The Tribune

The prime minister has pledged the government's commitment to ensuring smaller companies have access to capital as a means of economic empowerment.

Addressing the Former Hospitality Professionals Awards Banquet, which honoured tourism pioneers for their achievements, Dr Hubert Minnis said: "Just as many of you worked through the tourism sector, we need to create opportunities for more young Bahamians to take greater advantage of the tremendous possibilities in the sector."

The prime minister, who serves as the quasi-Cabinet member for tourism within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), added: "In this capacity I am pushing for more small businesses and entrepreneurs to become bigger players in the tourism sector."

The recent CARICOM Heads of Government produced calls for member states to develop more sustainable, resilient, inclusive and equitable development. "I noted that this will require that government find ways to empower its people by improving access to capital and assets," Dr Minnis said.

"I told them that The Bahamas is on the right track when it comes to providing free education at the tertiary level, but that we must find a way for smaller companies to access more opportunities to grow their businesses.

"So, a major focus of my government moving forward will be to ensure that smaller companies have access to contracts that were previously held mostly by larger companies."

The prime minister, speaking amid a growing perception that contracts are being awarded to a narrow range of companies, including those in which former Cabinet minister Brent Symonette and his family have an interest, said the only way smaller firms can grow is if they have the opportunity to bid for larger contracts.

"This is necessary if our people are to advance from poverty to middle class, and to wealth," he said. "In this spirit, I hope that the current and a new generation of Bahamians in the hospitality sector will exemplify the same quality of service, creativity and dedication as our honorees."

Dr Minnis acknowledged the work of the honorees, namely Bessie Serette, Anthony Hepburn, Roslyn North, Reginald Smith, Florida Young, Chef Charles Smith, Monica Flowers, Melvin Brown, Carlton Haven, Joe Mott, Dr Pandora McKinney Smith, Nathaniel Williams, Frederick Wallace and the late Thomas Pratt.

He also recognised Berkley Williamson and George Myers, who both received The Hospitality Lifetime Achievement Award for their contributions.

"Indeed, the history of our modern tourism industry cannot be told without reference to individuals like George Myers, Berkley Williamson and so many of you," the prime minister said.