FREEPORT, Grand Bahama — While Grand Bahamians welcome the significant concessions and benefits announced by Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis in his budget communication last week, some see it as a “political” tool to entice voters before the next election, The Tribune reported in on May 31 in an article written by Denise Maycock.
“I believe it is a campaign budget…that is just filled with promises,” said Freeport businessman Darren Cooper, of D’s Car Rental.
He is disappointed that the government now sees fit to offer small businesses concessions four years into its administration.
“I listened and I am disappointed in the fact that after four years the government now sees the need to offer small businesses a concession when we have been asking (since) they took office,” he said.
Mr Cooper said Grand Bahamians want to see the manifestation of what is being promised, and not just hear about the pledges.
“I welcome the announcement of the projects, but I would feel better when we actually see the start of the work on those projects,” he said.
“I think that a bunch of promises have been made in the budget, and we want to see the manifestation. We are grateful for the concessions, but businesses were longing for these concessions four (years) ago and could have used them to sustain their businesses.
“I am grateful for what we have gotten and hope there will be no red tape in being able to embrace or enjoy the concessions.”
Businessman Brian Seymour believes that Dr Minnis is selling dreams and promises to Grand Bahamians.
He was sceptical about the plans announced for a four-story tower at Rand Memorial Hospital.
“What he said about the hospital about putting a tower up — that is a dream he is selling people. It cannot happen. If you understand how the government works, that will take 18 months before a shovel could hit the ground,” Mr. Seymour said.
“What I expected from him was that the hospital by July 1 would be fully functional and operational, not a new dream,” Mr Seymour said. “So that is unrealistic and he is out of time.”
Mr Seymour said jobs are needed on the island. See complete article in The Tribune at http://www.tribune242.com/news/2021/may/31/grand-bahama-wary-budget-political-tool/
