NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Opposition Leader Michael Pintard has questioned the six-month timeline for the reopening of Sandals on Exuma, suggesting that the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) may be using the situation to create a favorable public relations narrative for political gain.
In a statement, Pintard said, “It is extremely curious that while the PLP has quickly provided figures about the redevelopment of Sandals Emerald Bay in Exuma, including a six-month reopening timeline, the resort itself has not confirmed any of this information. Sandals’ international media statements have not included a timeline. Reliable sources indicate that an official reopening timeline has not been established, and the application and permitting process for transforming the resort into a Beaches Resort has yet to begin.”
He continued, “The PLP often seeks to spin challenging realities for political advantage. However, it’s crucial to remember that over 400 people are employed at Sandals Resort in Exuma, supporting 400 families who depend on the property. This is a serious matter, not a public relations game. The Deputy Prime Minister, who is also the Minister of Tourism and the MP for Exuma, cited a six-month timeline, but he appears to be the sole source for this claim. Can the Deputy Prime Minister confirm that the timeline and figures he shared are verified by Sandals? If not, where did these numbers originate—like a magician pulling a rabbit from a hat? Additionally, can the Deputy Prime Minister confirm whether Delta will soon reduce flights to Exuma due to the proposed closure? Can the Minister of Finance comment on how the closure will impact the government’s efforts to collect the $30 million it claims the hotel owes, which the hotel denies?”
A press release from Sandals last week stated that “Sandals Emerald Bay will close on August 15, 2024, and undergo a transformation expected to begin in Fall 2024 before reopening as the new Beaches Exuma.”
A concurrent release from Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, the Minister of Tourism, noted that “We anticipate the construction phase will last for six to eight months.”
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