PM: The Benefits Far Exceed The Cost

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – After much speculation and public outcry, Prime Minister Philip Davis defended his administration’s travel spending, saying the benefits gained by travel have far exceeded the costs.

The mid-year budget report revealed that between July and December 2024, the government spent $10M on travel and subsistence. It also revealed that an additional $2 million was allocated for travel in the Office of the Prime Minister.

As he moved debate on the amendment to the Value Added Tax Act, Davis reasons the successful promotion of the country, strategic partnership, investments, advocacy, and coalition building are among the benefits.

Philip Davis – Prime Minister
“Record-breaking visitor number. New airlift. The removal of our country from the blacklist. Record investment in the pipeline – including $1.5 billion in Grand Bahama alone. The $200 million agreement just forged with Afreximbank for infrastructure will be an important catalyst for economic growth and jobs for our country.”

Davis also cited partnership with The Nature Conservancy and multiple collaborators worth $124 million to the country.

Communications Director in the Office of the Prime Minister, Latrae Rahming, defended OPM’s budget, saying the amount is consistent with the amount spent with the last three prime ministers.

Meanwhile, the prime minister says playing a bigger role on the world stage means The Bahamas is hosting more important events and world leaders.

Philip Davis – Prime Minister
“In addition to raising our profile and reputation, there are direct economic benefits – as a group of very kind livery drivers assured me.”

Free National Movement Chairman, Dr. Duane Sands, called the government travel spending reckless.

Central Grand Bahama Member of Parliament, Kwasi Thompson, agreed, questioning the cost of travel, specifically in the Office of the Prime Minister.

Kwasi Thompson – MP, Central Grand Bahama
“The numbers tell a story of not just financial indiscipline, but it is a betrayal of the public trust. The Office of the Prime Minister was allocated $569,000 for travel, for the entire year. They put that figure in here.”

Meanwhile, the prime minister says mitigating risks and leveraging opportunities require outreach, collaboration, and strategic planning.