Prime Minister, the Hon. Philip Davis responded to US claims of forced labour regarding Cuban doctors working in The Bahamas on Monday. The comments were part of the US State Department’s 2024 Trafficking In Persons Report.
Mr. Davis told reporters, “before we engage anyone from Cuba we send a team of professionals, sometimes numbering up to twelve to interview persons who would like to fill a need that we have and that has been the case. We will not intentionally or willingly engage in matters that amount to forced labour. In fact, our constitution, it is enshrined in our constitution not to participate in forced labour of slavery.”
The US government has threated to revoke the visas of government officials in countries that support Cuba’s medical missions program. Leaders around the Caribbean have responded stating they would willing give up their visas in support of health care for their citizens.
Minister of Health and Wellness, the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville has reportedly said that the loss of Cuban doctors would deal a blow to the Optometry program which assists Bahamians with eye issues and delay treatment for those awaiting care. The Minister also praised the Cuban doctors for their assistance with the COVID backlog.
The Prime Minister said that the government will respond comprehensively to requests and it does not find favor so be it.
