By RASHAD ROLLE

Tribune News Editor

rrolle@tribunemedia.net

PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis staunchly defended his administration’s travel expenditures during his contribution to the mid-year budget debate, asserting that the benefits of international trips far outweigh the costs.

He said the frequent travels have successfully promoted The Bahamas, led to strategic partnerships, and fostered coalition-building on critical global issues.

His comment came after The Nassau Guardian reported that the Davis administration’s travel expenditures in the first three and a half years of its term significantly exceeded what was spent by the Minnis administration during its four and a half years in office.

Mr Davis said these trips’ long-term advantages are significant and have already started to yield substantial benefits.

However, the administration has hardly detailed the specific benefits of the trips, only speaking generally about the matter.

“These benefits will continue to accrue in the years ahead, bringing further positive results to our country,” Mr Davis said.

 Addressing criticism from the opposition, he took aim at what he described as politically motivated attacks on his administration’s travel budget.

 “I encourage the members opposite to consider that their attacks on this issue may reflect how they view their political standing, rather than any thoughtful consideration of the matter,” he said.

 “I accept that emotions must run high for them, as they see our administration move The Bahamas to a stronger position of influence in the world.

 “I understand the feelings of regret that their voices and views were not canvassed by international bodies, in the way that our presence is sought. But I do hope that they understand in turn, that when we travel, we do so for the good of The Bahamas and the betterment of the Bahamian people.”

 Mr Davis said much of the travel expenditure goes towards sending technical officers from various sectors, including the Family Islands, for training and enhancing government service delivery.

 “I think it’s important for Bahamians to know that many of those who travel are young Bahamian experts, serving their country, for whom the professional development, exposure, and networking with colleagues are invaluable,” he said. “Investing in the next generation of policymakers is, in turn, surely indispensable to us as well.”