Nassau, Bahamas – The Bahamas Society of Engineers held its inaugural Engineering, Design and Construction Conference at the Sheraton Cable Beach Resort on Friday, December 3.
Among those in attendance was Phenton Neymour, Minister of State in the Ministry of the Environment. The theme for the one-day conference was “Building A Better Future.”
In his remarks at the opening session, Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham said substantial infrastructural and public office accommodation, construction and upgrade projects coupled with private sector construction projects presently underway have opened a myriad of opportunities for Bahamian engineers and other construction professionals.
“The Government of The Bahamas is unwavering in its pledge to ensure that meaningful participation of Bahamians to the greatest extent possible in all government projects and do likewise to the extent possible in respect of all foreign direct investment projects approved for our country,” he said.
Public Works and Transport Minister Neko C. Grant told the engineers that his Ministry will continue to support the further development and recognition of the engineering profession with the expectation that high standards will be upheld.
Through the collaborative efforts of The Bahamas Society of Engineers and the Ministry of Works, the regulatory framework for the practice of engineering in The Bahamas was enhanced. As a result, an amendment was made to the Engineers Act, 2004 that was intended to ensure the appropriate licensing regime was established, Mr. Grant said. One year ago a Professional Engineers Board was appointed to facilitate registration of all engineers that were eligible to register with the transitional board.
Mr. Grant urged the engineers to familiarise themselves with all aspects of the Act and be in compliance with its provisions.
“You must also maintain a commitment to ensuring that the long term objectives of this legislation are realised,” he said.
Following his remarks Prime Minister Ingraham opened the floor for comments and suggestions from engineers as to how to improve the industry and allow opportunities to be made available to Bahamian engineers.
By Kathryn Campbell
Bahamas Information Services
BIS photo/Derek Smith
