By SANCHESKA BROWN

Tribune Staff Reporter

sbrown@tribunemedia.net

THE Free National Movement will be more “visible, active and vigilant” in 2015 – especially when it comes to the scourge of the crime in the country, party Leader Dr Hubert Minnis said last night.

During his nationally televised New Year’s address, Dr Minnis outlined new initiatives the FNM plans to introduce if they win the next election, including Over-the-Hill tax free zones and free college tuition for Family Island residents.

He also pledged to work closely with stakeholders, the government and members of the clergy to “finally get a hold on crime.”

“The leadership of the FNM will mobilise its members to work with various stakeholders throughout the Bahamas, but especially in New Providence,” he said.

“We must have an open and honest review of our current crime fighting strategies. We must expand those measures that work and adjust or scrap those that do not. We need effective programmes that produce meaningful results and not just catchy slogans. We, in the FNM, pledge to work with all stakeholders to review, support and introduce new crime fighting initiatives,” he said.

“Our team has a plan which includes prevention strategies, medium and long-term strategic programmes. However, we recognise that urgent action is required now to reduce the fear that has gripped far too many in our beloved country and to dramatically reduce the bloodshed in our once peaceful streets and homes. To this end, we pledge to support plans that will bring immediate improvement.”

Dr Minnis also pledged to invest more in the inner city, the Family Islands and in education.

“The FNM in our next term in government will introduce tax free zones for the revitalisation of Over-the-Hill, the inner city and depressed areas...Focused attention will also be given to implementing best practices and developing top performing schools throughout our nation. Family Island students who qualify for COB should be provided with full scholarships, including room and board, along with a monthly stipend,” he said.

“This year, the FNM will begin to reveal its Family Island Development Plan which includes providing domestic tourism incentives and providing proper infrastructure such as roads, docks and clinics, wherein some must be improved, some built, while all must be maintained. The plan also includes provision for some of the taxes collected in our islands to be allocated to those islands for their growth and development. Particular attention will be paid to domestic incentives for Bahamians who invest in the Family Islands.”

Dr Minnis also said his party will not only properly enforce immigration laws but also target the Bahamian owners who permit their land to be used as shanty towns and target Bahamian and expat employers who knowingly hire illegal immigrants.

Ending his address, Dr Minnis said the public can count on the FNM to “work tirelessly for you and with you, to ensure that the Bahamas is advanced, protected and safe.”

“In conclusion, 2014 was the year of broken promises and missed opportunities. In 2015, the Bahamas will face serious challenges and we need more than broken promises. The Bahamas needs a Freedom of Information Act, Fiscal Responsibility Act and a real Mortgage Relief Programme.

“The public demands our government functions with integrity and at a high standard.”