NASSAU, BAHAMAS — The Department of Labour has clarified that no union holds “sole authority” to approve performances by foreign artists in The Bahamas.
A release from that Department clarified that the process of granting permission for foreign artists to perform is managed exclusively by the Department of Immigration.
While historically, the Bahamas Musicians and Entertainers Union (BMEU) played a role, the emergence of the United Artists Bahamas Union (UABU) has led to ongoing negotiations about the roles of both unions.
Addressing the issue, the Department stated: “The most recent public statement issued by the UABU regarding the approval of a certain foreign artist for a concert to be held later this year further illustrates the lack of clarity on the role of each union.”
The Department has emphasized the need for continued mediation, urging both unions to collaborate to reach an agreement that benefits Bahamian artists and entertainers.