FREEPORT, Grand Bahama, August 23, 2023 –Responding to media queries about remarks made by the Prime Minister on August 21, 2023, the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) declared that it “remains open and committed to a healthy relationship with the Government of The Bahamas in the best interest of the island of Grand Bahama.”
In a statement released today, the GBPA unequivocally stated that it “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.”
Declaring that the Government of The Bahamas “is not subsidizing the GBPA,” the statement added, “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 Government of The Bahamas is not subsidizing the GBPA 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.”
Continuing, the statement added, “GBPA believes it would be counter-productive to encourage a back and forth in the media as we remain focused on the task at hand. Many exciting developments are currently in the works for Freeport and Grand Bahama, and the GBPA 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 statement concluded, “GBPA reiterates its desire to work with the Government of The Bahamas in the spirit of cooperation to resolve any issues and work together to create a bright future for Grand Bahama.”
