The Tribune

DEPUTY Prime Minister Philip Davis held a public meeting in San Salvador to discuss the proposed national park system for the island, which includes five protected areas.

Nearly 100 residents and business owners attended the meeting, where panellists included Mr Davis, who is also the area’s MP; former MP Philip Smith and island administrator Harvey Roberts.

“The Bahamas National Trust commends the DPM and Member of Parliament for San Salvador for holding this public forum, particularly to obtain feedback from his constituents for a national parks system for San Salvador” noted Lakeshia Anderson, BNT parks planner.

Michael Goffe, president of the San Salvador Living Jewels Foundation, praised the “enormous response” from the community, as well as frequent visitors who have expressed a willingness to contribute to the management of these parks.

Ms Anderson spoke on behalf of the BNT at the meeting, noting that they have worked closely with the San Salvador Living Jewels Foundation since 2005 to help raise awareness of the importance of protecting San Salvador’s natural resources.

“The Trust is fully committed to collaborating with the San Salvador Living Jewels Foundation and to work along with the San Salvador community to develop management prescriptions to guide the day to day use of the parks once established,” Ms Anderson said.

San Salvador resident Jermaine Johnson has been hired as BNT liaison officer for the island and will facilitate on-the-ground work for engaging stakeholders in the park planning process.

In addition, the BNT has secured funding from the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) to implement a two-year project including education and outreach initiatives.

The project will also cover funding to develop management plans for the five areas proposed.

In his speech, Mr Davis said discussions have concluded, and the time has come for action to begin.

Dr Roberto Savio, a world renowned communication expert, attended the meeting and announced that areas of San Salvador will be eligible for UNESCO World Heritage Site designations, which will provide additional economic benefits for the island.

The Bahamas National Trust is currently working with the Gerace Research Centre (College of the Bahamas – field station) to revisit a 2007 proposal for the lodging of a UNESCO submission.

The areas for protection in San Salvador include: Pigeon Creek and Snow Bay, Graham’s Harbour/Rice Bay (including offshore cays), dive sites, Green Bay (including offshore cays) and Great Lake.