NASSAU, BAHAMAS — The Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) yesterday defended its role in Grand Bahama’s economic revival, asserting that it is “not in competition” with the government.
In a statement yesterday, the GBPA said that it remains open and committed to a healthy relationship with the government in the best interest of the island of Grand Bahama.
“GBPA is not in competition with the government and understands that we both have clearly defined legislative and regulatory responsibilities relating to the development and needs of Grand Bahama. The Government of The Bahamas is not subsidizing the GBPA,” the Authority said.
“The GBPA, in fulfilling its industrial development, various regulatory and environmental oversights, and city maintenance mandate, is funded exclusively by its approximately 3,000 Licensees. When adverse events such as hurricanes and the recent COVID pandemic cause a deficit, the Shareholders of GBPA have always funded the deficit.”
The GBPA continued: “The Government of The Bahamas is not subsidizing the GBA when providing healthcare, education, aviation, and assistance with tourism in Grand Bahama, as it is likewise obligated to do so for every other island in our country.
“While the GBPA has built schools, donated land for government projects, assisted with the hospital, and constructed the island’s airport, these were never a responsibility of the Grand Bahama Port Authority under the Hawksbill Creek Agreement but an act of a strategic partner.
“We acknowledge that the government has a vital role to play, as do we, to fulfill our respective mandates to work together for the betterment of our island.”
The GBPA added that it would be counter-productive to encourage a back and forth in the media as it remains focused on the task at hand.
“Many exciting developments are currently in the works for Freeport and Grand Bahama, and the GBA is playing a key role in working with investors to bring these projects to fruition.
“Examples already in the public domain include the new Cruise Port by Carnival Cruises, the Six Senses Resort development by Weller, and the expansion of the Grand Bahama Shipyard, to name a few. We are preparing to engage with all our stakeholders to discuss these and several other ambitious projects and the many dynamic opportunities they will create for Bahamians,” the GBPA said.
Prime Minister Philip Davis commented recently on the state of the Grand Bahama economy: “We have taken over the role of the Port Authority. It’s not fair to the Bahamian people for us to be subsidizing the Port Authority for what they should be doing.”
He added: “It is clear to me that the interest of the owners do not truly align with the interest of the people of Grand Bahama and the residents Freeport in particular. Until those align, we will have no growth. We have to right the ship of the Port Authority and decide how we will ensure that its full potential will be realized without hindrance.”
In its statement, GPA repeated its stated desire to work with the Government of The Bahamas in the spirit of cooperation to resolve any issues.
