While the Davis Administration pats itself on the back, claiming a vibrant economy, increased tourism arrivals and a generally growing economic environment, the reports from the ground do not support those assertions.

The plea from persons facing eviction from the Social Services Shelter is heartbreaking and I call upon the government to hear their cry. What are they suppose to do now that they are faced with the possibility of being homeless by the end of the week? A compassionate society cannot set arbitrary limits on shelter assistance without also ensuring safe, sustainable housing solutions for those in crisis.  It is my considered view that the government should and must address these needs. Single mothers and their children cannot be left in limbo, counting on programmes that may take years to provide real, measurable support.  I urge this administration to prioritize tangible, caring and immediate alternate solutions to assist these women and children in genuine need, through no fault of their own. This is a time for action, not rhetoric. If the government would simply consider reducing its travel budget, its consultancy budget or its retiree rehiring budget, quite possibly additional resources can be freed up to help find alternative accommodation for vulnerable families rather than leaving them with no place to turn.  The Opposition stands ready to work with the Government and community partners to create a more effective, humane approach to shelter and housing assistance, one that honors the dignity and needs of every Bahamian family. Senator Maxine Seymour Shadow Minister, Social Services

While the Davis Administration pats itself on the back, claiming a vibrant economy, increased tourism arrivals and a generally growing economic environment, the reports from the ground do not support those assertions.

The plea from persons facing eviction from the Social Services Shelter is heartbreaking and I call upon the government to hear their cry. What are they suppose to do now that they are faced with the possibility of being homeless by the end of the week?

A compassionate society cannot set arbitrary limits on shelter assistance without also ensuring safe, sustainable housing solutions for those in crisis. 

It is my considered view that the government should and must address these needs. Single mothers and their children cannot be left in limbo, counting on programmes that may take years to provide real, measurable support. 

I urge this administration to prioritize tangible, caring and immediate alternate solutions to assist these women and children in genuine need, through no fault of their own.

This is a time for action, not rhetoric. If the government would simply consider reducing its travel budget, its consultancy budget or its retiree rehiring budget, quite possibly additional resources can be freed up to help find alternative accommodation for vulnerable families rather than leaving them with no place to turn. 

The Opposition stands ready to work with the Government and community partners to create a more effective, humane approach to shelter and housing assistance, one that honors the dignity and needs of every Bahamian family.

Senator Maxine Seymour
Shadow Minister, Social Services

Brickell Management Group (BMG) has broken ground on one of its newest residential developments, Vilara Villas, on the shores of Love Beach in New Providence. With construction initiated last month, Vilara Villas embodies a beacon of refined living, offering an unparalleled fusion of elegance and tranquility and is already garnering the interest of local and international buyers.

Drawing inspiration from the breathtaking beauty of Love Beach and the rich heritage of TheBahamas, Vilara Villas is an ensemble of six luxury townhomes, each meticulously crafted witha captivating tropical modern design.

Vilara Villas marks the seventh active project of the 14 planned projects totaling some $510mannounced during a tour with Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis back in February by the BMGgroup. The projects include both residential and commercial developments.

Each two-story villa at Vilara Villas comprises of 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms that epitomizeselegance, comfort and modernity. The living experience is enhanced with a captivating outdoorspace, featuring a private plunge pool and an outdoor kitchen, perfect for entertaining andrelaxation.

The property seamlessly blends verdant landscaping with visionary architecture mere stepsaway from the ocean. Situated amidst the idyllic charm of Love Beach, Vilara Villas providesresidents with a haven of serenity within reach of the island's vibrant culture and easy access toneighboring landmarks.

Vilara Villas is anticipated to be completed in Summer 2025 and is just one of multiple projectscurrently underway at BMG. Currently under construction are The Shoppes at Venetian Village,Westfield Commerce Park, Aspara Social Club, Sevyn Residences and University House. Formore information on these projects, visit www.brickellbahamas.com.

For more information on Vilara Villas or to schedule a private tour, please visitwww.vilaravillas.com or contact our Director of Sales, Eva Pyfrom atepyfrom@brickellbahamas.com or 825-7567.

Brickell Management Group (BMG) has broken ground on one of its newest residential developments, Vilara Villas, on the shores of Love Beach in New Providence. With construction initiated last month, Vilara Villas embodies a beacon of refined living, offering an unparalleled fusion of elegance and tranquility and is already garnering the interest of local and international buyers. Drawing inspiration from the breathtaking beauty of Love Beach and the rich heritage of The Bahamas, Vilara Villas is an ensemble of six luxury townhomes, each meticulously crafted with a captivating tropical modern design. Vilara Villas marks the seventh active project of the 14 planned projects totaling some $510m announced during a tour with Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis back in February by the BMG group. The projects include both residential and commercial developments. Each two-story villa at Vilara Villas comprises of 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms that epitomizes elegance, comfort and modernity. The living experience is enhanced with a captivating outdoor space, featuring a private plunge pool and an outdoor kitchen, perfect for entertaining and relaxation. The property seamlessly blends verdant landscaping with visionary architecture mere steps away from the ocean. Situated amidst the idyllic charm of Love Beach, Vilara Villas provides residents with a haven of serenity within reach of the island's vibrant culture and easy access to neighboring landmarks. Vilara Villas is anticipated to be completed in Summer 2025 and is just one of multiple projects currently underway at BMG. Currently under construction are The Shoppes at Venetian Village, Westfield Commerce Park, Aspara Social Club, Sevyn Residences and University House. For more information on these projects, visit www.brickellbahamas.com. For more information on Vilara Villas or to schedule a private tour, please visit www.vilaravillas.com or contact our Director of Sales, Eva Pyfrom at epyfrom@brickellbahamas.com or 825-7567.

Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis said that, as his Government handed over 28 keys, during the Renaissance at Carmichael Key Presentation Ceremony, on April 11, 2024, that they unlocked "not just doors".

"They unlock potential, dreams, and the very essence of what it means to strive for and achieve a better life," he noted.  "This is the kind of country we are committed to building -- one where every Bahamian has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their starting point."

He added that the Renaissance at Carmichael, more than anything, represented progress.

"For far too many years, we have had insufficient affordable housing opportunities for our people," Prime Minister Davis said.  "But this administration not only believes in homeownership as a fundamental building block in wealth generation, we also generally believe in facilitating the success of the Bahamian people."

"That belief underscores all our policies to uplift and empower," he added.  "This project is just one example of what our belief in Bahamian excellence looks like, manifested into the policies and programmes."

Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis said that, as his Government handed over 28 keys, during the Renaissance at Carmichael Key Presentation Ceremony, on April 11, 2024, that they unlocked "not just doors". "They unlock potential, dreams, and the very essence of what it means to strive for and achieve a better life," he noted.  "This is the kind of country we are committed to building -- one where every Bahamian has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their starting point." He added that the Renaissance at Carmichael, more than anything, represented progress. "For far too many years, we have had insufficient affordable housing opportunities for our people," Prime Minister Davis said.  "But this administration not only believes in homeownership as a fundamental building block in wealth generation, we also generally believe in facilitating the success of the Bahamian people." "That belief underscores all our policies to uplift and empower," he added.  "This project is just one example of what our belief in Bahamian excellence looks like, manifested into the policies and programmes."

The Davis Administration remains committed to making homeownership more affordable and accessible for the people of the Bahamas. We have already implemented a range of policies that mark significant progress in this direction:

-Expanding Concessions to First-Time Homeowners: We’ve increased the exemption level for stamp duty on homes up to $300,000, up from $250,000, making homeownership more achievable for many.

-Broadening First Home-Buyer Concessions: These concessions now include purchasing land and building, as well as purchasing a house and renovating, offering more flexible options for aspiring homeowners.

-VAT Refunds on Construction: We are offering refunds on up to $40,000 in VAT on construction services and materials, provided the home is occupied within 18 months.

-Reduced VAT on Property Transfers: This reduction is aimed at easing the financial burden on property transactions.

-Eliminating VAT on Land-Transfer Between Joint Tenants: This helps Bahamians who have inherited land with siblings, easing the process of land transfer.

-Reduced Rates on Commercial Property Taxes: Implemented retroactively to last year, this measure supports the commercial property sector.

Building on these successes, we are excited to introduce our new rent-to-own program. This innovative initiative is a milestone in our journey towards creating more affordable homes for Bahamians. It offers a practical pathway to homeownership for many who might otherwise find it out of reach.

Moreover, we are delighted to announce that more affordable homes are on the way, reflecting our ongoing commitment to housing development and community enhancement.

Lastly, we welcome the Central Bank of The Bahamas’ recent decision to ease residential mortgage guidelines. This policy change is a commendable step that aligns with our efforts and will further facilitate the dream of homeownership for many.

The Davis Administration remains committed to making homeownership more affordable and accessible for the people of the Bahamas. We have already implemented a range of policies that mark significant progress in this direction: -Expanding Concessions to First-Time Homeowners: We’ve increased the exemption level for stamp duty on homes up to $300,000, up from $250,000, making homeownership more achievable for many. -Broadening First Home-Buyer Concessions: These concessions now include purchasing land and building, as well as purchasing a house and renovating, offering more flexible options for aspiring homeowners. -VAT Refunds on Construction: We are offering refunds on up to $40,000 in VAT on construction services and materials, provided the home is occupied within 18 months. -Reduced VAT on Property Transfers: This reduction is aimed at easing the financial burden on property transactions. -Eliminating VAT on Land-Transfer Between Joint Tenants: This helps Bahamians who have inherited land with siblings, easing the process of land transfer. -Reduced Rates on Commercial Property Taxes: Implemented retroactively to last year, this measure supports the commercial property sector. Building on these successes, we are excited to introduce our new rent-to-own program. This innovative initiative is a milestone in our journey towards creating more affordable homes for Bahamians. It offers a practical pathway to homeownership for many who might otherwise find it out of reach. Moreover, we are delighted to announce that more affordable homes are on the way, reflecting our ongoing commitment to housing development and community enhancement. Lastly, we welcome the Central Bank of The Bahamas’ recent decision to ease residential mortgage guidelines. This policy change is a commendable step that aligns with our efforts and will further facilitate the dream of homeownership for many.