Noting the present constraints on Government funds, the Hon. Perry G. Christie, Prime Minister, in his recent 2002/2003 Budget Communication said it is important to make the maximum possible use of available resources to diversify the economy sensibly and to bring employment opportunities to the Family Islands. He said the Government will be mindful not to add concessions, exemptions and protective tariffs which could impose a burden on the economy and which, in any event, will have to be dismantled in a free trade environment. "The diversification which we will be seeking is intended to result in strong Bahamian commercially viable industries which are suitably dispersed geographically, and which can face international competition and provide meaningful employment for qualified Bahamians." said the Prime Minister, who also serves as Minister of Finance in the new Government elected in the May 2 General Elections.
