Rick Lowe (http://www.weblogbahamas.com)
The news is out. The Government spent $5.8 million bucks to host the Miss Universe beauty pageant and it's not so much of a surprise.
From the outside looking in, it seemed like a tremendous success, particularly the ten minute ad during the actual pageant, so congratulations are extended to all concerned.
Was $5.8 million too much to spending these tough times? Maybe, but let's hope that the visitors and contestants alike will go back home and spread the good word about The Bahamas.
Could the money have been better spent elsewhere? Maybe, but who knew we would be facing these tough economic times when the decision was taken to host the pageant.
The most important thing, whether we agree or disagree, is the government has given an accounting for the spending of taxpayer money.
So your not so humble blogger gives the government two cheers for their transparency on this issue.
Thanks!
What do you think?
It’s good to hear from person expressing objectivity and not just the negative naysayer who only speak to criticize but never recognize!
I agree Rick. It was very good for the Govt to disclose this information and I also commend them for doing the same.
I agree as well. Two thumbs up.
The people have a right to know in a democratic society….
This type of spending is dwarft – compared to sums spent in other formerly host – countries of the Miss Univ.
Of course for the same result sought in the expenditure on the pagent (encouraging new and returning optimist travelers to (re)visit the country)….. the Bahamas spends more than 3 x that amount on marketing and advertisement annually with regard to bringing more visitors to its shores.
What should be more transparent, is the Ministry of Tourism – marketing and advertisement budget and expenditure – with a line item accounting of the int’l advertising agencies used, its procurement/bidding process and past record performance of all contracted Int’l agencies outside the Bahamas.
Transparency and communication thereof to what exist is vital to a democracy –
Now lets go blogging!!