Bahamas: The Bahamas national training programme

The Government of The Bahamas has moved to cushion the impact of the recession on persons who have lost their jobs by paying unemployment benefits under the National Insurance Scheme. This is a temporary financial measure to assist eligible workers who became unemployed and are unable to find employment. Individuals receive US$ 250 every two weeks for a period of 13 weeks (the minimum wage in The Bahamas is US$ 150 per week). In addition to this measure, a collaborative effort between the Government, business community, trade unions, and the Churches will provide training to 1,000 Bahamians, about 10% of the unemployment fi gure. Training will be provided in occupations where there are strong demands from the business sector and where participants are likely to secure jobs.