NASSAU, BAHAMAS- Opposition leader Michael Pintard has called on Prime Minister Philip Davis to appoint a substantive minister to oversee the Ministry of Social Services, arguing that the country cannot afford to delay focused attention on social matters.
Pintard in a statement argued that Prime Minister Davis has prioritized the selection of the Leader of Government Business in the House; a candidate for the West End and Bimini constituency formerly represented by the late Obie Wilchcombe and is now giving focus to the chairmanship of the Progressive Liberal Party.
“Meanwhile, there is no urgency in expediting the appointment of a substantive minister to oversee social services. Residents (in West Grand Bahama and) throughout our country deserve a safe and decent place to call home, access to food, and the assistance they require during challenging times. Many currently face dire circumstances, due to inflation, the high cost of electricity, and other factors. Homes are in disrepair with conditions that are unsafe and affect overall well-being and quality of life. People are without food and basic essentials. As acting minister of Social Services, the Prime Minister needs to address these issues urgently and provide assistance to those who are living in substandard conditions,” said Pintard.
He continued, “Our nation cannot afford to delay focused attention on social matters. It is our moral duty to ensure that the well-being of our most vulnerable citizens – the elderly, persons with disabilities, women and children, and all those who need our support – remains a top priority. There is a gamut of issues that require intervention.”
Pintard noted that prior to his passing, Minister Wilchcombe had met with leaders of advocacy groups to discuss possible amendments to the Protection Against Violence bill to address gaps.
“There is an urgent need to investigate and rectify the chronic understaffing issues within group homes; the renewal process for maintenance contracts for these homes needs swift attention. These critical matters are not receiving priority from the PM, as acting minister. How much longer will Social Services have to wait for a minister to be appointed? If another ministry had been impacted, would there be a six-week vacancy? Why are the most vulnerable not among the PM’s top priorities?” Pintard queried.
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