The Tribune

THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force will have ‘all necessary resources’ to deal with Dominican nationals poaching the Bahamas’ marine resources.

It comes as a diplomatic push is made with the Dominican Republic to address ‘long-standing concerns’ that exist, said National Security Minister Bernard Nottage.

He said while the government attempts to resolve the situation diplomatically, the defence force will be outfitted with the assets ‘necessary for it to carry out its mandate.’

“The defence force plays a pivotal role in protecting our marine resources from poachers and thus the provision of the requisite resources of equipment and trained manpower is essential,” Dr Nottage said.

“This government will not waver in ensuring that the necessary resources are provided for them to effectively carry out their responsibilities,” he added.

The National Security Minister said the reactivation of the Heads of Law Enforcement Agencies (HONLEA) grouping should have a major impact on poaching, illegal immigration and the illegal trafficking of arms and drugs through the Bahamas.

“While the defence force plays a major role in securing our borders, this responsibility is shared with other law enforcement agencies,” he said.

“A major reason for this government re-activating regular joint meetings of HONLEA is to foster a closer collaboration and the sharing of intelligence and assets among the police force, the defence force, immigration department, customs department, the port department and Her Majesty’s Prison.

“For example, the police force marine support services branch has a significant number of assets (namely vessels) for use in operations close to our coastlines and there are plans to use them in joint operations between the police and defence forces in securing our borders.”

Dr Nottage said the government will put in place a comprehensive plan to control the country’s borders and stem the flow of illegal immigration, illicit drugs and illegal weapons through increased staffing, ‘more robust’ enforcement, greater investment in detection technology and infrastructure and enhanced coordination between law enforcement agencies.

“I wish to take this opportunity to thank the dedicated and brave men and women of our law enforcement agencies who, each day, and often at great risk, perform the task of protecting our borders. As a country, we owe them a depth of gratitude,” Dr Nottage added.