FREEPORT, GRAND BAHAMA, October 22, 2026 – The Grand Bahama Port Authority listened with
interest to the Prime Minister’s address last night. The proposals contain substantial information that
was not shared with us ahead of the address. We will need time to review them carefully before
providing a fully informed response.
We welcome, however, the opportunity to engage constructively with the Government on the future of
Freeport and Grand Bahama.
The Hawksbill Creek Agreement was never intended to remain static throughout its 99-year term,
from 1955 to 2054. Through collaboration between the Government of the day and the Port Authority,
amendments were agreed in 1960 and 1966 to reflect Freeport’s development and the evolving
responsibilities of both parties. That same spirit of cooperation should guide us today.
The Port Authority has long advocated a modern regulatory framework built on an effective working
relationship with central government. Such a framework must improve the ease of doing business and
make Freeport competitive internationally, attracting investment, supporting Bahamian enterprise and
creating meaningful employment and opportunity for Bahamians.
The Port Authority and its licensees hold rights under the Hawksbill Creek Agreement. Those rights
must be respected. Any proposal to relinquish or vary them must be approached through agreement
and demonstrate clear benefits for the local stakeholders whose interests they protect.
After many setbacks, Grand Bahama is beginning to see renewed hope and opportunity. Protecting
that progress is of paramount importance. At this stage of the island’s recovery, we must take care to
strengthen confidence and avoid creating further uncertainty for existing businesses and prospective
investors. Behind every investment decision are livelihoods, employment opportunities and
commitments to Grand Bahama’s future.
The people who live, work and invest in Grand Bahama must be at the centre of decisions about its
future. Licensees, the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce, the Freeport Industrial Group, local
businesses, residents and the Port Authority must have a meaningful role in shaping the framework
that emerges. Consultation must include genuine dialogue, with opportunities for stakeholders to
meet, be heard and influence the outcome.
We have always recognised an important role for central government, alongside the Port Authority
and other local stakeholders. Effective governance also requires a measure of decentralisation from
Nassau, ensuring that decisions respond to local circumstances and that the needs of Grand
Bahamians remain at the forefront.
The proposed six-month timeframe is ambitious. Delivering lasting reform will require focused
collaboration, meaningful consultation and careful consideration of the implications for existing
businesses and future investment.
For our part, the Grand Bahama Port Authority will make every effort to work constructively with the
Government and the wider community. Our objective is a framework that commands confidence,
strengthens accountability and delivers lasting benefits for all stakeholders in Grand Bahama. Above
all, we want the people of this island to have confidence that its future is being shaped with their
wellbeing, livelihoods and aspirations at heart.