The Tribune

By RASHAD ROLLE

Tribune Staff Reporter

rrolle@tribunemedia.net

MORE than $20 million in contracts has been granted to local contractors to develop the Bahamas Agriculture Marine Resources Scientific Institue (BAMRSI), PLP Chairman Bradley Roberts said during his speech at a mini PLP convention in North Andros on Saturday.

Hailing North Andros as one of the country’s centre for seafood production, Mr Roberts said the contract grants and establishment of the Scientific Institute is the beginning of a new era for North Andros.

He said: “Unprecedented changes are under way with the establishment of the Bahamas Agriculture Marine Resources Scientific Institute. This is in keeping with Perry Christie-led PLP government’s commitment to diversify the Bahamian economy and create a population center here in North Andros with BAMSI as the anchor commercial entity.”

“Those who have complained about placing parts of the College of The Bahamas on Andros need not complain any more.

“Those who have decried the untapped agricultural potential of Andros need not cry any more.”

“Those who wept and wailed that Andros was neglected and had no economy; that its civilisation was dying and that its young people had no viable economic prospects for the future and no reason to remain in and build Andros must weep and wail no more for joy cometh in the morning. This balmy morning!”

Deputy Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis explained that 14 contracts have been awarded in total, adding that “all of the contracts are being given to persons either born in Andros or have roots in Andros or have some ancesntry in Andros”.

As for the PLP holding its first mini convention of the year in North Andros, Mr Roberts said: “Your party chose Andros and the Berry Islands to commence a series of one-day mini conventions to inform you of the progress of the Government you elected on May 7th, 2012, and to listen to your concerns which will be articulated by speakers from sections of your communities. Adequate time has been allocated for questions and answers.

“Andros holds a very special place in the heart and rise of the PLP to governance of this country as it was the first Family Island to vote for the fledging PLP.

“You have given us some fine sons and daughters of the soil who have served this country well in the halls of Parliament. Many were involved in shaping the policies and enacting the laws that formed the modern Bahamas and for this we are eternally grateful.”