Halkitis: Full Accounting of Dubai Costs in Weeks

As part of the Bahamian delegation heads back home from Dubai, Economic Affairs Minister Michael Halkitis assuring the public that a breakdown of how much government actually spent on the trip and associated costs will be made public in a few weeks.

The economic affairs minister describing The Bahamas’ participation in World Expo 2020 as a worthwhile investment, adding while some investments have long term benefits, others are short-term.

A memorandum of understanding between the UAE and The Bahamas government was signed on Monday as Prime Minister Davis engaged in a number of key meetings.

But criticism here at home has not eased up as the selection process of that delegation remains in question, particularly with cultural ambassadors like The Bahamas National Youth Choir being left out.

The Office of the Prime Minister last week said it allocated up to $1 million for the trip. However, officials pointed out it doesn’t mean that was the amount spent.

The UAE gave $3.5 million for the trip, while the private sector donated half a million. Halkitis says with years of planning for the execution, he’s thankful for the delegation’s performance. However, he acknowledged there is a need for accountability.