Bahamas: Prime Minister Dr. Hubert Minnis opened another passport office in Mathew Town on 13 March 2021 as part of the Bahamas Government’s commitment to bring essential services closer to the Family Islands.
The Prime Minister said it is burdensome for an Inaguan to have to spend money on airline tickets, accommodations, transportation and food in Nassau to apply for a passport.
“This expenditure may run an individual into over a thousand dollars, depending on the circumstance,” said Prime Minister Minnis.
Prime Minister Minnis said he was gratified that the Passport Office is leading the way in using digital and electronic applications designed to make it easier for residents to access the suite of services it provides.
“This is a special day for the residents of Inagua, as you join fellow-citizens in New Providence, Grand Bahama, Abaco and Exuma in having available, on your home island, quick access to enrolling and collecting your passports right here in Mathew Town,” said Prime Minister Minnis.
This is just a coincidence as it exactly one month after opening a Passport Office in Exuma.
The opening of the Passport Office is a significant initiative by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The installments of the government’s policy of decentralizing the delivery of passport services ensure that residents in the Family Islands are not unnecessarily disadvantaged because they live outside of the capital, where these services originate.
Exuma & Mathew Town residents would no longer have to travel to Nassau at significant personal expense & inconvenience to collect their passports.
They will now be able to access & benefit from the full range of passport services in the island where they reside.
PM Minnis also pointed on coronavirus pandemic & vaccination said; Dr. Minnis, told that it was crucial for people living in the country to “come forward” and take the vaccine as it could very well save their lives the lives of their family, friends and loved ones.
Ramanjot Kaur is a dedicated journalist with a Master’s in Journalism and Mass Communication, specializing in economic and political news reporting with incisive analysis and integrity.
