Nassau, Bahamas - The following is a statement by Fred Mitchell, MP, Minister of Foreign Affairs:
 
27th August 2013 The Tribune says it will publish this morning a report from the Opposition's spokesman on Foreign Affairs Hubert Chipman about some reports which he alleges have been made into allegations of abuse at the detention centre.  I described the actions of the FNM earlier as sickening.  This continued drumbeat that they are on, is yet another instance of sabotaging the ongoing effort to craft a fair, reasonable and transparent policy around these issues, without prejudice to any inquiry and its results. Any public comment or disclosure is premature and may be prejudicial.  Once again the conduct of the FNM is shameful.  I will not be a part of their tomfoolery. In publishing their latest allegations, they show once again that the FNM sides with those who would damage the The Bahamas.

The Nassau Guardian claimed that it spoke yesterday to the anti Bahamian protest group in Miami and their alleged leader claims that he wants to make peace with The Bahamas.  I was not aware that there was a war.  I find that comment shocking   The Bahamian people are a peaceful people and we have been defamed. The protesters once again are condemned for their anti Bahamian attitudes.

There is an investigation into the matters of which there have been complaints and there is nothing more to say at this stage.