New Category : Politics

Ministry of Labour and the Public Service Clears Decades-old Promotions Backlog

Fri, Mar 8th 2024, 09:42 AM

The Minister of Labour and the Public Service the Hon. Pia Glover-Rolle said the Ministry has cleared the decades-old promotions backlog at a record pace.

“We launched the PS-PEP training programme to revamp government recruitment, onboarding, and training for new entrants into the public service. We confirmed people who were waiting through years of uncertainty to be made permanent and pensionable,” the Labour Minister said during her Contribution to the 2023-2024 Mid-Year Budget Debate in the House of Assembly on Wednesday, March 6, 2024.

“We brought back annual increments to help public servants cope with the rising cost of living. We increased public service pensions and the public service minimum wage.”

She also noted that the Ministry made history by negotiating 24 new labour agreements in just over two years, as a part of the Government’s wider effort to improve labour relations in the country after four years of no new agreements under the Minnis administration – and there are still more in the pipeline.

The Labour Minister said through these agreements, many public servants received increases in pay and benefits, including nurses and teachers, for whom these increases were very well-deserved.

She added that the Ministry is also in the process of completing the first public service wide promotional exercise in over nine years.

“I want to make it clear that every public servant who has received a promotion has met the criteria to earn that promotion. Many of them were already performing the functions of their new roles but without the pay and the title.”

The Minister said, “While their initiative was appreciated, it was unfair to ask people to take on higher level responsibilities without the accompanying compensation or title. We saw fit to address this unfair state of affairs.”

She explained that the public service wide promotions will be completed soon.

“Many public servants, in the interval between promotions, have actually qualified to receive double promotions to acknowledge the fact that they met the requirements to take more than one step up the organizational ladder."

The Labour Minister said, “When we look at the overall numbers for wages and salaries, we can see the 18+ million-dollar year-over-year increase, inclusive of the original allotted amount and the re-allocation.  Much of this money has gone toward taking care of the promotions and related salary increases.”

The Minister of Labour and the Public Service the Hon. Pia Glover-Rolle said the Ministry has cleared the decades-old promotions backlog at a record pace. “We launched the PS-PEP training programme to revamp government recruitment, onboarding, and training for new entrants into the public service. We confirmed people who were waiting through years of uncertainty to be made permanent and pensionable,” the Labour Minister said during her Contribution to the 2023-2024 Mid-Year Budget Debate in the House of Assembly on Wednesday, March 6, 2024.   “We brought back annual increments to help public servants cope with the rising cost of living. We increased public service pensions and the public service minimum wage.” She also noted that the Ministry made history by negotiating 24 new labour agreements in just over two years, as a part of the Government’s wider effort to improve labour relations in the country after four years of no new agreements under the Minnis administration – and there are still more in the pipeline. The Labour Minister said through these agreements, many public servants received increases in pay and benefits, including nurses and teachers, for whom these increases were very well-deserved. She added that the Ministry is also in the process of completing the first public service wide promotional exercise in over nine years. “I want to make it clear that every public servant who has received a promotion has met the criteria to earn that promotion. Many of them were already performing the functions of their new roles but without the pay and the title.” The Minister said, “While their initiative was appreciated, it was unfair to ask people to take on higher level responsibilities without the accompanying compensation or title. We saw fit to address this unfair state of affairs.” She explained that the public service wide promotions will be completed soon. “Many public servants, in the interval between promotions, have actually qualified to receive double promotions to acknowledge the fact that they met the requirements to take more than one step up the organizational ladder." The Labour Minister said, “When we look at the overall numbers for wages and salaries, we can see the 18+ million-dollar year-over-year increase, inclusive of the original allotted amount and the re-allocation.  Much of this money has gone toward taking care of the promotions and related salary increases.”

Appointment of New Directors – Bahamas Power and Light (BPL)

Wed, Mar 6th 2024, 03:17 PM

The Ministry of Energy and Transport advised the Cabinet Office on Tuesday of the resignations of two members of the Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) board. In response to this development, the Honorable Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis has subsequently appointed Christina Alston and Dylan Sawyer as Directors, building on a new chapter in the organisation’s drive towards innovation, efficiency, and sustainability.

Christina Alston is an accomplished leader with over three decades in the electricutility sector and brings to BPL an unparalleled depth of international experience. Hertenure as Transmission Development Manager at Georgia Transmission Corporationin the United States and her strategic roles in supply chain management underscoreher adeptness in navigating complex utility landscapes. Her substantial contributionsto large-scale US power companies, such as Florida Power & Light (FP&L) and DukeEnergy Corporation, have solidified her reputation in developing sustainable energysolutions and operational excellence.

As Chief Operating Officer (2017-2019) at BPL, Christina was instrumental in thecomprehensive oversight of planning, engineering, operations, maintenance, and thepath to renewable integration across the Bahamian archipelago, managing anextensive network of generation facilities across multiple islands. At Florida Power &Light (FP&L), her role as Major Account Manager focused on delivering exceptionalcustomer service to the industrial sector, including crisis management during outagesand storms - showcasing her adeptness in both strategic planning and customerrelations. Ms. Alston’s global perspective and expertise will be pivotal in aligning BPLwith international best practices to enhance energy affordability and sustainability forBahamians.

Her leadership in demand-side management and development of microgrid projectsaligns with BPL's strategic goals to transform the energy landscape of The Bahamasinto one that is more affordable, reliable, and sustainable.

Dylan Sawyer, known for his multi-disciplined approach and entrepreneurial successin the petroleum, real estate, and manufacturing industries, brings a fresh perspectiveto BPL. His expertise in managing complex capital projects, optimizing operations,and implementing cost-effective strategies is expected to contribute significantly to reducing operational costs and, by extension, energy costs for the Bahamian people.

His commitment to sustainable practices and strategic procurement will beinstrumental in steering BPL towards a more robust and future-proof organization.With a distinctive background in the financial sector, Dylan offers a fresh perspectivecrucial for BPL’s financial and operational turnaround. His expertise in managingcomplex capital projects, coupled with his innovative approaches to supply chainmanagement and procurement, will address BPL’s current challenges head-on.

These appointments come at a crucial time as BPL and the government reaffirm theircommitment to transforming the energy sector. The collaboration of Christina Alstonand Dylan Sawyer with the existing team is anticipated to drive the government'sefforts in making energy more accessible and affordable, while ensuring the long-termsustainability and strength of BPL.

As we welcome these new directors, the Ministry and BPL look forward to theinnovative solutions and strategic direction they will bring to the table. Theircontributions are not only expected to change BPL for a stronger future but also tomake a lasting impact on the energy sector of The Bahamas for generations to come.

The Ministry of Energy and Transport advised the Cabinet Office on Tuesday of the resignations of two members of the Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) board. In response to this development, the Honorable Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis has subsequently appointed Christina Alston and Dylan Sawyer as Directors, building on a new chapter in the organisation’s drive towards innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. Christina Alston is an accomplished leader with over three decades in the electric utility sector and brings to BPL an unparalleled depth of international experience. Her tenure as Transmission Development Manager at Georgia Transmission Corporation in the United States and her strategic roles in supply chain management underscore her adeptness in navigating complex utility landscapes. Her substantial contributions to large-scale US power companies, such as Florida Power & Light (FP&L) and Duke Energy Corporation, have solidified her reputation in developing sustainable energy solutions and operational excellence. As Chief Operating Officer (2017-2019) at BPL, Christina was instrumental in the comprehensive oversight of planning, engineering, operations, maintenance, and the path to renewable integration across the Bahamian archipelago, managing an extensive network of generation facilities across multiple islands. At Florida Power & Light (FP&L), her role as Major Account Manager focused on delivering exceptional customer service to the industrial sector, including crisis management during outages and storms - showcasing her adeptness in both strategic planning and customer relations. Ms. Alston’s global perspective and expertise will be pivotal in aligning BPL with international best practices to enhance energy affordability and sustainability for Bahamians. Her leadership in demand-side management and development of microgrid projects aligns with BPL's strategic goals to transform the energy landscape of The Bahamas into one that is more affordable, reliable, and sustainable. Dylan Sawyer, known for his multi-disciplined approach and entrepreneurial success in the petroleum, real estate, and manufacturing industries, brings a fresh perspective to BPL. His expertise in managing complex capital projects, optimizing operations, and implementing cost-effective strategies is expected to contribute significantly to  reducing operational costs and, by extension, energy costs for the Bahamian people. His commitment to sustainable practices and strategic procurement will be instrumental in steering BPL towards a more robust and future-proof organization. With a distinctive background in the financial sector, Dylan offers a fresh perspective crucial for BPL’s financial and operational turnaround. His expertise in managing complex capital projects, coupled with his innovative approaches to supply chain management and procurement, will address BPL’s current challenges head-on. These appointments come at a crucial time as BPL and the government reaffirm their commitment to transforming the energy sector. The collaboration of Christina Alston and Dylan Sawyer with the existing team is anticipated to drive the government's efforts in making energy more accessible and affordable, while ensuring the long-term sustainability and strength of BPL. As we welcome these new directors, the Ministry and BPL look forward to the innovative solutions and strategic direction they will bring to the table. Their contributions are not only expected to change BPL for a stronger future but also to make a lasting impact on the energy sector of The Bahamas for generations to come.

 

Aviation Department launches '2024 Vision Card' for Improved Services

Tue, Mar 5th 2024, 04:31 PM

The Bahamas Department of Aviation has revealed its '2024 Vision Card' under the theme: “2024 – Our Year of Innovation, Acceleration and Execution” – aimed at more effective and improved operations.

This initiative was born out of the first ever National Aviation Strategic Plan (NASP), which was launched in July 2023.

Director of Aviation and Deputy Director of Tourism Dr. Kenneth Romer, shared “5 Big Ticket Items” with leaders of management teams and key industry stakeholders at the Aviation Quarterly Meeting at Baha Mar resort on Monday, March 4, 2024.

“This consolidated approach, across the eight aviation agencies will guide our collective journey over the course of this year,” he said.

The five areas of focus for 2024 are: Improving Airport Infrastructure and Development; Enhancing Strategic Partnerships and Engagement; Increasing Airlift and Improving Air Connectivity; Enhancing Human Capital Development; and Improving Operational Efficiency, Financial Resilience, and Revenue Optimization.

Under improved infrastructure, Dr. Romer noted that airlines, passengers and cargo require safe, efficient and affordable airport facilities to sustain their operations.

Through public-private partnerships with airport stakeholders and government authorities, we will develop best-in-class infrastructure for “airports of the future” based on new technologies, cultural authenticity and our commitment to sustainability and resilience,” he said.  

Successful partnerships with aviation stakeholders, such as airport users and surrounding community members, is particularly important to the success of the National Aviation Strategic Plan, according to Dr. Romer.

He stressed: “We will continuously engage with our partners on matters including deliverables and policy execution.”

Regarding airlift and improving air connectivity, Dr. Romer shared that these are critical components to ensure the Bahamas’ economic vitality.

“To increase our competitiveness, minimize risk and optimize our capabilities, enhanced development of human capital is essential to ensure the optimization of industry talent as contributors to the plan,” said Dr. Romer.  Additionally, he said it would ensure the attraction of new talent, building the capabilities of industry’s personnel through effective training and the development of programs to efficiently manage strategic foresight, system thinking, finance, and digital literacy and data management.

“The aviation industry must focus on improving operational efficiencies and the implementation of policies that drive cost reduction through leaner operations, as well as new ways to leverage ancillary revenue and  adaptation to fluctuating airport traffic.  A mid-term financial planning model will be developed to support agility and accountability, and drive transparency,” said Dr. Romer.

The Bahamas Department of Aviation has revealed its '2024 Vision Card' under the theme: “2024 – Our Year of Innovation, Acceleration and Execution” – aimed at more effective and improved operations. This initiative was born out of the first ever National Aviation Strategic Plan (NASP), which was launched in July 2023. Director of Aviation and Deputy Director of Tourism Dr. Kenneth Romer, shared “5 Big Ticket Items” with leaders of management teams and key industry stakeholders at the Aviation Quarterly Meeting at Baha Mar resort on Monday, March 4, 2024. “This consolidated approach, across the eight aviation agencies will guide our collective journey over the course of this year,” he said. The five areas of focus for 2024 are: Improving Airport Infrastructure and Development; Enhancing Strategic Partnerships and Engagement; Increasing Airlift and Improving Air Connectivity; Enhancing Human Capital Development; and Improving Operational Efficiency, Financial Resilience, and Revenue Optimization. Under improved infrastructure, Dr. Romer noted that airlines, passengers and cargo require safe, efficient and affordable airport facilities to sustain their operations. Through public-private partnerships with airport stakeholders and government authorities, we will develop best-in-class infrastructure for “airports of the future” based on new technologies, cultural authenticity and our commitment to sustainability and resilience,” he said.   Successful partnerships with aviation stakeholders, such as airport users and surrounding community members, is particularly important to the success of the National Aviation Strategic Plan, according to Dr. Romer. He stressed: “We will continuously engage with our partners on matters including deliverables and policy execution.” Regarding airlift and improving air connectivity, Dr. Romer shared that these are critical components to ensure the Bahamas’ economic vitality. “To increase our competitiveness, minimize risk and optimize our capabilities, enhanced development of human capital is essential to ensure the optimization of industry talent as contributors to the plan,” said Dr. Romer.  Additionally, he said it would ensure the attraction of new talent, building the capabilities of industry’s personnel through effective training and the development of programs to efficiently manage strategic foresight, system thinking, finance, and digital literacy and data management. “The aviation industry must focus on improving operational efficiencies and the implementation of policies that drive cost reduction through leaner operations, as well as new ways to leverage ancillary revenue and  adaptation to fluctuating airport traffic.  A mid-term financial planning model will be developed to support agility and accountability, and drive transparency,” said Dr. Romer.

 

Deputy Prime Minister discusses BAMSI's role in growth of Sustainable Tourism

Wed, Feb 28th 2024, 02:24 PM

OUTLINING A VISION for the future of Sustainable Green Tourism and agricultural development in the Bahamas, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism the Hon. I. Chester Cooper announced the Government’s plan to introduce Innovate242, an agricultural vehicle centered around containerized farming, and utilize the Bahamas Agriculture & Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) as the training and skills development lead on the project. He also explained that the vertical farming concept emerged in response to the lack of sustainable growth experienced by the nation’s agriculture sector over the past 50 years.

“The Government of The Bahamas in an initiative called Innovate242 has entered an agreement with a company in Ontario, Canada, called Growers Inc., to do containerized farming with turn-key modular vertical farms. We expect that the first farm will be delivered to BAMSI shortly where the training and skills development will happen. Then we anticipate that Growers will deliver three additional units for Exuma, Grand Bahama and Eleuthera.”

Mr. Cooper made the announcement during his keynote address at BAMSI’s graduation ceremony for its National Certification programmes in Flats Fishing and Nature Tour Guide. The two programmes, with a total of 40 participants, are the result of a joint partnership between BAMSI, the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Agriculture, and represent the first and only certification programmes available not only in the Bahamas, but also the world.

The Tourism Minister commended BAMSI for its commitment to producing a first-class training programme saying it was a notable mark of success for the nation’s tourism industry. He acknowledged that it was the lack of consistent development in the agriculture sector over the past 50 years that precipitated the Government’s partnership with Growers Inc., and the launch of Innovate242 aimed at diversifying and strengthening the industry.

“Today is a reminder of the potential of BAMSI. While we celebrate this remarkable achievement in nature-based tourism, it is equally important to express our concern that we have not made sufficient inroads in agriculture over the past 50 years.

“I am told that if done well, one of these units will be able to provide all of the leafy greens needed to cover the entire population of residents and tourists in Exuma. I am excited about this possibility.

“It’s initiatives like this that emphasize the true potential of BAMSI,” he said. “[And] as we stand here in the heart of Andros, an island with abundant agricultural potential, it is a call to action for us to refocus our efforts on revitalizing the agriculture sector.”

The addition of the Innovate242 initiative to BAMSI’s portfolio is expected to bolster the college’s various degree programmes and give students access to cutting edge technology and a learning experience that is second to none.

Minister Cooper also used the opportunity to announce that the Ministry of Tourism is embarking on a new push in Sustainable Green Tourism and how Andros, the largest island in the Bahamian archipelago, will benefit for this focus.

“Our studies indicate that 76 percent of our visitors are interested in Sustainable Tourism – exploring, enjoying, and studying the flora and fauna, exploration and adventure in out creeks, blue holes and waterways, snorkeling, farm-to-the-table, catch-n-release, flats fishing and game-fishing.”

Mr. Cooper said that Andros was well positioned to take advantage of the sustainable tourism niche. With its natural allure and proximity to Nassau, the tourism community must engage and be at the front end of this new push that will bring millions of dollars to the local economy. “It is interesting when I travel to international conferences like UNWTO in faraway places and they talk about Sustainable Tourism as a new fad. We have been doing eco-tourism for 50 years, we have been leaders, and we will assert our leadership again.”

OUTLINING A VISION for the future of Sustainable Green Tourism and agricultural development in the Bahamas, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism the Hon. I. Chester Cooper announced the Government’s plan to introduce Innovate242, an agricultural vehicle centered around containerized farming, and utilize the Bahamas Agriculture & Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) as the training and skills development lead on the project. He also explained that the vertical farming concept emerged in response to the lack of sustainable growth experienced by the nation’s agriculture sector over the past 50 years. “The Government of The Bahamas in an initiative called Innovate242 has entered an agreement with a company in Ontario, Canada, called Growers Inc., to do containerized farming with turn-key modular vertical farms. We expect that the first farm will be delivered to BAMSI shortly where the training and skills development will happen. Then we anticipate that Growers will deliver three additional units for Exuma, Grand Bahama and Eleuthera.” Mr. Cooper made the announcement during his keynote address at BAMSI’s graduation ceremony for its National Certification programmes in Flats Fishing and Nature Tour Guide. The two programmes, with a total of 40 participants, are the result of a joint partnership between BAMSI, the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Agriculture, and represent the first and only certification programmes available not only in the Bahamas, but also the world. The Tourism Minister commended BAMSI for its commitment to producing a first-class training programme saying it was a notable mark of success for the nation’s tourism industry. He acknowledged that it was the lack of consistent development in the agriculture sector over the past 50 years that precipitated the Government’s partnership with Growers Inc., and the launch of Innovate242 aimed at diversifying and strengthening the industry. “Today is a reminder of the potential of BAMSI. While we celebrate this remarkable achievement in nature-based tourism, it is equally important to express our concern that we have not made sufficient inroads in agriculture over the past 50 years. “I am told that if done well, one of these units will be able to provide all of the leafy greens needed to cover the entire population of residents and tourists in Exuma. I am excited about this possibility. “It’s initiatives like this that emphasize the true potential of BAMSI,” he said. “[And] as we stand here in the heart of Andros, an island with abundant agricultural potential, it is a call to action for us to refocus our efforts on revitalizing the agriculture sector.” The addition of the Innovate242 initiative to BAMSI’s portfolio is expected to bolster the college’s various degree programmes and give students access to cutting edge technology and a learning experience that is second to none. Minister Cooper also used the opportunity to announce that the Ministry of Tourism is embarking on a new push in Sustainable Green Tourism and how Andros, the largest island in the Bahamian archipelago, will benefit for this focus. “Our studies indicate that 76 percent of our visitors are interested in Sustainable Tourism – exploring, enjoying, and studying the flora and fauna, exploration and adventure in out creeks, blue holes and waterways, snorkeling, farm-to-the-table, catch-n-release, flats fishing and game-fishing.” Mr. Cooper said that Andros was well positioned to take advantage of the sustainable tourism niche. With its natural allure and proximity to Nassau, the tourism community must engage and be at the front end of this new push that will bring millions of dollars to the local economy. “It is interesting when I travel to international conferences like UNWTO in faraway places and they talk about Sustainable Tourism as a new fad. We have been doing eco-tourism for 50 years, we have been leaders, and we will assert our leadership again.”