Woodside: FNM Budget's Commitment to Bahamian Youth
Published: Wednesday June 6th, 2007
Minister of State for Youth & Sports the Hon. Byran Woodside
2007/2008 Budget Communication by Minister of State for Youth and Sports, the Hon. Byran Woodside, MP:
MINISTER WOODSIDE: It is indeed an honour, to rise today for the first time as Minister of State for Youth and Sports, in the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture. I am both humbled and privileged to contribute to this budget debate, permitted to me, through the confidence of the Rt. Hon Prime Minister, but even more importantly, by the good people of the Pinewood Constituency.
Mr. Speaker,
The good people of Pinewood sought to unshackle themselves during the recent General Election.
They wanted change, better representation and new leadership. They wanted restoration of trust. They got their wishes through peaceful and democratic means at the polls. Now that the good people of Pinewood have placed their trust in me, with God’s help and guidance, I will give them my very best.
I wish, therefore, to ensure them of my commitment to serve all of the residents of Pinewood: the young and the not so young.
In Pinewood, we have much work ahead. The real work begins now.
Together we can creatively solve the problems of Pinewood, meet the challenges to foster growth and development and build Pinewood into the best Constituency in our country.
And, so, Mr. Speaker, Pinewood, like the Phoenix, shall rise from the swamps.
YOUTH DEPARTMENT
“We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future”. Franklyn D Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States.
Mr. Speaker,
I believe in his discernment, President Roosevelt as does my Prime Minister, realized that while Governments are given the awesome task to help build communities, they must do so by putting their emphasis and resources into the empowerment of its people. Experience has taught us that young people can play an important role in national development if provided the right tools, the learning and empowerment to employ those tools and supportive environments in which to use them.
Despite the many challenges of youth, thousands of young people are involved positively and productively in the development of our country. I am passionate about youth work, and have always been, and I am so honoured to be the representative on their behalf in this Honourable House.
Mr. Speaker,
My Government is resolute in strengthening and empowering the youth of this country. We are committed to a new and innovative approach to enhancing the life experiences of young Bahamians. We will provide them with the necessary assistance, tools and skills needed to make the smooth transition into adulthood and integration into society.
Mr. Speaker,
When one looks at the alarming statistics and the risk factors of poverty, low levels of academic achievement, poor labour market outcomes, unhealthy lifestyles, unstable home environments, delinquency, crime and violence and all other factors that interfere with the optimal development of life, as a Government, we must be able to identify approaches that focus on prevention, provide opportunities for positive experiences, make available practical alternatives and promote their optimal development that will help to build them for the future.
Will we, Mr. Speaker, allow our young people to crumble into an abyss of desperation, anguish and social volatility, or will we help to transform them into cradles of imagination, social cohesion and economic prosperity, building them for the future of our Bahamas?
While I do believe, Mr. Speaker, that due consideration must be given to financial and budgetary restrictions facing any government, I am most proud to present to this Honourable House, a 14% increase in the budget allocated for Youth and Sports.
This increase gives emphasis to this Government’s commitment in placing young people at the top of its agenda. This budget Mr. Speaker will be treated as an investment in the overall development of our Bahamaland and will not be perceived as just another line item.
Consistent with our Manifesto and the Speech from the Throne, we are firmly committed to our moral responsibility to Bahamians, and to providing an enabling environment for the empowerment of our youth. It is a clear and present moral responsibility that cannot be relinquished.
As a strategy for youth development therefore, the youth programmes in 28 years of existence, through both PLP and FNM administrations, have been anchored in the context of young people as the future generation to lead the Bahamas. My Government does not intend to change those youth programmes that exist and work; rather, we intend to enhance and further develop them.
We intend to look at the statistics on the emerging trends of youth socialization and behavior. Long gone are the days when youth initiatives were formulated by myths, emotions and stereotyping. We intend to document and present credible data and analyses, which will serve to enhance policy formulation for youth, enabling us, therefore, to generate those initiatives that are, commensurate with the results collated.
As policy makers, no longer can we continue to see our young people as problems or as a “Lost” generation”. Instead, we must begin to embrace the fact that they have a right to express their views, their desires and their fears, and are provided with opportunities to fulfill their dreams and aspirations.
Mr. Speaker,
Bahamian youth are known to be an enormous resource to this society. Therefore, our vision of youth initiatives for the future development of The Bahamas, will lend itself primarily to integrate youth into the democratic processes, supporting strategies and giving them the resources and independence that develop advocacy, self-expression and critical thinking skills.
While there is statistical evidence of the population undergoing a demographic transition and a gradual aging of the population, there still remains a concern to policy makers to identify the gaps and duplication, and determine the best way forward for our youth. Going forward Mr. Speaker, we must have a clear vision, one that will maximize the full participation of the Bahamian youth in shaping the present and future of their communities and nation as a whole.
Mr. Speaker,
My Ministry will collaborate with other Ministries of the Government, NGO’s the Church and the community at large, to address these complex issues. It is my intention to meet with young people on a monthly basis, in round table discussions, to hear directly from them, on the issues and concerns that affect their daily lives. It is also my intention to meet and maintain relationships with our stakeholders in youth development, both in the public and private sectors in order to continue our rich tradition of partnership, built upon mutual trust, respect and understanding.
It is also vital Mr. Speaker, that need assessments and evidence based approaches are realized in order that accurate information is used when we implement any programme for our youth. In order that effective planning, execution, monitoring and evaluation is conducted, it is vital that adequate staff is in place, not only in New Providence, but throughout all of our Family Islands.
I understand that there have been challenges in attracting and keeping officers, both in the Youth and Sports Departments. A concerted effort will be made to ensure that youth interests are being met at all levels. With this in mind, our focus will be towards strengthening the capacity of the Youth Department.
There are far too few Youth Officers at present, responsible for the needs of youth in this country. This budget, will reflect a step forward in the hiring of permanent, established and professional Youth Officers, who will be stationed in strategic positions to meet our targeted goals. These officers will be identified and posted both in New Providence and in our Family Islands.
NATIONAL YOUTH POLICY
Mr. Speaker,
Every effort will be made by this Government, to focus on the implementation of a National Youth Policy closely with our strategic partners both in the private and public sectors. Our Government has provided $45,000 for this process to begin. The geographic fragmentation of our chain of islands in The Bahamas, will have a number of implications for executing this policy.
But, I am confident that with the assistance of our partners in youth development, a youth policy, long overdue will be realized. We therefore intend to review the present legislation in place for youth, and provide a National Youth Policy, reflecting a long term strategic instrument and an integrated cross sector and coherent approach that will serve as the coordination of youth programmes,
NATIONAL YOUTH MONTH
Mr. Speaker,
As you know, for sometime now, National Youth Month has been held during the month of May. In conjunction with the Youth Department and youth leaders, numerous events and activities are coordinated to highlight the achievements and accomplishments of our young people throughout the length and breadth of The Bahamas.
As you are aware, May 2007 presented some unusual challenges for the organizers and participants, due to national demands of the general elections, the extensive nature of coordinating procedures and the clash with national examinations. The youth leaders and my staff therefore, determined that a postponement of this year’s celebrations was more practicable.
The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture is therefore pleased to announce that National Youth Month will be celebrated during the month of October this year. My Ministry will not allow an entire year to pass, without giving young Bahamians an opportunity to be highlighted recognized and celebrated through its Annual Youth March and Rally, National Recognition Ceremony and Youth in Parliament.
This October will also introduce a National Youth Forum, a Youth in Business & Professional Day, a float parade, to coincide with National Heroes Day and a Lecture Series for Youth Leaders. The staff of my Ministry and youth leaders will view the month of October as a test run in the first instance, and determine if the month of October should be set aside or to revert to May for these most important celebrations.
I therefore invite all, the young and the young at heart, to support the efforts of my Ministry and its partners – the youth leaders and the youth themselves – to celebrate and underscore their achievements this year in October. The provision of $120,000 will assist in the overall execution of National Youth Month in New Providence and throughout our Family of Islands.
SUMMER YOUTH EMPLOYMENT
Mr. Speaker,
Each year, thousands of young people are out of school during the months of July and August. The Summer Youth Employment Programme of my Ministry provides positive alternatives to our young people during the summer months. The 4 week programme will be held from July 9th to the 3rd of August, with camps located throughout New Providence and within the Family Islands.
Teachers, skilled professionals and support staff will be screened, trained and deployed to the over 50 camps, in disciplines of Personal Development, Civics, Sports and Culture. This programme provides short term employment opportunities for high school and college students, as well as exposure to job experiences through placement in the private and public sectors.
Additionally, funds from the summer programme, will provide for grants to independent church and community camps, as well as assist major Family Islands in the development of their summer programmes. This 2007/2008 budget has therefore allocated $700,000 towards the Summer Programme.
It must be noted that while we are not able to hire every young person, in the Summer Programme, a transparent and professional committee will make every effort to provide an equal opportunity for all suitable candidates applying for positions for employment in the summer months. Applications can be sought at the Ministry’s headquarters located on Thompson Boulevard.
NATIONAL YOUTH SERVICE
Moving forward then, Mr. Speaker,
As we continue in our collaborative efforts and work with our partners in youth development, we will continue with the Restorative Component of National Youth Service , with the YEAST institute of the Roman Catholic Church. The Bahamas has had a long and rich tradition of partnerships with non-governmental organizations, many of which are experienced in providing services to and for our youth.
These partnerships provide a base from which we will move to develop, improve and expand services for youth. The fiscal, human and technical constraints of a Government prohibit it from initiating an array of new programmes. We must, therefore, look to our partners to design and deliver tailored and targeted programmes that address the varied needs of youth.
From all indications, this programme is demanded by the school, communities as well as parents. Following 6 to 9 months at a residential facility, located on the old Bahamas Agricultural Research Centre (BARC) site in North Andros, at-risk and challenged young men, ages 14-19 years return into the regular school system or are placed in a youth job training programme, of which many retain full time employment.
The allocation of $700,000 has been earmarked to sustain this partnership with YEAST, as well as to assist in transitional housing for some of the young men on their return. There is a Mentorship Programme, as well as a Tracking System which will help to measure the success of the programme.
YEAST has demonstrated their capacity to address the needs of this segment of our population for a number of years and I wish to commend the Catholic Diocese and the Executive Director, of YEAST Deacon Jeff Lloyd, and his very diligent staff both in New Providence and Andros, for a splendid job.
I would also wish to commend the members of the Consultative Committee who, subsequently provided the credible research and made the recommendations for the implementation of this programme. An additional $100,000 of capital expenditure has also been allocated to assist with the overall improvement of the residential facilities in Andros to accommodate more young men.
CONTRIBUTIONS TO SPORTS, CIVIC AND YOUTH ORGANIZATIONS
Mr. Speaker,
As we continue to assist existing and emerging partnerships, $300,000 has been set aside to provide financial grants and contributions to youth organizations, church youth groups and youth bands within our country.
The Department of Youth 2007 Youth Organization Directory, which will be available in September of this year, has the total registration of 412 youth and church organizations and youth bands in New Providence, over 43 in Grand Bahama, and another 48 in the family islands.
While it may be difficult to provide financial assistance to every group, our mandate will additionally put in place a mechanism, to assist in the development of groups in order to build and strengthen their capacities. Technical support will assist those youth leaders in acquiring new and cutting edge leadership and management skills and competencies, thereby, empowering them with the necessary proficiencies and tools needed to identify adequate sources of funding from private and international affiliates.
FRESH START
Mr. Speaker,
The Fresh Start Programme that started some 12 years ago, the brain child of my colleague the Minister of State for Finance and the Member for Marco City, provides the out-of-school, unskilled youth – 16-25 years of age, with job search skills and eventual employment.
In an effort to engage young people to serve their communities while developing themselves, this 3 month programme, provides the youth with a structured schedule in Personal Development, in all areas of job readiness, including how to fill out application forms, how to dress appropriately for the job, how to interact with others on the job and how to open a bank account, etc.
All participants take part in community service, introduction to computers and eventually, an internship with a business establishment. A partnership between the Government and the private sector provides the minimal wage for an 8 week internship, with many of the participants being able to retain employment after the completion of the programme.
Mr. Speaker, $100,000 is being allocated to this year’s Fresh Start Programme, funds of which will be used to assist with the administration of the programme, as well as weekly stipends and salaries for the participants. This year, it is envisioned that programmes will be executed simultaneously, in New Providence, Grand Bahama and Abaco.
JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT
Mr. Speaker,
This year, Junior Achievement will celebrate 28 years, as the longest and perhaps only youth entrepreneurial programme for high school seniors, in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. As the inheritors of the free enterprise system, the programme provides an avenue for our youth to experience economic literacy, entrepreneurship and leadership, in a “hands on” environment. Since 1979 over 25,000 young Bahamians have passed through this vibrant programme.
It is therefore with esteem pleasure that I announce this year’s budget allocation of $100,000 earmarked for Junior Achievement Bahamas. It is envisioned that Family Island expansion, effective October this year, will include Acklins & Crooked Island, Cat Island, Exuma, San Salvador and Spanish Wells. The programme is already in operation on the major Family Islands.
I would like to express sincere appreciation on behalf of our nation to Mr. Lionel Elliot, Executive Director, Mr. Felix Stubbs, Chairman of the Junior Achievement Board of Directors, and Corporate sponsors of the business community, programme managers, Advisors and Centre Managers, for the yeoman’s tasks in making Junior Achievement a success.
As Bahamians, we are well aware of the returns on the investment of this programme. Past Achievers and individuals making positive contributions to our society just to name a few include individuals like Mr. Philip Simon, Executive Director, The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce; Mr. Charles Sealy, CEO of Doctor’s Hospital, Mr. Farion Cooper, Owner/ Proprietor of Bahamian Springs Water Company, Mrs. Vanessa Kerr-Longley, Owner/Proprietor, 100% Bible Book Store, Mr. Damon Thompson, Owner, Bahamas Embroidery and our very own Ministers of State, Hon. Zhivargo Laing and Hon. Charles Maynard and Sen. the Hon. Dr. Jacintha Higgs.
In a few days, Mr. Speaker, I will be especially proud as a new Minister of State for Youth and Sports, former Junior Achievement Executive Director and past Vice Chairman of the Junior Achievement Board of Directors, to announce at the Junior Achievement Awards, almost $1,000,000 in combined scholarships to Junior Achievement Bahamas from Johnson & Wales University, in New York and St Leo’s University, in Florida and the business community of the Bahamas.
This will be the highest percentage of scholarships given to Junior Achievers and will be to the benefit of Achievers in both New Providence and in the family islands. Additionally, Bentley College located in Boston Massachusetts has also indicated an interest in awarding scholarships to deserving Junior Achievers for next year.
I wish to congratulate the staff of the Youth Department and Junior Achievement in particular, who will be further mandated to continue scholarship opportunities for Achievers throughout the Bahamas, from both local and international sponsors with a special emphasis towards scholarships in entrepreneurship.
SELF STARTER PROGRAMME
Mr. Speaker,
Research of the Commonwealth Youth Programme, Caribbean Centre, reported, that “there is very little evidence that the various youth entrepreneurship and employment programmes as they are presently configured, will achieve any sustainable and profound impact on youth unemployment and satisfy youth desires for economic empowerment and self actualization.”
It is therefore crucial, Mr. Speaker, that a more comprehensive approach be adopted in the formulation and execution of these initiatives. Such programmes must of necessity reflect a capacity to navigate emerging national as well as global economic arrangements, while at the same time providing adequate opportunities for youth entrepreneurs to progress from micro to mainstream enterprises and industries.
Mr. Speaker,
The Government of The Bahamas has provided $1,000,000 for a Self Starter Programme This program will bridge the gap between what a youth business needs and what is available to them. My Ministry will encourage and promote the development of innovative business ideas and begin the process to promote an entrepreneurial culture.
Our goal will be to look at similar models already in existence and determine how best a program of this nature can promote youth self-employment in The Bahamas. It is generally estimated that about 25% of all young people have the potential for self-employment. Helping them to decide whether to work for themselves requires counseling, advice and special help in putting together credible business plans.
Assisting young people to start their own businesses can release one of the greatest areas of potential growth in an economy. For many starting their own businesses provide a lifeline to escape from the frustration and waste of unemployment.
It offers an opportunity to harness unused energies and talents, and delivers the self- respect and the sense of pride that economic independence brings. As a businessman myself, the experience of starting one’s own business, yields tremendous benefits, both to an individual and for the community.
However, access to financial support is virtually impossible for many young people. Many commercial banks do not take on the risk of working with young people who cannot offer collateral, guarantees, group surety or a track record of working a business. Because of this, many young people settle for becoming an employee, rather than engaging themselves as employers.
It must be noted Mr. Speaker, that there are many young Bahamians with the potential to start their own businesses. Businesses can be as simple as running a lawn mowing service or as complex as manufacturing and exporting a product. Studies indicate that young people who develop entrepreneurial skills have higher motivation to achieve, are more creative, have a higher sense of personal control, a higher self-esteem and are more innovative.
While the proposed Self Starter Programme will assist young Bahamians with the capital needed to start their own businesses, no initiative of this magnitude can achieve its aims on its own. Our intention will be to mobilize the business community, who will work in partnership with the Government. In essence then, the Government will provide access to financing a business start-up, while the business community provides the mentoring needed to the young person.
Mr. Speaker,
We envision a pilot initiative in the first instance, which will test the self starter initiative. We will ensure that it is monitored and evaluated for at least one year before its success can be judged. The next stage will be to execute the programme, using lessons learnt from the pilot, and continue to learn as the programme grows from experiences, pitfalls and accomplishments. Young people from all walks of life, from Inagua in the south to Grand Bahama in the north, will be eligible.
As this initiative evolves, I am sure you will appreciate Mr. Speaker, that there will be need for online research facility, business counseling and direct training linkages to NGO’s, BTVI and the College of The Bahamas.
You can imagine Mr. Speaker that once this initiative has proven that it can create sustainable businesses, what a ripple effect it will bring to the economy! It will develop a paradigm shift in the thinking of Bahamians, in particular, our financial institutions, that will become more willing to help with funding young Bahamians, in small business enterprises.
GRAND BAHAMA
Mr. Speaker,
Our Government views, Grand Bahama as the industrial capital of The Bahamas, a significant second city given its population size, level of development and contribution to the nation’s youth.
My Ministry will therefore, earmark for the first time an amount of $60,000 for the Grand Bahama Youth Programme. This, we feel, will go a long way in assisting the young people of Grand Bahama in a most positive and worth while manner.
SPORTS
Mr. Speaker I now turn to Sports.
In accordance with Manifesto 2007, my Ministry reaffirms its conviction that every Bahamian has the right to participate in, and enjoy all the rights, privileges and obligations attendant to active enjoyment of sport and physical recreation. Such a conviction is further validated by the fact that Bahamians are a physically gifted and sports loving people, making them naturally athletic.
Also, the geographical proximity of this country to the United States of America, together with its own well-entrenched Afro-Saxon heritage, combines to constitute a fertile ground for the propagation of sports and physical recreation.
Governing such informed thinking is the thirteen bullet-point pledges contained in the 2007 Charter by which my Party campaigned in advance of the recent General Elections. In short, and in general, my Ministry will seek to promote as a natural right, the ability of all its citizens, the able-bodied as well as the disabled, to participate in the widest opportunities of sport and recreation, at the local level as well as in the highest international arenas of competitive sport.
In pursuance of these objectives, my Ministry will seek and promote an orderly improvement and expansion in the national sports plant, which is inclusive of National Federations and Associations; the athletes, coaches and administrators which comprise those federations; and the many fans, spectators and corporate sponsors who share in the proven proposition that sport and recreation conjoin with all the other holistic pastimes of man to promote personal growth and development, and in one’s ability to properly function in any given society.
In terms of specifics, the aim of my Ministry over the next fiscal year will be to achieve the following objectives:
- Commence the construction of the required framework for the establishment of a National Sports Authority.
In consultation with the Bahamas Olympic Association, all recognized national federations, National and Family Island Sports Councils, leading Sports Administrators and the athletes of the Bahamas, draft a model for establishing a statutory authority having clearly stipulated legislative powers to facilitate genuine national sports development.
My Department of Sports has already been assigned the task of commencing plans for such consultation process, with the obligation of presenting a preliminary report for the consideration of the Bahamas Government within the next six months. Such a report will propose the most appropriate legislative relationship that should exist between the Sports Authority and the Minister of Sports, the Minister of Education, the Minister of Health and the Minister with responsibility for Local Government.
It is also envisioned that the Authority will possess binding powers in the arbitration of sporting disputes. Another key projection is that the National Sports Authority will formulate and oversee a national programme for training, licensing and then providing full time employment opportunities for a cadre of certified referees, umpires, time keepers and scorers, all of whom will be placed at the disposal of Core Sports national federations and associations and all primary and secondary school leagues.
Such an exercise will eliminate the vexing problem which associations and school leagues historically experience in their plans to elevate standards in their particular discipline by engaging fair and impartial, competent and certified game officials. The Authority may also evolve into the national means by which Federations, Associations and School Sports Associations will certify and license their coaches.
- Introduction of A National Scholar-Athlete Awards Banquet.
In consultation with the Ministry of Education and all School Sports Associations, promote the pursuit of academic excellence by hosting a high-profile annual national awards banquet to recognize outstanding Honor Roll student-athletes and the Physical Education Departments of the schools which they attend.
The aim of the programme will be to motivate student-athletes to achieve high academic standards just as they pursue athletic excellence, making them strong candidates for college scholarship opportunities. The first recommendation is to seek Cabinet’s approval to name this annual Programme in honour of the late renown scholar and athlete, Deacon Lou Adderley, who represented all the ideals of a Christian, a mathematics scholar, an outstanding athlete and a historically successful mentor of thousands of successful citizens of today’s Bahamas.
- Introduce Life Guards to Public Beaches during Summer Months and Public Holidays.
With the support of the Bahamas Swim Federation and the various local lifeguard societies, engage trained lifeguards and station them at public beaches during the summer months. Although such a vital programme has been previously talked about over the past several years, no concrete action has been taken. My Ministry will commence a pilot programme within the coming months, working in collaboration with all relevant public and private agencies.
- Empower and extend the influence of the National Sports Medicine Committee in the fight against athletic injuries and the use of performance-enhancing drugs.
My Ministry will enhance its efforts to make available to our national teams the best medical services available. Prominent physicians and allied health personnel will be invited to volunteer their professional expertise to ensure the optimum wellness of our elite athletes as they compete in major individual and team competitions around the world.
Fortunately for The Bahamas, its athletes have remained relatively free from the use of performance-enhancing drugs, thereby in compliance with the World Anti Doping Code, to which The Bahamas became a signatory in 2004. Such a Code has been universally accepted and it mandates that all countries enforce its articles.
The challenge is that the Code is constantly updated to remain current with advanced developments in chemical technology and the continuous discovery of new and more powerful strains of steroids that are difficult to detect. The Bahamas is therefore obligated to remain abreast of the evolving demands of the World Anti Doping Agency, the world authority created to police doping in sports.
To remain in good standing with the international sporting community, the process will commence to establish a local chapter of the World Anti Doping Agency in cooperation with other countries of the region. In its initial stages, the aim will be to mount preventive programmes among the young athletes of The Bahamas.
- Replenishment of the Sports Officers Corps and the appointment of Family Island Sports Officers.
Of the serving officers in the Department of Sports, the average age has been allowed to grow to fifty four years, in spite of the constant admonitions of the hierarch staff of that Department. Such a crisis was compounded given that no new Sports Officer has been appointed by my Ministry since 1993 despite the fact that seven Sports Officers (the late Phillip Cabbage Poitier; Sharon The General Storr; Eldece Clarke-Lewis; Dawn Woodside; Bradley Cooper; Michael Cooper and Wayne Smith) have been lost without any replacements.
Furthermore, as a national agency, this Ministry obligates itself to extend its services beyond New Providence, outside of which there are only two established Sports Officers, serving in Grand Bahama. Seven temporary member of staff were engaged in to serve in the following communities: Abaco, Eleuthera, Cat Island, Acklins/Crooked Island, Exuma and Inagua.
Two such staff were also engaged to serve in North and South Andros, respectively. My Ministry will revisit all these appointments with a view to seeking their professional upgrade and establishment. The aim will also be to identify a limited number of Sports Officers to serve in New Providence and in a given number of the Family Islands.
- Consolidate gains made in plans to introduce baseball to New Providence Secondary Schools, and its systematic expansion to Schools in the Family Island. In the corresponding period, elevate the quality of interschool softball for girls.
Continuation of the programme of training physical education teachers in the art of coaching baseball while at the same time conducting clinics in the fundamentals of softball for school girls. Eleuthera, Abaco and Long Island will be the first Family Islands targeted, with other Islands to be subsequently incorporated.
- Amendment of the National Sports Policy.
In November, 2005, The Sports Department convened a National Conclave, which included representatives of all national federations, associations, Family Island Sports Councils and other relevant agencies of the community.
Such an assembly represented an authoritative majority of the membership of the entire national sporting community.
Over the three days of the very successful Conclave, there emerged unanimous consensus that The National Sport Policy required improvement if it was to remain relevant to the changing environment of sports in The Bahamas.
In that regard, comprehensive discussions were held over the span of the Conclave and a significant number of amendments were proposed for the consideration of the Government of The Bahamas. The amendments as proposed by the Conclave were endorsed and subsequently forwarded to the then Cabinet for consideration.
The Amended Policy was not approved until April, 2007, causing it to become the source of current review. Preliminary indications are that the amendments to the Policy would strengthen its effectiveness. My Ministry is therefore inclined to support a favourable review of the Policy.
- Increase in the Subvention Programme: Financial assistance to athletes training for major international competition.
In keeping with history and tradition, the relationship which exists between the Elite Athletes of the Bahamas and the current Prime Minister and Minister of Finance continues to blossom, from the time when the Prime Minister oversaw the implementation of the Elite Athletes Subventions Programme in 1995; to the time in 1999 he himself tabled a Cabinet Memorandum seeking the creation of the Sports Endowment Fund, making $1,000,000 available to assist this country’s Elite Athletes and national teams with meeting their training expenses.
Here in 2007, note should be taken of the generous increase in the Elite Athletes Subventions Item by thirty three point three percent (33.3%) to $800,000 and the 100% increase in the annual allocation to the National Sports Endowment Fund to two million dollars $2,000,000. These developments can best be given their proper context when one considers that prior to 1994, the greatest annual government allocation budgeted for sports amounted to under $200,000.
It was also The Right Honourable Prime Minister, and the Member of Parliament for North Abaco, himself who tabled the Cabinet Memorandum which established the Incentives Grants Programme. The Memorandum was tabled on Tuesday, August, 2001 and its approval allows for government’s provision of cash and land considerations to local Elite Athletes winning Medals at the Olympic Games and World Outdoor Championships. Indeed, it would appear that there has proven to be a good relationship between the Elite Athletes of The Bahamas and the Member for North Abaco. History Survey of Subventions to Elite Athletes:
(See Chart Below)
- Expansion and enhancement of traditional programmes, i.e.
- 28th Annual National Primary Schools Track & Field Championships
- 22st Annual Fr. Marcian Peters Invitational High School Basketball Classic.
- Developmental Softball Programme for girls.
- The Annual Summer Sports Programme.
The central purpose of all my Ministry’s Sports Programmes this year will be on the developmental aspects of the various disciplines. Emphasis will be placed on improving fundamental skills.
REGATTAS
Mr. Speaker,
Sailing/Regattas form an integral part of the Bahamian Cultural Heritage. More recently Regattas have become an important source of income for local Family Island communities and highly conducive to domestic tourism via festive activities.
However, least we forget Sloop Sailing is a sport. In fact, it is the only sport indigenous to The Bahamas. Therefore our government has reallocated Regattas to the Department of Sports in my Ministry, the intention being to:
- Recognize the significance of sailing as a sport;
- To ensure that the Bahamian flavour of Regatta is maintained in its various dimensions,
- Increase the promotion of Regatta internationally.
To this end our government has allocated $400,000 to Family Island Regattas.
NEW NATIONAL STADIUM:
Mr. Speaker,
Plans are being finalized to commence the construction of the New National Stadium project. The Stadium is a gift to the Bahamian People from the People’s Republic of China. It will be constructed within the precincts of the Queen Elizabeth Sports Centre on the sites of the former Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium and the Churchill Tener Knowles Softball Stadium.
The National Stadium project will be driven by 140 Chinese personnel, including architects, engineers, accountants, translators and skilled workers. The first contingent comprising thirty (30) persons will be arriving in The Bahamas shortly. This Chinese work force will be assisted by various technical and administrative staff in related Government Ministries and Corporations.
The number of Bahamian workers to be employed on the Stadium has yet to be determined. A more clear assessment will be made for the establishment of a definitive timeline for the completion of the Stadium.
The visiting team of construction personnel will be housed in dormitories, which will be constructed at the Queen Elizabeth Sports Centre. The first consignment of supplies and equipment has arrived in The Bahamas and the construction process will begin shortly after the dormitories have been completed.
Our Government has provided $1,000,000 to cover the anticipated ancillary works which The Bahamas Government will be responsible for as a part of the Gift Agreement. The cost of the New National Stadium is projected at $30 million US dollars.
The National Stadium is expected to be completed in three years time. When completed, the Stadium will become a national landmark that will provide facilities for outdoor sporting, cultural, national and international events, which will enrich and develop the lives of all Bahamians.
THE SIXTH BAHAMAS GAMES
My Ministry is committed to the objective of the national celebrations which we define as The Bahamas Games. This event has been designed to occur in the three-year cycles but it was last held in 2001.
Impacting the date for the next Bahamas Games is that there is no proper baseball or softball stadium to host those disciplines should there exist the desire to host the Games in the immediate future. Current thinking is that the Sixth Bahamas Games should coincide with the celebrations commemorating the Official Opening of the new National Stadium.
In the meantime my Ministry will commence an intensive Family Island Facility Developmental Programme to ensure that all Family Islands teams enjoy an ample opportunity to successfully prepare for the Sixth Bahamas Games.
My entire contribution on the Sports and Recreation components of my portfolio may best be summarized in the proclamation that the Government of The Bahamas perceives itself as a partner with the sports leaders and the one hundred and five federations and associations registered with my Ministry.
We believe in sports as a modality for bringing balance between the mental and the physical attributes of man and our aim will be to treat all sporting federations with the same degree of respect and frank consideration.
BASEBALL & SOFTBALL STADIA
Capital expenditure in the amount of $1,500,000 has been budgeted toward the initial phase of the construction of the National Baseball Stadium and the National Softball Stadium.
These facilities will replace the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium and the Churchill Tener Knowles Softball Stadium, which had to be demolished to accommodate the National Stadium.
While the Stadia are being constructed, the Baseball and Softball Federations will continue to be accommodated on the Freedom Park Baseball Field in Yamacraw and on the upgraded facilities at the Pinewood Gardens Baseball Field and the Blue Hills Sporting Complex Softball Fields.
Our Government will work with the Grand Bahama Sporting Community and the Grand Bahama Port Authority to develop the Grand Bahama Sporting Complex. However, suitable basic softball fields will be immediately developed for the playing of softball on Grand Bahama in advance of the construction of the Stadium Complex.
SPORTING FACILITIES
Mr. Speaker,
As we celebrate the success of sports in our country, it is important to develop sporting facilities throughout the Bahamas. The amount of $2,000,000, an increase of $1,000,000 from the previous budget, has been allocated in the Department of Youth and Sports Budget for the upgrading, maintenance and upkeep of sporting facilities, including the Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium.
Additional sporting facilities that will be maintained and improved are the Kendal Isaacs Gym, the Grand Bahama Track and Field Stadium and the Blue Hills Sporting Complex. My Ministry will work with Local Government Authorities and Family Islands Sports Councils to upgrade and develop sporting facilities in the Family Islands.
NATIONAL SWIM COMPLEX/SOUTH BEACH POOLS
Mindful of the role that the Betty Kelly Kenning Swim Complex plays in the life of the local swimming community and in the hosting of international swim events, the Government has earmarked $400,000 for the maintenance and upkeep of the swimming pools and the complex.
This allocation of $400,000 is $275,000 more than what was allocated in the previous budget. Management and Administration of the South Beach Pools will be further rationalized. The South Beach swimming pools will also be maintained for the use of citizens of The Bahamas.
PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS
Our Government is committed to the orderly development of neighbourhood playgrounds and community parks throughout The Bahamas and to provide for the upgrade and upkeep of these recreational facilities.
Capital funding in the amount of $650,000 and the sum of $765,800 in the Recurrent Estimates have been allocated for their improvement and maintenance. The Ministry will ensure that these recreational facilities are improved, kept in a clean and useable condition and properly equipped for the use of all Bahamians in the respective communities throughout The Bahamas.
BAHAMAS TECHNICAL & VOCATIONAL INSTITUTE (BTVI)
Mr. Speaker,
In recognition of the labour demands in our economy high school leavers must be provided with the vocational and technical skills necessary for gainful employment.
In the recent allocation of Cabinet portfolios, the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute has been placed in the portfolio of the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture under the responsibility of the Minister of State for Youth and Sports.
BTVI, under the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture and linked specifically with the Department of Youth will be given the priority that is needed for fully advancing technical and vocational education and training for young persons throughout The Bahamas.
The Department of Youth and BTVI, together with the high schools, will work in unison to achieve the objectives of ensuring that young people are qualified to meet the skilled labour demands of our economy.
The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) is a post secondary institution. It is the primary institution in The Commonwealth of The Bahamas providing career and technical education and training to the Bahamian population.
The Nassau campus is situated on Old Trail Road and has the capacity of serving a population of up to 1,500 students. In addition to certificate and diploma programmes, the institution offers professional development courses and provides customized training for business and industry.
The institute now boasts of an IT Academy which was established as a Bahamas Government on-line initiative. Persons may obtain Microsoft Office and CISCO certification. BTVI delivers occupational training to a diverse student population representing young high school graduates, non-completers, mature students and persons with varied background, training requirements and interests.
BTVI offers training in Andros, Eleuthera, Abaco and soon to be in Exuma.
The Freeport campus can accommodate up to 300 students and offers certificates in ten (10) technical areas. Also, a Pre-Tech After-school Programme is offered for students, grades nine through eleven, at the campus.
In July, 2006, the Government signed a Loan Agreement with the Inter-American Development Bank for “The Bahamas Support Programme and Transforming Education and Training” with a long-term goal of enhancing skilled human resources through the development of a dynamic system of education and training that is aligned with the demands of the economy. This multi-phased operation will provide systemic and long-term support to the education sector over an estimated period of seven (7) years.
BTVI is the focal point for improved technical and vocational delivery, and as such, requires reorganization into a semi-autonomous agency with a partnership with the private sector and with labour. Our Manifesto commits to creating a new and innovative approach to the training of young Bahamians and to enhancing their life experiences. Towards this end, our Government will in conjunction with BTVI:
Strengthen and expand mentoring and apprenticeship programmes for young adults;
Expand vocational and technical training to improve the correlation between training available and specialization needed in the national economy.
Link BTVI and the technical and vocational studies of high schools.
To accomplish these goals, our Government will enact Legislation establishing a National Training Agency responsible for coordination and development of technical and vocational education in The Bahamas. Legislation will also be enacted to make the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) an autonomous entity with a Board comprising representatives of the public and private sectors.
Therefore, our Government has allocated to BTVI $6,023,151 representing an increase of $765,568 over the previous budget.
CONCLUSION
Mr. Speaker,
At best, this Budget can be described as a “People’s Budget”. As it relates to youth development, the 2007/2008 Budget seeks to place priority on young people. It also makes provision for implementing sports programmes and for improving and upkeeping sports facilities. Adequate funding is also in place for technical and vocational pursuits.
In keeping with our Government’s sense of purpose, my Ministry is fully committed to affording opportunities to the youth of this nation, so that they may rise up to reap the harvest of hard work, determination, dedication and discipline.
My Ministry is committed to doing its part having been given the mandate to ensure that young people embrace the programmes and initiatives which will foster employment, entrepreneurialism and empowerment.
We are a great sporting nation. Though, a small nation, The Bahamas has done exceptionally well in sports at World Championships level and in the Olympics. The next Olympics will be held in Beijing, China in 2008. We must prepare for these Olympic Games and for the new Golden Age of Sports in The Bahamas.
In short my Ministry has been given the awesome task of touching and enriching the lives of young and not so young Bahamians.
I sincerely believe that my Ministry’s staff has the imagination and creativity, dedication and commitment and the will-power and energy to accomplish the great work that lies ahead.
Together, we in the Department of Youth and Sports and the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute will make great things happen for young people in The Commonwealth of The Bahamas.
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