Procedure for Members of the Media

In an attempt to ensure propriety and to preserve the essential decorum which must be observed at the Official Residence of the Representative of Her Majesty the Queen, the Head of State, the Office of the Governor-General of The Bahamas has issued general guidelines for members of the media.

The media is asked to ensure that the following procedures are followed at all times.

1. Bahamas Information Services is the agency responsible for all media relations, and timely contact should therefore be made appropriately to allow for arrangements to be made.
2. Normally, The Governor-General does not give interviews. On National occasions including the Anniversary of Independence and at Christmas and New Years’ observances, messages to the Nation will be issued via Bahamas Information Services.
3. Interviews with persons or groups making courtesy calls at Government House will not be permitted inside Government House. Naturally, the media is free to make separate arrangements for such interviews elsewhere.
4. When State or other social functions are held at Government House, members of the media will not be permitted to conduct interviews with guests, or staff members during the event. Photography may be allowed under the direction of a Press Liaison Officer who will be identified to the media in attendance.
5. During State events like the presentation of Credentials by foreign Diplomats, opportunities for photographs will be managed by a Press Liaison Officer assigned to the media. Bahamas Information Services in consultation with the Secretary to the Governor-General will inform the media beforehand of the Liaison Officer assigned so that their presence is facilitated.

Members of the media are asked to be aware of the importance of appropriate modes of dress while attending functions at Government House.