Minister Darren Henfield, cleared up rumours over the weekend regarding the country’s stance on assisting Haiti following last week’s devastating earthquake.
In a statement released to the press, Hendfield said that the current rumours have been, “speculative, incorrect and misleading”.
“At no time did Prime Minister Dr. Hubert Minnis state that The Bahamas would give no aid or assistance to Haiti,” Henfield wrote.
“He also reiterated his commitment to responding vigorously to the needs of the Bahamian people.
“Following various reports in the press, the prime minister spoke by telephone with his Caribbean Community (CARICOM) colleague Jovenel Moïse, the President of Haiti.
“The prime minister assured President Moïse that The Bahamas would provide what support it could at this time, and that various press reports and commentary did not accurately reflect the position of the Government of The Bahamas nor his unwavering commitment to assist however possible to our Caricom member states affected by natural disasters.”
Henfield noted that in his conversation with President Moïse, Dr. Minnis stated that The Bahamas would provide assistance after discussions, and in collaboration with other Caricom partners.
“The prime minister also noted in the call the longstanding relationship and friendship between Haiti and The Bahamas,” he said.
“The Government urges organizations and persons to offer whatever assistance they can at this time to the people of the Republic of Haiti.”
