Speech from the Throne

SPEECH FROM THE THRONE Madame President and Honourable Senators, Madame Speaker and Members of the Honourable House of Assembly: Just twenty days ago, my Government was elected with a mandate to bring about a “New Day” in our Bahamas. It is clear from the results of the election that Bahamians demand transformational change. My Government comes into governance with our country in the midst of a mismanaged health and economic crises. My Government is committed to work in partnership with other nations, with our local communities and, most importantly, with the Bahamian people to address the challenges that these crises pose. Today My Government proposes our “Blue Print for Change”. My Government is committed to executing good governance, established on the principles of Transparency, Integrity & Accountability. My Government will consult and be inclusive in our decision-making. Madame President and Honourable Senators, Madame Speaker and Members of the Honourable House of Assembly: My Government fully understands that we cannot resolve our country’s economic crisis until we have resolved the health crisis. The COVID-19 crisis has exposed many of the weaknesses and vulnerabilities of our healthcare system. As a first priority, my Government will, therefore, introduce legislation and policies to fully address future major health risks to avoid the need for Emergency Orders. My Government will make investments in healthcare infrastructure throughout The Bahamas and ensure that Family Island clinics are properly equipped, inclusive of the capacity for telemedicine.