art immunization coverage to a rate in neonatal intensive care and special excess of 93%. -40- Facilities and services at the hospitals and community clinics have been upgraded.
Child and Adolescent Health services Conditions of service for staff have have been improved by: been enhanced by:
♦ Providing increased staff and a ♦ Providing special increases in modern, fully air conditioned mobile salaries and allowances for nurses, health van, that ensures comfort doctors and allied health and privacy for students. professionals.
♦ Initiating comprehensive and ♦ Expanding training programmes for integrated child health services at all categories of staff. the community health level, dramatically reducing waiting time Facilities and services at the hospitals for referral examinations. and community clinics have been upgraded as follows: ♦ Providing audiology, optometry, optician, dentistry, and specialist ♦ Emergency facilities at the Princess pediatric services at the South Margaret Hospital have been extensively renovated and Beach Clinic in New Providece. upgraded and waiting time for patients reduced. ♦ Assigning nurses to schools in New Providence to provide on-site health ♦ A fully-equipped asthma bay, a service for children on a daily basis. trauma resuscitation room and a stat-laboratory, were added. ♦ Strengthening partnerships with the Ministry of Education, Youth and ♦ Specifically located sites for Sports and other agencies and emergency pediatrics management, establishing a “free standing” observation and treatment of patients Adolescent Primary Health and with chest pain and the examination Support Services Centre, and counselling of suspected child recognized as the first and a “best abuse victims and their families have practice” model for the Caribbean. been provided. -41- Cost of treatment to all persons with diabetes has been reduced by the removal of customs duty and the reduction of stamp tax.
♦ New clinics were constructed in ♦ A health component has been Family Islands on Bimini; Cooper’s included in the policies as Town, Abaco; Eight Mile Rock, recommended by the National Grand Bahama;Harbour Island; Council on Ageing to improve the South Beach, New Providence; quality of life of elderly citizens. Spanish Wells; and San Salvador.
Planning and accountability strategies Programmes for prevention and and mechanisms have been improved, treatment of communicable and in that: noncommunicable diseases were established and upgraded as follows: ♦ A five year National Health Services ♦ Cost of treatment to all persons Strategic Plan has been designed with diabetes has been reduced by to address all major health care the removal of customs duty and challenges and to set out strategies the reduction of stamp tax on for achieving a healthier nation. diabetes medical supplies. ♦ Legislation was enacted for the ♦ Improved care and preventative regulation of health facilities and services for HIV/AIDS have resulted allied health professions to ensure in a decrease in the number of new- that health services are delivered ly infected persons and prolonged by appropriately credentialed the life of those already infected. individuals in safe environments.
-42- The FNM, in the new term, will Further review the salary scales of nurses and other health care professionals as a part of the review being conducted for other public officers
The Way Forward In Health Care
The FNM, in the new term, will: of Education, Youth and Sports to advance the “Healthy Schools ♦ Further improve conditions of Initiative” which seeks to promote service for all health personnel, healthy behaviours, reduce the including incremental increases impact of dental disease and in risk allowances for health obesity and improve growth and personnel. development among the school population in The Bahamas. ♦ Further review the salary scales of nurses and other health care ♦ Expand and upgrade adolescent professionals as a part of the health services and institute new review being conducted for other psychological and peer counseling public officers programmes that will prevent or reduce the incidence of sexually ♦ Provide the resources needed to transmitted infections, HIV/AIDS, ensure continued improvement in violence, pregnancy, sexual abuse maternal services and to achieve and obesity among teens. an infant mortality rate below ten per thousand live births. ♦ Expand programmes for prevention and treatment of communicable and ♦ Further develop and expand non-communicable diseases which comprehensive and integrated child dominate morbidity and mortality in health services at community clinics our adult population. in New Providence and the Family Islands. ♦ Continue to provide current therapies and drugs needed to ♦ Enhance existing services. reduce the negative impact of non- communicable diseases in our ♦ Continue to work with the Ministry population.
-43- The FNM, in the new term, will complete and implement a National Catastrophic Insurance Plan.
♦ Give priority to strengthening the ♦ Further improve health infrastruc- National Programme for Diabetes tructure. Prevention and Control and emp- hasize good nutrition through uni- ♦ Commence the redevelopment of versal application of the National the Princess Margaret Hospital, Dietary Guidelines. Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre and the Rand Memorial Hospital. ♦ Work with law enforcement and transport agencies to introduce ♦ Construct new polyclinics at Grand additional programmes aimed at Cay and Marsh Harbour, Abaco; reducing the extent and severity of Palmetto Point, Eleuthera; George trauma associated with motor Town, Exuma; and Matthew Town, Inagua; and continue the refurbish- vehicle accidents and violence. ment and upgrade of Public Health clinics and residences on Family ♦ Further improve the care of cancer Islands and in New Providence. patients by expanding the program- me for early detection and treat- ♦ Increase staffing levels and estab- ment and further development of the lish training agreements with local “Cancer Registry” and “Tumour and regional training institutions to Board”. ensure adequate numbers of skilled professionals in key areas.
♦ Implement the development of a ♦ Examine the feasibility of a contri- national education and awareness butory partnership for the develop- programme on healthy ageing, tar- ment of a government and emp- geting individuals fourty years and loyee insurance plan for health over. care professionals.
♦ Complete and implement the ♦ Provide additional resources for the National Catastrophic Health professional development of phy- Insurance Plan in conjunction with sicians, nurses, allied health the National Insurance Board and professionals and other members of with the assistance of the Inter- the health team. national Labour Organisation.
-44- Affordable Housing
key objective of the Free National 1999. Seventy-nine new replacement homes A Movement Government is to facilitate were constructed in Eleuthera for residents improved housing conditions throughout The left homeless by the storm, and one was built Bahamas so that all Bahamians can have in the Berry Islands. In the aftermath of Hurricane Floyd, the access to decent, affordable housing. Department assisted in the construction of The Department of Housing, which has over one hundred houses, including five primary responsibility for government housing duplexes, as replacement homes for those development projects, constructed some destroyed in Abaco, Cat Island, and 1,500 new housing units in New Providence Eleuthera. The Department has also assisted and Grand Bahama since 1992. Small scale with the repairs to several thousand homes projects have also taken place on San damaged by storms over the past decade. Salvador, Bimini and Eleuthera where The FNM Government has supported construction is currently underway. The housing development through the grant of Department is also making residential lots vacant Crown and/or Government-owned available and recently launched a new land, to several thousand Bahamians on residential subdivision of 600 lots in Marsh virtually every populated island in The Baha- Harbour, Abaco. Four hundred and twenty- mas for residential and commercial ventures, three of those lots are a part of the first and has regularized the occupation of Crown phase of the development. Over the past Land for additional thousands of Bahamians nine and a half years the Department has who, as a result of the ineptitude of the Ad- sold 732 residential lots in Abaco, Andros, ministration prior to 1992, had been reduced to constructing homes and businesses on Eleuthera, San Salvador and Inagua to land with neither security of tenure nor fee Bahamians. simple title. The Department has also been involved in Land Grants and Crown Leases have Hurricane reconstruction efforts carried out by been finalized for residents on Abaco, Grand the Government particularly following Hurri- Bahama, Berry Islands, Bimini, Andros, New cane Andrew in 1992 and Hurricane Floyd in Providence, Eleuthera, Long Island, Exuma,
-45- The FNM, in the new term, will provide $10 million dollars for repairs to the homes of the elderley and families “Over The Hill” and elsewhere.
Cat Island, San Salvador, Rum Cay, inclusive of utility connection charges Ragged Island, Mayaguana, and other fees and charges Crooked Island, Acklins and Inagua.
The FNM, in the new term, will: ♦ Enact legislation to facilitate the transfer, without fees or charges, ♦ Cause to be constructed no fewer home mortgages between than 3,000 affordable homes. lending institutions.
♦ Create additional Government ♦ Provide loans, through The Housing Subdivisions. Bahamas Mortgage Corporation, to ♦ Provide incentives for and homeowners and landlords, for partnership with Bahamian property repair and renovation of their developers to construct homes and properties. rental units throughout The Bahamas. ♦ Provide $10 million dollars for ♦ Reduce the cost of utility repairs to the homes of the elderley connections for first time home- and families “Over The Hill” and owners. elsewhere in The Bahamas who find it difficult or to make ends ♦ Introduce a Lease to Buy option for low cost and medium income home meet. buyers. ♦ Continue to make Crown Land ♦ Reduce the down-payment required available for residential for Government-guaranteed home development, particularly in the mortgages to 5% of total cost, Family Islands.
-46- The FNM, in the new term, will expand programmes to assist the elderly, ill and physically challenged in our communities to participate in family, school, church and other community activities.
Social Services That Empower
he Free National Movement is committed elderly, ill and physically challenged in our T to a positive philosophy of strong families communities to participate in family, school, and community enrichment. The Free Nat- church and other community activities. ional Movement believes in the equality of all citizens and in the right of Bahamians to op- Focus On Women portunities for development, so as to live full and productive lives, and to work, in whatever The Free National Movement respects the sphere of endeavour they desire, with dignity women of The Bahamas as equal partners and pride. The Free National Movement with men in national development. honours the youth, the aged, the physically We are committed to establishing full challenged and the marginalized, and is equity for women in our society, so that their sensitive to their varying needs. talents, coupled with that of the men of The Having increased non-contributory old-age Bahamas, can build a better and more pros- pensions to $200 per month and having in- perous country. The Free National Move- creased benefits to widows, orphans and the disabled the FNM, in the new term, will: ment is proud to have passed legislation to repeal the law of primogeniture, and to pro- vide for women to inherit from their parents in ♦ Enact legislation to provide a the same way as men do. contributory, fully-funded Unemploy- The FNM is proud to have passed a new ment Insurance Programme. Employment Act requiring equal pay for equal work for women and men. The FNM is also ♦ Introduce a national, contributory, proud to have provided women with the fully-funded Catastrophic Health opportunity to play pivotal roles in the Insurance Plan; development of The Bahamas over the past nine and a half years, having appointed ♦ Expand programmes to assist the women to such high offices as Governor- -47- The FNM, in the new term, will establish a special Task Force to assess the challenges facing Bahamian men and to make recommendations for overcoming those challenges.
General, Cabinet Minister, Chief Justice and ♦ Develop meaningful employment President of the Court of Appeal, and sup- and retraining programmes for ported the election of the first female Speaker women displaced in a changing of the House of Assembly. Bahamian economy.
Better support working mothers by The FNM, in the new term, will: ♦ the development of additional day- care facilities. ♦ Continue to promote amendments to the Constitution in order to grant ♦ Further develop the Bureau of Bahamian women all the rights and Women’s Affairs to fulfill its privileges granted to Bahamian men mandate by providing increased in the Constitution. funding and technical support.
Focus On Men
While Bahamian men have no legal and programmes to deal with the peculiar cha- institutional impediment to their development llenges facing some of the nation’s men. and participation in our society, the Free National Movement recognizes that there are The FNM, in the new term, will: special challenges confronting some men that call for focused attention. ♦ Establish a special Task Force to Such challenges include drug abuse, assess the challenges facing lifestyle diseases including HIV/AIDS; low Bahamian men and to make participation in higher education relative to recommendations for overcoming Bahamian women; custody issues relating to those challenges. their children; and a higher incidence of crime and incarceration than among women. It is a ♦ Promote the development of, and priority of the FNM to create policies and provide support for, associations -48- The FNM, in the new term, will enact legislation to provide equal rights for disabled persons and provide protection against discrimin- ation, victimization and harassment. that address the challenges that rights for disabled persons and pro- men face. vide protection against discri- mination, victimization and harass- ment. ♦ Work with the Church to provide family counseling opportunities for ♦ Launch a substantive education men in need. campaign aimed at sensitizing the society to the needs of the Review the laws relating to child ♦ disabled. custody with a view to amendment to afford both fathers and mothers ♦ Further integrate children with legal rights to custody. disabilities into the regular school environment by providing the Empowering The Disabled necessary expertise and facilities.
Ensure that disabled students have he Free National Movement Government ♦ T has been committed to putting an end to access to technical and vocational the pervasive and unfair discrimination programmes within government- against disabled persons that denied them operated schools and The Bahamas the opportunity to pursue a full and meaning- Technical and Vocational Institute. ful life in our country, and, in June of 1999, the FNM Government accepted the Report of ♦ Provide increased housing for the National Task Force on Disability. disabled persons.
Accordingly, the FNM, in the new term, Ensure that public transportation will: ♦ provides for the needs of disabled ♦ Enact legislation to provide equal persons.
-49- The FNM, in the new term, will further increase support for after- school activities in sports, youth clubs, marching bands and cultural organizations. Youth Development
oung Bahamians represent the promise Push to facilitate moral instruction Y of an even better Bahamas. Their for the nation’s youth. intellect and energy are the resources required to accelerate our nation’s develop- ♦ The Youth Enterprise Initiative to ment. The Free National Movement is comm- consolidate and advance tted to helping our youth develop a clear comprehensive training perspective of their future and the future of programmes aimed at young people our country. in business.
The FNM, in the new term, will create: ♦ The Youth Leadership Development Series to provide training in ♦ The Youth in Sports Health Initiative leadership and the practice of that will enlist young Bahamians in leadership in matters of community recreational and competitive sports and national life. as a means of promoting physical health and well-being. ♦ The Bahamas Youth Service Corp to give young Bahamians the opportunity to volunteer for service ♦ The Next Generation Educational to civic organizations, communities Excellence Initiative to encourage and the nation. higher academic, technical and professional skills. ♦ Further increase support for after- ♦ The Youth Hand in Hand Initiative to school activities in sports, youth promote peace and fellowship clubs, marching bands and cultural between Bahamian youth for the organizations. building of a more cohesive society. ♦ Develop additional Community ♦ The Youth Character Formation Centres to provide suitable space -50- Addressing the many facets of crime has been a key concern of the FNM.
for students to complete homework walking paths, tennis and assignments and for appropriate basketball courts, baseball fields, neighbourhood group activities for sand-pit play areas and picnic young persons and for other areas with restrooms. members of the community. ♦ Launch a National Mentoring ♦ Extend the Community Park System Programme for young people. to offer a variety of facilities -
Security And Justice
Crime
ne of the most serious threats to the The FNM Government is strongly con- O quality of the life of Bahamians in 1992 vinced that there is no quick fix to the break- was a spiraling increase in the rate of crime, down in respect for law and order and a back- particularly violent crime, and a government logged legal and judicial system which was with no plan to solve the problem. chronically understaffed and under-funded, a This led to a fortress mentality in the Police Force which was inade-quately country as the Bahamian people barricaded equipped and which was inadequately trained their homes with metal bars and with alarm in modern policing techniques, a Defence systems, and increasingly feared to venture Force which was sometimes confined to port outside after dark. because of inoperable vessels and no fuel to Crime is a multifaceted social phenom- operate the coast guard fleet, and an over- enon with no single solution. Addressing the crowded prison system which had become a many facets of crime has been a key concern school of crime and a dormitory for illegal of the FNM. Notwithstanding the measurable immigrants. progress against crime to date, much remains That state of affairs had evolved over a to be done. period of more than a decade when the PLP
-51- The FNM, in the new term, will convert the Police College into the Bahamas Police Academy, and extend course offerings to include modern practical components of policing.
Government gave scant attention to a rapidly work centres in densely populated neighbour- changing social environment impacted by the hoods and expanded youth outreach by infiltration of traffickers of illicit drugs. At the increasing grants to organized youth groups same time, scant attention was given to the in the community. development of our youth. Government- The FNM Government appointed a “Blue operated schools fell into disrepair, teachers Ribbon” Task Force on Crime made up of and tuition materials were in short supply, as leading judicial, religious and other com- were programmes to meet the needs of munity leaders. disaffected and at-risk youth. The Report of the Task Force, submitted In an holistic approach to crime, the FNM, to the Government in September, 1998, has during its first term in office, more than doub- influenced the further development of the led the funding allocated to the legal and FNM’s policies and programmes to combat judicial system, improved and strengthened crime at all levels of society. This includes: police training, purchased new police trans- portation equipment and a new commu- ♦ Enhancement and restructuring of nications system, and commenced the the uniform branches of the service. civilianization of the police force. Further, the FNM Government increased ♦ The development of additional funding for the Defence Force, built new recreational facilities. magistrates courts, engaged additional num- bers of magistrates, introduced steno- typists ♦ Increased support for after-school in the magistrates court, established a Su- activities and improved programmes preme Court and Supreme Court Registry in targeted to meet the needs of “at- Freeport, established a full time Court of risk” youth. Appeal and started the systemic update of our criminal laws to meet the new, sophisticated ♦ An all-out assault by the police on and violent crime confronting society. firearms in the community. Simultaneously, the FNM Government began a country-wide repair and upgrade of ♦ The expansion of community the government-operated school plant, in- policing programmes, and a clarion creased the number of teachers and the call on the public - the church, supply of tuition materials, introduced home- businessmen, parents, and non-
-52- The Free National Movement Govement has significantly improved the emoluments and the training of the police and defence forces.
governmental and civic groups - to time and which is today headed by play their part by not tolerating a Bahamian. crime, protecting criminals or benefitting from crime. ♦ Completed the exhaustive review and update of the laws of The The FNM has also: Bahamas particularly with regard to laws abused by criminals to protect ♦ Significantly improved the illegal gains. emoluments and the training of the police and defence forces. ♦ Constructed a new Detention ♦ Substantially increased the vehicles Facility for Illegal Immigrants. and equipment available to the police force. ♦ Constructed a new 80 cell block at Her Majesty’s Prison at Fox Hill, ♦ Increased and upgraded the fleet of reducing the overcrowding in that the defence force. facility.
♦ Increased the number of magi- strates courts and magistrates. ♦ Expanded and upgraded the government-operated school ♦ Commissioned the construction of system. Supreme and Magistrates court facilities in Freeport, Grand ♦ More than doubled grant-in-aid to Bahama. church-operated schools.
♦ Increased the number of Supreme ♦ Expanded community youth out- Court Justices. reach programmes. ♦ Provided premises and established aresident Court ofAppeal on which ♦ Put in place a stronger safety-net Bahamian jurists serve for the first for the most needy in our society.
-53- Significant strides have been made in improving the capacity of the Police Force to prevent and detect crime.
The impact of these various initiatives upgraded the Force Garage; brought about a 17% reduction in serious crime last year. ♦ Upgraded the communication The FNM, in the new term, will, in addition system. to its extensive social programme outlined in Manifesto 2002, will continue to give focused attention to the uniformed branches of the ♦ Promoted deserving officers. public service responsible for promoting an orderly and peaceful society. ♦ Increased salaries; and improved the conditions of service, including enacting legislation to provide for a The Royal Bahamas Police Association and an extension Police Force of the mandatory retirement age.
Since 1992, significant strides have been made in improving the capacity of the Police he Royal Bahamas Police Force is the Force to prevent and detect crime and to T primary line of defence and protection for apprehend and bring suspects to trial. 2001 Bahamian citizens. The members of the Force therefore deserve the full support and coop- saw a 17% decrease in overall crime; a re- eration of the Government and of all citizens. duction, by 42% , in the number of murders; Since 1992, the Free National Movement and a 38% decrease in the incidences of has substantially upgraded and enhanced the armed robbery over the previous year. manpower and the material condition of the Police Force. We have: To build upon these accomplishments, ♦ Upgraded and expanded training and the FNM, in the new term, will: re-training programmes available at the Police College for recruits, junior ♦ Further review the salary scales of and mid-level officers. police officers as a part of the review being conducted for other ♦ Increased the vehicle fleet and public officers.
-54- 2001 saw a 17% decrease in overall crime; a reduction, by 42% , in the number of murders; and a 38% decrease in the incidences of armed robbery over the previous year.
♦ Enhance and upgrade training, Programmes for Family Island locally and internationally, for junior Officers to continue their education. and senior police officers, in criminal investigation, and forensic, ♦ Continue Community Policing ballistic and crime scene Programme. investigation techniques. The Royal Bahamas ♦ Increase insurance coverage for all Defence Force Police Officers. The Free National Movement recognizes Continue to develop and expand the ♦ that the Royal Bahamas Defence Force plays Police Cadet Programme. a critical role in the protection of the territorial integrity of The Bahamas. ♦ Continue the civilianisation of the The Defence Force also holds an import- administrative functions of the ant responsibility for the enforcement of the Police Force, so as to maximize the Immigration and Fisheries laws of The Baha- number of trained police officers mas. relieved of desk-bound duty. Together with the Royal Bahamas Police ♦ Establish a National Forensic Force, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force Institute, with a DNA section, to forms the country’s first line of defence operate independently, but in against smugglers of illicit narcotic drugs and conjunction with the Police Force. against the transport of undocumented aliens. The Free National Movement recognizes ♦ Convert the Police College into the the growing critical importance of the Defence Bahamas Police Academy, and Force in the area of search and rescue and in extend course offerings to include modern practical components of disaster preparedness and emergency re- policing, and enhanced formal sponse. training in criminal and constitut- We have: ional law and the laws of tort. ♦ Substantially improved the con- ♦ Establish Distance Education dition and upgraded the main- -55- The FNM, in the new term, will increase the allocation of resources to the Royal Bahamas Defence Force.
tenance of the Royal Bahamas listed personnel and officers of the Defence Force fleet. Defence Force to 1000.
♦ Established a properly manned and ♦ Enhance insurance coverage for all equipped search and rescue unit. Defence Force Officers.
♦ Acquired vessels to permit the ♦ Increase the allocation of resources introduction of continuous harbour to the Royal Bahamas Defence patrol in New Providence. Force for the purchase of additional craft and night vision equipment ♦ Acquired large craft to enhance the and technology for locating suspect patrol capacity of the Force; ocean vessels.
♦ Improved the Defence Force ♦ Further expand and develop the Base at Matthew Town, Inagua. Base at Inagua.
♦ Improved the conditions of service ♦ Expand the Air Wing to improve the and salaries for all enlisted detection capability of the Force. persons. ♦ Accelerate and intensify local and The FNM, in its new term, will: international training available to members of the Defence Force. ♦ Further review the salary scales of Defence Force Officers as a part of ♦ Complete the Defence Force the review being conducted for Training Centre and develop it into other public officers. a first class maritime training facility. ♦ Continue the review of the con- ditions of service in the Defence Force.
♦ Increase the complement of en- -56- The Free National Movement is proud of its record of appointment of distinguished Bahamian jurists.
The Judiciary
he Free National Movement subscribes to The Free National Movement is proud of T the tenet Justice Delayed, is Justice its record of appointment of distinguished Denied. Hence, addressing the backlog in the Bahamian jurists to the Supreme Court Bench judicial system in 1992 was a high priority for and to the Court of Appeal, and particularly in the Free National Movement. its appointment of the first female Chief Focused attention was given to expand- Justice and first Bahamian Justice of the ing the judiciary and increasing funding for Court of Appeal. additional courts and support staff. In the Office of the Attorney General, the Since 1992, a resident Court of Appeal post of Director of Public Prosecutions was has been instituted, the Supreme Court Bench created and the number of legal counsel has been extended to Grand Bahama and the engaged significantly increased. The upgrade number of Supreme Court Justices was and expansion of educational and vocational increased from 7 to 11. rehabilitative programmes at Her Majesty’s Additional court stenographers were Prison at Fox Hill have increased oppor- engaged to improve efficiencies in court tunities for inmates to improve their skills and, records; the Legal Libraries for the Court of hence, their reintegration into society upon Appeal and the Supreme Court were up- completion of their sentences and their re- graded; new laws of The Bahamas, including lease from prison. amendments and new legislation up to 3 April, FNM policies in the administration of 2002, the date of the Dissolution of the Parlia- ment, is complete and will soon become avail- justice have contributed meaningfully to an able in bound and loose leaf binder versions enhanced judicial and legal service, to a and on CD ROM. reduction in the back-log in the Courts, and to The number of magistrates and magi- the introduction of a wider range of rehabilita- strates courts was increased; and full-time tive programmes in the prison system, with a Coroner’s and Environmental Courts were resulting positive impact on the incidence of established. crime. A project is currently underway to fully Nevertheless, the FNM accepts that computerize the Courts. further efficiencies in the Court system are -57- The FNM, in he new term, will construct a Supreme Court complex to provide improved facilities and security for judges, court employees, jurors, victims and accused persons.
possible with functionally designed court Immigration facilities.
To maintain its record of progress, the he FNM shares the concern of Baham- FNM, in the new term, will: T ians who fear the effect of large-scale immigration on the small population base of Construct a Supreme Court ♦ The Bahamas. complex to provide improved It is a fundamental tenet of the FNM that facilities and security for judges, The Bahamas’ Immigration Policy exists to court employees, jurors, victims and protect the interests of Bahamians first and to accused persons. ensure that all immigration to The Bahamas serves to improve the quality and standard of ♦ Construct in New Providence a new living of Bahamian citizens. Ours is an open Magistrates Court Complex bringing economy whose successful development, all Magistrates Courts into a single location with facilities and security over the years, has relied upon an inflow of for magistrates, court employees, foreign investment in the tourism sector and victims and accused persons. international experience and skills in the international financial services sector. ♦ Complete the installation of the Both, by their nature, require the involve- Integrated Justice Information ment of international persons in domestic System. operations. While seeking to expand international in- ♦ Continue initiatives to attract vestment in The Bahamas to grow the Bah- distinguished Bahamian legal amian economy, create additional jobs and practitioners to service on the Bench. business opportunities for Bahamians and attract new and advanced technologies to our ♦ Produce effective alternatives to country, the FNM Government has made it a incarceration of youthful offenders. requirement for international investors to maximise the use of Bahamians in the con- struction, set-up, operation and management of their enterprises. The FNM has persuaded international
-58- Recruit, train and deploy additional Immigration Officers.
businesses locating in The Bahamas to maxi- The FNM is concerned at the continued mise opportunities for international expo-sure influx of undocumented economic migrants of Bahamian nationals through staff ex- from a number of regional countries, some changes and international training opport- intending to ultimately relocate to North unities. America, but all creating unplanned and The growing number of Bahamians in unwelcome demands on the social, health senior management positions in the hotel and and educational resources of The Bahamas financial services sector, and in the new con- and increasing the cost of law enforcement. tainer transshipment and ship repair concerns The continued proliferation of illegal in Grand Bahama, and the growing number of immigration has caused the FNM Government Bahamians afforded opportunities for over- to construct and staff the Carmichael Road seas assignments and training by their inter- Detention Centre to hold illegal immigrants national employers, are evidence of the suc- repatriation to their countries of origin. cess of this policy. The Centre is staffed by the Royal Baha- The number of Bahamians engaged in mas Defence Force and the Department of Bahamian businesses servicing international Immigration. This new Centre has improved businesses located in The Bahamas as law- security features to eliminate the inadequa- yers, accountants, and public relations spec- cies of the old facility. The operation of the ialists, investment consultants, and in trade Centre signals to the illegal migrant com- and retail, is significant and growing. munity that while The Bahamas Government The FNM believes that all non-Bahamians is committed to their humane apprehension wishing to enter The Bahamas and to part- and detention, illegal immigrants will not be icipate in our economy must do so legally. permitted to remain in The Bahamas. They must secure appropriate autho- risation of an Immigration Officer at an est- The FNM, in the new term, will: ablished port of entry, and ought not engage in any gainful occupation unless they are in ♦ Improve the security features of all possession of work permits issued by the immigration-issued permits to Department of Immigration. prevent the production and use of The FNM believes that work permits fraudulent immigration documents. should only be granted for international persons where suitably qualified Bahamians ♦ Increase dialogue with major are not available. companies and businesses
-59- The FNM, in the new term, will encourage international companies located in The Bahamas to expand opportunities for Bahamian staff.
employing significant interna tional staff to ensure that Baha- ♦ Recruit, train and deploy additional mian citizens are afforded em Immigration Officers. ployment and long term career opportunities in their organiza- ♦ Enforce Immigration laws against tions. the employers of illegal immigrants and persons not in possession of ♦ Work with the Trade Unions and the valid work permits prior to their Employers Confederations to arrival in The Bahamas to take up develop training programmes to employment. facilitate maximum exposure of Bahamians to the evolving ♦ Through a sustained policy of ap- prehension and repatriation, further requirements of industry. reduce the number of illegal immi- grants in The Bahamas. ♦ Encourage international companies located in The Bahamas to expand opportunities for Bahamian staff to benefit from international profess- Prison Reform ional attachments and staff ex- changes to assist in their profess- The Prison at Fox Hill is the only such ional development. institution in The Bahamas. Constructed to accommodate 600 prisoners in 1952 the prison has suffered serious over-crowding for ♦ Refuse work permits to individuals more than two decades. The prison popula- who enter the country as visitors, or tion is reflective of the increase in the Baha- who have entered the country mian population, the explosion of drug crime, illegally. beginning in the late 1970s and early 1980s, and the influx of growing numbers of illegal ♦ Further review the Salary Scale of immigrants, for whom no alternative detention immigration officers as a part of the facility existed. exercise being conducted for all The FNM Government undertook an public officers. overall review of the inadequacies of the
-60- The FNM, in the new term, will further review the salary scales of prison officers.
prison system, including the absence of a The FNM, in its new term, will: Remand Centre and the unsatisfactory level of rehabilitative programmes important to the ♦ Further review the salary scales of reduction of increase recidivism and to prison officers as a part of the exercise being conducted for all improve the reintegration of convicted per- public officers. sons in society following completion of their sentences. ♦ Increase training programmes for prison officers. The FNM Government has: ♦ Increase the number of prison ♦ Introduced modern prison officers. management systems resulting in the reduction of the number of ♦ Introduce additional modern individuals held in the prison methods of prison management. system on remand. ♦ Further upgrade and expand rehabilitative programmes available ♦ Improved medical and dental to inmates. services available to inmates.
♦ Construct a new maximum security ♦ Introduced increased academic and prison to further reduce over- vocational instruction for inmates. crowding.
♦ Contributed to the reduction in the ♦ Upgrade and convert the existing over-crowded conditions at the Prison into a medium security prison as a result of the estab- facility. lishment of an Immigration Det- ention Centre.
♦ Constructed a new 80 cell prison block.
-61- The FNM, in the new term, will double the Government’s annual budgeted allocation for grants to sporting Associations.
The Power Of Sports
The Free National Movement has given special priority to the development of sports.
he FNM has put in place a budget allloc- mance of our ”Golden Girls”: Shandra, T ation of $1 million for grants to Sporting Eldece, Pauline, Savatheda and Debbie; and Associations; put in place subventions to elite its first Gold Medal in Men’s Track at the athletes; constructed the Kendal Isaacs Gym- World Track and Field Championships for the nasium for hosting major basketball, volleyball performance of our “Golden Knight”, Avard. and other national and international tourna- The FNM believes that The Bahamas can ments and events; installed an Olym-pic qual- achieve even more in sports and that sports ity Mondo Track at the Thomas A. Robinson can be a significant development tool in our Stadium; constructed new Little and Pony nation. League fields; constructed, in part-nership with Mrs. Betty Kelly-Kenning, (a gen-erous Baha- The FNM, in the new term, will: mian benefactor), the Betty Kenn-ing Aquatic Centre - a multi-million dollar aqu-atic facility ♦ Establish a National Sports Authority to promote, develop and with an Olympic-size swimming pool; provided regulate sports. land leases for the develop-ment of a national tennis centre, a national soccer centre, race track and cycling track; caused to be con- ♦ Create a “Sport for All” policy to structed a multi-purpose sports facility in encourage each Bahamian to Freeport, with a world class running track; and participate in at least one sport for substantially upgraded and developed addi- health and recreation. tional sporting facilities in the nation. The FNM is proud that these initiatives ♦ Develop a national plan for the contributed to The Bahamas first Olympic maintenance of all existing sporting Gold Medal in Track and Field for the perfor- facilities.
-62- The FNM, in the new term, will Double the Government’s annual bud- geted allocation for grants to sporting Associations.
♦ Double the Government’s annual ♦ Recruit more sporting coaches with budgeted allocation for grants to international experience and sporting Associations. expertise to train our athletes and to conduct training programmes for ♦ Accelerate the programme of coaches. construction of additional sporting facilities in the Family Islands. ♦ Construct and equip a National Sports Stadium at the Queen ♦ In conjunction with tourism, our Elizabeth Sports Centre. Olympic Association and sporting federations, aggressively promote ♦ Construct gymnasia adequate to The Bahamas as a centre for the needs of the communities, in regional and international sporting Abaco, Grand Bahama, Eleuthera, events. Long Island and Exuma.
Promoting Our Culture
he Bahamas has a proud history. We are property; for the use, reproduction or sale of T blessed with a rich culture and a thriving the copyrighted material. folklore and a long tradition of talented artists. The strengthening of our culture is a priority Establishing Permanent of the Free National Movement. Cultural Institutions The FNM respects the right of Bahamian artists to benefit financially from their talent The FNM, in the new term, will: and to maintain control over the use of their work. This belief influenced the FNM Govern- ♦ Further refine the National Policy ment to enact a new Copyright Act providing on Culture, which will mainstream the legal framework for the regs- tration of cultural issues throughout all original works of art, photography, music and sectors of our society, the ultimate literary works; for the payment of copyright goal being to foster a strong royalty fees to the owner of the intellectual Bahamian identity. -63- The FNM, in the new term, will restore Fort Montagu, Fort Fincastle and Fort Charlotte.
♦ Establish National Institutions that ♦ Further promote and expand the can further contribute to the National Arts Festival. ongoing development of the intellectual and cultural assets of ♦ Promote and increase funding to Bahamians. The National Endowment for the Arts. ♦ Complete the following key projects which are currently in progress: ♦ Provide seed capital for the development of cultural pro- ♦ The National Library grammes for television and radio.
♦ The National Art Gallery ♦ Position the Bahamas as a premiere destination for Cultural Festivals, year round. In this ♦ The National Museum regard, an FNM Government will strengthen existing island ♦ The National Centre for The festivals and encourage the Performing Arts development of others such as Junkanoo Festivals, Comedy ♦ The National Junkanoo Festivals, Poetry and Storytelling Expo. Festivals, Traditional Games Festivals, Theatre Seasons, and ♦ Restore Fort Montagu, Fort Gospel Festivals. Fincastle and Fort Charlotte and make them the centrepieces of ♦ Post Regatta dates on National a broader heritage-tourism sporting and cultural calendars; ensure that the Bahamian flavour programme. of Regatta is maintained in its various dimensions and increase Make Arawak Cay a Festival site ♦ the promotion of Regattas and ensure regularly scheduled internationally. cultural activities for the enjoyment of Bahamian families and visitors. ♦ Put in place a Bahamian Show- -64- The FNM, in the new term, will Establish an independent statutory commission with responsibility for the organization of the Junkanoo parades
place every two years where convinced that Junkanoo can be raised to the Bahamian entertainers, writers, international stature of the pre-Lenten Carni- artists, artisans and musicians can vals of Brazil and Trinidad and Tobago. interact and exhibit for national and international record and music The FNM, in the new term, will: producers, publishers, agents, distributors, wholesale buyers and ♦ Establish an independent statutory media houses. commission with responsibility for the organization of the Junkanoo parades and for the development Junkanoo and promotion of Junakanoo in general.
he Free National Movement has sup- ♦ Promote Junkanoo, through T ported the strengthening of the Junkanoo the Statutory Commission Parades by removing customs duties on all working in conjunction with materials used in the production of Junkanoo the Ministry of Tourism and the costumes; increasing funding for all Junkanoo Hotel Associations, as a major Groups and Individuals; making land available attraction for visitors to to established Junkanoo Groups for the The Bahamas, creating new construction of Junkanoo Shacks; increasing employment and business public seating capacity at the Junkanoo opportunities for Junkanoo parades; elevating and promoting Junior artisans, costume makers, taxi Junkanoo; and improving the security of the and tour drivers, vendors and annual parades. hotel owners and operators. The Free National Movement is committed to fulfilling its promise to ensure that ♦ Establish a loans programme at Junkanoo achieves its full potential in order The Bahamas Development Bank that it might contribute further to the social, to provide capital for the manu- cultural and economic development of The facture of Junkanoo collectibles, Bahamas. The Free National Movement is souvenirs and art forms. -65- The FNM, in the new term, will provide access to adequate afford- able housing by guaranteeing loans for renovating existing or constructing new homes, with easy repayment terms. Improved Communities
Urban Redevelopment
he Free National Movement believes that ♦ Provide access to adequate T urban redevelopment must be an ongoing affordable housing by guaranteeing process. Basic infrastructure, health services, loans for renovating existing or education and other social services are ese- constructing new homes, with easy ntial to the well-being and self-esteem of a repayment terms. people; sub-standard housing contributes to an unhealthy environment; and lack of eco- ♦ Cause to be renovated and nomic activity contributes to the destabili- rehabilitated, dilapidated housing sation of communities. units in the “Over-the-Hill” The Free National Movement recognizes neighbourhoods of New Providence that to implement its programmes for econ- and in heavily populated areas of omic development, education and training, Grand Bahama via easy term housing, social and recreational development, mortgages and home improvement the Government must put in place a con- loans through The Bahamas certed, focused and sustained programme to respond to urgent urban development needs. Mortgage Corporation, or through government loan-guarantee Accordingly, the FNM, in the new term, schemes with private financial will: institutions.
♦ Encourage economic revitalization ♦ Provide, within low-income comm- by creating incentives, including the unities, social and recreational removal of Real Property Tax and facilities to encourage the healthy Business License Fees for specified development of children and adults periods of time, for enterprises and to foster a sense of community, established in or near densely- social accountability, public safety populated urban areas. and personal well-being.
-66- The FNM, in the new term, will encourage economic revitalization by the removal of Real Property Tax and Business License Fees for specified periods of time for enterprises established in or near densely-populated urban areas.
Further, in an attack upon environmen- Crown Land for residential and commercial tal degradation in our inner city areas in development resulted in many Bahamians, particular, the FNM, in the new term, will: particularly in the Family Islands, constructing homes and business enterprises on Crown ♦ Provide for the landscaping of Public Lands with neither security of tenure nor fee Areas and Government Buildings. simple title. The FNM pledged to address this neglect and, since 1992, the FNM Govern- ♦ Construct and maintain toilet blocks ment has approved land Grants and Crown on Public Parks. leases to more than 5,000 Baha-mians, regu- larizing their occupation of Crown Land and/or ♦ Put in place garbage holding facilities providing vacant Crown Land for the develop- at appropriate Public Places. ment of residences and for commercial enter- prises. ♦ Continue the programme of cleaning The FNM Government has also trans- ferred land to the Department of Housing to vacant lots, removing derelict facilitate the development of new housing vehicles and beautifying cleared subdivisions and new low and middle-income areas. housing projects. In disposing of Crown Lands, the FNM ♦ Create additional open green spaces Government is sensitive to the need to retain in our communities. for the enjoyment of the general public, win- dows to the sea, large tracts of open green Management Of Crown Lands spaces at interior locations of our islands, forest reserves, and wetlands and other lands unsuitable for development, but important to Prior to the election of the FNM to Gov- the conservation of the marine and land ernment the population was outraged at the biodiversity of The Bahamas. perennial neglect and abuse by the previous administration of the management and dispo- The FNM, in the new term, will: sition of Crown Lands. The not-orious inaction by the previous Government on applications ♦ Discontinue the fee simple sale by Bahamians for the lease or purchase of of entire Crown Cays to private
-67- The FNM, in the new term, will make Crown Land available at concessionary rates to Bahamian nationals for residential development, particularly in the Family Islands.
individuals, except where prior particularly on the more pop- commitments exist, preserving ulated islands, preserve windows the right of existing private to the sea and easy access to owners of cays in The Bahamas beaches for the enjoyment of the to dispose of their cays in con- public. formity with Bahamian laws ♦ Make Crown Land available at ♦ Preserve the seabed for the concessionary rates to Bahamian Crown. nationals for residential develop- ment, particularly in the Family Islands. ♦ When granting or leasing ocean or sea-front land, retain a Crown ♦ Make Crown Land available to Reserve between the ocean/sea developers with a demonstrated and the property granted for ability to finance and carry out private development. economic development projects with significant economic benefit to ♦ Where unalienated Crown Land the Bahamian economy, particularly exists at the sea or ocean shore, in the area of job creation.
-68- The FNM Government approved the development of a major container transshipment port and of a mega ship repair and care facility.
Developing Our Islands
he development of Grand Bahama and their present population size. T the Family Islands is crucial to the con- The FNM has delivered Freeport from tinued economic success of The Bahamas the economic gloom imposed by the previous With a view to the sustainable develop- administration, and has amended the Hawks- ment of the Family Islands, the FNM Govern- bill Creek Agreement Act, extending exempt- ment has introduced programmes of infra- ions from Real Property Tax and Business structural development - roads, electricity and License until 2015 and opening the door for telecommunication services, water supply the inflow of important investment dollars systems, cable television and sea and air- from major international companies. ports throughout the islands of The Bahamas. Having introduced elected Local Govern- The FNM has: ment to Grand Bahama and the Family Islands and having substantially upgraded the ♦ Facilitated the entry into Freeport of infrastructure of the islands, the FNM will a major electricity producing com- introduce additional initiatives to generate pany, the missing ingredient for the economic activity in the Family Islands. The resurgence of Freeport’s manu- Family Islands are now well positioned to facturing and industrial sector. benefit from further development projects. ♦ Approved the development of a Grand Bahama major container transshipment port and of a mega ship repair and care Grand Bahama Island, home to the City of facility. Freeport, The Bahamas’ industrial capital, offers one of the world’s most attractive packages of ♦ Guided the revitalization of investment incentives, tax incentives, first world Freeport’s tourism sector infrastructure, and strategic location. Freeport and Grand Bahama Island have ♦ Implemented polices which resulted the capacity and the potential to comfortably in the revitalization of Freeport’s support a population several times larger than property market. -69- The FNM, in the new term, will create an industrial park in East Grand Bahama.
The FNM Government has patently suc- ♦ Construct day care centres for the ceeded in turning around Grand Bahama’s children of working mothers in fortunes. Freeport and Eight Mile Rock.
The FNM, in the new term, will: ♦ Construct a Town Centre at Eight Mile Rock to provide accommo- ♦ Continue to support the expan- dation for a police station, sion and development of Freeport Central and Local Government as the industrial capital of The offices, a public library and a post Bahamas. office.
♦ Create an industrial park in East ♦ Encourage further economic activity Grand Bahama. in Grand Bahama by offering incentives, including exempting new ♦ Encourage and assist Bahamian businesses, located outside of investors to play an even greater Freeport, from the payment of busi- role in the continued development of Freeport. ness licence, and real property tax, for a period of five years. ♦ In conjunction with the Grand Bahama Port Authority continue to ♦ Construct a new Fishing Hole market and promote Freeport as an Causeway by raising the roadway ideal location for business develop- at least one and a half feet and ment in maritime services, tourism, creating an opening to match the industry, manufacturing and land channel to the Container Port. development. ♦ Construct a new highway along ♦ Construct new Emergency Rooms, an Out-Patient Clinic, and an the outskirts of the communities expanded Pediatric Ward at the of Eight Mile Rock and Holmes’ Rand Hospital, as a first phase in Rock to link Freeport and West the redevelopment of that Hospital. End. ♦ Construct a Junior High School in Freeport. ♦ Cause to be undertaken the -70- The FNM, in the new term, will complete the installation of medical emergency night lights at Airports at Cat Island, Long sland, Acklins, and Crooked Island.
environmental clean-up of service to most of the Family Hawksbill Creek. Islands.
♦ Encourage greater environmental ♦ Regularized the occupation of awareness. Crown Land for thousands of residents in the Family Islands ♦ Require the adoption of environ- and facilitated the purchase of mentally sustainable strategies to Crown and Government owned land be employed by all developers at concessionary rates. and contractors. ♦ Amended the Hotels Encourage- ment Act to permit hotels with as Family Islands few as four rooms to qualify for concessions. The FNM Government is committed to pursuing policies which will support the ♦ Put in place a Family Island sustainable development of the Family Development Encouragement Act. Islands. The FNM, in the new term, will: The FNM has: ♦ Extend the Family Island ♦ Introduced elected Local Development Encouragement Act. Government in the Family Islands. ♦ Complete the installation of medical emergency night lights at ♦ Substantially upgraded the infra- Airports at Cat Island, Long structure of the Family Islands, Island, Acklins, and Crooked including the electrification of all Island. populated islands and settle- ments in The Bahamas. ♦ Introduce inter-active Distance Education to Family Island ♦ Introduced cable television Schools, particularly to facilitate
-71- The FNM, in the new term, provide Government-guar- anteed loans for Bahamian-owned Family Island resort developments of four or more rooms, and for other tourism related facilities.
instruction in the sciences and Family Island resort develop- specialist subjects where the ments of four or more rooms, and number of students do no warrant for other tourism related facilities. the posting of full-time specialist instructors. ♦ Continue to promote the Family Islands as separate and unique ♦ Continue to make Crown Land vacation destinations. available on a concessionary basis to support the expansion ♦ Continue to promote inter-island of Family Island agriculture. cruising and internal vacations for Bahamians. ♦ Continue to enforce and maintain environmental guidelines so as to ♦ Continue to promote the develop- ensure the environmental sus- ment of small Bahamian-owned tainability of all development projects on the Family Islands. resorts, guesthouses and other tourism -related attractions and ♦Provide Government-guaranteed facilities on the Family Islands loans for Bahamian-owned
-72- The FNM has measurably improved the environs of the City of Nassau.
Infrastructure Development
Public Buildings continuous road and road verges improvement and maintenance. odern, efficient infrastructure is essent- ial to the continued development of The M ♦ Completed an extensive gov- Bahamas and to the sustainability of the ernment construction programme, prosperity achieved as a result of nine and a including the new Customs half years of responsible government and House Complex in Oakes Field, fiscal discipline since 1992. the new Criminal Investigation Department premisis the new The FNM has: Ministry of Health Office Complex ♦ Established a new standard of at Meeting, Augusta and Delancy maintenance of public buildings. Streets; new Town Centres at Carmichael Road, South Beach ♦ Measurably improved the environs of the City of Nassau. and Elizabeth Estates; the new Government Headquarters;r the new Northern Police Head- ♦ Undertake an urban renewal programme in inner city suburbs quarters in Grand Bahama; and of New Providence by fostering the new Betty Kelly-Kenning and encouraging greater environ- Aquatic Complex at the Queen mental and cultural awareness. Elizabeth Sports Centre.
♦ Increased the number and up- ♦ Commenced construction of the graded the quality of public new Ministry of Education, Youth parks, open green spaces and and Sport Office Complex in recreational facilities. Oakes Field, and the new married and single police officer resi- ♦ Put in place a programme for dences and dorms in Grand
-73- Complete the three-year New Providence Road Improvement Project.
Bahama, and a new high school for cruise ships at the Dock, the on Prince Charles Drive. Straw Market Complex is equip- ped with modern fire-fighting The FNM, in the new term, will: equipment, and was designed with ample aisles to accommo- ♦ Complete the construction, furn- date easy entrance, exit and ishing and outfit of all Govern- interior circulation. ment offices and school com- plexes now under construction. Roads, Ports And Docks ♦ Complete the Ministry of Edu- cation Youth and Sports Office he FNM is committed to bringing the Complex. T roads, ports and docks of The Bahamas to the standard expected and required in a country of our level of development and ♦ Construct government admini- prosperity. strative complexes in selected Having followed a programme of extensive Family Islands. redevelopment of infrastrucutre over the past nine and a half years, the FNM Government ♦ Complete the $ 5 million con- has rid the country, and particularly the Fam- version of the Customs Ware- ily Islands, of a reputation for poorly main- house on Prince George Dock tained pot-holed roads. into a new Straw Market to acco- mmodate 604 straw vendor The FNM. in the new term, will: stalls on the ground floor, and to provide, on three mezzanine ♦ Complete the three-year areas: a separate location for New Providence Road woodcarvers; offices for security Improvement Project. personnel; and Daycare and Cafeteria Facilities for vendors ♦ Create additional road corridors operating in the market. Located in New Providence extending in close proximity to the berths Soldier Road via Fire
-74- The FNM, in the new term, will complete the construction of the new Marsh Harbour Port.
Trail Road to the Airport, and Civil Aviation And Airports extending Cow Pen Road to the Coral Harbour Road. The FNM is committed to the development and maintenance of International Civil Avia- ♦ Continue the Hurricane Rest- tion Organization standards in civil aviation oration Project reinforcing sea regulations. Because the overwhelming majority of air walls and sea defences des- traffic to The Bahamas originates or transits troyed and/or damaged by the United States of America, and indeed, Hurricane Floyd in New consists largely of US-owned airlines, it is Providence, Grand Bahama, important that Bahamian civil aviation Abaco, Eleuthera, Exuma, San standards also meet those of the Federal Salvador, and Cat Island. Aviation Authority. Nassau International Airport is the main ♦ Complete the construction of the port of entry for the vast majority of inter- new Marsh Harbour Port. national stopover visitors to The Bahamas and the hub for domestic air connections. ♦ Continue the road and dock The FNM Government, recognizing that upgrade programme in the Family the orderly and profitable operation of Nassau Islands. International Airport could best be accom- plished if the facility were released from the ♦ Ensure that turning basins and bureaucratic constraints of the Public Service, channels are properly maintained established the Airport Authority and charged so as not to impede mailboat it with the management and future develop- ment of the Airport. deliveries to the Family Islands. As FNM economic development plans and Continue to improve road promotion policies continue to expand, result- structures, sinage and traffic ing in meaningful tourism and other economic management. development in the Family Islands, increased numbers of Bahamians are expected to re- main in or return to their home islands to live and work. -75- The FNM, in the new term,will make the NIA an efficient Hub for domestic air traffic to the Family Islands.
The need for modern, efficient operation ♦ Bring airports in Abaco, Eleuthera of airports throughout the Family Island is and Exuma up to ICAO and FAA ther-efore increasingly important. standards. The FNM Government constructed the new international airport in San Salvador in ♦ Ensure that the Master Plan for fulfillment of an agreement made between the redevelopment and upgrade the previous Administration and the Club of Nassau International Airport is Med chain of hotels, to facilitate the location implemented. of a Club Med Village on the island; acquired the privately owned Rock Sound Airport and ♦ Ensure that the Airport Authority constructed a new terminal and upgraded its is properly capitalized to carry runway; constructed a new terminal building out the necessary upgrade of all at Fresh Creek, Andros, and undertook runways, taxiways and aprons at upgrade works at the airports at Moore’s Nassau International Airport, Island and Sandy Point, Abaco; Bimini; thereby increasing its capacity to Ragged Island and Inagua. handle the expected growth in Work has commenced on the repair and traffic, as well as the projected upgrade of the runways at Great Harbour Cay new styles of passenger and in the Berry Islands, which was recently freight aircraft anticipated to acquired by the Government; and at the come into service over the next airport at North Eleuthera. twenty-five years. Land has been acquired to facilitate the future expansion and upgrade of the airport at ♦ Invite Bahamian entrepreneurs to Rum Cay. partner with the Airport Authority to create a viable Duty Free The FNM, in the new term, will: Shopping Arcade at NIA offering Bahamian and nternational pro- ♦ Establish a modern national ducts. aviation infrastructure to include a National Flight Information ♦ Make the NIA an efficient Hub for Region which will take full control domestic air traffic to the Family of all Bahamian airspace. Islands.
-76- Today, no community in The Bahamas is without access to a centralized electricity supply.
♦ Construct new airport terminals at islands in The Bahamas. Water supply and Sandy Point and Treasure Cay, water quality have been markedly improved, Abaco, The Bight, Cat Island and nowhere more obviously than on New Moss Town, Exuma. Providence, the site of our capital, and home to more than two thirds of our population. ♦ Constructed a new runway and terminal facility at Marsh Harbour, Electricity Abaco. The economic prosperity brought about through sound fiscal management of the Utilities public purse and economic policies adopted and implemented by the FNM Government, resulted in the construction of thousands of he Free National Movement believes new homes and the establishment of hund- T that all residents of Bahamian comm- reds of new businesses, hence the annual unities, irrespective of the location of such increased demand for electricity by some 8% communities in our archipelago, are entitled annually between 1992 and 2000. to enjoy the benefits of the central-ised pro- The number of Bahamas Electricity Corp- vision of utility services, including access to oration consumers increased from 60,260 in electricity, telecommunications and potable water. 1992, to 96,000 by the end of 2000. The To this end, the Free National Movement Grand Bahama Power Company also experienced a one third expansion in the has carried out extensive works to improve number of consumers between 1993 and, and expand access to basic utilities through- 2000 for a total of 16,989 customers. out the islands of The Bahamas, inclusive of This increased demand for electricity the most isolated communities in the northern caused The Bahamas Electricity Corporation and southern extremities of our Common- to substantially increase its generating wealth. capacity in New Providence in a three phased Today, no community in The Bahamas is programme ending in 2001. Greater demand, without access to a centralized electricity similarly, caused an increase in generating supply; and hard line and cellular telephone capacity in Abaco, a project also completed service has been extended to almost all last year. And, in response to increased
-77- State-of-the-art telecommunications services are essential to the national development needs of The Bahamas
consumer demand in Grand Bahama, the Telecommunications private electricity company also augmented its generating capacity last year. State-of-the-art telecommunications The FNM mandated that BEC switch to a services are essential to the national deve- low sulphur fuel at its New Providence gene- lopment needs of The Bahamas. The Baha- rating plant in 1998, in response to environ- mas Telecommunications Corporation has mental concerns; provided the completion of been the Government-owned monopoly the electrification of the Family Islands; and providing those services to The Bahamas carried out an island-wide street lighting pro- over the years. ject for the island of New Providence, Under the direction of the FNM Govern- The FNM, in the new term, will: ment, BATELCO has:
♦ Explore cost effective alternative ♦ Increased the number of tele- energy sources for The Bahamas. phone lines assigned to con- sumers by 47,740, from 75,672 ♦ Expand the conservation in 1992 to 123,302 as of 31 educational programme, promoting December, 2001. the imperative that all residents Increased the cellular system understand the need to save ♦ capacity from 8,000 at the time of energy. the introduction of cell phone in The Bahamas to a cell capacity of Promote energy saving practices in ♦ 120,000 in 2001; the construction of residential and commercial buildings and in the ♦ Increased the number of cellular installation and use of electrical telephone customers from 3,478 appliances. in 1995 to 40,000 in 1999 and to 70,000 at end of March, 2002. ♦ Speed up the installation of main electrical supply to new business ♦ Extended hard-line and cellular and residential consumers. telephone service to all but the
-78- The FNM, in the new term, will fully liberalize the telecommunications sector, following the privatization of Batelco.
most southern islands in the ♦ Ensure that Batelco complete archipelago. the connection of all Government operated schools to the Internet. ♦ Introduced Internet high speed DSL service in New Providence ♦ Ensure that Batelco collaborate and is poised to introduce the with the Broadcasting Corp- same service in Abaco and oration of The Bahamas and Eleuthera before the end of 2002. Cable Bahamas to facilitate the transmission of ZNS television ♦ Commenced the connection of to all populated settlements in government operated schools to The Bahamas. DSL high speed Internet access.
The FNM, in the new term, will: Water And Sewerage
♦ Complete the privatization of Poor quality and inadequate water supply Batelco after reviewing the best have been perennial problems for many com- option for the involvement of an munities in The Bahamas. New Providence international strategic partner. Island has depended on supplemental water supply transported by barge from North ♦ Fully liberalize the telecom- Andros. The poor condition of water mains munications sector, following the has caused excessive loss of water due to privatization of Batelco. leaks. The Free National Movement was deter- ♦ Aggressively promote a diversi- mined to provide an adequate supply of fied telecommunications sector in potable water by identifying supplementary The Bahamas. and alternative sources for New Providence ♦ Extend cellular telephone service and the Family Islands and providing for to Acklins, Crooked Island, Long distribution via upgraded distribution systems. Cay, Mayaguana, Ragged Island, The FNM is greatly concerned about the Rum Cay, Exuma and its Cays, continued use of pit-latrines both in Over-the- San Salvador, Inagua and Grand Hill neighbourhoods of New Providence and in and Walker’s Cay, Abaco. the Family Islands. The FNM Government
-79- The FNM, in the new term, will grant at least two licences for privately-owned television stations condemned the pit latrines used at Govern- ♦ Improve all standpipes Over-the- ment-operated schools on all Family Islands Hill, pending the completion of and replaced them with water lavatories as a the urban redevelopment part of its systematic eradication of their use. programme. Having mandated the Water and Sew- erage Corporation to undertake the upgrade ♦ Complete the Family Islands of water mains in New Providence; having Solid Waste Disposal programme upgraded water systems on Eleuthera, Abaco, Grand Bahama, Long Island, Exuma and Cays Broadcasting and having entered into an agreement with a private sector company for the additional The Free National Movement is strongly supply of water for distribution through the committed to the democratic rights and free- Corporationís distribution system in New doms of the Bahamian people. Providence. That is why we ended the Government’s monopoly on broadcasting for all times by The FNM in the new term, will: licencing independent privately-owned radio stations and increased the broadcast range ♦ Accelerate its programme for the of ZNS radio to cover the entire Bahamas elimination of pit latrines in the and beyond. “Over-The-Hill” area. That is also why the FNM Government introduced the technology required to link ♦ Continue the programme to ZNS television in New Providence with ZNS improve water supplies in the Grand Bahama, permitting live television Family Islands through Reverse Osmosis Plants in San Salvador, broadcasts origi-nating in both islands; a Bimini, Inagua, Mayaguana, Long facility soon to be extended to Abaco and Island, Bullock’s Harbour, and Eleuthera. Great Harbour Cay, in the Berries and Sweeting’s Cay in Grand ♦ End the Government monopoly Bahama. on television broadcasting. -80- The FNM, in the new term, will “incentivise” the production of Bahamian programmes by privately-owned radio and television.
♦ Grant at least two licences for The FNM has: privately-owned television stations. ♦ Facilitated the introduction of cable television services to The ♦ Convert the Broadcasting Corp- Bahamas via a majority oration of The Bahamas into Bahamian-owned company. a Public Broadcast Network. ♦ Insisted that the Cable company Ensure increased production of ♦ make its services available to local programmes for stateowned residents on all Bahamian islands radio and television. serviced by central electrical and ♦ Incentivise the production of telephone services, such service Bahamian programmes by having been provided to residents privately-owned radio and of New Providence, Grand Bah- television. ama, Eleuthera, Abaco, Andros, Bimini, Long Island, Inagua, San ♦ Further extend the broadcasting Salvador, the Berries, and range of ZNS television to encompass all communities in Exuma. The Bahamas. The FNM, in the new term, will: ♦ Establish the National Broad- casting Commission to serve as ♦ Ensure the installation of cable the regulatory body for radio and service to the remaining pop- television. ulated islands of The Bahamas. Cable Television Service ♦ Encourage Cable Bahamas, in Bahamians expect and demand access to collaboration with BATELCO and information on current events and to cultural ZNS, to facilitate the extension of and other entertainment programmes avail- the range of reception of ZNS able through television and cable television television via satellite to small services. cays and isolated communities
‘-81- The FNM, in the new term, will develop additional open spaces and green areas for the recreational enjoyment of Bahamians throughout our Commonwealth.
such as Moore’s Island, Abaco; ment undertook large scale replanting of Black Point, Staniel Cay and hardwood and ornamental trees in New Provi- Farmer’s Cay, Exuma; Cat Island; dence and facilitated local Government and private sector small scale replanting initiatives Acklins; Crooked Island; Maya- in Abaco and in Bimini following the devasta- guana; Rum Cay; and Ragged tion of Hurricane Floyd in 1999. Island.
The FNM, in the new term, will: Parks And Recreation ♦ Develop additional open spaces The FNM believes that the development and green areas for the rec- of parks, open green spaces and recreational reational enjoyment of Baha- facilities is an important adjunct to cultural mians throughout our Common- and sporting programmes, and an essential wealth. component to initiatives to improve the quality of life of our people; hence, the considerable ♦ Complete the development of the attention given, over the past nine and a half R.M. Bailey High School Track years to: the upgrade and enhancement of and Field facility. neighbourhood parks, in Flamingo Gardens, Elizabeth Estates, Yamacraw, R.M. Bailey, ♦ Complete the redevelopment of and Nassau Street and Quarry Mission Road the Montagu Foreshore, including among others; the upgrade of major beach necessary restoration/reclamation front parks at Montagu, the Western Esp- of the Montagu Beach, and the lanade and the Down Home Fish Fry, in New enhancement of the green area at Providence and the Parks Programme in the Montagu Foreshore. Freeport Grand Bahama, the creation of new public parks, notably at Goodman’s Bay and ♦ Improve access to safe parking at A.F. Adderely at Yellow Elder Gardens and and rest room facilities at: Harrold Road; and the opening up of green Western Esplanade Beach, spaces and of a new window to the sea at Saunders Beach, Sea Beach / West Bay Street at Ferguson Manor/ Perpall Tract. Rock Point, and at the Caves and Related to all of this, the FNM Govern- the Caves Beach. -82- The FNM, in the new term, will develop the largest multi- purpose public park, with nature trails at South Beach on land acquired for that purpose.
♦ Acquire or otherwise obtain access ♦ Increase and enhance indigenous to the sea and develop public flora and fuana at Clifton by rehab- parking and rest-room facilities at ilitating the wetlands adjoining Jaws South Beach and at Adelaide Beach, provide improved parking Beach. and construct restroom facilities so as to make the Jaws Beach and ♦ As a component of the New wetland accessible and available Providence Road Improvement for the enjoyment of the public. Programme, develop the planned multi-purpose park with nature ♦ Arrange for the ruins of the slave trails and bird watching stations huts at Clifton, and the sites of Luc- at Big Pond and the old Garbage ayan settlements at Clifton to be Truck Depot on Balliou Hill Road. stabilized and made accessible to the public. ♦ Develop the largest multi-purpose public park, with nature trails at ♦ Collaborate with Local Government South Beach on land acquired for Authorities for the development of that purpose appropriate open green spaces and parks in Family Island Communities. ♦ Facilitate the expansion of the National Park System through the ♦ Expand and enhance the mainten- long lease of additional land and ance programme for public parks, marine areas to The Bahamas public cemeteries, road verges and National Trust for new parks at public beaches, throughout the Wilson and Harrold Pond, New country. Providence; Green Cay off Andros; acreage in the vicinity of a concen- ♦ Expand the programme to create, tration of Blue Holes and endan- improve and maintain drainage gered wetlands in Central Andros; wells and catchments in the low- O’Brien and Pastuer Cays , Exuma; lying areas of New Providence and Little Inagua; and Walker’s Cay, the Fmily Islands plagued with Abaco. seasonal flooding
-83- The FNM Government established The Bahamas Environment Science and Technology Commission. Preserving Our Environment
indful of the serious damage to the ♦ The development of a National M global environment by green house Database of Environmental Information. gases, climate change, global warming and sea level rise, and concerned to protect and ♦ The development of a National conserve the natural resources of The Baha- Biodiversity Strategy and a prog- mas for the enjoyment of the present and ramme for sustainable develop- ment in The Bahamas. future gene-rations of Bahamians, the FNM Government established The Bahamas Envi- ♦ A national Climate Change Study ronment Science and Technology Comm- including mitigation strategies. ission in 1994 and named an Ambassador Since 1992, the FNM Government has: for the Environment to serve as the Govern- ments chief advisor on environmental matters. ♦ Enacted the Conservation of the Since 1995 the BEST has conducted Physical Landscape Act. important research which has informed the ♦ Established the National Creek policies and decisions of the Government. and Wetlands Initiative. These research projects included: ♦ Ratified the RAMSAR Con- vention. ♦ The development of guidelines for Environmental Impact ♦ Published the Environment Assessements. Handbook.
♦ Created the first five of a network ♦ A Land-Use Study of New of marine protected areas. Providence. ♦ Established protected spawning areas for the Nassau Grouper. ♦ A study on “Windows to the Sea” in New Providence. ♦ Expanded the National Park
-84- The FNM, in the new term, will enact legislation to make the Baha- mas Environment Science and Technology Commission a statutory authority.
system including several in and key scientists to foster a New Providence, areas in Abaco, better understanding of coral reef Andros, Inagua, and Exuma. resources so that better informed decisions can be made relative to The Free National Movement Government their management. has established itself among the most action- oriented and environmentally - friendly gov- ♦ Establish strategic alliances with ern-ments in the world. regional and international age- ncies and key scientists to study The FNM, in the new term, will: beach restoration and monitoring so as to develop appropriate ♦ Enact legislation to make the long-term management of this Bahamas Environment Science vital resource. and Technology Commission a statutory authority. ♦ Continue to improve our creek systems through the engineering ♦ Further improve the criteria for and construction of culverts. Environmental Impact Assess- ments and require at a minimum ♦ Continue to review and to appropriate assessments for all enhance programmes to promote major development projects kindness to animals, to improve Bahamian and non-Bahamian canine control, and to properly owned, on New Providence and monitor, supervise and regulate the Family islands. the operation and management of all captive animal facilities, ♦ Further expand the Biodiversity including marine mammals and Data Base to provide full access fish in The Bahamas. to public and private sector users throughout The Bahamas. ♦ Regularly monitor key environ- mental resources: fresh water, ♦ Continue to establish “No Take marine resources, agricultural Zones” to complement the system lands, forest and general of national parks and protected environmental quality. areas and ensure the sustain- ability of our commercial fishery. ♦ Encourage and facilitate recycling as a part of a national programme ♦ Expand strategic alliances with to renew resources and expand regional and international bodies employment opportunities. -85- The FNM, in the new term, will establish a statutory National Disaster Agency.
Disaster Preparedness
he Bahamas has experienced three major Permanent Secretary with international affairs T hurricanes within the last ten years, the experience is permanently assigned to the Straw Market fire on Bay Street and block Unit. fires in a number of our islands. The Free The Unit has a number of Standing Com- National Movement acted swiftly to bring mittees augmented, when required, by add- relief to Bahamians who were affected by itional public officers from relevant branches the disasters. of the Service, and community volunteers. Within a few days of the election that The Unit coordinates disaster relief activities brought the FNM to Government we were with those of community relief agencies such called upon to deal with the ravages of Hurri- as the Red Cross. cane Andrew. These Committees include the Hurricane We established a National Disaster Relief Preparedness Committee, the National Dis- Fund accessible by the National Disaster aster Committee and the Hurricane Recovery Committee (which incorporated the Standing Committee. Hurricane Preparedness Committee)for the The serious economic fall-out from the delivery of emergency relief supplies and destruction of the Straw Market fire, and reconstruction materials to individuals and forecasts for an increase in the number and families affected by the Hurricane. intensity of summer hurricanes, has con- Following Hurricane Floyd in 1999, a vinced the FNM that a formally structured National Disaster Preparedness Unit was permanent disaster preparedness and relief established in the Cabinet Office, headed office should to established. by a public officer at Permanent Secretary rank, responsible to the Secretary to the Accordingly, the FNM in the new term, Cabinet. will: A Commander of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force serves as Deputy National ♦ Establish a statutory National Disaster Relief Coordinator, and a Deputy Disaster Agency to plan for and -86- The FNM, in the new term, will, as of February 1,2003, reduce the work week to 40 hours per week.
coordinate the national response ♦ Mobilize community groups to serve to major disasters, natural or as first responders. manmade. ♦ Create a separate Fire Department with the necessary tools and ♦ Focus on preventative prepare- funding to respond to major fires . dness by providing public education in disaster preparedness.
The Public Service
he Public Service plays a preeminent public service and has made measurable T role in the formulation and implement- progress in de-politicizing appointments and ation of public policy and the success of any promotions in the service. The Free National administration depends upon the collective Movement has initiated action to ensure parity expertise, competence and dedication of the public officers service. in pay for all public officers holding similar The Free National Movement is satisfied qualifications; and regularized hundreds of that, having taken steps to transform and temporary workers. revitalize the Service by removing many significant impediments which had long hind- The FNM, in the new term, will: ered the proper and efficient performance of its functions, the way ahead will be marked by ♦ Further renew the pay scales and productivity, cost effectiveness and client conditions of service of public satisfaction. officers. The Free National Movement Govern- ment’s intention is to continue on the path to ensuring a better trained, more efficient and ♦ As of February 1,2003, reduce the effective Public Service. work week of public officers by two The Free National Movement has recog- and a half hours from 42 1/2 hours nized merit, initiative and competence in the to 40 hours per week. -87- The FNM, in the new term, will expand Local Government to New Providence.
♦ Continue with Public Sector Reform resources required forcapacity for the further development of the building and to ensure a culture of public sector. excellence in the public sector;
♦ Establish a Policy, Planning and ♦ Provide Internet Access and linkage Development Unit in the Public to all Ministries and Departments. Service Commission.
♦ Complete the review of General Local Government Orders and make copies accessible to all public officers. In 1996, the Free National Movement Government introduced in Grand Bahama and ♦ Introduce new performance app- raisal instruments to assess and in the Family Islands a system of Local Gov- reward the performance of public ernment for the delivery of timely quality officers. service to the residents; the deepening of the democratic process; participation by the ♦ Further develop and implement citizenry in the decision making process; and plans for the establishment of an Organization and Management Unit The FNM, in the new term, will: in the Department of Public Service to provide assistance to Ministries ♦ Deepen the democratic process by with new structure and admini- expanding Local Government to the strative processes associated with Island of New Providence. modern Public Sector operation.
♦ Develop an Institute of Public Service Training to facilitate the participation of public officers in continuing education.
♦ Undertake a public sector manpower audit to determine -88- Initiate a Constitutional Review to be undertaken under the auspices of a broad-based, non-partisan Constitutional Review Committee, comprising distin- guished citizens.
Constitutional Reform Accordingly, the Free National Movement, in the new term, will:
In 2001, the Parliament of The Bahamas, ♦ Initiate a Constitutional Review to through unanimous consent in the House of be undertaken under the auspices Assembly and by three quarter majority vote of a broad-based, non-partisan in the Senate, amended the Constitution of Constitutional Review Committee, The Bahamas for the first time in our 29 year comprising distinguished citizens. history as an independent state. The amend- The Constitutional Review Commit- tee will be established after ments brought about the establishment of the consultation with the Official Office of Parliamentary Commissioner to Opposition. serve as an independent supervisor of parliamentary elections; the establishment of ♦ Amend the Referendum Act so as to a Teaching Service Commission to appoint, prohibit the holding of a referendum promote and discipline teachers; the removal within one year of a general of criminal prosecutions from the Office of the election, and to require that a Attorney General, the transfer of the same to Bill to amend the Constitution not a Director of Public Prosecutions; and the be passed within three months of its establishment in the Constitution, of the introduction in Parliament. Office of Director of Public Prosecutions. On February 27th, 2002, for the first time International Relations in the history of The Bahamas, a constitut- ional referendum was held to seek amend- The Free National Movement subscribes ments to the constitution that required the to the principles of self-determination, sove- consent of the Bahamian public. The prop- reignty, independence, territorial integrity, osals in that referendum were rejected by the dialogue, mutual respect and non-inter- Bahamian electorate and the Free National vention. Movement accepts that the majority of the The Free National Movement believes in, Bahamian people desire extensive consult- and practice, representative democracy and ation with regard to proposals for constit- support international cooperation and the utional reform. peaceful resolution of disputes.
-89- The FNM, in the new term, will enact a Foreign Service Act to govern the Foreign Service.
The Free National Movement is convinced international community relating to that The Bahamas’ interests are best served issues impacting “Small Island by participation in regional, hemispheric and States” and “Small Economies”. international organizations and by maintaining close relationships with members of the ♦ Advocate greater international Caribbean Community, Canada, Latin Ame- intervention in the resolution of the rica, the United States of America and the Haitian social and political crisis. United Kingdom. Moreover, the FNM considers that the foreign policy of The Bahamas is inextricably ♦ Expand Honorary Consular linked to the economic and development representation in countries where goals of The Bahamas. economic, investment and other Bahamian interests exist. In addition to commitments in MANIFESTO ‘92 and MANIFESTO II, an ♦ Enact a Foreign Service Act to FNM Govrnment in the new term, will: govern the Foreign Service.
♦ Proactively advance the interests of The Bahamas in all regional and ♦ Amend the Parliamentary Elections international fora. Act to permit serving entitled officers to vote in national ♦ Provide leadership within the elections.
-90- Standards In Public Life
he Free National Movement strongly believes that the T traditions and institutions of a democracy are the most precious of a nation’s assets. In this regard, the Parliament of The Bahamas and those elected freely and fairly to serve therein, to represent the interest of the people and to provide for and ensure the national well- being, are given a special responsibility and a sacred trust. The Free National Movement believes that it is the personal responsibility of every Member of Parliament to maintain those standards of conduct that the Parliament and the public are entitled to expect, to protect the good name of Parliament and to advance the people’s interest. Similar standards of conduct are also expected of senior public officers, whose responsibility it is to implement the laws of The Bahamas and the policy directives of Cabinet. Accordingly, Members of Parliament and all who hold public office are expected to observe seven general principles of con- duct which apply to all persons in public life:
-91- The Seven principles Of Public Life
Selflessness: Holders of public office should take decisions solely on the basis of the public interest. They should not do so in order to gain financial or other material benefits for themselves, members of their family, or their friends.
Integrity: Holders of public office should not place themselves under any financial or other obligation to individuals or organizations that might compromise them in the performance of their official duties.
Objectivity: In carrying out public business, including making public appointments, awarding contracts, or recommending individuals for rewards and benefits, holders of public office should make choices on merit.
Accountability: Holders of public office are accountable to the public for their decisions and actions and must submit themselves to scrutiny appropriate to their office.
Openness: Holders of public office must be open about all the decisions and actions that they take. They should give reasons for their decisions and restrict information only when the wider public interest clearly so demands.
Honesty: Holders of public office have an obligation to declare any private interests relating to their public duties and to take steps to resolve any conflicts in a way that protects the public interest.
Leadership: Holders of public office should promote and support these principles by leadership and example.
-92- Standards Of Conduct For Ministers In The Government
he Free National Movement further believes that Ministers of Government must be held to T the highest standards of constitutional and personal conduct. In particular, they must observe the following principles of Ministerial conduct:
♦ Ministers must ensure that no conflict arises, or appears to arise, between their public duties and their private interests.
♦ Ministers are accountable to Parliament for the policies and operations of their departments and agencies.
♦ Ministers must not mislead Parliament. They must be as open as possible with Parliament and with the public.
♦ Ministers should avoid accepting any gift or hospitality, which might appear to compromise their judgement or place them under improper obligation.
♦ Ministers in the House of Assembly must keep separate their roles as Minister and Constituency Representative.
♦ Ministers must keep their party and ministerial roles separate.
-93- Index C Family Life 10 Family Life Education 36 Cable Television 81 Farmers’ Credit Programme 26 A Captive Insurance Industry 22 Federal Aviation Authority 75 Career Path 36 Financial Services 21 Cat Island 45, 71, 77 Abaco 28, 31, 32, 42, 43, 44, Fire Department 87 Catastrophic Health Insurance Plan 47 63, 76, 77, 79, 80, 82 Fish and Vegetable Vendors’ Market 15 Civil Aviation 75 Accountability 92 Fisheries 26 Cleveland Eneas 31, 32 Acklins 46, 71, 79 Four Seasons 19 Clifton 83 Adolescent Primary Health 41 Fox Hill 53, 57 College of The Bahamas Agriculture 26 Free Trade 14 20, 33,37, 38 Airports 75 Freeport 15, 31, 52, 69, 70 Community Park System 51 Andros 28, 76,79 Fresh Creek 76 Constitutional Reform 89 Anti-trust 27 FTAA 14 Constitutional Review Committee 89 Arawak Cay 15, 64 Construction Trades 35 G Arts 35 Consumer Protection Legislation 27 George Town 43 Crime 51 Globalisation 14 B Crown Land 16, 20, 46 Gospel Festivals 64 Culture 10 B TVI 28 Government Housing 46
Bahamas Development Bank 65 Government-Guaranteed Student
Bahamas Electricity Corporation 77 D Loan 33
Bahamas International Securities Grand Bahama 15, 28, 31, 33, 42, 45, 57, 59, 63, 66, Exchange 22 Defence Force 51, 56 69, 70, 75, 80 Bahamas Technical and Democracy 10 Vocational Institute 32 Disabled 49 Grand Bahama Port Authority 70 Bahamasair 25 Distance Education 71 Grand Cay 43, 44 Bahamian Culture 10 Divestment 24 Great Harbour Cay 76, 80 Bahamian men 48 Down Home Fish Fry 15, 82 H Bahamian women 48 Hairbraiders’ Pavillion 15 Balanced Budget 13 E Batelco 29,78,79 Harbour Island 42 E-Commerce 22 Bay Street 86 Health Care 10, 40, 43 Early Child Care 31 Berry Islands 45, 76 Electricity 77 Her Majesty’s Prison 53 BEST 84 Eleuthera 43, 45, 63, 75, 79, 80 HIV/AIDS 28, 42, 43, 48 Environment 10, 84 Big Pond 83 Hotel Associations 65 Eugene Dupuch School of Law 33 Bimini 42, 45, 76, 80, 82 Housing 45 Exuma 45, 63, 77, 79, 80 Biodiversity Strategy 84 Hurricane Andrew 45, 86 F Blue Holes 83 Hurricane Floyd 45, 82, 86
Broadcasting Commission 81 Family Islands 42, 46, 63, 69, Hurricane Preparedness Committee 86
BTVI 19, 39 75, 85 Hurricane Recovery Committee. 86
-94- I National Endowment for the Arts. 64 Q National Health Services Inagua 46, 56, 76, 79, 80 Qualified Jurisdiction 21 Strategic Plan 42 Information Technology 19, 35 Queen Elizabeth Sports Centre 63,73 National Library 37, 64 Interest Rates 12 National Mentoring Programme 51 R International Labour Organization 17,44 National Museum 64 Ragged Island 46, 76, 79 International Relations 89 National Park System 83 Rand Memorial Hospital 44 J National Policy on Culture 63 Reading Centres 3 Junkanoo 65 National Reference Library 37 Red Cross 86 Justice 10, 51 National Sports Authority 62 Regatta 64 National Task Force on Disability 49 K Registrar General 22 National Task Force on Education 29 Remand Centre 61 Key Objectives 10 National Trust 83 Revenue System 21 L National Website 37 Reverse Osmosis Plants 80 National Youth Consultative Rock Point 82 Labour 18 Committee 29 Rock Sound Airport 76 Let’s Read Bahamas 37 New Providence 20, 28, 31, 32, 33, Royal Bahamas Defence Force 56, 59 Library Science 37 37, 41, 42, 56, 73, 77, 78, 79, 80 Rum Cay 46, 76, 79 Little Inagua 83 NIA 76 Local Government 70, 83, 88 S North Andros 79 Long Cay 79 North Eleuthera 76 mary Schools 32 Long Island 31,32, 63,71,80 O San Salvado 79 San Salvador 45, 46, 75, 80 M Omnibus Business Licence Act 16 Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre 44 One Stop Service Centre 18 Sandy Point 76, 77 Magnet School System 35 Over-the-Hill 16, 40,46, 66, 80 School Boards 33, 35 Mathematics 35, 36 Security 10, 51 Mayaguana 46, 79, 80 P Selflessness 92 Men 48 Palmetto Point 43 Seven principles Of Public Life 92 Mondo Track 62 Physical Landscape Act 84 SMSE 17 Police Force 51, 54 Social Agenda 28 Pony League 62 N Social Services 47 Princess Margaret Hospital 40, 44 Nassau International Airport 76 Solid Waste Disposal 80 Prison Reform 60 National After-School Programme 36 South Beach 42, 73, 83 Public Broadcast Network 81 National Art Gallery 64 South Beach Clinic 41 Public Health Community Clinics 40 National Catastrophic Spanish 31 Public Parks 67 Spanish Wells 42 Health Insurance 44 Public Sector Reform 88 Standards In Public Life 91 National Centre for The Public Service 87 Standards Of Conduct 93 Performing Art 64 Stock Exchange 21 National Disaster Committee 86 Strategic Plan for Education 33, 34 National Disaster Preparedness Unit 86 Straw Market 74, 86
-95- Support Services Centre 41 Sweeting’s Cay 80 T
BEC 78 Teachers 33 Teaching Service Commission 33, 35, 89 Technical and Vocational Institute 39 Telecommunications 78 The Bahamas Hotel Training College 33 The Bight 77 The economy 6 Tourism 12, 38 Tourism Studies 20 Treasure Cay, 77 Tripartite Advisory Committee 18 U
United States of America 75 University of the West Indies 33 Urban Redevelopment 66 Utilities 77 W
Walker’s Cay 79, 83 Website 35 West End. 70 Western Esplanade Beach 82 Windows to the Sea 84 Woodcock 31 World Trade Organization 14 Y
Yamacraw 82 Yellow Elder Gardens 82 Youth Development 50
Youth Service Corp 50 Z
ZNS 79, 80
-96- Free National Movement Candidates For The 2002 General Election
Hon. Theresa The Rt. Hon. Hon. Zhivargo Laing Hon. Carl Bethel Moxey-Ingraham Hon. C.A. Smith Hubert A. Ingraham Hon. Dion Foulkes Hon. Janet Bostwick Hon. Frank Watson Hon. Earl Deveaux Hon. Italia Johnson Ft. Charlotte Holy Cross Golden Gates Pineridge North Abaco Blue Hills Yamacraw Adelaide North Andros/Berry Isl. Garden Hills
HON.TOMMY TURNQUEST Ronald Bosfield Jaunianne Dorsette Alvin Smith Lindy Russell Hon.Kenneth Russell Leader, Free National Movement Algernon Allen Hon. James Knowles Hon. David Thompson Pauline Nairn Neko Grant South Andros Fox Hill North Eleuthera Eight Mile Rock High Rock MOUNT MORIAH Marathon Long Isl/Ragged Isl. Marco City St. Thomas More Lucaya
Ashley Cargill Desmond Bannister Robert Sweeting Desmond Edwards David Wallace Tanya McCartney Elliott Lockhart Loretta Turner Brent Symonette Gaynell Rolle Phillip McPhee Floyd Watkins Kennedy Carmichael South Abaco St. Cecilia West End / Bimini South Beach Exuma St. Margaret Montagu Pinewood Bain & Grants Town Delaporte
Sonny Russell Anthony Miller Johnley Ferguson Gladys Sands Lester Turnquest James Miller Calvin Johnson Farm Road South Eleuthera MICAL Englerston Elizabeth Cat I/Rum C./ San Sal. Bamboo Town The choice is clear. The Free National Movement...Better than ever.