Sustainable Development and Prosperity for All Bahamians and The Posterity in The Bahamas

The Bahamas - A Nation in Crisis: A Roadmap for Economic Recovery, Debt Reduction, and National Development in The Bahamas

By Dr Kevin Turnquest-Alcena
Nassau, The Bahamas

The Bahamas, once a leading economic force in the Caribbean, is now at a critical juncture.  The national debt has ballooned, competitiveness has waned, and global competitors, like Bermuda, have overtaken The Bahamas in key sectors such as captive insurance and financial services.  This situation poses serious risks for the nation's future stability, especially considering the lack of financial buffers to withstand natural or economic disasters.

The time for comprehensive reform is now.  The Bahamas must act decisively to address issues in immigration, inland revenue, financial regulation, and urban development, while leveraging examples from countries like Singapore, India, and Jamaica that have successfully implemented similar reforms.  Through bold and innovative measures, The Bahamas can reduce its debt, foster economic growth, and build a resilient future for all Bahamians.

1. Commendation for Inland Revenue and Insurance Sectors

The Inland Revenue Department and insurance sectors are integral to the financial stability of The Bahamas.  Their recent progress in collecting taxes and generating revenue has been commendable, but more must be done to ensure efficiency and sustainability.  The reliance on contract workers, many of whom lack adequate training, has been a challenge.  By transitioning these workers to permanent roles and providing formal training that includes a minimum C grade in Math and English, the government can create a stable and efficient workforce capable of driving tax collection efforts (Bahamas Ministry of Education, 2021).

This initiative must be paired with an increase in the minimum wage to ensure that workers are fairly compensated, thereby boosting morale and increasing consumer spending.  Such measures will help alleviate economic challenges while promoting greater stability in the workforce.

2. Addressing National Debt and Economic Competitiveness

The Bahamas faces a crippling national debt, which as of 2020, had exceeded 103% of GDP (Central Bank of The Bahamas, 2021).  If not addressed, this debt will hinder the country’s ability to invest in critical sectors like infrastructure, education, and healthcare.  Countries like Norway and the UAE have successfully mitigated such risks by creating sovereign wealth funds, which serve as financial buffers during times of crisis.  Establishing a similar fund in The Bahamas could provide a safety net in the event of natural disasters or economic downturns.

Additionally, The Bahamas must reform its financial services regulations to remain competitive on the global stage.  Bermuda’s rise as a global leader in captive insurance is a direct result of its business-friendly regulatory environment.  The Bermuda Monetary Authority has created a balanced regulatory framework that encourages innovation while maintaining compliance, thus attracting international businesses (Bermuda Monetary Authority, 2020).  The Bahamas must take similar steps to regain its competitive edge.

3. Leveraging Customs Instruments and Targeted Taxation for Revenue

To boost national revenue, The Bahamas can implement a sugar tax or similar levies on unhealthy products such as sugary drinks and fast food.  This model has been successful in New York City, where taxing sugary beverages and junk food has raised revenue and improved public health outcomes (New York City Department of Health, 2019).  Such taxes in The Bahamas would target large multinational companies, such as McDonald’s, and provide funds that can be reinvested into critical areas like healthcare, education, and sports development.

Revenue from these taxes should also be allocated toward developing youth programs, supporting social services, and funding national initiatives that promote health and well-being across the country.

4. Reforming Immigration Policies for Nation Building and Economic Development

The Bahamas’ current immigration policies are too restrictive and limit the country’s ability to attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads.  Countries like Canada and Singapore have implemented practical immigration policies that bring in skilled workers who contribute to their economies (Canadian Immigration and Citizenship, 2020).  The Bahamas should follow this model, easing immigration restrictions to attract multinational companies (MNCs) and skilled workers who can drive economic growth.

Additionally, undocumented immigrants who are currently part of a parallel economy should be brought into the formal system.  Legalizing their status would allow them to contribute to tax revenues and reduce the strain on public services, while also enhancing national security.  Immigrants are a crucial part of nation-building, and The Bahamas must capitalize on their potential to stimulate economic growth.

5. Implementing a Regulated National Lottery for Systematic Revenue Generation

A regulated national lottery could provide a valuable source of revenue for The Bahamas, funding essential sectors like sports, education, and social services.  Countries such as Barbados and the United Kingdom have used national lotteries to generate significant revenue for national development initiatives (Barbados National Lottery Report, 2020).  Implementing a similar system in The Bahamas would reduce the national debt and provide consistent funding for key public services.

By regulating the lottery, The Bahamas can ensure that funds are allocated systematically, with a focus on youth development, national sports programs, and education.  This will not only alleviate debt but also foster national pride and engagement.

6. Revamping Banking Regulations for Entrepreneurs and Business Development

The Bahamas' banking regulations are currently too restrictive, making it difficult for entrepreneurs and small businesses to access capital.  To support entrepreneurship and stimulate economic growth, the government must implement banking legislation that simplifies access to loans and financing for startups and small businesses.

Countries like India have successfully implemented banking reforms that support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are vital to their economy.  By adopting similar reforms, The Bahamas can foster a business-friendly environment that encourages innovation and investment (Government of India, 2020).  Additionally, exchange control policies should be modernized to attract foreign direct investment (FDI), as investors are more likely to bring capital into a country where financial regulations are transparent and flexible (IMF, 2021).

7. Revitalizing Downtown Nassau and Developing Special Economic Zones (SEZs)

Downtown Nassau is in dire need of revitalization.  The area’s colonial architecture is deteriorating, and the lack of modern infrastructure has made it difficult to attract multinational corporations (MNCs) and tourists.  By redeveloping Bay Street into a modern economic hub, The Bahamas can attract global businesses and create jobs for local residents.  This redevelopment should focus on creating a dynamic space for local businesses and international companies, driving economic activity and tourism.

Additionally, The Bahamas should establish Special Economic Zones (SEZs), similar to those in Dubai and Singapore, offering tax incentives and regulatory relief to attract foreign companies and investors.  SEZs can serve as innovation hubs for technology, finance, and entrepreneurship, positioning The Bahamas as a competitive player in the global economy (Government of Singapore, 2020).

8. Strengthening the National Accreditation and Equivalency Council of The Bahamas (NACoB)

The National Accreditation and Equivalency Council of The Bahamas (NACoB) is responsible for ensuring that the country's educational institutions meet international standards.  However, NACoB requires reform to ensure that it is staffed by individuals with the necessary academic and professional qualifications to maintain ISO quality standards.

Countries like Jamaica have successfully implemented educational reforms by appointing qualified professionals to lead their accreditation bodies, ensuring that institutions are held to high standards (Government of Jamaica, 2019).  The Bahamas should adopt a similar approach to strengthen NACoB and ensure that the country's educational institutions are globally competitive.

9. Establishing Planning Commissions for Sustainable Development

The Bahamas must establish Planning Commissions modeled after those in India and Singapore to ensure long-term sustainability and development.  India’s NITI Aayog, for example, serves as a central policy think tank that drives economic growth and development (Government of India, 2020).  Similarly, Singapore’s Economic Development Board plays a crucial role in shaping the country’s economic policies, ensuring that Singapore remains competitive globally (Government of Singapore, 2020).

The Bahamas should establish independent planning commissions tasked with setting national growth targets, managing resource allocation, and evaluating the performance of government departments.  These commissions must be free from political interference and staffed by professionals who understand global best practices in policy development.

10. Conclusion: A Call for Introspection, Reform, and Nation Building

The Bahamas stands at a pivotal moment in its history.  Faced with mounting national debt, declining competitiveness, and an outdated regulatory framework, the country must undertake comprehensive reforms to secure its future.  The examples set by Singapore, India, Bermuda, and Jamaica show that transformation is possible with visionary leadership, practical policies, and a commitment to nation-building.

By reforming immigration policies, modernizing banking regulations, strengthening inland revenue, and implementing a regulated national lottery, The Bahamas can create a more competitive business environment, reduce national debt, and foster long-term economic growth.  Moreover, the revitalization of downtown Nassau and the establishment of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) will attract international businesses and generate jobs, while reforms to NACoB will ensure that the country’s educational institutions meet global standards.

This is not just about economic reform; it is about building a better future for our children, grandchildren, and generations to come.  We must look inward, evaluate our strengths and weaknesses, and implement policies that ensure sustainable development and prosperity for all Bahamians.  Through visionary leadership, investment in human capital, and a commitment to global best practices, The Bahamas can emerge stronger, more resilient, and ready to take on the challenges of the 21st century.

The journey will not be easy, but it is necessary if we are to leave behind a Bahamas that is prosperous, peaceful, and prepared for the future.  We owe it to future generations to act now—together, we can build a nation that not only thrives economically but also serves as a beacon of hope and progress for the world.

Source

References

Barbados National Lottery. (2020). Annual Report. Retrieved from https://www.barbadoslottery.com/

Bermuda Monetary Authority. (2020). Annual Report. Retrieved from https://www.bma.bm/

Canadian Immigration and Citizenship. (2020). Annual Report. Retrieved from https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/annual-report.html

Central Bank of The Bahamas. (2021). Annual Economic Review 2020. Retrieved from https://www.centralbankbahamas.com/research-publications

Government of India. (2020). About NITI Aayog. Retrieved from https://niti.gov.in/

Government of Jamaica. (2019). Education System Transformation Programme. Retrieved from https://www.moey.gov.jm/

Government of Singapore. (2020). Singapore Economic Development Board. Retrieved from https://www.edb.gov.sg/

IMF. (2021). Bahamas Staff Report. Retrieved from https://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/scr/2021/cr21248.pdf

New York City Department of Health. (2019). Sugary Drinks Taxation and Health. Retrieved from https://www1.nyc.gov/

The Bahamas Lack Political Leadership

Bahamians are losing out in their country, The Bahamas

Former Minister of National Security A. Loftus Roker says that The Bahamas need to get serious about its illegal immigration crisis

‘This country lacks leadership’

Roker worried Bahamians increasingly marginalized

By Candia Dames, Executive Editor of The Nassau Guardian

 

Former Minister of National Security A. Loftus Roker, who is still widely known for the tough stance he took against illegal immigration when he was minister responsible for immigration, said yesterday he remains concerned that Bahamians are losing out in their country, and lamented what he said is a lack of political leadership.

“When you have no more country, you see where you can go and claim anything,” said Roker, who was asked his views on the controversy surrounding the release of a large group of Chinese nationals found at the British Colonial Hotel without any legal status in The Bahamas earlier this year.

Minister of Immigration Keith Bell has said it was “unnecessary” to transport them to the Carmichael Road Detention Centre, where individuals found to be in The Bahamas illegally are held.  According to Bell, the “irregularities” found at the work site “were expeditiously cured by the employer”.

Roker warned, “All I say is one day Bahamians will find we don’t have our own country.  That’s what I’m worried about.

“The country lacks leadership.  Imagine you had dozens of Chinese without work permits here.  How the hell did they get here? … How did we allow them to land?  We trying to fool ourselves.  We don’t have any leadership.  If you had leadership, you’d know what’s going on.  But what we are doing is keep postponing our problems.  That’s what we’re doing.”

Details surrounding how the Chinese nationals got in The Bahamas and whether they still are currently in country are unknown as Bell nor any other authority has yet to thoroughly explain the matter.

Meanwhile, it is understood that in Progressive Liberal Party circles there is widespread concern over the political impact the controversy ensnaring the immigration minister could have.

Roker wished not to comment directly on a statement made by Director of Immigration Keturah Ferguson in a correspondence to Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Immigration Cecilia Strachan that “it also appears that the expatriate has more rights in The Bahamas than Bahamians”, but he said, “One thing for sure, we don’t believe in Bahamians.  Anybody else better than us.  All I’m saying is we lack leadership.”

Ferguson’s correspondence was sent a day after the Chinese were ordered released not long after the immigration exercise was conducted.

As reported in the media on Monday, Ferguson said in her correspondence that immigration officials received a directive from Bell to have the immigration officers stand down on the operation and that any breach will be remedied the following day.

Even as the firestorm over the immigration matter – including Bell’s swearing in of a family as citizens of The Bahamas during a funeral service last month – builds, Prime Minister Philip Davis has remained silent, with his office saying only that the facts are being gathered in respect of the various immigration issues at hand.

Meanwhile, a purported report to an immigration superior from the immigration officer who oversaw the January 17 exercise at the British Colonial was circulated on social media yesterday.

According to the document, only three of the 65 Chinese nationals found at the hotel were able to produce passports or identification for immigration officials, while all others claimed they had no passports in their possession and were unable to contact the people who may have them.

“On arrival at the hotel, we observed lighting and clothing hung in the windows of some of the rooms.  Shortly thereafter, we noticed an Asian male in the window of one of the rooms,” the document states.

“Based on this, we approached the security officer and advised him of our suspicions.  The officer attempted to obstruct us from entering the building and checking the status of the individual, therefore, I advised him under extreme caution that I was prepared to arrest him for obstruction and continued the execution of my duties.

“The officer then removed himself from the entrance and I instructed the officers to search the first floor of the building.”

The officer wrote, “In the initial search, the officers reported a total of 10 persons, but, after a more intense search, we were able to gather approximately 65 Chinese nationals.

“All subjects were asked to produce their passports and any other evidence of legal status.  Out of the 65 subjects, only three were able to produce passports or identification.

“All of the others claimed they had no passports in their possession and [were] unable to contact the persons who may have them.”

While he did not delve into the details emerging in relation to the various immigration controversies, Roker said yesterday there’s a need for The Bahamas to get serious about its illegal immigration crisis.

Source 

The Bahamas government’s unwavering commitment to protect the Bahamian borders and enforce the lawful processes for entry into The Bahamas

Any and all unlawful entrants in Bahamian territory will be swiftly processed and repatriated to their homeland

NASSAU, The Bahamas -- The Hon. Keith Bell, Minister of Labour and Immigration told members of the House of Assembly while delivering a communication Wednesday, February 1, 2023 about the government’s unwavering commitment to protect our borders and enforce the lawful processes for entry into The Bahamas.  

During my last communication, he said - “I stated that I know and fully accept that we will be measured by our work, our results and not our speeches.  I further stated that The Department of Immigration is committed to doing the work needed to deliver the results that the Bahamian people demand.

"Our work to address this pressing issue did not commence with my communication," he said, "nor did it commence with the many false articles and stories authored by fringe groupings, this work began ‘ON DAY ONE.’

Within months of coming to office, this administration, led by the Hon. Philip Brave Davis Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, uplifted the spirits of a demoralized and broken Immigration Department by immediately remedying the longstanding confirmations and promotions of officers in various ranks which were left outstanding by the former administration from as far back as 2014. 

“I might add, this directly impacted more than 250 Immigration Officers or more than 30% of the human resource of the Department.”

Minister Bell continued that the administration immediately recruited and commissioned the largest immigration squad in the history of the Department, “increasing the total number of immigration officers by over 30%.  THIRTY PERCENT.”

He noted: The Progressive Liberal Party government also made ‘the single largest investment in the history of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force’ with an injection of over $200M to upgrade the Defence Force through the 'Sandy Bottom Project':  "We bought a whole new fleet of vessels including HMBS Lawrence Major, the first ‘roll on, roll off’ vessel of its class acquired by the organization.

“In anticipation of present circumstances,” Minister Bell said, “we established a temporary holding facility in Inagua with the capacity to hold over eight hundred (800) persons.

“This is to reduce the time required for irregular migrants intercepted in the Southern Bahamas to be returned to their home countries.

"I warned persons that any undocumented migrants will be taken into custody on January 18.  This was extended to persons working without a valid Work Permit or working outside the scope of their work permit.  This warning was further extended to persons who enter the Country as a visitor and illegally engage in employment and/or unlawful activities.”

The Immigration Enforcement Unit conducted operations to infiltrate a number of ‘escort services,’ January 19.  It is well known that these escort services consist of persons who enter the country as 'visitor' and also overstay the time granted by immigration to remain in the country.

In one operation, an escort service known as 'The Mango Season Girls' was dismantled.  Four Jamaican females were taken into custody in that sting operation.  They were charged and placed before the courts, convicted, sentenced, deported and placed on the restricted List.

On the 20th January, 2023, a joint operation by Immigration and the Royal Bahamas Police Force in the eastern area netted a number of irregular migrants, one of whom was found in possession of a fraudulent Work Permit.

Just a matter of days after his last address, “a vessel carrying 396 irregular migrants from Haiti was intercepted by the United States Coast Guard in the vicinity of Cay Sal Bank.   "In accordance with our plans to address an increase in interceptions, the Coast Guard was directed to transport the intercepted migrants to the temporary facility at Inagua where 375 migrants were handed over to Bahamian officials on January 24.  Some 21 migrants (mainly minors) remained with the Coast Guard on their vessel."

He explained, with the activation of the temporary facility in Inagua, the Government moved to quickly deploy additional resources to support the facility.  The Ministry of Health mobilized a team of Nurses and Physicians to fly to Inagua where they erected a field hospital donated by the United States government.  Food and other supplies were shipped in by the HMBS Lawrence Major.

"The Royal Bahamas Police Force and The Royal Bahamas Defence Force continue to assist the Department in providing additional security on the Island.

"Unfortunately, the interception near Cay Sal was not isolated.  On the 24th January - The Department of Immigration was notified that a vessel carrying unlawful entrants from the Republic of Haiti ran aground in the area of The Bluff, South Andros.  Officers from The Royal Bahamas Police Force, stationed in South Andros moved swiftly and apprehended a number of the unlawful entrants to our shores.  Combined with reinforcement teams from the Defence Force and Bahamas Immigration, a total of 41 persons were taken into custody following a full search of the area and surrounding communities.  The 41 persons were subsequently transported to the Detention Centre here in New Providence."

On Monday the 30th of January, Immigration Officials received notification of a suspected smuggling vessel sinking in the vicinity of Grand Bahama.  Law enforcement officials quickly mobilized and 19 individuals were taken into custody.  

They Included:

• Eleven Haitian Nationals
• Two Ecuadorian nationals
• Two Chinese Nationals

Further, four Bahamian Males suspected of being the organizers were arrested and are expected to be placed before the Courts along with this group once the investigations are concluded.

"We are challenged, but yes, we are prepared; yes, we are ready and yes, with God’s grace and mercy, we will ride this wave!  In my earlier communication, I issued a stern warning and advised the Bahamian people that any and all unlawful entrants will be swiftly processed and repatriated to their homeland."

Three repatriation exercises were undertaken, recently, by the Immigration Department totaling 251 persons including

• Thirty-one Cuban Nationals
• Two hundred-and-twenty Haitian nationals

 Source

The Bahamas Department of Immigration new policies regarding acceptance and processing of applications for Work Permits and Permits to Reside from the Republic of Haiti

The Bahamas Department of Immigration announces changes to policies regarding acceptance and processing of applications for Work Permits and Permits to Reside from the Republic of Haiti

In light of recent instability involving the Haitian Government in Haiti, the Government of The Bahamas has made decisions that will affect migrants from Haiti, said Minister of Labour and Immigration the Hon. Keith Bell during a press conference at the Ministry of Labour Friday, January 27, 2023.

“Existing and new Permit to Reside applications for Haitian citizens will only be considered on a case-by-case basis and approval will only be granted in the most exceptional circumstances.

“No new Work Permit applications for Haitian citizens will be processed until such time as revised protocols are introduced to verify and authenticate documents issued by the Haitian government and the Haitian national police,” Minister Bell said.

“All existing work permits, applications and renewals for work permits will be subjected to the most vigorous review and scrutiny.  Applicants should note that as a consequence, the time frame for the processing and determination of such applications will be impacted.”

“The government of the Bahamas is resolute in its commitment to protect its borders and enforce its immigration laws,” Minister Bell said.  “If you have information of breaches to the immigration laws, please contact the Department of Immigration and information can also be forwarded via the Department’s website at www.immigration.gov.bs under the tab ‘contact us!'”

“On Thursday, the 26th January, 2023,” Minister Bell said, “the Haitian National Police paralysed Port-au-Prince, Haiti by blocking streets and forcing their way into Haiti’s main airport.  Reports indicate that the officers also attacked Haiti’s Head of Government Ariel Henry’s official residence. Roads in several cities in the North of Haiti were blocked by protesters.  Yesterday’s protest by the Haitian National Police followed the departure from office of Haiti’s last remaining Senators and represents a further decline in the functioning and stability of the Haitian Government.”

Last evening, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis ordered an immediate involuntary departure from Haiti of all Bahamian diplomatic personnel as soon as security conditions permit.

The Bahamas maintains a strict regulatory framework for the review and processing of all immigration applications.  This process requires each applicant to produce various reports and certifications from their home countries. A key report is a character certificate from local police authorities to confirm any criminal history of an applicant.

Additionally, in many instances, the Department of Immigration may require applicants to attend the Bahamian Embassy or Consulate in the applicant’s home country when immigration officials require enhanced verification.

In response to yesterday’s events, the Department of Immigration hereby advises the public of changes to its policies concerning the acceptance and processing of applications for Work Permits and Permits to Reside from the Republic of Haiti.

Persons entering or remaining in The Bahamas outside our laws will be returned to their home countries

The Increase of Migrant Interceptions in Bahamian Waters

The Bahamas Government continues to work assiduously and continually to address the irregular migration problem through its law enforcement agencies and international partners 

Nassau, The Bahamas - 22nd January 2023 - Earlier today, Immigration officials were notified that a vessel carrying 396 unlawful entrants from the Republic of Haiti was intercepted in the vicinity of Cay Sal by the United States Coastguard. 

The Ministry of Health’s surveillance team has been notified and the customary screenings will be conducted. 

In anticipation of an increase in migrant interceptions, last month the Department of Immigration in collaboration with the Royal Bahamas Defence Force completed work on a temporary processing and detention facility in Inagua.  This facility can temporarily house in excess of 800 persons. 

The intercepted migrants are presently en route to Inagua where they will be handed over to Defence Force and Immigration personnel.  Additional officers and supplies will be provided by HMBS Lawrence Major which was dispatched from the Defence Force Coral Harbour Base this afternoon. 

Through its law enforcement agencies and international partners, The Bahamas Government continues to work assiduously and continually to address the irregular migration problem.  The Department of Immigration is working with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ensure that the intercepted migrants are repatriated as quickly as possible. 

The Bahamas maintains an organised system to allow for the lawful entry and orderly processing of applications for lawful entry into The Bahamas.  This is the only process by which persons should enter The Bahamas.  Persons entering or remaining in The Bahamas outside our laws will be returned to their home countries. 

A further update will be provided to the public as soon as more details become available. 

 

Source

Attorney Fred Smith, QC says: Recent immigration raids carried out as a part of the government’s newly implemented immigration policies is institutional terrorism

Attorney Calls Immigration Raids “Terroism”

The Bahama Journal


Attorney Fred Smith, QC yesterday defended his comments calling recent immigration raids carried out as a part of the government’s newly implemented immigration policies institutional terrorism and called on all those living in The Bahamas to stand up and defend their constitutional rights.

Mr. Smith, who serves as president of the Grand Bahama Human Rights Association said in an interview with the Journal Sunday that his comments were neither inflammatory nor meant to create an emotional uproar, but he charged that the government’s new policies and subsequent tactics are in breach of the constitution.

“The abuse that people are being subjected to in this country whether they are of Haitian extract or people who have entitlement to status – everybody in The Bahamas is entitled to all the protections of the constitution,” he said. They don’t become outlaws because they are of Haitian heritage.”

Mr. Smith, who contends that for 40-years he has challenged the government’s immigration policies, said there is a process the government must follow and he maintained that raids are illegal.

The attorney charged that the government’s new policies are only breeding “Haitian hatred and discrimination.

“I’m concerned with the government respecting peoples’ rights,” Mr. Smith said.”My language is not inappropriate for the circumstances when you see children being forcefully separated from their parents – people being dragged out their homes – people being hunted down like dogs in the bush my language is soft.

“I urge people in The Bahamas be they Haitian or Haitian extraction or Bahamians or foreigners whites, blacks or browns like me to stand up for their rights or else The Bahamas is going to go the same way as the dictatorship in Haiti under [Francois Duvalier] Papa Doc or many of the other dictatorial nations in the world.

“Abuse of human rights, inhuman and degrading treatment will not be tolerated.”

In an earlier press release, Mr. Smith said: “There is no legal requirement for a Haitian or anyone else living in The Bahamas to travel with their work permit or other form of identification. No officer of the law has the right to detain anyone for failure to produce the same, and any policy that includes such provisions is an outright violation of our laws.

“The Bahamas is not Guantánamo Bay. We do not simply detain people without due process and the legal authority to do so. The GBHRA calls on the government to cease and desist from this inhumane policy immediately, and replace it with one that is in accordance with constitutionally-mandated due process and the rule of law.”

November 17, 2014

The Bahama Journal

Bahamas Immigration Policy Update

" I wish to remind the public that the constitution of The Bahamas does not give citizenship at birth to those born here of foreign parents."

I wish to give a brief statement in response to the feedback on the administrative measures announced by me in the House of Assembly on Immigration.

I said that there would be certain changes expected on 1st November following a period of feedback.

Nothing that has come back by way of feedback on the policies indicates that there is a need to change that administrative starting date. The date will therefore stand as the commencement date of the policy.

The policy is not aimed at any national group in The Bahamas. It is generic in nature. It seeks only to better ensure that the people who live and reside in The Bahamas have the lawful authority to do so, either because they are citizens of The Bahamas or they have permits to reside or work here.

I repeat that with immediate effect, we are no longer accepting applications for first time applicants for residence or work permits from those who have no legal status in The Bahamas. Those persons also will no longer be able simply to demonstrate that they have departed The Bahamas. This is in response to the increased suspicion of fraud in connection with these applications. In order for such a first time application to be processed, where the individual has no legal status in The Bahamas, the applicant must be seen and certified as having been seen by an officer of the nearest Bahamian embassy if there is no Bahamian embassy in the applicant's home country. The embassies are in a position to process these certifications.

Secondly, all those who are not nationals of The Bahamas who live in this country beginning 1st November will be required to have the passport of their nationality and evidence that they have permission to live or work in The Bahamas.

This may represent a broad class of people. I wish to remind the public that the constitution of The Bahamas does not give citizenship at birth to those born here of foreign parents. Those children have a right to apply at their eighteenth birthday and before their nineteenth birthday for citizenship of The Bahamas. Up to the time they are granted citizenship, in law they are not Bahamian citizens. This means that these people will be required to have a residence permit to reside lawfully in The Bahamas.

This is a requirement for which there will be no exceptions, save and except where someone is stateless. In the case of a stateless individual, the Government will provide an identity document but otherwise the practice of issuing certificates of identity is to cease on 1st November. When the currency of existing certificates of identity expires, they will not generally be reissued or renewed.

We will speak with the all embassies in The Bahamas and we anticipate that embassies will be able to meet that demand for passports.

We anticipate also that in the case of one national group it may take administratively some three months to meet and process that demand and for the Department of Immigration to process the volume of applications for resident permits.

In any event, we expect that by 15th January 2015, most people will have complied with this requirement and certainly that children will have complied for the start of the school term in 2015. If any citizen has a difficulty, they should contact their local embassy for assistance with particular problems.

These measures are for the general good and will provide a more secure form of documentation for all who work and live in The Bahamas. I would therefore urge all citizens residing lawfully in The Bahamas to comply with these new measures.

Those who are not here lawfully should expect increased vigilance and enforcement on the part of the law enforcement authorities in The Bahamas.

I wish to thank the public for their support of the measures, and for the responsible manner in which these have been accepted.

In particular, I would wish to commend the continuing dialogue with leaders of the Haitian community and for their efforts to ensure compliance with these administrative measures.

The door remains open for continued comment and dialogue as we seek to make The Bahamas a more secure place to live.


Bahamas News Ma Bey

Bahamas Immigration Policy Hurts Tourism ...and Business Expansion

Immigration Policy Hurting Tourism Investment

Tribune 242 Editorial:



MANY BAHAMIANS are walking contradictions. They accept that this country needs the goodwill of tourists and foreign investors, but — in the words spoken from the floor of the House by an older generation — they also “believe that they should bring them (foreigners) in, suck ’em dry and throw out the husks”.

 

While the Tourism Ministry is spending big bucks to convince visitors and investors that the Bahamas is the ultimate paradise, the heavy boots of Immigration seem to be working overtime to destroy those efforts.

 

If it is an increase in Bahamian jobs that this government wants, then the Immigration policies, as currently executed, are not going to encourage production of those jobs — rather it will mean that, even locally, many business owners will think twice before expanding.

 

It should be made mandatory for every Immigration officer to attend the Bahamas Host programme to understand what it means to be working in such a sensitive economy — an economy that depends upon goodwill and confidence. Good manners will not hinder these officers in the efficient execution of their duties, but at least they will learn how to carry out their duties without being boorish.

 

Judging from the hits on our website from the general public and the telephone calls, the public is incensed by the treatment of the sea lion trainer who was humiliated before the guests of Atlantis earlier this week. All Bahamian hotels are competing against the world market for the tourist dollar. This is the only way that they can keep their doors open, hotel rooms filled, and Bahamians employed.

 

Atlantis, with its almost 8,000 employees and related associates, is the largest private employer in the Bahamas. Of this number, 74 are foreigners on work permits — way below the number of permits allowed Atlantis under its heads of agreement with government.

 

Yet this week, three Immigration officers entered Atlantis’ private property through a back gate, interrupted a session the sea lion trainer was conducting with some of the hotel’s visitors, demanded her passport, which, of course, she did not have on her, resulting in them ordering her to their car and driving off. No explanation to anyone. It was a mistake, of course. The lady was breaking no Immigration laws. She was working legally for the resort.

 

While calling the incident “regrettable,” Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell’s comment that on some occasions the execution of policy causes some “confusion” was not good enough.

 

Nobody can be confused by common good manners. Wouldn’t it have been more polite to have waited until the session with the guests was over? The officers could have then taken the lady aside and asked the pertinent questions.

 

Of course, the correct procedure, rather than rushing out the door to show off their bully tactics, would have been to have checked the database at Immigration to confirm the woman’s immigration status. What they would have discovered was that whoever had “tipped” them off to the “illegality” was misinformed.

 

If whoever in Immigration had done their job, these men would never have been instructed to go to the resort. However, even if Immigration had discovered something wrong, they should have telephoned the hotel and asked to speak with Mr George Markantonis, the president and managing director of the resort, or one of his assistants. But, oh, no! There’s certain excitement in showing who is the boss “in we country!”

 

Although matters had been smoothed over, Mr Markantonis made it clear that he was still “extremely upset” at the “heavy-handed behaviour” of two of those three officers.

 

An Associated Press report, published in the Charlotte Observer, in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Wednesday, quoted Mr Winston Rolle, former CEO of the Chamber of Commerce, as saying that there are not enough skilled Bahamian workers available for the private sector in the Bahamas.

 

“What happens when we cannot find people to get the job done? Are these businesses supposed to go without? I don’t think that is practical and realistic,” Mr Rolle said. “I think the current stance by government is damaging. For people sitting outside of the Bahamas, what is being portrayed is scary.”

 

But Atlantis was not the only resort graced with Immigration’s presence.

 

Mr Sandy Sands, senior vice president of Baha Mar, had his own Immigration visit. The officers arrived at the Sheraton during the lunch period and detained senior engineers. Mr Sands said that the officers approached the foreign staff in public view. ‘‘At our urging,” said Mr Sands, the officials agreed to “take the matter to a private location,” where the matter was resolved.

 

While supporting the Bahamianisation policy – by “recruiting talented Bahamians to work in various positions throughout the organisation,” said Mr Sands – “the long-term success of our project depends on attracting expatriates whose skill sets contribute to the success of the project or our operating entities and by extension contribute to the long term success of our operation.

 

“We have to be careful in terms of the manner in which enforcement of the Immigration Department is conducted and we really have to enhance the perception that the government welcomes foreign investment and by extension welcomes those skill sets that are not readily available within the country.”

 

The country also has to be “very careful”, he said, that it does not send signals to investors or potential investors that the country is not investor-friendly.

 

According to Wikileaks, a US Embassy official in February 1976 had an interesting conversation over lunch with the country’s former deputy prime minister Arthur Hanna. The topic was the country’s Bahamianisation policy.

 

They discussed a range of ideas, including the cost of work permits. It was noted that certain firms had argued that their profits were so marginal that the permit fees might force them out of business. There was also the claim by the larger firms, which had to bring in large numbers of technicians to service equipment, that the added costs were prohibitive.

 

“Hanna’s attitude,” the official reported to Washington, “ranged from scepticism to outright rejection. He showed no concern over the possibility that the alternative to paying the work permit fees or employing Bahamians was to close down the business.”

 

Today with the economy desperate for an injection of capital, no one can afford to have such a cavalier attitude — certainly it will not produce the 10,000 jobs that the PLP promised in their first months in government.

 

April 26, 2013

 

Tribune 242

 

Caribbean Blog International

 

...the job of Immigration is to protect The Bahamas from illegal immigrants... but... The schools, the churches and the hospitals are off limits to immigration officers... so... The Bahamas' Haitian problem continues

Schools, hospitals and churches off limits to Immigration

tribune242 editorial




THIS WEEK Belinda Wilson, president of the Bahamas Union of Teachers, agreed that undocumented Haitian students should be removed from the Bahamas' school system.

While recognising that it was a delicate situation, that no child in the Bahamas can be denied an education, and that no roundup of Haitian students whose parents are illegally in this country, should be carried out on school property, Ms Wilson said teachers are willing to assist Immigration in identifying the students for their eventual removal. She was supporting an intention allegedly made by Immigration Director Jack Thompson in a speech to the New Providence Association of Public High School Principals' annual retreat. However, Mr Thompson denied a newspaper report - not a Tribune report - that quoted him as saying that the country has to "flush out" undocumented immigrants who are enrolled in the country's school system "absorbing our resources."

Mr Thompson denied any suggestion that the Immigration Department intends to target these children. He said he made it clear to the educators that education is a fundamental human right which every child is entitled to receive.

"Administrators were told," said Mr Thompson, "that students of foreign nationals attending schools should apply to the Department of Immigration for a residency permit or permit to reside." He said it was "emphasised that while students should not be denied the right of a basic education, records by the Department to Immigration are critical for future applications, or permanent residence or citizenship."

He agreed that the children's issue was a sensitive one and requires professionalism and discretion.

He said that his department, fully appreciating the sensitivity of the matter, always tries to make certain that its policies and actions are in "compliance with international law and acceptable national and international standards and practices."

This is a most difficult situation and unless handled extremely carefully can be turned into a human witch hunt. If vulnerable parents believe that they can be targeted through their school children, there will be a mass exodus from the schools, which then becomes a police problem as the children take to the bush.

The last problem will then be far greater than the first.

The situation of the children is not of easy solution. Many of these children have been born here of parents who have lived in the Bahamas for many years. No child born in the Bahamas after 1973 is automatically a Bahamian citizen. However, at the age of 18 that young person can apply for citizenship. No impediments being in the way, the grant of citizenship should be automatic.

However, a Haitian child born in the Bahamas, does have an impediment to block his automatic citizenship -- his parents are illegal residents. We don't know if over the years the Bahamas and Haitian governments have worked out another thorny problem. However, at one time Haiti did not recognise as Haitian citizens a child born in the Bahamas of Haitian parents. If this is still the position it means that the Bahamas will have many stateless children on its hands. This is indeed a major problem -- an international problem.

Many vocal Bahamians want Haitian children not only removed from the schools, but all undocumented residents -- mostly Haitians -- to be banned from the hospitals and clinics. This is a most shortsighted and dangerous position, and the fastest way to fan an epidemic that could affect us all.

Let these people fear seeking medical help for a disease that could be contagious, and rather than be arrested stay at home, they could infect their family, their neighbours, their community and eventually all of New Providence.

Doctors, for example, swear the Hippocratic Oath, which is one of the oldest binding documents in history. Its principles are still held sacred by doctors today. Doctors swear to treat the sick to the best of their ability, preserve the patient's privacy, teach the secrets of medicine to the next generation, etc. And so doctors, in practising their profession are bound to keep information about their patients secret. They are also obliged to treat them regardless of who they are or from where they come.

Mr Thompson has made it clear that the job of Immigration is to protect the Bahamas from illegal immigrants, but he stresses that it is a task that must be carried out with sensitivity.

"We never send any immigration officers to the schools," said Mr Thompson. "The schools, the church and the hospitals are off limits."

This does not remove the Haitian problem, which has to be approached in another way.

July 07, 2011

tribune242 editorial

Caribbean Blog International