The Tribune

By EARYEL BOWLEG

Tribune Staff Reporter

ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

MORE than 400 Bahamian contractors gathered on Friday for the Ministry of Urban Renewal and Community Relations' inaugural Small Home Repairs Contractors Workshop, where Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis pledged continued investment in local contractors while insisting public work must be carried out transparently, professionally and on time.

Addressing the contractors, Mr Davis said the Davis administration remains committed to ensuring Bahamians benefit from development opportunities across The Bahamas by investing in local talent and small businesses.

“This administration believes that Bahamians should have every opportunity to participate in the development of The Bahamas,” he said.

“We believe in investing in local talent and supporting small businesses, because when Bahamian contractors succeed, communities benefit.”

Mr Davis said government investment in Bahamian contractors helps sustain family-owned businesses while creating economic opportunities that strengthen communities.

He also underscored the need for transparency and accountability, saying public confidence depends on fair and honest processes.

“Partnership cannot exist without trust. You must have confidence that these opportunities are administered fairly and transparently,” he said.

“You deserve to know that your government is committed to processes that are open and honest.”

Mr Davis said the commitment reflects the Blueprint for Progress, which promises national development rooted in good governance, transparency and accountability.

He also reminded contractors that public contracts carry responsibilities as well as opportunities.

“At the same time, though, partnership brings responsibility,” he said. “The Bahamian people should be able to have confidence in you.”

“When you are entrusted with public work, they should know that the job will be done properly, completed on time, and carried out with professionalism and pride.”

Minister of Urban Renewal and Community Relations Lisa Rahming described the event as a milestone for the ministry's small home repairs programme, calling it the ministry's first workshop for contractors involved in the initiative.

She said the gathering was about more than explaining contracts, describing it as an effort to establish a new standard for the programme.

Ms Rahming urged contractors to see beyond the physical work and recognise the impact their projects can have on people's lives.

“Don’t just see a bathroom installation. See the child who will no longer have to use an outside toilet. Don’t just see the plumbing repair. See the mother who will finally have running water at home,” she said.

“Don’t just see a wheelchair ramp being built. See the senior citizen or the disabled person whose independence has been restored.”