Governor General, Her Excellency the Most Hon. Dame Cynthia Pratt received Mrs. Adina Munroe-Charlow, chairman, British Legion of The Bahamas, and Executive Committee Members, in a courtesy call.

Dame Cynthia was presented the 'First Poppy' for the upcoming 2024 Remembrance Day Poppy Season in the Drawing Room of Government House on Thursday, October 3, 2024. 

The Government of The Bahamas will continue to advocate for policies that support senior care in The Bahamas such as affordable healthcare, accessible transportation, and social safety nets, which are crucial, Acting Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, the Hon. Zane Lightbourne said Thursday.

Minister Lightbourne was addressing the annual press conference held to launch the observance of Older Persons Month (the month of October) across The Bahamas. Mr. Lightbourne was “pinch-hitting” for the substantive Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, the Hon. Myles LaRoda, who is off-Island on government business.

“By engaging local and national policy discussions, the government will help to create a system that better supports our older Bahamian population," Mr. Lightbourne said.

“Creating a safe environment for our Seniors involves several measures: ensuring that there are proper regulations and oversight in our Senior Citizens Homes and care facilities are essential. Communities must (also) foster environments where Seniors feel respected and valued, which can combat feelings of isolation and depression.”

Minister Lightbourne said cooperation and collaboration from, and between, all sectors of society, play a “crucial role” in protecting a country’s seniors.

“This does not just mean physical safety, but also the collective safeguarding of Seniors’ dignity and mental well-being,” he said. “Abuse, neglect and financial exploitation are all very real threats to this vulnerable population. Therefore, it is our duty to be vigilant and proactive in preventing these acts from occurring.

“It is not a task that falls on the shoulders of one individual or one group. It is a collective effort. Families, communities and institutions must come together to create a supportive environment.

“We must consider the fact that our Senior Citizens are living longer, which means that their needs and challenges evolve over time. This is why it is crucial for us to adopt a collaborative approach beyond just family members that is inclusive of healthcare providers, businesses, food stores, local government and community organizations. Schools, businesses, and faith-based organizations must all play a role.

“Our Seniors have contributed so much to our country. They have shaped The Bahamas, built the foundations of our societies, and imparted wisdom that guides us. It is only fitting that we step up to support and protect them as they navigate the latter years of their lives.”

Minister Lightbourne said as the Bahamian population ages, the collective role played by all in ensuring the well-being of older persons becomes “increasingly critical.” He said keeping older persons engaged and active and empowered, can make “a significant difference” in their lives.

“Seniors should be encouraged to remain active and involved in our communities. This not only improves the quality of life, but also benefits society as a whole. Encouraging Seniors to share their skills can lead to a more inclusive and enriched Bahamas.

“Empowerment means giving Seniors a voice and respecting their choices. Involving them in decisions about their care and involving them in community activities helps maintain their sense of purpose and independence.”

Minister Lightbourne called on Bahamians everywhere to “embrace the responsibility” of protecting the country’s older persons “with the seriousness it deserves.” He said protecting seniors requires “compassion.”

“A civilization is measured by how well it treats its children and seniors,” Minister Lightbourne said. “This is about honoring their contributions to The Bahamas and ensuring that they can live their latter years with dignity, respect and joy. It is our place, our duty, and our privilege to stand together in this endeavor. Let us embrace this responsibility with the seriousness it deserves. By working together, we can create a society where our Seniors are not only cared for, but cherished. The government is committed to this.”

The Government of The Bahamas will continue to advocate for policies that support senior care in The Bahamas such as affordable healthcare, accessible transportation, and social safety nets, which are crucial, Acting Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, the Hon. Zane Lightbourne said Thursday. Minister Lightbourne was addressing the annual press conference held to launch the observance of Older Persons Month (the month of October) across The Bahamas. Mr. Lightbourne was “pinch-hitting” for the substantive Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, the Hon. Myles LaRoda, who is off-Island on government business. “By engaging local and national policy discussions, the government will help to create a system that better supports our older Bahamian population," Mr. Lightbourne said. “Creating a safe environment for our Seniors involves several measures: ensuring that there are proper regulations and oversight in our Senior Citizens Homes and care facilities are essential. Communities must (also) foster environments where Seniors feel respected and valued, which can combat feelings of isolation and depression.” Minister Lightbourne said cooperation and collaboration from, and between, all sectors of society, play a “crucial role” in protecting a country’s seniors. “This does not just mean physical safety, but also the collective safeguarding of Seniors’ dignity and mental well-being,” he said. “Abuse, neglect and financial exploitation are all very real threats to this vulnerable population. Therefore, it is our duty to be vigilant and proactive in preventing these acts from occurring. “It is not a task that falls on the shoulders of one individual or one group. It is a collective effort. Families, communities and institutions must come together to create a supportive environment. “We must consider the fact that our Senior Citizens are living longer, which means that their needs and challenges evolve over time. This is why it is crucial for us to adopt a collaborative approach beyond just family members that is inclusive of healthcare providers, businesses, food stores, local government and community organizations. Schools, businesses, and faith-based organizations must all play a role. “Our Seniors have contributed so much to our country. They have shaped The Bahamas, built the foundations of our societies, and imparted wisdom that guides us. It is only fitting that we step up to support and protect them as they navigate the latter years of their lives.” Minister Lightbourne said as the Bahamian population ages, the collective role played by all in ensuring the well-being of older persons becomes “increasingly critical.” He said keeping older persons engaged and active and empowered, can make “a significant difference” in their lives. “Seniors should be encouraged to remain active and involved in our communities. This not only improves the quality of life, but also benefits society as a whole. Encouraging Seniors to share their skills can lead to a more inclusive and enriched Bahamas. “Empowerment means giving Seniors a voice and respecting their choices. Involving them in decisions about their care and involving them in community activities helps maintain their sense of purpose and independence.” Minister Lightbourne called on Bahamians everywhere to “embrace the responsibility” of protecting the country’s older persons “with the seriousness it deserves.” He said protecting seniors requires “compassion.” “A civilization is measured by how well it treats its children and seniors,” Minister Lightbourne said. “This is about honoring their contributions to The Bahamas and ensuring that they can live their latter years with dignity, respect and joy. It is our place, our duty, and our privilege to stand together in this endeavor. Let us embrace this responsibility with the seriousness it deserves. By working together, we can create a society where our Seniors are not only cared for, but cherished. The government is committed to this.”

While addressing the Office of the Prime Minister’s Weekly Press Briefing, on September 19, 2024, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis pointed out that the week marked three years in office; and that “not every day has been easy, but every day has been a privilege."

“And it is with great joy that I share my confidence in our country, my confidence in our people, and my confidence in our future,” Prime Minister Davis said.  “We are finally gaining momentum, making headway on our most difficult challenges.”

“We began our term, as you know, at a very dark time – with the economy in tatters, our nation’s finances in freefall, and our hospitals, schools, and communities all in serious crisis,” he added.  “All of these challenges were compounded by the global inflation crisis that followed the pandemic and then worsened due to conflicts abroad.

“The right choices matter, though – and ours turned things around.”

Prime Minister Davis stated that his Government ended the policies that “had caused so much harm and replaced them with policies which offered relief."

“We pulled the country back from the fiscal brink — and revitalized tourism, creating new jobs, partnerships, and investments,” he noted.  “We strengthened our presence on the global stage, standing up for fair climate finance, promoting our country and our people, and strengthening partnerships to protect our borders.”

Prime Minister Davis added:  “In just three years, we’ve signed dozens of labour agreements, raised the minimum wage, launched a nationwide learning assessment, expanded health services, and brought innovative programs to communities across our islands.  We’ve launched the country’s first National Youth Guard initiative, expanded Urban Renewal’s outreach, invested in our athletes, and fed our schoolchildren more than 150,000 hot breakfasts. We’ve knocked a billion dollars off our deficit – even while making game-changing investments in energy reform, airports and infrastructure in the Family Islands, agricultural programmes, and new hospitals – all with the one goal: building a future where every Bahamian can thrive.”

Prime Minister Davis stated that it was important to celebrate how far they had come because “so many Bahamians worked so hard for the progress we’ve made together – while never losing sight of the hard work that is still ahead."

“There is much still to do – to realize our vision of a country where more Bahamians play a central role in our economy, and every family has the safety and opportunities they deserve,” he said.  “We’re working to meet immediate needs – and we’re investing in a future filled with new possibilities.

“There are no shortcuts.”

“Real change takes relentless focus – and partnership with the Bahamian people,” Prime Minister Davis added.  “So today, I do give thanks to God and to the Bahamian people for allowing us to be where we are today.

“A lot has been done; but there is still much more to get done.”

While addressing the Office of the Prime Minister’s Weekly Press Briefing, on September 19, 2024, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis pointed out that the week marked three years in office; and that “not every day has been easy, but every day has been a privilege." “And it is with great joy that I share my confidence in our country, my confidence in our people, and my confidence in our future,” Prime Minister Davis said.  “We are finally gaining momentum, making headway on our most difficult challenges.” “We began our term, as you know, at a very dark time – with the economy in tatters, our nation’s finances in freefall, and our hospitals, schools, and communities all in serious crisis,” he added.  “All of these challenges were compounded by the global inflation crisis that followed the pandemic and then worsened due to conflicts abroad. “The right choices matter, though – and ours turned things around.” Prime Minister Davis stated that his Government ended the policies that “had caused so much harm and replaced them with policies which offered relief." “We pulled the country back from the fiscal brink — and revitalized tourism, creating new jobs, partnerships, and investments,” he noted.  “We strengthened our presence on the global stage, standing up for fair climate finance, promoting our country and our people, and strengthening partnerships to protect our borders.” Prime Minister Davis added:  “In just three years, we’ve signed dozens of labour agreements, raised the minimum wage, launched a nationwide learning assessment, expanded health services, and brought innovative programs to communities across our islands.  We’ve launched the country’s first National Youth Guard initiative, expanded Urban Renewal’s outreach, invested in our athletes, and fed our schoolchildren more than 150,000 hot breakfasts. We’ve knocked a billion dollars off our deficit – even while making game-changing investments in energy reform, airports and infrastructure in the Family Islands, agricultural programmes, and new hospitals – all with the one goal: building a future where every Bahamian can thrive.” Prime Minister Davis stated that it was important to celebrate how far they had come because “so many Bahamians worked so hard for the progress we’ve made together – while never losing sight of the hard work that is still ahead." “There is much still to do – to realize our vision of a country where more Bahamians play a central role in our economy, and every family has the safety and opportunities they deserve,” he said.  “We’re working to meet immediate needs – and we’re investing in a future filled with new possibilities. “There are no shortcuts.” “Real change takes relentless focus – and partnership with the Bahamian people,” Prime Minister Davis added.  “So today, I do give thanks to God and to the Bahamian people for allowing us to be where we are today. “A lot has been done; but there is still much more to get done.”

Due to the disturbing rise in suicide attempts in The Bahamas, more than 50 in 2023 -- the Public Hospitals Authority held a symposium to bring more awareness to this mental health issue.

Tuesday, September 10, 2024 was observed as World Suicide Prevention Day and the symposium held at Zion Baptist Church South Beach focused on the global triennial theme 2024-2026: “Changing the Narrative On Suicide” with the call to action to “Start the Conversation.”

The call to action encourages everyone to start the conversation on suicide and suicide prevention.

That was the message from Mrs. Ann Marie Davis, Spouse of the Prime Minister, as she brought greetings during the opening ceremony.

“As we come together on this World Suicide Prevention Day, I am deeply honored to stand before you and bring greetings to such an event that, I hope, will bring much needed awareness, healing, and hope to those who struggle in silence.”

The objective of the symposium was to shine a much-needed light on an issue that continues to affect families, friends, and communities across the nation.

“Recently, we have seen a disturbing rise in suicide attempts and cases here in The Bahamas.  These are not just statistics; they represent real lives, real families, and real pain. This rise signals a critical need for increased awareness, accessible mental health care, and open conversations about the challenges faced by those in emotional distress,” Mrs. Davis said.

Reportedly, there were more than 50 suicide attempts in the country in 2023.

“We cannot continue to turn a blind eye or play busy as the numbers increase. There are people that you encounter every day that are dealing with stress. Even some people in this very room may be familiar with that battle of life or death. That is why today’s event is so important – because together, we can amplify awareness,” said Mrs. Davis.

She pointed out that mental illness is like other illnesses and there is no shame in checking one’s mental health like one does physical health.

“It is my hope that today’s event not only allows opportunities for exchanging ideas and insight, but also that it revitalizes the drive to prevent suicide and promote mental well- being in The Bahamas,” Mrs. Davis said.

Dr. Eldonna Boisson, PAHO/WHO Country Representative for The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands noted that World Suicide Prevention Day, celebrated annually on 10 September, is organized by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO).

“It focuses attention on the issue, reduces stigma and raises awareness among organizations, government, and the public, giving a singular message that suicide can be prevented,” she said.

In the Americas annually, an average of 100,000 people die by suicide, and for every suicide, it is estimated that there are at least 20 suicide attempts. That’s two million attempts.

“The English-speaking Caribbean has the second highest suicide rate, after North America,” Dr Boisson said.

In 2019, nearly 80 percent of the suicide deaths occurred among males; but between 2000 and 2019, there was a sharper increase in suicides among females compared to males.

Between 2000 and 2019, the suicide rate in the region increased by 17 percent, with the Americas being the only WHO Region to show an increase during this period. The largest proportion of suicides, 38 percent, were among adults aged 40–69, followed closely by persons aged 70+ years of age at 33 percent.

“The good news is that we can do something about these terrible statistics, we can change the narrative on suicide by implementing evidence-based interventions for suicide prevention,” she said.

Such interventions are: limiting access to the means of suicide such as medications, firearms, and other weapons; interacting with the media for responsible reporting of suicide and awareness-raising on suicide prevention; and early detection, access, management and follow-up of persons affected by suicidal behaviours.

Due to the disturbing rise in suicide attempts in The Bahamas, more than 50 in 2023 -- the Public Hospitals Authority held a symposium to bring more awareness to this mental health issue. Tuesday, September 10, 2024 was observed as World Suicide Prevention Day and the symposium held at Zion Baptist Church South Beach focused on the global triennial theme 2024-2026: “Changing the Narrative On Suicide” with the call to action to “Start the Conversation.”   The call to action encourages everyone to start the conversation on suicide and suicide prevention. That was the message from Mrs. Ann Marie Davis, Spouse of the Prime Minister, as she brought greetings during the opening ceremony. “As we come together on this World Suicide Prevention Day, I am deeply honored to stand before you and bring greetings to such an event that, I hope, will bring much needed awareness, healing, and hope to those who struggle in silence.”   The objective of the symposium was to shine a much-needed light on an issue that continues to affect families, friends, and communities across the nation.   “Recently, we have seen a disturbing rise in suicide attempts and cases here in The Bahamas.  These are not just statistics; they represent real lives, real families, and real pain. This rise signals a critical need for increased awareness, accessible mental health care, and open conversations about the challenges faced by those in emotional distress,” Mrs. Davis said. Reportedly, there were more than 50 suicide attempts in the country in 2023. “We cannot continue to turn a blind eye or play busy as the numbers increase. There are people that you encounter every day that are dealing with stress. Even some people in this very room may be familiar with that battle of life or death. That is why today’s event is so important – because together, we can amplify awareness,” said Mrs. Davis.   She pointed out that mental illness is like other illnesses and there is no shame in checking one’s mental health like one does physical health. “It is my hope that today’s event not only allows opportunities for exchanging ideas and insight, but also that it revitalizes the drive to prevent suicide and promote mental well- being in The Bahamas,” Mrs. Davis said. Dr. Eldonna Boisson, PAHO/WHO Country Representative for The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands noted that World Suicide Prevention Day, celebrated annually on 10 September, is organized by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO). “It focuses attention on the issue, reduces stigma and raises awareness among organizations, government, and the public, giving a singular message that suicide can be prevented,” she said. In the Americas annually, an average of 100,000 people die by suicide, and for every suicide, it is estimated that there are at least 20 suicide attempts. That’s two million attempts. “The English-speaking Caribbean has the second highest suicide rate, after North America,” Dr Boisson said.   In 2019, nearly 80 percent of the suicide deaths occurred among males; but between 2000 and 2019, there was a sharper increase in suicides among females compared to males.   Between 2000 and 2019, the suicide rate in the region increased by 17 percent, with the Americas being the only WHO Region to show an increase during this period. The largest proportion of suicides, 38 percent, were among adults aged 40–69, followed closely by persons aged 70+ years of age at 33 percent.   “The good news is that we can do something about these terrible statistics, we can change the narrative on suicide by implementing evidence-based interventions for suicide prevention,” she said.   Such interventions are: limiting access to the means of suicide such as medications, firearms, and other weapons; interacting with the media for responsible reporting of suicide and awareness-raising on suicide prevention; and early detection, access, management and follow-up of persons affected by suicidal behaviours.