The following is a statement by Peter Turnquest, FNM Deputy Leader:
The government continues to disrespect the dedicated and committed Junkanoo leaders and group members here on Grand Bahama. After continued struggles to secure corporate sponsorship and the immeasurable personal sacrifices being made by these cultural heroes to give our residents and visitors an annual quality parade, it is mind boggling why this government is taking so long to present prize monies to the participating groups. These prize monies serve as no personal reward for leaders or group members, the monies are needed to pay suppliers and to coordinate 'thank you' celebrations. This government needs to be more sensitive and caring about the plight of local Junkanoo groups. Without credit from a significant number of suppliers, the annual New Year's Day Junkanoo Parade would be impossible.
We call on the government to stop offering lip service to the development of Junkanoo on Grand Bahama and the advancement of Bahamian culture generally. As if having senior parade participants on Grand Bahama wait for months on prize money is not bad enough, there are unsettling reports from a bus driver and or drivers who provided ground transportation services for our Junior Junkanoo parade and despite ongoing promises; the government has yet to make the agreed payment. While this government floats in dreamland suggesting that things are good on Grand Bahama, the harsh reality is, people are hurting. The government's delays and empty excuses to make timely payments and do the right and fair thing are beyond unbearable. We need CHANGE for a BETTER BAHAMAS. Junkanooers and other service providers can rest assured that the Free National Movement will continue to expose and press this uncaring government to pay the people NOW.
