During a prayer breakfast ahead of the party’s national convention, the prime minister led the charge for his party and its supporters, acknowledging that they are meeting at a time of tremendous economic hardship for many in the country and around the world.
"The global economic crisis has become very personal to nearly all of us. The fallout from economic failures in the developed world has meant decreased tourist arrivals and hence decreased tourism expenditures in our economy," he said.
"This has dramatically reduced economic activity, business failures, increased numbers of unemployed persons and financial hardship for many persons. Yes, many of our people are hurting for these are tough times for many. We meet at a time when violence continues to mar the lives of far too many of our people, particularly our young people."
Prime Minister Ingraham added that it is appropriate therefore, that the party gathers to pray and to ask for God’s help and guidance as it seeks to lead Bahamian people and bring relief to those most in need.
The FNM opened the first day of its national convention at the Wyndham Nassau Resort yesterday.
FNM delegates and supporters from all over the country flew in to take part in what some believe will be the most exciting convention in the history of The Bahamas.
Bolstered by their faith in God and strengthened by the wisdom of their past experiences, Mr. Ingraham added that the FNM Government is moving deliberately to bring relief to many who are hurting.
Prime Minister Ingraham said more assistance will be delivered and noted his government’s past assistance programmes.
He said this is evident through a $12 million increase in the government’s assistance program managed through the Department of Social Services, through BEC’s electricity relief program, through job creation initiatives, through the introduction of the Unemployment Benefit Scheme and through the enactment of legislation for the introduction of the Prescription Drug Programme.
"Through these programmes and initiatives we seek to live out God’s admonition to us to feed the hungry, clothe the naked and care for the orphaned," he said.
"Still, there remain forces that oppose us; those who would take delight if we were not to succeed in making life better for our people in need. We are not discouraged by ill will toward us. We stand firm and ready to face and overcome the challenges, to make difficult decisions and to provide the leadership so seriously necessary in tough economic times."
He added that as his party moves ahead to fulfill its commitments and promises to the Bahamian people it is resolved that it shall not be moved by unfounded attacks.
"Though others seek to distract us, we shall not be moved," he said. "Though they criticize us, we shall not be moved. Whatever comes our way, we shall not be moved."
- Austin DWI - New York DWI