NASSAU, BAHAMAS – While acknowledging that a swift resolution to the ongoing dispute between the Government and the Grand Bahama Port Authority may be easier said than done, the President of the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce emphasized the need for collaboration between both parties for the common good in the interim.
James Carey, while making his presentation at the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce’s National Conclave, stated, “We believe that a swift resolution would better serve the interests of all sectors of our community. While we acknowledge that this is easier said than done, both parties have repeatedly stated that the best interest of the people of Grand Bahama is their primary interest. There must be a way for the parties involved to work together for the common good in the interim.”
He added, “The Government’s pressure on the GBPA to increase its contributions to our community is significant and appreciated. Grand Bahama Island is essentially divided into three parts: West Grand Bahama, East Grand Bahama, and Freeport in the middle. The government can, if it wishes to, very effectively show the GBPA how development and progress can be achieved by focusing resources on East and West Grand Bahama, turning them into fully developed and thriving areas for residents and businesses alike. No doubt a further result will be that the coffers of Government will also be enhanced from increased revenue from fees and taxation.”
The Davis administration has accused the Grand Bahama Port Authority of failing to meet its legal obligations to develop and grow the economy in Freeport and has demanded $357 million to cover the last five fiscal years. The GBPA has strongly rejected this claim.
Despite this development, Carey expressed optimism about the impressive $2 billion-plus in investments in the pipeline for Grand Bahama, poised to benefit the island profoundly. “The imminent sale and redevelopment of the Grand Lucayan, as well as the revitalization of the Grand Bahama International Airport, are promising signs. The GBCC is committed not only to enhancing opportunities for our members but also to revitalizing our local economy. Despite the challenges posed by Hurricane Dorian and the global pandemic, Grand Bahama Island, its residents, and businesses have shown remarkable resilience,” said Carey.
Loading ...
