By JADE RUSSELL

Tribune Staff Reporter

jrussell@tribunemedia.net

PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis delivered a blunt directive to the Department of Social Services on Friday, calling on staff to treat every person seeking assistance with dignity, not scepticism.

Speaking at the commissioning of the department’s newly renovated headquarters at Sunshine Plaza on Baillou Hill Road, Mr Davis said too many Bahamians have had to fight for survival in a system that makes them feel forgotten. He noted that the government’s responsibility is to dismantle such barriers, not reinforce them.

He acknowledged that the work carried out by the department can be emotionally demanding but added that people in need should be met with empathy and respect, not red tape and indifference.

“When you walk into the Department of Social Services, you should be met with respect, not suspicion; with warmth, not bureaucracy. If someone is coming to you for help, chances are they’ve already been through enough,” Mr Davis said.

His comments come amid long-standing public complaints about dismissive or rude treatment by ministry staff. Some residents have reported waiting hours only to feel judged or leave empty-handed.

Mr Davis said the government is committed to doing everything possible to support the vulnerable. He added that if that means cutting bureaucracy or finding additional funds, then those steps must be taken. He said he would rather the government be criticised for doing too much than remembered for doing too little.

While the opening of the newly renovated facility was celebrated, Mr Davis made clear that the physical space was secondary to its purpose. “I couldn’t care less about the paint on the walls or the size of the conference room,” he said. “What I care about, what I will always care about — is how we treat people.”

Minister of Social Services Myles Laroda acknowledged that some of the complaints about staff conduct were valid. 

However, he pointed to the department’s ongoing work to provide food, rental, clothing and other forms of support. 

Mr Laroda said the headquarters upgrade is the first of three phases aimed at modernising service delivery.

“I look forward to the completion of the remaining phases and the finished product, a state-of-the-art head office that we can all be proud of,” said Mr Laroda.

He also noted a growing demand for social assistance. In Parliament in March, Mr Laroda reported that the department had spent $6.8m on aid in New Providence as of December 2024. That included $2.6m for food, $1.6m for temporary accommodation, and $731,000 in medical support.