NASSAU, The Bahamas -- Representative of the Office of the Spouse of the Prime Minister Mrs. Ann Marie Davis remarked at a Christmas Luncheon Tuesday hosted by the Office of the Spouse at Balmoral Club, “as we fellowship this yuletide season, let us be mindful of our less fortunate brothers and sisters. 

Spread a little holiday cheer for it is better to give than to receive.” She addressed mostly wives of parliamentarians, cabinet ministers present, and friends. Mrs. Davis said: 

“We have come to the end of another challenging year on many fronts -- socially, domestically, economically and personally -- all of which were further adversely impacted by the twin existential threats of Hurricane Dorian and the COVID-19 pandemic.

 “I echo the sentiments of our Prime Minister in Glasgow earlier this year that those of us who are least responsible for fallout from global warming are most impacted by it.

 “Notwithstanding our challenges both nationally and personally, it is written that we are to be thankful in all things so today we are thankful and grateful for the many gifts that God has bestowed upon us.

” She remarked the gifts of life, health, love and family are very important ones, though often taken for granted but more essential to happiness than acquisition of any amount of material wealth. She acknowledged appreciation for those gifts, and was thankful for the national and regional platform the Office of the Spouse has afforded. The plight of children and the unacceptably high rate of domestic abuse and violence, she said, are vexing social issues that are particularly important: 

“I publicly thank our social and corporate partners and any number of NGOs such as the ZONTA International, the Crisis Center, Civil Society, FOAM and STRAW who have given of their time and resources to draw greater public awareness and attention to these vexing social issues affection children, girls and women. 

“I would be remiss if I did not recognize the recent accomplishment of our very own Miss Bahamas Universe, Chantel O'Brian. Our Spirit of Carnival award winner has clearly shattered some glass ceilings in Israel which is sure to cause a paradigm shift in the way contestants from small countries like The Bahamas are viewed by international pageant organizers and judges.

” Mrs. Davis continued, “The Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development and in particular the Department of Gender and Family Affairs have proven to be a productive partner as it brings the entire public policy weight of the government to bear on many social issues. I thank Minister Wilchcombe, State Minister Rahming and their staff of committed public servants. Getting our message out is critical to creating greater awareness and we are thankful for their reliable and yeoman's effort, regardless of the time of day or weekends. We thank them for their continued support.” 

“I have called on Bahamians to embrace a culture of volunteerism; to be our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers; and I have asked corporate Bahamas to offer greater support for the work of NGOs. I make those clarion calls again today,” she said. She concluded: “Let us also commit to remaining safe this holiday season as there is an uptick in positive COVID-19 cases. Avoid large crowds and use the tools available to you: social distancing, wearing masks and sanitization. 

“Also, concerning your personal safety and security, as you move about the Island, avoid dim-lit areas, travel in groups and never drink and drive. “I thank you all for coming, breaking bread and sharing this festive occasion with us. Your continued support for our programs and community work mean so much to us. 

“On behalf of the Prime Minister, the Office of the Spouse and on my own behalf, I wish each and every one of you Happy Holidays and best wishes for a safe and prosperous new year. “Thank you, good afternoon and God bless.

”Mrs. Davis is pictured, centre, with guests at the Office of the Spouse of the Prime Minister Christmas Luncheon at Balmoral Club, December 21, 2021. (BIS Photos/Ulric Woodside)