FNM Leader: Grand Bahamians Don’t Need to Be Gaslit

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NASSAU , BAHAMAS – With Prime Minister Philip Davis expected to unveil a new development framework for Grand Bahama, Opposition Leader Michael Pintard is warning that repackaging old projects is not the same as moving the island forward.

And as the government considers changes to the Hawksbill Creek Agreement, Pintard wants to know whether those changes will create new opportunities or put Freeport’s economic model at risk.

After weeks of anticipation, Grand Bahama is expected to get a closer look tonight at Prime Minister Philip Davis’ plans for the island’s future.

The Nassau Guardian reports that the proposed framework will take the form of a green paper, including a review and possible repeal of the Hawksbill Creek Agreement, along with a review of concessions for the island.

The proposal is also expected to address existing rights and obligations, as well as how any changes would be implemented.

But Free National Movement Leader and Marco City MP Michael Pintard says any new framework must build up, not tear down.

Michael Pintard – Leader, Free National Movement

“The move is to go forward, not backward. So, to the extent we can improve on the model of Freeport, we are committed to that. But not just in Freeport. We should do it in MICAL, and we should give consideration to doing it in Andros as well. So, duty-free imports, having that trade zone, is critical in at least three different locations in The Bahamas. I can’t imagine the Prime Minister wants to go backwards from that.”

Under the current Hawksbill Creek Agreement, the Grand Bahama Port Authority is responsible for key infrastructure and port operations in Freeport, as well as licensing businesses, in exchange for various tax concessions.

The agreement is set to expire in 2054.

But the relationship between the Davis administration and the Port Authority has been strained, with disputes over the agreement and the government’s acquisition of the Grand Bahama Power Company drawing significant attention.

Michael Pintard – Leader, Free National Movement

“All of the projects that he continues to mention are projects that have been ongoing. So, these are not new matters. But people have not seen the actual work getting done, and that’s what we need—not to be gaslit by the Prime Minister.”

Pintard says improving conditions for Grand Bahamians will require cooperation among the island’s business community and all levels of government.

Michael Pintard – Leader, Free National Movement

“Based on his track record, no. So, at the end of the day, we need the Chamber of Commerce, the industrial companies, central government, local government, and all members of Parliament to be working together every single day to improve the plight of the people in Grand Bahama.”